Energy efficiency: binding rules and smarter choices

Tighter EU rules will make houses more energy-efficient and enable consumers to make climate-smart choices thanks to clearer labelling. Agreement on the energy efficiency package, reached by the Council and the European Parliament, sends a strong message to climate negotiators in Copenhagen.

Tyre label
© European Union

At present, buildings account for 40% of all energy consumption in the Union. According to the new directive, all new constructions built after 2020 must comply with "nearly zero" energy standards. They will consume a minimum amount of energy, which is to come to a large extent from renewable sources. The public sector will have to take a leading role, as public buildings must meet this goal earlier, by end-2018.

The new energy labelling directive will extend the scope of the old one. Dark green and A will continue to be the top categories. In cases where a majority of products on the market already are in the highest classes, up to three more grades, A+, A++ and A+++, can be added. In the future, the label must be attached not only to energy-consuming goods but to any products that have a significant impact on energy savings, such as windows. Here also, the public sector should set an example, by procuring products only from the best-performing class.

The third part of the package, one that has already been formally approved, is a regulation on the labelling of tyres. Information on fuel efficiency, wet grip and noise levels will have to accompany new tyres as from November 2012.

EU energy ministers at the Council meeting on 7 December took note of progress achieved in finalising the package. Its adoption will have to wait until the beginning of 2010, owing to legal amendments required by the Lisbon Treaty.

More information:
Council press release 
Council webcast of press conference 
Council public debate 
BUILD UP - The European Portal for Energy Efficiency in Buildings