Ecodesign requirements for energy-using products
PURPOSE : to establish a framework for the setting of Community ecodesign requirements for energy-using products with the aim of ensuring the free movement of those products within the internal market.
LEGISLATIVE ACT : Directive 2005/32/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing a framework for the setting of ecodesign requirements for energy-using products and amending Council Directive 92/42/EEC and Directives 96/57/EC and 2000/55/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council.
CONTENT : this Directive provides for the setting of requirements which the energy-using products covered by implementing measures must fulfil in order for them to be placed on the market and/or put into service. It contributes to sustainable development by increasing energy efficiency and the level of protection of the environment, while at the same time increasing the security of the energy supply. It shall not apply to means of transport for persons or goods. This Directive and the implementing measures adopted pursuant to it shall be without prejudice to Community waste management legislation and Community chemicals legislation, including Community legislation on fluorinated greenhouse gases.
The specific aim of this Directive is to:
- ensure the free movement of energy-using products within the EU;
- improve the overall environmental performance of these products and thereby protect the environment;
- contribute to the security of energy supply and enhance the competitiveness of the EU economy.
The text is in principle applicable to any product using energy to perform the function for which it was designed, manufactured and put on the market, with the exception of means of transporting people or merchandise. All energy sources are covered, although it is likely that only products using electricity, solid, liquid and gaseous fuels will be the subject of implementing measures.
The Directive amends Council Directive 92/42/EEC and Directives 96/57/EC and 2000/55/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council. It provides for a deadline for implementation by the Member States of two years after the Directive's entry into force.
Moreover, this Directive seeks to achieve a high level of protection for the environment by reducing the potential environmental impact of EuPs, which will ultimately be beneficial to consumers and other end-users. Sustainable development also requires proper consideration of the health, social and economic impact of the measures envisaged. Improving the energy efficiency of products contributes to the security of the energy supply, which is a precondition of sound economic activity and therefore of sustainable development
ENTRY INTO FORCE : 11/08/2005.
DATE OF TRANSPOSITION : Member States shall bring into force the laws, regulations and administrative provisions necessary to comply with this Directive before 11 August 2007.