In Bregenz (Austria), LpS Symposium this week attracts experts from throughout the lighting industry to discuss the status of solid-state lighting under scientific and technological aspects. Reflecting the development of this industry, the event also grew bigger and gained professionalism.
The LpS (LED professional Symposium) this year only took place for the second time but it already seems to be an indispensible event for industry and research. It is the place where at a high scientific and technological level experts discuss current and future development trends. For scientists, technologists and industrial leaders it is a serious alternative to large established events that however are directed more towards the general public. The rising significance of solid-system lighting was reflected in the rising number of qualified visitors - it rose by 20 percent to 900 pre-registered visitors. 67 exhibitors populated the halls, a plus of 24 percent over last year's LpS. While the number of presentations remained stable, the organizer added three Tech Panels, discussing topics such as OLED technologies, thermal management or LED technology.
Event director Siegfried Luger said the event remained true to itself in embracing a broad spectrum of topics and including the entire LED lighting value chain from the semiconductor wafer to real-world LED installations. But there are differences: "The discussions this year focus on cost optimisation and how to reduce complexity, while past year the topic was more focused on feasibility - about to show what is possible. Seen this way, it reflects the process of industrial maturing".
LED lighting is an important technology weapon in the battle against global warming, explained Michael Ziegler, member of the Photonics Unit at the EU Commissions General Directorate for Information Society and Media: The Commission plans to reduce the energy used in lighting applications throughout the EU by 20% through the year 2020. This goal has already boosted the demand for LED-based lighting solutions - in only two years, from 2010 to 2011, the market share of LEDs more than doubled from 6% to 13%. In order to further stimulate the market acceptance for energy-efficient lighting technologies, the EC encourages public authorities to include total lifetime costs as award criteria into the procurement process of public lighting installations.
Mr. Ziegler also quoted a EU Green Paper on SSL saying that there are still shortcomings and concerns regarding the LED market. Among them are product quality, High upfront costs for individuals who are converting from conventional or CFL lighting to LEDs; and lack of information and awareness in general.
In terms of LED technology, the EC plans to further develop LED development topics in its upcoming FP7 Framework Programme for Research and Technological Development. FP7 will become effective from 2014 through 2020. Small and medium companies including startups will benefit from the promotional measures included in this programme. "In Europe there is a lot of potential to boost innovation - and this does not only hold true for the big players", Ziegler said.
