Further EU exemptions spell bright future for stage lighting

A vote by EU member states on the forthcoming Ecodesign regulations has resulted in further exemptions for live performance lighting, guaranteeing that the vast majority of stage and studio lighting can remain in use.

The new revisions exempt network-controlled entertainment lighting fixtures from standby power requirements and extend the exemption for colour-tunable light sources to green. The additions also exempt a number of specialist live entertainment lights from regulations, and allow the use of some white light sources.

The European Entertainment Ecodesign Coalition – a Europe-wide group of associations working in the entertainment and live performance sector – has welcomed the revision, stating that all “remaining concerns regarding stage and studio lighting were addressed by the expert group.”

The European Union proposed its new Ecodesign directive in May 2018. Under the plans, stage lighting fell privy to the same environmental rules that govern lights sold for domestic and office use.

“Remaining concerns regarding stage and studio lighting have now been addressed”

Venues and industry associations across Europe warned that some of the continent’s best-loved music venues and theatres would face a blackout post implementation of the directive in 2020.

Responding to critics, the European Commission first revised the proposal in July 2018, exempting around 80% of specific lamp types used in the live performance and film sector from Ecodesign requirements.

Following the latest revision on 17 December, the vast majority of light sources needed on stage, in specialised lighting design, and in film studios can continue to be used.

The European Commission will publish a consolidated version of the text at the end of January.

 

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