Directive 2009/125/EC establishing a framework for the setting of ecodesign requirements for energy-related products

Overview

Directive 2009/125/EC (the Ecodesign Directive) established a framework for setting ecodesign requirements for energy-related products. It remains on EUR-Lex as an in-force but amended legislative instrument; however, the EU has now adopted Regulation (EU) 2024/1781 (the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation, ESPR), which replaces and significantly expands the Ecodesign Directive framework. 

The Directive established a framework for the setting of Community ecodesign requirements for energy-related products with the aim of ensuring the free movement of such products within EU markets, and also provides for the setting of requirements which the energy-related products covered by implementing measures must fulfil in order to be placed on the market and/or put into service. It contributes to sustainable development by increasing energy efficiency and the level of protection of the environment, while at the same time increasing the security of the energy supply.

Typical affected sectors include:

• Electrical equipment manufacturers (motors, transformers, power supplies, industrial controls).
• Household appliance manufacturers (refrigerators, washing machines, dishwashers, ovens, tumble dryers).
• Heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) companies producing boilers, heat pumps, air conditioners and ventilation systems.
• Lighting manufacturers and suppliers, including lamps, luminaires and LED products.
• Electronics manufacturers, particularly those producing products with energy consumption or energy-saving functions.
• Pump, fan and compressor manufacturers.
• Commercial refrigeration businesses supplying chillers, display cabinets and cold storage equipment.
• IT and office equipment manufacturers, where specific ecodesign measures apply.
• Importers bringing regulated energy-related products into the EU or UK market.
• Distributors and retailers selling products covered by ecodesign implementing measures.