New energy labels more straightforward for consumer

European Parliament has given the green light for updating the energy labels. “In the new system, the plus signs disappear. Soon, every appliance will be assigned on a scale from A to G, with corresponding colour codes,” European Parliament member Anneleen Van Bossuyt explains. “The consumer can see at a glance how economical the appliance is.”

The new labels give a better indication of how energy-efficient an electronic appliance is, in the opinion of Anneleen Van Bossuyt. “It is not always clear to the consumer what the difference is between a fridge with the label A+, A++ or A+++. It is strange that every appliance lands in the greenest class, even though there are enormous differences when it comes to economical performance within that class. This removed the incentive for the consumer to make the most energy-efficient choice.”

Higher purchase price pays off

The energy label plays a role for 85% of consumers when they make a purchasing choice. “That’s why these labels have a clear added value. For example, the average family can save up to 480 euros a year if it buys the most energy-efficient appliances. Thus, the slightly higher purchase price pays off quickly for the consumer,” Anneleen Van Bossuyt concludes.