DIM2 aims to renew consumer confidence where LED lighting is concerned, as homeowners often have to rely on their contractor or local wholesaler to recommend the most suitable lamp. Therefore installers and wholesalers must be able to speak with confidence about the products in the market, as well as ensure that all of the products are compliant with the DIM2 regulations.
There have been many cases in which the LED lamp advertised hasn’t lived up to end user’s expectations. However, the new legislation will set minimum performance standards and introduce new easier to understand labelling, giving consumers peace of mind. This new transparency within the market will enable people to easily compare lamps and make a more informed decision, simplifying the process for all involved.
Further to DIM2, the ErP legislation – which was updated at the end of 2013 – outlines a minimum energy efficiency rating that all lamps must meet. Originally introduced as part of the EU’s carbon reduction plan, the ErP contributes to the European wide target of reducing carbon emissions by 20 per cent by 2020. The updated directive pushes poorer performing lamps out of the marketplace, meaning that certain products will no longer be available, for example the non-directional CFL will not meet the new guidelines.
James Harding, category manager at Newey & Eyre, commented, ‘Historically some of the LED lamps that have been imported into the UK have been of questionable quality, which has led to the early adopters being disappointed and feeling that the technology had not lived up to its promise.
‘However, with the introduction of the DIM2 legislation and the updated ErP we believe that confidence will return to the LED sector, enabling us to weed out inferior products that aren’t up to scratch.
‘While the legislation is certainly a step in the right direction, specifying the correct lamp for the job is also a key part of ensuring customer satisfaction. Installing energy efficient lamps will certainly help end users to reduce their energy consumption and cut carbon emissions, but it’s important to check that lamps are correctly specified.’
