MEPs back eco-design rules for energy-related products

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The European Parliament last Friday (24 April) approved the extension of the Ecodesign Directive to cover products that have an indirect impact on energy use.

The European Parliament last Friday (24 April) approved the extension of the Ecodesign Directive to cover products that have an indirect impact on energy use. Consumer groups nevertheless criticised the compromise for failing to address all relevant environmental impacts.

The Parliament voted 394 in favour and 13 against (amid three abstentions) to adopt a compromise struck between MEPs and member-state representatives last month. The agreement was reached at first reading, allowing the EU to speed up the move towards a low-carbon economy.

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In the future, the Commission could set minimum efficiency standards for products which impact on the final energy household consumption, such as windows, insulation materials, showers and water taps. The directive currently only applies to products which use energy directly, such as fridges, hairdryers and televisions.

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