Amazon has issued a critical compliance notice affecting all sellers offering energy-related products in the EU market. Effective February 23, 2023, products subject to new energy labeling regulations must have proper energy efficiency information uploaded, or risk immediate listing removal.
Who Must Comply with the New Energy Label Requirements?
The regulation applies to all market participants introducing energy-related products into the EU market, including manufacturers, importers, distributors, and crucially—remote sellers (cross-border e-commerce merchants). Any product bearing energy efficiency claims destined for EU consumers must comply without exception.
Beyond Compliance: Strategic Advantages of Energy Labeling
While some sellers view energy label registration as bureaucratic compliance, it offers significant competitive benefits. Research indicates 93% of EU consumers recognize and trust energy labels, with 79% actively considering them during purchases. Products with clear, standardized energy labeling gain distinct marketplace advantages.
Affected Product Categories
- Lighting products: LED lamps, energy-saving bulbs, incandescent lights
- Heating equipment: Electric heaters, water heaters, heat pumps
- Refrigeration: Household refrigerators, commercial freezers
- Laundry appliances: Washing machines, dryers, washer-dryer combos
- Climate control: Air conditioners, electric fans
- Displays: Televisions, computer monitors
- Kitchen appliances: Ovens, microwaves, dishwashers
- Tires: Automotive and motorcycle tires
The EPREL Database: Central Registry for Energy Labels
The EU maintains the EPREL (European Product Registry for Energy Labelling) database containing all registered energy efficiency information. Consumers can access detailed product specifications by scanning QR codes on labels or searching via EPREL IDs.
Technical Specifications for Energy Labels
EU regulations mandate specific dimensions for energy labels:
- Standard labels: Minimum 36mm width × 72mm height
- Reduced-size labels: Minimum 20mm width × 54mm height (for packaging under 36mm width)
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Sellers failing to meet energy labeling requirements face severe penalties:
- Restrictions on listing EPR-classified products
- Potential customs seizure or destruction of non-compliant goods
- Listing removal, sales suspension, or account termination
Frequently Asked Questions
How to verify if a test report meets energy label requirements?
Examine either the testing standards referenced in the report header or verify compliance with (EU)2019/2020 directives in the summary section.
Can brands register energy labels under their trademark?
Yes, provided the brand name appears explicitly on the test report.
What distinguishes certified from uncertified registrars?
While both can generate valid labels, only certified registrars appear in public database searches. After transitional periods, uncertified registrars cannot register new product models.
Is ERP testing required before label registration?
Yes. All label registrations require supporting data from authorized ERP test reports.
Can products be registered as series under one label?
Single-model registration remains standard, though products with identical technical parameters may qualify for series registration.
Conclusion
Amazon's policy update underscores compliance as the foundation for sustainable cross-border commerce. Proactive energy label registration represents both a regulatory necessity and strategic opportunity for sellers committed to long-term EU market presence.