The EU commission and its consultant group have identified the next types of products to be assessed for energy related design requirements. These products will be the feature of detailed scientific study, commissioned by the EU, leading to the implementation of measures lessening the impact of energy related products on the environment. The following broad categories, which are groups of similar function, have been identified for further study:
- The physical properties of building materials that influence energy efficiency
- Fixed public electrical installations including their control systems
- Large scale agricultural or industrial machinery, as either part of an installation or mobile
- Fluid displacement systems
- Devices for heating liquid for consumption
- Specific consumer electronics and supporting electronic infrastructure
- Generators with internal combustion engines
- Domestic plumbing fixtures
Within these categories specific products are identified for regulation. For example, fixed public installations will include lifts, escalators and moving walk ways as well as cash machines and retail sales equipment.
Has the EU has shown its intention to move the scope of ErP forward, from the original EuP (Energy Using Products) where it began? An example of this is the concept of a fluid displacement system, which will include pumps, blowers and ventilation. Previous eco-design implementing measures would have concentrated on the powered mechanical operation of these systems; under the new methodology the system as a hole will be considered. This interesting community discussion explores further.
The system used to assess products is given by the MEEuP (Methodology for the Eco-design of Energy-Using Products). The system itself is under review, to bring it into line with the recast of the directive; the MMErP (Methodology for the Eco-design of Energy-Related Products) will be the updated assessment process. The MEEuP has criteria that are used to capture the wide range of products which should be considered under ErP, for this study the following considerations are being made:
- Waste emissions – the by-products of combustion for example
- Consumption – not limited to energy/fuel, includes water or other depletable resource
- Impact of disposal – can the impact be reduced through better product design?
- Product life cycle
- Environmental disturbance – for example noise pollution, radiation, vibration transmission
Once the consultation period has been finalised, which is expected to be early in the New Year, stakeholder engagement will start. The EU commission will take feedback on the proposals and objections or industry concerns can be addressed. Once all parties are happy, at least agree, a schedule of work can be decided and scientific investigation begin. These studies should be completed by 2014 when new eco-design standards will be published.
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