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An explanation of why the EU energy labels are changing.
12.03.2021
As you’ve probably already heard by now – energy labels as we know them are changing. The new A to G Energy Labelling system has been implemented in both physical and online stores from 1st March 2021.
But don’t worry – this is a positive change, which aims to make life easier for the consumer and better for the environment.
AMDEA stated that manufactures vast improvements in appliance technology have reduced running costs and sent the energy ratings of washing and refrigeration products off the scale. Currently the most frequently purchased fridge freezers use 40 per cent less energy than those in homes a decade ago and with the majority of products rated A+ to A+++, the old system lacked headroom to allow for further innovations. *
What does this mean for the consumer?
When in the market to buy a domestic appliance, energy labels are super helpful as they show how appliances rank on a scale from A to G according to its energy consumption. Class A (green) is the most energy efficient and Class G (red) the least. Currently – once most appliances reach Class A, up to 3 further classes can be added to the scale: these are A+, A++ and A+++.
The European Parliament and Commission have retired the current A+++ labelling system in favour of a more simplified A-G ratings system. The new labelling system will include new performance items, stricter eco-design requirements, and new testing methods. *
Products included in this new roll out are:
- - Refrigerators
- - Washing Machines
- - Washer-Dryers
- - Dishwashers
Improved energy efficiency in many products over the years has meant more and more appliances are ranked within the A+, A++ and A+++ grades. This has proven to be confusing for consumers.
By moving from the current A+++ to G scale, to a simpler A to G scale – this will be better understood by all consumers, plus customers can choose products that consume less energy and thereby save more money. It’s a win win!
Looking towards a better future
The new Energy Labelling Package constitutes an important contribution to the EU’s energy and climate targets. *
The old energy rating scale ranged from A+++ (the most efficient) to G (the least efficient) – however, this only took into account a few factors (depending on the product) such as energy efficiency, or whether or not there’s a freezer compartment, etc.
The new energy labels display not only electricity consumption but also other energy and non-energy information – including intuitive pictograms to compare products, which will help consumers make a better-informed purchase choice. Information will be displayed about the water used per washing cycle, storing capacity, the noise emitted etc, so that consumers can easily understand and choose to purchase eco appliances.
A new element in these labels is a QR code with which consumers will be able to get additional, official (non-commercial) information by scanning the code with a smartphone. The data available to any European citizen, is in the EPREL EU database. *
Paul Hide, Chief Executive of AMDEA said:
“The new system can also help many families to reduce their monthly expenditures as we strive to navigate a post-COVID world, while placing the UK in a pole position on environmental initiatives.”
For more information on the EU energy efficiency label changes, please visit the source links below:
Source