One of the key aims of the en.lighten initiative is to develop flexible yet comprehensive policy recommendations that can be used by countries interested in implementing efficient lighting programs. These recommendations are based on reviews of strategies for market transformation and regulatory phase-out in both developed and developing countries.
The Policy, Regulation and Finance Taskforce analyzes and makes recommendations for supporting policies, regulations, norms and financial incentives effective to overcome barriers to enable the transition to efficient lighting. These recommendations will be flexible enough to integrate diverse economic, technical and financial conditions of individual countries. They will address issues such as; product registration, labeling, consumer or retailer promotional activities, environmental protection, recycling, support for industry transition, actions to support low income groups, financial mechanisms and carbon finance, etc.
The Policy, Regulation and Finance Taskforce consists of three sub groups:
Test Standards sub group
This sub group has been established to measure performance standards without favouring any particular technology. Its primary task is to submit proposals to harmonize international test methods allowing for regional variation such as excessive temperature, humidity and an unstable power supply. This sub group will also ensure that test labs have the proper resources in place to enable a process of mutual recognition.
Minimum Energy Performance & Quality Requirements sub group
This sub group is responsible for the establishment of energy performance and light quality requirements based on international standards. Its mandate covers performance and light quality related issues such as lifetime, efficacy and lumen maintenance, colour matching and Colour Rendering Index (CRI), voltage sensitivity, power factor and harmonics and mercury content. Guideline limits for national standards will be established to ensure that quality products are available to all income groups.
Monitoring, Verification and Enforcement sub group
The objective of this sub group is to ensure that only products complying with all relevant international and national legislation are made available to the marketplace. This will include issuing guidelines for monitoring mechanisms, such as registration and surveys, and enforcement mechanisms.