New energy labels brought into use
Energy labels are changing to become more transparent
Energy labels have been a reference for consumers for more than 20 years. It is an indicator which is always taken into consideration before making a purchase. However, over time the current efficiency scale, from A+++ to G, has become less transparent. In order to continue helping consumers to choose the most efficient products, the European Union has decided to strengthen product performance requirements and return to the A to G scale, eliminating the + we've become used to. During the transition period of changing the labels products will have both the current and the new labels.
What is the energy label?
It is a key tool for consumers to better understand and compare the efficiency of appliances such as fridges, TVs, washing machines and dishwashers. It allows the consumer to make their choice by taking into account aspects such as sustainability and electricity bill savings. Energy class A is the lowest level of consumption and therefore is the most environmentally friendly, with G being the least environmentally friendly.
Why is there a new label?
According to a consumer survey, the current labelling scale has become less effective over time. This is because nowadays most appliances are in the higher classes (A+, A++, A++), leaving the lower classes empty due to the fact that less efficient appliances have been disappearing from the market. To solve this problem, the European Union has revised and optimised the energy label according to customer needs. In the new system, the label scale will be changed and ratings with + will disappear, giving rise to an A-G rating. Initially the higher classes (A and B) will be empty, to encourage manufacturers to develop more effective products.
What does the new label look like?
In addition to the new energy scale, whereby all products will have an A to G rating, it will include a QR code upper right corner where you can access the European Commission (EPREL) to find more information on this change. Below you will see different pictograms, which use icons to display the specific functionalities and characteristics of the product in question.