Ecodesign: Robe CEO urges Czech MEPs to back exemption
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In their current form, the controversial proposals would bring stage lighting under the same energy efficiency regulations devised for domestic, office and industrial lighting from September 2020, affecting all specialist lighting fixtures. Robe explains the legislation relates to the number of lumens output rather than the quality and doesn’t consider fixtures utilising optical systems geared for performance and entertainment lighting.
Valchar comments: “I cannot stress the importance of this enough. Every manufacturer, rental company, venue, LD, technician and other individual or organisation involved in any aspect of entertainment lighting or in producing events and performances should have a vested interest in opening a sensible and measured discussion about how it affects stage luminaires producing less than 85 lumens per watt.”
Organisations can respond to the public consultation on the proposals until 7 May. Valchar adds: “It is urgent. We have only until the 7 May – that’s just 10 days - to get objections registered in Brussels. If we do this, then there will have to be a debate before the laws is passed.”
In the UK, PLASA and the Association of Lighting Designers have been campaigning for an exemption, with the ALD launching the #SaveStageLighting campaign and The Proposed 2020 EU Lighting Regulations - A Primer while PLASA explained the effects of the proposed legislation to its members in its Call to Arms. PLASA will also attend a European Commission meeting on 17 May in Brussels to address the proposals.
Valchar continues: “It is a vitally important time for the industry to unite and object to these proposals - to preserve tools at the very essence of our vibrant, diverse and creative industry.”
He concludes: “It is imperative that EU industry leaders petition lawmakers in their own countries and urge them to start a dialogue on these proposals which will affect the industry so dramatically.
“Performance in all its forms is an expression at the heart of our numerous European cultures. Without moving, dramatic and spectacular lighting and visual effects, the experience will lack character and emotional engagement.”
(Jim Evans)
