New scheme: energy labels simplified (again)
Quick recap. The European Commission has been reviewing its energy efficiency labelling scheme. These are the ones you can find on many electrical products. Originally they ran from A (the most efficient) to G (the least efficient), but in 2010 a decision was taken to extend the grades beyond A to encourage manufacturers to make greener goods.
Confused. This led to items being marked A+, A++ and A+++, and consumers and businesses have lost track. If you currently buy an AÂ graded product, it might not be very energy efficient.
As you were. In June 2017 the three law-making EU institutions (Parliament, Council and Commission) agreed to revert to the original A to G scheme in 15 product groups, including fridges, air conditioning units and light bulbs (see The next step ). Taps, windows and vending machines could also be added. These changes will take place in 2019 so it’s not clear how these will be applied in the UK post-Brexit.
Scores. The efficiency ratings will also be recalibrated so A is always the best. For example, if more than 30% of products in a category are classified as A-grade, some of the less efficient products will be downgraded.
For a link to more information on the new labels, visit http://tipsandadvice-environment.co.uk/download (EN 12.03.08).