The process of the Eco-design EuP directive

The Directive covers energy using products sold in the domestic, commercial and industrial sectors. At the first stage products using electricity or fuels will be prioritised. There is no binding list of products, but clear selection criteria and priority to ECCP products and standby during the first phase. During 2008 and 2009 implementing measures are expected for 19 product categories.

The process of implementing the Ecodesign directive was initiated by the "Eco-design of EuP methodology", completed in 2005. The study aims to contribute to the creation of a methodology allowing to evaluate whether and to which extent various energy-using products fulfil the criteria established by the EuP for the selection of products (for which implementing measures might be considered). The product groups selected are then studied separately.

Each product group is called a "Lot". Office lighting, cold appliances and external power supplies are examples of such lots, which eventuelly will become separate regulations. For each lot, there is an extensive product study, which examines market data, technological status, etc, and provides recommendations to the Commission. During the study phase, interested stakeholders will meet to discuss the study. 

Each product study is followed by a proposal from the Commission.  This is discussed in the so-called Consultation Forum. This group consists of experts and stakeholders. It aims to inform stakeholders and provide their contribution to the implementation of the Directive. The Consultation Forum contributes to the definition and review of the implementing measures, examines the efficiency of the market surveillance mechanisms and the assessment of voluntary agreements in the context of the Directive.

The process continues with drafting and outlining impact assessments, after which the Commission develops a final proposal. This proposal is sent to voting in the Regulatory Committee before the Commission adapts the implementing measure (IM). The most likely legal form of the IM is "regulation", which means that it takes direct legal effect in all Member States.