Policies for emerging technologies: solid state lighting examples from SSL Annex member countries

Panel: 7. Appliances, products, lighting and ICT

This is a peer-reviewed paper.

Authors:
David Boughey, Department of the Environment and Energy,
Appliance Energy Efficiency Branch, Energy Division
, Australia
Peter Bennich, Energimyndigheten, Sweden
Nils Borg, IEA 4E SSL Annex, Sweden
Michael Scholand, n14 energy ltd.

Abstract

Every policy-maker knows that setting regulations on emerging and rapidly evolving technologies is difficult. The pace of innovation can be so rapid that it exceeds the natural pace of policy making. And, compounding this problem, new issues and challenges emerge which require careful study to arrive at appropriate responses and interventions. Solid-state lighting, as a new product technology area, is the embodiment of this challenge. Policy-makers seeking to transform their markets and promote more energy-efficient solid-state lighting have to address issues of scope, exemptions, measurement challenges, requirements, and many other qualities and performance features. This paper draws upon the experiences and offers case studies from the IEA 4E SSL Annex member countries who are actively working on energy-efficiency and performance requirements for SSL retrofit lamps and luminaires.

This paper provides a synopsis of the experience and lessons learned from SSL Annex member countries in nurturing quality LED lamps in their markets. The paper highlights a portfolio of market transformation policy and programme tools used around the world support and sustain the market for high quality, energy-efficient LED products. Across all the key segments of the supply chain, governments and energy-efficiency programmes can play an important role in raising awareness of efficiency opportunities, while helping to build demand for and stimulating supply of energy-efficient, quality lighting.

Brief case-studies are offered in this paper highlighting lessons learned and programmes developed across the membership of the SSL Annex. The initiatives are classified into four categories: (1) quality assurance; (2) communication approaches; (3) manufacturing support and (4) incentives for buyers. Sharing these best-practice case studies will hopefully stimulate other governments to take action, and develop their own portfolio of initiatives to promote high-quality LED lighting.