The new Ecodesign Regulations for the six product categories getting new energy labels will also be published on 5 December.
The most notable feature of these is a new requirement to hold certain spare parts for a minimum period (either seven or ten years, depending on the part and the product). There will also be more information to help consumers look after their appliances and various conditions applied to supplying any software updates.
Ecodesign legislation was introduced to complement the Energy Labelling Regulations. The latter aim to help consumers make informed choices whereas the former set minimum parameters for manufacturers.
Previous Regulations concentrated on reducing energy use but other environmental aspects are now being considered, with particular emphasis on what happens to a product at the end of its life.