What Is the Energy Label?

The Energy Label is an essential tool for consumers, providing clear and concise information about the energy efficiency of products. Updated in 2021, it offers a more nuanced and detailed understanding of a product's energy use. As consumers become more environmentally conscious, the Energy Label influences purchasing decisions.

In this guide, we will dive into the Energy Label for light bulbs, providing a comprehensive overview of its features and benefits. We will explore the changes made to the Energy Label in 2021, compare it with the previous version, and highlight why consumers must understand these labels.

What Is the Meaning of Energy Label?

The Energy Label is a graphical representation that provides insight into the energy efficiency of a product, in our case, light bulbs. It offers a straightforward way to compare the energy usage of different products, providing consumers with valuable information to make more sustainable purchasing decisions. The label rates products from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), indicating a product's energy consumption over time.

For instance, consider two light bulbs – one rated 'A' and another rated 'D' on the Energy Label. The 'A' rated bulb is significantly more energy-efficient, consuming less electricity for the same amount of light than the 'D' rated bulb.

Although the 'A' rated bulb might be more expensive initially, it could lead to cost savings in the long run due to reduced electricity bills. This is the essence of the Energy Label, guiding consumers towards energy-efficient products and promoting sustainable consumption.

Update: New Energy Label 2021

The European Union introduced a revised Energy Label for light sources designed to provide consumers with more accurate information about energy efficiency in September 2021. The updated label replaces the previous scale from A+++ to D with a simpler A to G scale.

This revision was made to counter the 'A-class inflation' as most products were grouped in the top A categories, leaving consumers with little distinction between products.

The new label also includes a QR code for each product, allowing consumers to access more detailed product information from the EU's online database, EPREL. Furthermore, the new label provides more information on the product's energy consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh) per 1000 hours of use, helping consumers to calculate the exact running costs.

These changes underscore the EU's commitment to transparency, product sustainability, and aiding consumers in making environmentally conscious decisions. The new Energy Label is designed to encourage developing and purchasing more energy-efficient products, promoting energy savings and contributing to the EU's energy efficiency and climate change goals.

Comparison: New and Old Energy Label

Let's take a look at the key differences between the old and new energy labels:

The Energy Label of a Light Bulb

Each Energy Label for various light sources, whether they are light bulbs (such as compact fluorescent bulbs or halogen) or LED modules or lamps, encompasses the following essential information:

• Energy Efficiency Class: At the top of the label, the bulb is rated from 'A' to 'G,' with 'A' being the most energy-efficient and 'G' being the least.

• Energy Consumption: The label also displays the bulb's energy consumption, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh) per 1,000 hours. This depicts a bulb's energy over a significant period, allowing for easy comparison between bulbs.

• Luminous Flux: This measures the perceived power or brightness of light emitted by the bulb, measured in lumens (lm). A higher luminous flux indicates a brighter light.

• Power: This is the electrical power the bulb needs to operate, measured in watts (W).

• Lifespan: The label also estimates the bulb's lifespan, usually hours or years. This indicates how long the bulb will last before it needs to be replaced.

• QR code: A new feature on the 2021 Energy Label, a QR code provides consumers access to more detailed product information in a digital database.

By understanding each component of the Energy Label, consumers can make informed decisions about the light bulbs they purchase, ensuring they choose options that are not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly.

1. How are the new energy efficiency classes calculated?

The new Energy Label introduced a different way to compute energy efficiency classes. The old labels can't be used as a direct guide for this new system. So, we need to figure out the energy efficiency class in a new way, as described below:

The energy efficiency class is now determined based on a new calculation method, which revolves around total luminous efficacy, represented as 'ηTM.' This value is obtained by taking the declared useful luminous flux, denoted as 'Φuse,' and the declared on-mode power consumption, referred to as 'Pon.' These are then multiplied with the total Mains factor, 'FTM.' 

The total Mains factor 'FTM' ranges between 0.926 and 1.176 and depends on whether the light source is directional and whether or not mains power it.

2. Energy Class Corresponding to the Following Lighting Types

When it comes to various lighting types, each has a unique energy class according to the new Energy Label system. For instance, let's focus on LED lights, renowned for their energy efficiency and longevity.

LED lights typically fall under the 'A++' to 'A' ratings on the energy efficiency scale, signifying their high energy efficiency. This high rating results from LED technology, producing more light per unit of power consumed than traditional lighting methods.

Moreover, LED lights have a longer lifespan, which means you won't need to replace them as frequently, leading to further energy and cost savings.

Below is the table showcasing the energy efficiency class of different lighting types, including LEDs:

This table reveals that LED lights are the most energy-efficient choice based on the new Energy Label rating system, followed by Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) and Halogen lights. By understanding these energy classes, consumers can make informed decisions based on sustainability and long-term cost savings.

Other Energy Labels

Beyond the EU's Energy Label, consumers may come across other energy labels worldwide when purchasing LED lights. These labels vary from region to region, but the ultimate goal is to provide consumers with clear, accessible information about a product's energy consumption and efficiency.

• EnergyGuide: Predominantly used in the United States, the EnergyGuide label gives consumers an estimate of the product's energy consumption and how it compares with similar products. This yellow label displays the estimated yearly operating cost and the energy consumption in kilowatt-hours.

• EnerGuide: Used in Canada, the EnerGuide label assists consumers in making energy-efficient choices. This label displays the estimated annual energy consumption of the product in kilowatt-hours and a comparison scale demonstrating how the product's efficiency ranks among similar models.

• China Energy Label: China's official energy efficiency label ranks products on a scale from 1 (most energy-efficient) to 5 (least energy-efficient). It is mandatory for certain products to display their energy efficiency grade and consumption.

Although different in design and implementation, these labels all serve the same purpose: to bring consumers transparent and easily understandable energy efficiency information. This allows consumers to make informed decisions when purchasing LED lights, contributing to personal cost savings and environmental sustainability.

Conclusion

Energy Labels are an essential tool for consumers in making informed decisions about their purchases, particularly when it comes to LED lights.

With the introduction of the new European Union Energy Label, understanding its components and how to interpret them is crucial. By choosing energy-efficient options such as LED lights, consumers can save on costs and contribute towards a more sustainable future.

Choose Risun for Efficient and Sustainable Lighting Solutions

At Risun, we are committed to providing high-quality LED lighting solutions for homes, businesses, and public spaces. Our products meet the highest energy efficiency standards and have a longer lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

With our advanced technology and dedication to sustainability, you can trust Risun for all your lighting needs. Contact us now to learn more about our products and services.