Navigating the Fluorescent Lighting Ban and the Move to LED

The UK has introduced restrictions on fluorescent lighting, requiring businesses and organisations to transition to more energy-efficient alternatives. This change affects commercial, education and public buildings that still rely on older fluorescent fittings.

Fluorescent lighting uses more electricity than modern alternatives and contains materials such as mercury, which require controlled disposal. The move to LED lighting reduces energy use, lowers running costs, and removes hazardous components from buildings.

E Electrical carries out commercial LED lighting upgrades for businesses and organisations across Plymouth, Devon and Cornwall.

Why Fluorescent Lighting Is Being Phased Out

Fluorescent lamps are less efficient than LED systems and have a shorter usable lifespan. They also rely on materials that present environmental and handling risks at end of life.

The phase-out aims to:
• Reduce electricity demand
• Lower carbon emissions
• Remove mercury-based products from circulation
• Encourage longer-lasting lighting solutions

For many organisations, this change means planning upgrades rather than reacting to failed fittings or supply constraints.

Benefits of Switching to LED Lighting

LED lighting offers clear operational and financial advantages for commercial buildings.

Key benefits include:
• Lower electricity consumption
• Reduced maintenance requirements
• Improved lighting consistency
• Longer fitting lifespan
• No hazardous materials

LED systems can also support zoning, controls, and occupancy-based operation where required.

Plymouth College LED Lighting Upgrade

A recent project involved upgrading lighting within a large education facility, replacing fluorescent fittings with LED high-bay luminaires.

The outcomes included:
• A 37.5% reduction in electricity usage
• Improved light levels in sports and gym areas
• More consistent lighting throughout the space

The upgrade improved usability while reducing long-term running costs.

Environmental and Operational Impact

Switching to LED lighting reduces both energy consumption and carbon output. For larger buildings, these reductions accumulate quickly over time.

Lower power demand also reduces strain on electrical infrastructure and supports sustainability and energy-management targets.

Planning a Commercial LED Upgrade

Organisations affected by the fluorescent lighting phase-out should assess existing fittings, operating hours and usage patterns. A planned LED upgrade avoids disruption and ensures compliance while improving lighting performance.

E Electrical provides LED lighting upgrades for commercial and educational buildings across Plymouth, Devon and Cornwall, covering survey, design and installation.