A cooperation between the Grünen Strom Label e.V. and Lampen.de
The days are getting shorter and we need more light everywhere, including in our homes. Lighting accounts for around ten percent of a household's electricity consumption. Since every kilowatt hour of electricity increases our carbon dioxide emissions, all areas of consumption must make a contribution to reducing emissions. The good news is that efficient lighting is currently easy to implement thanks to the right illuminants, intelligent lighting systems and a certified green electricity tariff.
Energy saving light bulb
The sale of conventional incandescent lamps has been banned since 2009, because only around five percent of the electrical power can be converted into light. Despite their poor efficiency, old incandescent lamps can still be found in many households. These need to be replaced with modern products.
All incandescent lamps are comparable in certain factors, such as service life, luminous flux, power consumption, light color or start-up time. When purchasing, the EU energy label provides information about power consumption. The most energy-efficient and long-lasting alternative is currently the LED lamp. Because it requires much less power, it can save around 70 percent energy, while at the same time offering a longer service life and greater brightness. Unlike energy-saving lamps, LEDs do not require a longer start-up time and are free of mercury. They also come in many different pleasant light colors.
LEDs are said to be more expensive than other light bulbs, such as halogen or energy-saving lamps. This is true, but only in terms of the purchase price. In terms of service life and efficiency, LED lamps offer an overall cost advantage.
Intelligent lighting systems
Sustainable lighting starts with the light bulb but goes far beyond. Intelligent lighting systems can prevent unnecessary power consumption. A smart home system, for example, can be used to time which lights turn on and off when. Since 100 percent light intensity is often not even necessary, electricity can be saved with dimmable lamps. In addition, they are suitable for any mood and make multiple light sources unnecessary. Motion sensors turn off the light when no one is in the room, which is suitable for passageways. Daylight sensors automatically adjust the light to the natural light and thus have a high quality of light.
The right electricity tariff is what counts
Regardless of the type of light bulb or smart system, however, lighting is only truly environmentally friendly if certified green electricity is also purchased. Because not every green electricity tariff results in an additional environmental benefit, environmental and consumer associations have developed a seal of approval for high-quality green electricity products. The Green Electricity Label guarantees green electricity from 100 percent renewable energy sources. In addition, a fixed amount per kilowatt hour goes toward the expansion of renewable energies and innovative energy transition projects. So always look for the Grüner Strom label when switching electricity providers. The easiest way to do this is via our Comparison portal.
