South Africans have until April 30, 2021 to comment on the newly published general service lamp specifications.
According to the South African National Energy Development Institute, the specifications aim to improve the protection, durability, and energy efficiency of lightbulbs approved for use in South Africa by phasing out inefficient and environmentally harmful lighting items (Sanedi).
“For eg, current compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) would not meet the specifications; it is more likely that LEDs would become the preferred option of lamp,” said Ashanti Mogosetsi, Sanedi’s project manager.
“Although CFLs are often referred to as ‘energy-saving’ lamps, they contain mercury, which is harmful to both humans and the environment.”
According to Mogosetsi, if CFLs advance technologically and meet these requirements in the future, they may be sold legally. The specifications aren’t intended to outlaw any unique lighting items, but rather to provide safety and performance requirements, she explained.
