Since 2021, lighting has had a new energy label. The old scale from A++ to E has been replaced by a simpler scale from A to G. But why do LED lamps that used to have an A++ rating now often have a C or D rating? Has LED become less energy-efficient? No, the benchmark has become stricter.
New scale, stricter requirements
The old energy labels were confusing, with A+, A++, and A+++. Almost all LED lamps had A+ or higher, making the label less distinctive. The new A to G scale has been redefined with much stricter requirements. Label A is now reserved for the most efficient lighting, and even the best LED lamps often score B, C, or D. This doesn't mean LEDs have become worse, but the bar has been raised. Incandescent and halogen lamps now score F or G and are practically banned. LED remains by far the most energy-efficient choice.
What do the labels mean
Label A: the most efficient lighting, often only achievable through innovative LED technology. Labels B and C: very energy-efficient LED lighting, most high-quality LED lamps are classified here. Labels D and E: energy-efficient LED lighting, still much more efficient than older lighting. Labels F and G: inefficient lighting such as halogen and incandescent bulbs, which are no longer permitted for sale (with some exceptions). Don't just look at the letter of the label, but also at the actual power consumption in watts and the light output in lumens .
Lumens per Watt: the true benchmark
Lighting efficiency is measured in lumens per watt. The more lumens a lamp provides per watt of energy consumed, the more efficient it is. A good LED lamp provides 100-150 lumens per watt. An incandescent bulb only provides 10-15 lumens per watt. A 10W LED lamp with 1200 lumens therefore provides 120 lumens per watt and is very efficient. A 50W halogen lamp with 800 lumens only provides 16 lumens per watt and is inefficient. Always compare lumens per watt when choosing lighting, not just the letter on the energy label.
Calculate savings
A 10W LED bulb replacing a 60W incandescent bulb saves 50W per hour. With 1,000 hours of use per year (about 3 hours per day), you save 50 kWh per year. At an electricity price of €0.40 per kWh, you save €20 per year per bulb. Do you have 10 bulbs in your home? Then you save €200 per year. The investment in LED bulbs pays for itself within one year. LED bulbs also last 15-25 years, while incandescent bulbs need to be replaced annually. The total savings over the lifespan are enormous.
Pay attention to more than just energy
Besides the energy label, other factors are important when choosing lighting. The color temperature (warm white, cool white, or daylight white) determines the atmosphere. The color rendering index (CRI or Ra) determines how natural colors appear; choose at least Ra 80, preferably Ra 90+. Dimmability is important if you want flexible lighting. The lifespan in hours determines how long the bulb will last. The energy label is a useful indicator, but consider the bigger picture. LED lighting with a C or D label is still the most energy-efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective choice for 2026 and beyond.
