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Phase-out of inefficient incandescent light bulbs

• Frequently asked questions
• Globe conversion table
• Resources

Working with the states and territories, the Australian Government will gradually phase out all inefficient incandescent light bulbs.

The first stage of the phase-out plan will be the introduction of an import restriction on inefficient incandescent general lighting service (GLS) light bulbs used for general lighting purposes from 1 February 2009.

The savings to the environment and the economy which the initiative will generate are considerable. Across the country, the move to more efficient lighting, such as compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), is expected to save more than four terrawatt hours of electricity (equivalent to decommissioning one of Australia's smaller coal-fired power stations), up to four million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions (equivalent to one million cars off the road) and more than $400 million per year (saving more than $50 per year per household).

Globe conversion table

This table compares traditional incandescent light bulb wattages with the equivalent compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) or mains voltage halogen (MVH) lamps.

Light Globe Conversion Table

Incandescent Bulbs	Compact Fluorescent Lamp (CFL)*	Mains Voltage Halogen (MVH)**	Light output in lumens (lm)
25W	5-7W	18W	220 lm
40W	7-8W	28W	420 lm
60W	11-12W	42W	720 lm
75W	13-18W	52W	930 lm
100W	18-23W	70W	1300 lm

NOTE: The wattages listed above for compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) and MVH lamps are approximations only and may vary between manufacturers. Use wattages as a guide only. Alternatively, refer to the ‘Light Output in Lumens’ column. You can then check the lumen output (lm) shown on the CFL or MVH lamp package you are purchasing. (NB: Not all products carry lumen details)

* compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) come in a range of colours, these include:

• Warm White - provides a soft warmer light comparable to light provided by traditional incandescent light bulbs
• Cool White - provides neutral light comparable to office lighting
• Daylight - similar to outdoor light comparable to midday lighting conditions.

** MVH lamps are similar in appearance to traditional incandescent light bulbs and are suitable alternatives for light fixtures that require functions such as dimming, sensor lights, touch lights and other lighting applications, however, they are not as efficient as compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs).