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 that we all take into account before making a purchase. However, over time the current efficiency scale, from A+++ to G, has become less transparent. In order to continue helping the consumer to choose the most efficient products, the European Union has decided to strengthen product performance requirements and go back to the A to G scale, eliminating the + we have been used to. During the transition period of this labeling, products will have both the current and the new labels.
Old energy label:
in effect/display until the 28th of February 2021.
New energy label:
in effect/display at physical stores and online from the 1st of March 2021.
What is an 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 considering aspects such as sustainability and electricity bill savings. Energy label A has the lowest consumption level, therefore it is the most environmentally friendly, going down to G as the least environmentally friendly.
Why is there a new label?
According to our consumer survey, the current labeling scale has become less effective over time. This is because most appliances are in the higher categories A+, A++, A+++, leaving lower categories empty, as low efficiency appliances have been disappearing from the market. To solve this problem, the European Union has revised and optimized the energy label according to customer needs: the label scale will change, + ratings will disappear, giving rise to an A-G rating. Initially, the higher categories (A and B) will be empty, to encourage manufacturers to develop more efficient products.
How does the new label look like?
In addition to the new energy scale, from A to G for all products, a QR code will be added to the upper right corner where you can access the European Commission (EPREL) to find more information about the change. Below, you will see different pictograms, which use icons to indicate specific functionalities and characteristics of the product in question.