EU Restricts Old Lamps: Implications of Regulation 2022/278 for Event Organizers
In the days of yore, halogen and metal halide lamps reigned supreme. However, the writing's on the wall, as a new EU regulation is poised to extinguish these old-school light sources. But, without further ado, let's ponder - when's the last time you paid no mind to the light show at an event? Never, right? Lighting serves as the lifeblood of every event, setting the ambiance, eliciting emotions, and frequently giving birth to unforgettable moments. But what transpires when the foundation of many lighting installations vanishes?
Brace Yourself for EU Regulation 2022/278 - Sayonara to Mercury and More
The EU Regulation 2022/278, an extension of the existing RoHS Directive, aims to phase out harmful substances like mercury and pave the way for more environmentally friendly alternatives. The use of mercury in lighting will gradually cease, as safer options have become readily available in the market. As of February 2027, certain lamps previously allowed due to technical necessity will no longer be sold or used in the EU. Many popular lamps among event tech enthusiasts, such as halogen, metal halide, and high-pressure discharge lamps, are the most affected.
Which Lamps are Targeted?
The regulation covers a vast array of lamps frequently used in event tech. Alongside halogen lamps, numerous high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps, including metal halide lamps, find themselves in the ban's crosshairs. Given that these types of lamps are heavily relied upon in stage spotlights, effect lighting, and projection systems, this change particularly stings. Stage productions of all sizes, as well as smaller venues, will be compelled to adapt their lighting technology.
A Storm's a-Comin' - Challenges for the Event Technology Industry
In the aftermath of this transition to new technologies, event organizers, lighting designers, and tech companies are bracing themselves for a truckload of challenges. Many existing systems are built around the affected lamps, which requires costly and time-consuming adjustments to lighting technology. Additionally, there could be short-term scarcities and heightened demand for alternative options such as LEDs and laser phosphor, leading to supply challenges.
Making Lemons out of Lemonade - Prolight + Sound 2025
April 8-11, 2025
The silver lining? laser phosphor technology and LEDs come across as the upcoming saviors of the event lighting scene. Laser phosphor technology features a blue laser beam that illuminates a phosphor layer to produce intense and uniform white light. This technology boasts several advantages over traditional types of lamps: it is more energy-efficient, has a longer lifespan, and is free of toxic substances. In practice, this means laser phosphor spotlights generate extremely bright and color-intensive light, making them perfect for both stage and outdoor events. The compact design and low heat generation also make integration into complex setups a breeze.
LED technologies also present a strong alternative. LEDs offer astronomical energy savings, significantly longer lifespans, and versatile application possibilities. While LED lights are already used in myriad areas of event tech, their capacity to mimic specialized stage lighting is a burgeoning trend.
Which Lamps are Wielding Laser Phosphor Technology?
Check out the Prolight + Sound 2025 to feast your eyes on a plethora of exhibitors showcasing lamps with laser phosphor technology. We're already sharing two products:
Robe iBOLT
The Robe iBOLT is a laser phosphor spotlight with a super brightness of 1,100,000 lux at 20 meters. With a zoom range of 0.4° to 8.5°, it's compatible for both focused beams and soft wash effects. Technologies such as SpektraBeamTM and MLPTM prisms enable the iBOLT to broadcast creative lighting effects. Its sturdy construction, complete with robust protection systems like POLAR+TM, makes it a dreamboat for outdoor events.
Cameo ORON H2
The Cameo ORON H2 is an IP65-rated hybrid moving head with a 260-watt laser phosphor engine. Boasting a brightness of 330,000 lux at 20 meters, it offers a wide zoom range of 0.6° to 32°, making it incredibly versatile. It is equipped with 19 fixed and 12 rotating gobos, as well as various effect prisms, allowing for imaginative lighting design. The ORON H2 is suitable for indoor and outdoor applications and is already being used by event giants like PRG.
ProLight - All the News That's Fit to Print!
Prolight+Sound 2025 - A Hub for Discussion on EU Regulation 2022/278 and Sustainable Lighting TechnologyVisitors can eagerly anticipate fruitful conversations about the effects of EU Regulation 2022/278 on the event technology industry at the Prolight+Sound 2025. Many exhibitors will focus on eco-friendly lighting solutions that comply with the new regulations. Attendees can look forward to Ian Randall's workshop, where he will present the latest trends in sustainable lighting technology. Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to stay ahead of the curve!
- The EU Regulation 2022/278, an extension of the RoHS Directive, aims to phase out harmful substances like mercury in technology, including lighting technology, paving the way for more environmentally friendly alternatives.
- In the event technology industry, lamps such as halogen, metal halide, and high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps, which are frequently used in event tech, are targeted by the regulation due to their use of mercury and other harmful substances.
- As the event technology industry transitions to new technologies, such as LEDs and laser phosphor technology, there will be challenges including costly and time-consuming adjustments to technology, possible supply shortages, and the need for new skills and knowledge to maintain and operate the new systems.
