In order to make electrical appliances comparable in terms of their energy efficiency within the European Union, the so-called "EU energy label" has existed since 1994. Electrical products are classified according to their energy consumption in a uniform rating scale, which in turn is shown on the energy label. 

The original rating classes A to G were already supplemented by the classes A+++ to A+ in 2010 due to ever higher efficiencies. At the same time, hardly any products were assigned to classes E to G. For many consumers, however, this classification causes confusion. Therefore, with the framework directive on energy consumption labelling of 2017, it was decided to downgrade products back to the old energy efficiency scale of A to G in the future. 

In the course of this, the structure of the label will also be slightly changed. In addition to a new arrangement of the information, a QR code will also be added, which consumers can use to quickly and easily obtain additional information about the product. 

After large appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines already received the new label in spring, the changeover for light sources will now begin this autumn: The new rating system will come into force on September 1st 2021. From this date on, lamp manufacturers must market products with the new label. Dealers, on the other hand, have an 18-month transition period to sell the "old" products or update their labels. During this transition period, both the old and the new energy label will therefore be visible on products - depending on when they have gone on sale. However, retailers who still sell products with the old label after 1 March 2023 will have to paste it over with the new energy label if necessary. 

For more information about the EU energy label and its changes, click here.