The EU-label for larger household appliances is also implemented in most member states as Austria. The information contained on the energy label includes an energy efficiency rating from "A to G" - with "A" being the most energy efficient. The label also indicates energy consumption per year. Furthermore, water consumption and noise levels may be given by manufacturers. If the product has been awarded an Eco-label, the EC's flower symbol will be featured on the label.

For which product/service is the label used?

So far the energy label is applied to washing machines, washer driers, drying machines, refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers, ovens, household lamps and air conditioning appliances.

By whom and how is the decision for the application of the label taken and which criteria are used ?

For every appliance an EU Directive has been issued. The Directive is than transferred into national law by the national government.

Are there any control mechanisms on the market (testing, control, evaluation)?

The revision of the Directives for refrigerators & freezers and washing machines was discussed. It is likely that the present "A" to "G" scale will be maintained and two new classes, called "A+" and "A++" will be added. The design of the present label could be maintained and the class A could be split into 3 classes ("A", "A+", "A++").

How relevant is the label on the market?

The effects of the energy label have been evaluated through several EU wide studies which show that for example for refrigerators and freezers the percentage of "A" class models increased ten times from 3.2 % in 1994 to more than 34 % in 2001. For washing machines the percentage of "A" class models increased from 1.3 % in 1996 to 51.5 % in 2001. So the label has clearly led to more energy efficient appliances on the market.