Energimärkningsdirektivet

The Energimärkningsdirektivet, or Energy Labelling Directive, is a legislative framework established by the European Union designed to inform consumers about the energy efficiency of products. Its primary goal is to promote the purchase and use of more energy-efficient appliances and equipment, thereby contributing to energy savings and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. The directive mandates that manufacturers and importers must affix energy labels to a wide range of products, including refrigerators, washing machines, televisions, and lighting.

These energy labels provide a clear and standardized visual representation of a product's energy consumption. Typically, they feature a scale, often from A to G, where A represents the most energy-efficient option and G the least. This scale may be further refined with plus signs (e.g., A+++) for certain product categories to indicate even higher levels of efficiency. In addition to the energy efficiency class, the labels also display other relevant information such as annual energy consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh), noise levels, and the performance of the product in specific functions like washing or drying.

The Energimärkningsdirektivet has been updated and revised over time to encompass a broader range of products and to improve the clarity and effectiveness of the labelling system. The directive not only empowers consumers to make informed choices that can lead to lower energy bills but also incentivizes manufacturers to invest in developing and producing more sustainable and energy-efficient technologies. It is a key component of the EU's broader strategy to achieve its climate and energy targets.