April 5, 2006—The European Commission has launched the procedure to negotiate a new agreement on the EU ENERGY STAR program for office equipment with the US.
The program, first introduced in 2001 for an initial period of five years, aims at fostering the energy efficiency of computers, monitors, copiers, printers and fax machines, which are responsible for approximately 5% of the EU’s electricity consumption.
ENERGY STAR is part of the Commission’s strategy to improve the efficiency of energy use and to implement a sustainable energy policy in the European Union. “Joining efforts effectively fosters energy efficiency while avoiding trade barriers. As office equipment is traded worldwide, cooperation with our partners overseas is of utmost importance,” remarked Energy Commissioner Andris Piebalgs.
The ENERGY STAR program encourages and supports procurers and consumers in purchasing efficient products through the provision of a label for equipment complying with the program’s energy efficiency criteria. It also provides assistance on how to save energy and money by the proper use of equipment.
Although important improvements have been achieved by the manufacturers during the last few years, more and more powerful equipment and increasing stock may result in an increase in energy consumption related to office equipment. The new EU-US agreement will include more ambitious energy efficiency standards for office equipment.
