The new EU energy label
The most important facts
A new rescaled energy label for electrical products and appliances has been introduced across the EU from 1 March 2021. However, from 1 September 2021, the new energy labelling regulations for light sources come into effect.
You'll continue to see both energy labels until 1 March 2023 as there is a 18-month transition period for products already on the market, but many manufacturers will start using the new label earlier.
We'll answer the most commonly asked questions about the new energy label and show you what will change.
Why is there a new energy label?
Electrical appliances and light sources have become more and more energy-efficient in recent years. As a result, the majority of all appliances were considered efficient and there were hardly any differences between the energy efficiency ratings A+, A++ and A+++.
The new energy label is intended to make the differences transparent again for consumers. For this purpose, all appliances will be re-evaluated.
Frequently Asked Questions: Energy Label & Energy Efficiency
What is A+++ now?
Due to new test procedures for all electrical appliances the efficiency rating has been determined anew for each product. Therefore, it’s not possible to compare the old efficiency classes with the new rescaled ones.
Is there no longer an A?
The energy efficiency class A still exists. For the time being, however, there are no light sources that have this energy class. This leaves room in the future for even more efficient technologies.
Will the old energy label for light sources no longer exist after 1 September 2021?
Light sources already placed on the market before 1 September 2021 may still be sold with the old label. This means that for the transition period until 1 March 2023, you’ll most likely see the old and the new energy label on the market. This means that you might still come across the A plus ratings too.
Are lights with the new energy label less efficient?
No, they’re still energy-efficient. The new test procedure is more stringent and takes into account future improvements in lighting efficiency. By today's standards, the efficient products under the old energy label are just as efficient after the changeover.
See the information on EU Commission website https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/IP_21_4484
