7 August 2013
Philips phases out trade range of incandescent bulbs in New Zealand
Auckland, New Zealand – Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) has announced it will phase-out the supply of its trade
range of incandescent Softone bulbs to its New Zealand electrical wholesalers from October 1. Philips is the first
lighting company in New Zealand to make this move, reflecting its commitment to driving the uptake of energy-efficient
lighting locally.
“While New Zealand has not introduced regulation to phase-out incandescent bulbs as many other countries around the
world have, we believe it is our responsibility as a market leader to help drive the shift to energy efficient lighting,
which is good for our partners, consumers and the environment,” said David Procter, Marketing Manager, Philips Lighting
New Zealand.
Philips has a number of energy efficient eco-halogen, CFL and LED products available which are direct replacements for
incandescent bulbs. These include: the Philips Eco-classic halogen bulb range, the Tornado compact fluorescent bulb
range and the Philips LED bulb range, which all provide greater energy savings than outdated incandescent lighting[1].
“With lighting making up around 12 per cent of the average New Zealand home’s electricity bill[2], converting to energy efficient lighting is one simple and effective way to reduce overall energy consumption and
costs,” said Procter.
Philips expects the phasing out of incandescent bulbs in electrical wholesale channels, together with the reducing cost
and wider availability of next generation LED lighting in mainstream channels, to help drive further uptake of LED
lighting in particular.
Philips’ range of LED light bulbs use up to 80 per cent less energy, and can last up to 25 times longer, than
incandescent bulbs. This translates into long-term power savings for customers and environmental benefits from lower CO²
emissions and less wastage.
In addition, with modern LEDs customers do not have to compromise on quality and style. They produce a warm, white light
and have been designed to resemble traditional light bulbs. They are compatible with many existing light fittings
(including GU10, MR16, screw or bayonet cap sockets) making it hassle-free to make the switch.
Philips has already seen a significant rise in LED sales in New Zealand over the past two years as businesses and
consumers become more aware of the benefits of switching to LED.
ENDS
[1] Philips Eco-classic bulb range- up to 30% energy savings compared to standard incandescent bulbs, Philips Compact
Fluorescent (CFLi) and LEDbulb ranges- up to 80% energy savings compared to standard incandescent bulbs
[2] http://www.energywise.govt.nz/energyspot/episode-20/lighting-design