Today the Swedish Presidency led what was supposed to be the last Trialogue on the new Energy Labelling Directive for appliances, unsuccessfully trying to reach an agreement with European Parliament and European Commission.
The European Parliament voted for a simple closed scale ranging from A to G in April, however the Swedish Presidency suggested additional A-grades (A to A++++), which would make A-grades accessible to products with low energy efficiency and confuse consumers.
These opposite positions mirror the clashing interests of the industry on one hand, and consumer and environmental groups on the other hand.
“Not everybody deserves an A-Grade. That’s why WWF is very pleased with the European Parliament’s determination to find a solution which serves the best interests of consumers and the environment”, says Mariangiola Fabbri, Energy Policy Officer at WWF.
A new Trialogue on Energy Labelling is yet to be scheduled.
Also upcoming is the last Trialogue to revise the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) on 17 November. Currently, Europe’s buildings account for 40% of EU final energy use - which they waste in large proportion. This energy warms the climate instead of homes, wastes money in the family budget, and increases the EU’s dependence on foreign energy supply for absolutely no benefit to Europe or its citizens.
Further information:
Mariangiola Fabbri, Energy Policy Officer, WWF European Policy Office
Tel: +32 2 740 09 36
E-mail: mfabbri@wwfepo.org
Stephanie Rhomberg, Communications and Press Officer Climate & Energy, WWF European Policy Office
Tel: +32 2 740 88 06
Mobile: +32 495 273 319
E-mail: srhomberg@wwfepo.org
Add your comment