Framework for energy efficiency labelling [EU legislation in progress]

Written by Alex Wilson (5th edition),

In July 2015, the Commission proposed a new regulation on energy efficiency labelling as part of its summer energy package. The proposed regulation seeks to restore the A-G scale for energy labelling; create a mechanism for rescaling products that can accommodate further improvements in energy efficiency; establish a product database on energy efficiency; and introduce a safeguard procedure to improve national market surveillance. The rescaling of different types of household products would be done through delegated acts from the Commission. While the proposal is supported by consumer and environmental groups, industry groups are concerned that a major change in energy labelling could have a negative impact on both producers and consumers, acting as a disincentive to greater energy efficiency.

The Council adopted a general approach in November 2015. The Parliament approved a series of legislative amendments in July 2016. After several trilogue meetings, a provisional agreement was reached in March 2017. The agreed text was subsequently approved by the Parliament on 13 June and by the Council on 26 June 2017.

Versions

• July 2017: ‘Framework for energy efficiency labelling‘, (5th edition)
• February 2017: ‘Framework for energy efficiency labelling‘, (4th edition)
• September 2016: ‘Framework for energy efficiency labelling‘, (3rd edition)
• March 2016: ‘Framework for energy efficiency labelling‘, (2nd edition)
• October 2015: ‘Framework for energy efficiency labelling‘, (1st edition)