Every second year the ?Golden Plug? invites designers and producers to compete on the theme of ?better lighting?. The goal of the competition is: Energy efficiency of lighting should be taken for granted. This is possible only if a wide range of attractive luminaries are available in the market, with the possibility to buy and use energy efficient lighting at a reasonable price. The criteria for taking part in the competition and the technological evaluation are very strict. Engineers measure the energy consumption, the efficiency of the luminaire and the lighting level in an office space. The ecological relevance of the materials used is checked and the relationship cost/use is recorded. After the testing a jury is called which judges the luminaries on the grounds of their design qualities. The best overall performance receives the Golden Plug award.

Project manager: Stefan Gasser