Energy Labels Have Changed. Here’s What That Means.

You may have noticed that light bulb energy labels look different now. That change has already happened, and all lamps on the market follow the new system.

The good news? The labels are clearer, simpler, and easier to compare than before.

Here’s what changed — and what didn’t.

What Changed with Energy Labels

The old energy labels used lots of plus signs: A+, A++, A+++.

That system is gone.

Energy labels now use a simple A to G scale:

• A = most efficient
• G = least efficient

This change applies across all lighting products.

You’ll also see:

• A QR code on the label
• Energy use shown in a clearer, more consistent way

The aim was to make energy ratings easier to understand at a glance and easier to compare between products.

What Didn’t Change

This part is important.

The lamps themselves did not suddenly become less efficient.

A lamp that used to be rated A+ may now be rated C or D. That doesn’t mean it uses more energy than before.

It simply means:

• The scale is stricter
• The bar has been raised
• There’s room for future, even more efficient products

So while the letter changed, the performance stayed the same.

Why the Labels Were Updated

The old system had a problem. Almost everything sat at the top of the scale, which made it hard to see real differences between products.

The new labels spread products out properly. That makes comparisons clearer and more honest.

It also future-proofs the system as lighting continues to improve.

How to Read the New Energy Label

When choosing a lamp today:

• Look at the letter rating: A is still best. Don’t panic if you see C or D — many high-quality LED lamps sit there now.
• Compare like for like: The new scale makes it easier to see which lamp is more efficient within the same type.
• Use the QR code if you want more detail: It links to official product data for those who want to go deeper.

One Thing Worth Knowing (That Often Gets Missed)

Energy labels focus on efficiency — not brightness.

A more efficient lamp doesn’t always mean a brighter one.

When choosing lighting, it’s still worth checking:

• Light output (lumens)
• Colour temperature
• Where the lamp will be used

That’s how you get lighting that feels right, not just efficient on paper.

Our Take

The new energy labels are a step forward. They’re clearer, stricter, and easier to trust.

If you’re ever unsure what a rating means — or which lamp is right for your space — we’re here to help you choose with confidence.

Simple lighting. Clear choices. That’s how we see it.