Phasing out an embedded technology: Insights from banning the incandescent light bulb in Europe

Abstract

Opening up the dynamics of phase-outs is important to advance the knowledge about how to navigate phase-outs, how to speed them up and how to ensure justice, all pressing topics in energy transitions. I revisit the case of the incandescent light bulb phase-out in Europe and investigate what processes were involved after the phase-out regulation entered into force (2000–2020). The present study deviates in approach and analytical focus from prior studies of the light bulb phase-out. I use ‘technologies-in-practice’ as heuristic to trace technology as a processual phenomenon, i.e. as an outcome of processes of co-evolving materiality, meanings, activities and skills integral to them.I find that intentional push for a destabilising meaning (energy inefficiency) of the light bulb, resonant with powerful larger discourse (climate change), and imitation of existing technology by a group of stakeholders was key in the process of light bulb’s downscaling. The attachment of new, reinforcing the stability of the configuration, meanings to the light bulb (nostalgic lamp, rough-service lamp) by another group of stakeholders prevented a complete phase-out. I contribute to the existing theoretical literature by offering to put more emphasis on studying the later stages of the technological trajectory, and discussing the winners and losers of the phasing-out.