Eco-bulbs cost to treble

walkon

The price of energy-saving light bulbs will treble as the final supplies of traditional bulbs dry up, industry experts have warned.
The Government has ordered energy companies to scrap the subsidies that have kept the price of eco-bulbs artificially low for the last few years.

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1343554/Eco-bulb-cost-treble-Makers-cash-ban-old-style-bulbs-kicks-in.html#ixzz1A0GSyRh6

Not that it bothers me, as i don't like them energy saving bulbs anyway. Btw energy saving bulbs are not better for the environment, as they contain mercury.

Long live the old traditional bulbs.

It's all one big green con anyway.

cliffski

What nonsense.

You clearly have no idea about energy saving light bulbs, as you are lumping all techs together. I use LED light bulbs, maybe you can direct me to where the mercury is (there isn't any)
However, you probably have a thermometer somewhere in your house. Enjoy that evil mercury...

Also, currently CFL lightbulbs are about 50p. OMG!!!! They might become £1.50. It must be a plot by al gore etc....

nzmegs

In three months time you won't be able to buy the old bulbs anyway I'm afraid - so it makes no difference. the concern with this increase in price is related to the fact that manufacturers have realised they can charge what they like as consumers will have no choice. yes low energy bulbs contain mercury but they have been deemed safe due to the tiny levels.

Yes the prices will increase but bear in mind that low energy bulbs last much longer so you won't have to buy them as often. the light is certainly different, but if you try different types you will see that they are improving this perceived problem and after they have heated up the light is just fine.

patman99

They reckon the old bulbs are non-recyclable.
Hmmmmm, let me see, right, the bulb is made of glass (can be ground to a powder and used in reflective paint), the element is highly-sought-after and extremely valuable tungsten and the base is made of stainless steel.

Whereas an energy saving cfl bulb IS recyclable (despite the fact that they are classed as hazardous waste and contain extremely harmful compounds).

beedydad

Try and recycle CFL's?

They are hazardous waste and you would have to drive to your amenity tip to get rid of them safely. Not sure many folks will bother as not economically sound to drive with 1 - 2 bulbs!

You cannot put them in your noraml waste/recycle bin.

What does your local authority do about them or recommend you do?

There are only 6 CFL/gas filled lamp recycler companies in country whereas there are approx 1/2 BILLION in circulation. Most will go, at present to landfill and there will be sufficent mercury to cause problems - why do you think they are deemed hazardous?

We could stop all this before a problem arises, rather than bury your head and think there is no problem!!

Ben84

I'd advise against buying the super cheap bulbs. I usually spend about £5 on a new bulb. I've not had many problems, I'm happy with the amount and colour of their light, and I'm still using many very old ones. Some are from the early 90's, but most are about ten years old now.

Light bulbs are something you use every day and can potentially last many years, so it's worth spending a little bit more than the cheapest on the shelf to get good quality light and a long useful life.