The EU regulations for electronic displays apply to all electronic displays, including televisions, computer monitors and digital signage displays. They do not apply, for example, to screens smaller than 100 cm2, interactive whiteboards, photo frames, medical displays, projectors or industrial displays.
Energy label
Electronic displays, like televisions, computer monitors or signage displays, are labelled on an energy efficiency scale that ranges from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). The new scaling system is improved and better takes into account the screen area. The new labels will also show the efficiency of a product when it shows content in HDR, as it can consume twice as much energy as other settings. In addition, the label will also show information on the diagonal size of the display and its resolution, so that consumers can better compare similar displays.
The European Product Registry for Energy Labelling (EPREL) offers more detailed information on models placed on the EU market. This can be accessed by scanning the QR code featured on the new energy labels. The database provides additional information such as the consumption in standby mode, panel technology, whether voice recognition, automatic brightness control and a room sensor are present, or the minimum duration of guarantee offered by the supplier.
From 1 March 2021, Regulation on energy labelling for electronic displays (EU) 2019/2013 repeals and replaces Regulation (EU) 1062/2010.
Ecodesign requirements
Rules on ecodesign electronic displays are mandatory for all manufacturers and importers wishing to sell their products in the EU.
From 1 March 2021, the Regulation on ecodesign for electronic displays (EU) 2019/2021 repeals and replaces Regulation on ecodesign for televisions (EC) No 642/2009.
The regulation sets new minimum requirements adapted to modern technologies and includes elements to improve reparability. The parts of a television that can easily break down have to be available to consumers and repairers within three weeks, for at least seven years after the date as of which a model is no longer in production. This also applies to repair instructions and software updates.
The new regulation further tightens the maximum allowed power consumption when the television is in off or in standby. In addition, smart televisions must have the so called network standby disabled in their default configuration to better save energy when the television is not in use.
Energy savings
EU energy labelling and ecodesign requirements will save up to 39 TWh per year by 2030. Up to 13 million tonnes of CO2 emissions will also be avoided each year. In addition, 84 thousands of tonnes per year of plastics will be recycled instead of being incinerated.