EU Energy Label overhaul will simplify sustainable shopping

16 July 2015
by anec -- last modified 16 July 2015

The European Commission presented its plans to revise the well-known EU Energy Label in order to make choosing energy-efficient appliances simpler for consumers.

The reform envisages a uniform A-G Energy Label for all products that are obliged to carry one, for example refrigerators, televisions and vacuum cleaners. This is a welcome streamlining of the current confusing labelling practices, which allow for different scales depending upon the product (A-G as well as additional A+ classes).

Stephen Russell, Secretary General of ANEC, the European consumer voice in standardisation, commented:

“Clarity, comparability and simplicity of consumer information are vital to instilling knowledge. We welcome the proposal of the European Commission for a simple, closed A to G Energy Label as there is converging evidence[2] that this is not only well understood by consumers but also effective in motivating them to turn to more efficient appliances”.

ANEC is the European consumer voice in standardisation, defending consumer interests in the processes of technical standardisation and conformity assessment, as well as related legislation and public policies.

European association for the coordination of consumer representation in standardisation (ANEC)