New A+ and A++ classes have been introduced for Refrigerators and Freezers.
In order to reflect technical advances, on July 3rd the Commission adopted a Decision amending Directive 94/2/EC which contains the implementing arrangements for Directive 92/75/EEC on the energy efficiency labelling of refrigerators, freezers and combinations thereof. The new category A+ corresponds to appliances that consume between 30 and 42% of standard energy consumption for these models and, A++ corresponds to those consuming under 30%. The other categories remain unchanged: from A (efficient) to G (least efficient). The introduction of new A+ and A++ classes has been strongly supported by CECED.
The Member States have until June 30, 2004 to transpose the Decision into their national laws and until the following day to authorise the circulation of the new labels, files and communications. These must comply with the revised models no later than December 31, 2004.