In order to reduce the environmental burden in the product design phase, the European Commission proposed in 2005 a framework directive on setting ecodesign requirements for energy-using products (EuP – 2005/32/EC), allowing for the definition of ecodesign specifications on a product-specific basis.
In 2008, the Commission proposed to extend the directive to cover energy-related products (ErP), such as windows, doors, insulation materials, which do not directly consume energy but have a significant impact on its consumption. The recast directive was adopted in 2009 (2009/125/EC).
The ecodesign directive does not set binding requirements on products by itself, but through implementing measures adopted on a case by case basis for each product group (lot). The list of product groups to be addressed through implementing measures is established in the periodic Working Plan. The directive is under the responsibility of DG Enterprise and Industry (DG ENTR) and DG Energy (DG ENER).
Main product groups relevant to the heating industry and related areas:
ENER Lot 1 Boilers and combi-boilers
ENER Lot 2 Water heaters
ENER Lot 10 Air-conditioning and ventilation (residential)
ENER Lot 11 Electric motors, circulators, water pumps, fans
ENER Lot 15 Solid fuel small combustion installations
ENER Lot 21 Central heating products using hot air to distribute heat (other than CHP)
ENER Lot 22 Domestic and commercial ovens
ENER Lot 23 Domestic and commercial hobs and grills
ENTR Lot 6 Air conditioning and ventilation systems
