European Commission launches public consultation on massive expansion of LED lighting in Europe

Innovative LED lighting in the public area (Copyright: LED-Netzwerk Schwarzwald).

16.12.11

European Commission / Photonics21

The European Commission today adopted the Green Paper "Lighting the Future - Accelerating the deployment of innovative lighting technologies" and launched a public consultation on the future of LED-based lighting. Faster LED deployment will ensure the success of Europe's lighting industry and help reduce energy use from lighting by 20% by 2020. Boosting energy saving LED-based lighting is a key objective of the Digital Agenda for Europe.

The Green Paper proposes to introduce new policy initiatives and a public debate with all interested parties in Europe to accelerate the wide deployment of innovative high-quality lighting solutions, based on light emitting diode (LED) and organic LED technologies in the field of 'Solid State Lighting' (SSL). The Green Paper addresses the demand as well as the supply side. The Commission now is asking for the views of all interested individuals and organisations on the specific questions set out in the Green Paper. The public consultation is open until the 29 February 2012.

First, the Paper addresses policies targeting European users (professional users and consumers). They should overcome existing challenges for wider market uptake. The Green Paper then proposes policies addressing the European lighting industry to foster its leading position and competitiveness and to contribute to growth and jobs in Europe.

European Commission Vice President Neelie Kroes said: "Expanding LED lighting is a 'no-brainer'. It means more money in your pocket, and a healthier planet. Please give us your ideas on how to speed up its deployment and maximise the number of jobs and savings Europe can gain from expanding the use of LED lighting."

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Press release European Commission
Press release Photoics21