Energy efficiency of products

© Maksym Yemelyanov / Fotolia

In its 2010 energy concept, the German government has set its  goal of reducing primary energy consumption by 20 % by 2020 and by 50 % by 2050 compared to 2008. "Efficiency First" is the guiding principle in implementing these goals and this project.

Energy-efficient products that help to replace old and inefficient appliances and systems in existing buildings can significantly reduce energy consumption in private households, crafts, trade and industry. EU ecodesign and energy labelling have been effective tools to improve energy efficiency for many years. Today, they cover a wide variety of product groups, e.g. for "white goods", lamps and lighting, air conditioners and televisions. National instruments, such as the old heating system label, also contribute to improving the energy efficiency of products.

The research project follows on from the predecessor project Scientific analysis of the development of energy consumption and measures to improve product-related energy efficiency, and in particular continues work in the field of energy efficiency improvements in air conditioning and ventilation systems, hot water fittings and heating systems. In addition, measures to increase energy efficiency and reduce the energy consumption of products are to be developed at national level. The research project will in particular take into account the opportunities offered by digitisation. Moreover, the aim of the research project is to provide government authorities with technical input and scientific background for future revisions of eco-design requirements and energy efficiency labels, which can be presented at EU level and lead to more ambitious standards.

Publications

Weiß, U., Werle, M., Fischer, C. (2019): Evolutions of energy labelling: lessons from German energy labels for air-conditioning and ventilation. Proc. eceee Summer Study, Giens. Available on: https://www.eceee.org/library/conference_proceedings/eceee_Summer_Studies/2019/9-improving-energy-efficiency-in-ict-appliances-and-products/evolutions-of-energy-labelling-lessons-from-german-energy-labels-for-air-conditioning-and-ventilation/