Energieeffizienzkennzeichen

Energieeffizienzkennzeichen, often referred to as the Energy Label, is a standardized system used in many countries to inform consumers about the energy consumption of various products. Its primary purpose is to promote energy efficiency and help consumers make informed purchasing decisions by highlighting how much energy a product uses during its operation.

The label typically displays a rating scale, often represented by colors and arrows, indicating the energy efficiency class of a product. Classes range from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), though some systems may use additional sub-classes like A+++ or A++. Alongside the efficiency class, the label usually provides specific information relevant to the product type, such as annual energy consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh) for appliances, or a sound power level for washing machines.

The introduction of energy efficiency labels has been instrumental in driving technological advancements in product design, encouraging manufacturers to develop more energy-saving models. This, in turn, can lead to reduced energy bills for consumers and a lower environmental impact due to decreased energy demand and associated greenhouse gas emissions. The labeling system is regularly updated to reflect new technological possibilities and to maintain its effectiveness in guiding consumer behavior towards more sustainable choices.