The import and sale of 40-60 watts incandescent tungsten bulbs will be banned in Qatar from November 1.
Qatar General Organisation for Standards and Metrology at the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME) on Wednesday said the initiative is part of implementing its 2010-2020 strategy, which includes its vision to have only high quality products in the country whether locally manufactured or imported, and help consumers opt for the best products of high standards.
Besides, it is part of the organisation's scheme to conserve energy and maintain a clean and healthy environment. In this regard, the organisation has launched a publicity campaign to create awareness about the purpose of the ban and the date when it will take effect.
The authorities will conduct searches in cooperation with the entities concerned in the country to ensure that the targeted bulbs are not circulating in the local market, a statement issued by the organisation said.
A ban on the import and sale of tungsten 75 and 100 watt light bulbs had come into effect in Qatar on May 1.
Tungsten (incandescent) bulbs use much more power than energy-saving LED ones, as well as produce more heat.
Meanwhile, Dr Mohamed bin Saif al-Kuwari, MME Assistant Undersecretary for Standardisation and Metrology Affairs, has said the companies importing the new energy-saving air conditioners would be responsible for providing maintenance for such appliances.
He told local Arabic daily Arrayah that the companies importing and distributing the new energy-saving air conditioners would also be responsible for providing the suitable spare parts for all their products. In addition, the dealers are expected to provide consumers with adequate warranty that could range from five to seven years.
Dr al-Kuwari said currently there may be no private workshops other than the dealers that could repair the new types of ACs.
"However, after the passage of one year and the widespread use of these energy-saving ACs, new workshops and centres capable of maintaining them would normally emerge. During the first year everybody knows that these products will be maintained by the distributors under the terms of the warranty."
Dr al-Kuwari pointed out that a meeting was held in January with the importers of the new ACs during which there was a stress on the issue of maintenance and spare parts.