Defra to turn EU energy efficiency directive into law

Better design of energy-using products could save the economy £900m, according to evidence given to a new consultation by the Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).

The consultation seeks views on how best to implement minimum energy standards and energy labelling of high street products introduced by EU legislation.

The European Union (EU) Framework Directive for the Eco-design of Energy Using Products (EuP) has already begun to introduce minimum energy standards and labels for televisions, washing machines and fridges at the design stage, with more products to follow.

The EU estimates that implementing these standards effectively will reduce EU energy use by 10 per cent. Non-compliance with the standards costs £30m a year.

The consultation will ensure that manufacturers can compete in a fair environment, while consumers are guaranteed that the products they purchase meet the mandatory minimum energy performance standards and their declared energy label.

New environment minister Dan Norris said the government wants to hear the views of industry on how the legislation should be translated into UK law.

"It is really important that we hear from businesses and manufacturers to get a well-rounded view of how we can enforce and check on products' energy standards. These standards can save our economy so much money and can prevent millions of tonnes of CO2 going into the atmosphere," he said.

The consultation aims to find out who would be best placed to regulate the market, to discover what powers such an enforcement authority should have, and to seek industry views on draft guidance notes for five energy-using products: standby, simple set-top boxes, external power supplies, household lighting and tertiary lighting.