On 18th September 2017 Irish MEP Marian Harkin asked the following question to the European Commission:
Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have shown that by surrounding light bulb filaments with a special crystal structure in the glass, they can bounce back the energy normally lost in heat, while still allowing the light through. This new bulb design could reach efficiency levels of 40%, which is higher than the efficiency rate of LED or fluorescent bulbs.
Has the Commission taken into account the latest research and development for energy-efficient incandescent light bulbs ahead of the 1 September 2018 phase-out?
Would the Commission consider introducing a concrete exception for the manufacture of incandescent bulbs on a prescription basis?
What other measures are being introduced to help the estimated 250 000 EU citizens who are exceptionally sensitive to UV/blue light to manage this situation?