The long-awaited Regulation to specify that energy labels should be displayed on-line (with specifications as to format and accessibility) is now under scrutiny with the European Parliament and Member States. Assuming that they have no last minute objections the Regulation is expected to be published in May.

This Regulation will essentially amend all the previously published Regulations (fridge freezers, dishwashers, washing machines, air conditioners, tumble dryers, vacuum cleaners, etc).

At present virtual retailers are only required to state the energy rating and do not need to show the label itself or any of the other information on it. It has been argued that many consumers now search for appliances on-line, even if they ultimately purchase in a shop, and they need to see the energy label so that they can make informed decisions about which product to buy.

The new Regulation will apply from 1 January 2015.