Energy label review proposes beefed up regime

EurActiv on 7 February 2014 reported on the first findings and recommendations of a comprehensive review of EU energy labelling and Ecodesign measures.

The study, published on 31 January 2014 by the Dutch Ecofys consultancy, calles for an overhaul of confusing energy label classes, and tougher market surveillance of eco-cheats, backed up by robust penalties. It proposes joint enforcement programmes by EU states and more government-funded surveillance of rogue firms, paid for by heavier fines on the estimated 10% of product lines that mislabel their goods.

In August 2013, the European Commission launched a review process to evaluate the effectiveness of the Energy Labelling Directive as well as specific aspects of the Ecodesign Directive.

ESO: Background information: Commission 'buckled under pressure' for soft energy labels http://www.europeansources.info/record/commission-buckled-under-pressure-for-soft-energy-labels/

Ecofys: Report: Evaluation of the Energy Labelling Directive and specific aspects of the Ecodesign Directive - First findings and recommendations http://www.energylabelevaluation.eu/tmce/First_findings_and_recommendations_31_January_2014.pdf

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