Abstract: An energy saving lamp includes an electronic ballast with a printed board positioned upright in a lamp base, wherein all electronic components are provided on the printed board. The electronic components are arranged such that heat generated during operation is dissipated to the metallic fitting of the lamp base. The required insulation is provided by a base insulator of insulating material positioned between a fitting and a central contact. The gas discharge lamp further includes U-shaped gas tubes and is fastened on the lamp base with a lamp insert which is composed of two parts.