Energy Label Changes
Reading time: 3 minutes
Why have energy rating labels changed?
The consumer’s wants for more energy-efficient products, and developments in energy-efficient technologies, has prompted a re-scaling of energy ratings and the way manufacturers label these goods. So this means the old style labels are no longer in line with how energy-efficient technologies have progressed over the past 25 years and are out of date. And since the introduction of the A+, A++ and A+++ ratings in 2011, things just got plain confusing!
What’s changed on the energy labels?
From 1 March 2021 the A+, A++, A+++ ratings will be scrapped. This is to help simplify the energy rating scaling and make it easier for consumers to better choose energy-efficient appliances and energy-related products. The new grading will now run from a simple A to G scale - A being the most energy efficient, all the way to G being the least efficient.
So what other features can you expect to see on the labels? In addition to the new A - G rating of the product you will find the below:
- QR Code
- Updated Icons
- Union Jack Flag
- Key Product Features
What products have been affected by the new energy labelling?
The first lot of products that will be affected by this change, in March 2021, are mainly household appliances. The products to feature the new labels will be:
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Washing machines and washer dryers
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Dishwashers,
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Household fridges and freezers (inc. wine coolers)
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Televisions and monitors
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Light sources (1 October 2021)
Other electrical goods such as tumble dryers, vacuum cleaners, air conditioners and water heaters, the government is due to implement these updates in line with the EU timescales. This is likely to be from 2022 onward.
You can find out more about the relabelling of energy-related products on these websites:
gov.uk/guidance/the-energy-labelling-of-products
European Commision Product Database
Disclaimer: The information contained on this page is intended as an overall introduction and is not intended as specific advice from a qualified professional. Travis Perkins aims to avoid, but accepts no liability, in the case that any information stated is out of date.
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