Royal Philips Electronics announces it welcomes the decision made by the European Union to phase-out incandescent light bulbs in the EU by 2012.

This decision is in line with Philips' call for action to accelerate the switch over to energy efficient lighting solutions in view of climate change, as announced in Brussels on 7 December 2006.

"This decision is a milestone in our efforts to accelerate the switch to energy efficient lighting solutions," says Rudy Provoost, CEO of Philips Lighting. "Lighting offers a great opportunity to not only significantly reduce energy consumption and carbon emission and as such contribute to a better environment; it also provides economic benefits. In short, energy efficient lighting solutions turn an economic and ecological challenge into an opportunity for innovation and growth, with a better quality of light that improves people's well-being. Our global leadership position in lighting, coupled with our strategic focus and drive, positions us very well to further lead in innovative sustainable solutions and new business models."

In Europe, 1.8 billion incandescent light bulbs were sold in 2007, and the switch to energy efficient lighting solutions will have a significant impact. With this phase-out, consumers will significantly reduce energy consumption and fight climate change by preventing 23 million tons of CO2 emissions per year. What's more, consumers can save up to EUR 8-10 in energy costs per bulb per year. On average there are about 20-30 light points per house and with the many alternative energy savers and halogen bulbs available from Philips, including LED-based solutions, consumers can create the perfect ambiance at home.

As leader in the lighting industry, Philips is further taking the lead in the initiative to accelerate the switch to energy efficient lighting. In addition to saving energy in homes, significant savings can be achieved in buildings and streets. At a side event at the United Nations Conference for Climate Change further initiatives were outlined. In the lead up to announcing a global program focused on building and street renovation, Philips discussed steps to enable city authorities and building owners to take immediate action to contribute to a better environment. And at today's Third Industrial Revolution Global Business CEO Round table in Brussels, a plea was made to collaborate and start acting now.

"In today's economic and ecological climate, lighting is an industry that can help save money as well as energy and carbon emissions," says Garrett Forde, CEO of Philips Lighting's Lamps business in Europe. "This is unique and a very important opportunity, which offers a win-win situation for all involved. By switching lighting solutions in buildings and streets, companies and cities can save significant amounts of money and reduce their carbon footprint to reach their environmental targets, helping to combat climate change."

"Everybody can act now; there are no hurdles left, only benefits," he adds. "Businesswise, this opportunity will fuel growth and strengthen competitive position for businesses involved, while it immediately contributes to a better environment, and enhances people's well-being. In short, energy efficient lighting solutions turn an economic and ecological challenge into an opportunity for innovation and growth, with a better quality of light that improves people's well-being."

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