Feedback on ecodesign requirements for external power supplies – including a further step towards the common charger

The Commission has today opened a 4-week call for feedback on the draft regulation to revise ecodesign requirements for external power supplies (EPS). While this is part of the standard process to update ecodesign rules in order to reflect technological progress, this exercise will also provide a further important step in the process for consolidating the common charger. Following on from the Radio Equipment Directive, which harmonised the charging port and fast charging technology for devices like smartphones, tablets and laptops, this revision of the EPS ecodesign rules puts forward corresponding requirements for their chargers, thereby improving interoperability, consumer convenience and resource efficiency - and ultimately leading to a more widespread usage of the common charger in general. 

Given that there are over 400 million EPS sold in the EU every year, the Commission’s analysis estimates that these measures are likely to make annual savings of 3% of EPS lifecycle energy consumption by 2035 (corresponding to the energy used in 1 year by around 140 000 electric cars), as well as 9% of related greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and around 13% of related pollutant emissions. This is estimated as likely to reduce consumer expenditure by around €100 million per year by 2035 – and additional comparable savings through the consumer convenience resulting from interoperability improvements.

Apart from more stringent energy efficiency requirements for all EPS, the Commission approach is for the new rules to complement the Radio Equipment Directive, for example by requiring that all chargers on the EU market that can be used with radio equipment are common chargers. In addition, the proposal is also to extend the Common Charger to a range of products not covered by the Radio Equipment Directive, like for example IT and network equipment and consumer electronics already using an EPS. The concept excludes certain EPS from the interoperability requirements, including those used in wet-use conditions, or those powering toys, vacuum cleaners, most power tools, or audio equipment.

Through these changes, consumers would also have the certainty that all common chargers and cables on the EU market are genuine USB Type C chargers and cables - thereby improving their compatibility, quality, energy efficiency, and durability. Last but not least, the concept also introduces a distinct EU common charger logo – to make it easier to match chargers and better inform consumers. 

As well as submitting the draft revised text (with annex) for public and stakeholder feedback (until 16 December 2024), the Commission is required to carry out a formal World Trade Organisation (WTO) consultation exercise. These consultations will feed into the Commission’s deliberations – with a view to tabling a revised text of the implementing regulation for discussion and vote at the Regulatory Committee of EU countries in the first quarter of next year. 

Related links

• External Power Supplies - European Commission
• External power supplies – ecodesign & information requirements (review)