The Commission has launched a 12 week public consultation (open from 25 April to 18 July 2024) to gather feedback on ecodesign and energy labelling of computers.
EU legislation on ecodesign has proven effective in improving the environmental performance of products. Ecodesign ensures that minimum requirements are met by any product placed on the EU market. The worst-performing products progressively disappear from stores, when the regulation comes into effect, resulting in lower costs for consumers and businesses over the longer term as they use more energy efficient products.
Energy labelling is a well-known and effective way to inform consumers on the energy efficiency, durability and reparability of products, enabling them to make informed purchase decisions. Labelling triggers virtuous competition among manufacturers to produce and sell their newest models with label in the highest classes.
Because energy labelling covers the entire product lifecycle, including requirements to facilitate recycling, this legislation contributes to lower CO2 emissions as it reduces material use, extraction of precious metals and rare earth elements, often used in computers, and related imports. It also strengthens security of supply. These rules thereby contribute to meeting the EU’s energy and climate targets to reach climate-neutrality by 2050.
The EU set initial requirements on computer equipment in the Ecodesign Regulation 617/2013 in 2013. It was amended 6 years later by Regulation (EU) 2019/424 on servers, that are no longer in scope. A review of the Ecodesign Regulation is now ongoing.
The Commission published a study in 2018, highlighting the need for new ways to test the energy efficiency of computer equipment. The study looked into ways to appropriately tackle the most common causes of serious damage or loss and to improve the durability of computers. A suitable testing method is now available and an Energy Labelling Regulation can be proposed to more effectively cover all these aspects. An impact assessment is currently underway.
This public consultation invites input from computer users and stakeholders such as businesses, interest groups, national administrations and others involved in all parts of the value chain (original equipment manufacturers, component suppliers, users, repairers, recyclers, etc.). It is an opportunity to express views on how to best address policy challenges and the best ways to provide clear and relevant information to consumers.
The public consultation on ecodesign and energy labelling requirements of computers has 2 separate pages on the HAVE YOUR SAY portal, but the consultation form covers both.
The feedback received will accompany further evidence gathered from various sources, including desk research and other consultations. Together, they will inform the development of the best possible EU policy response.
Related links
- Public Consultation - Ecodesign requirements for computers and Energy labelling requirements for computers
Details
- Publication date
- 25 April 2024
- Author
- Directorate-General for Energy