GREEN GOODS TO REDUCE WEST MIDLAND BILLS

3.49.45pm UTC (GMT +0000) Thu 14th Apr 2005

West Midlands residents could soon save money while helping to protect the

planet, thanks to new EU measures intended to make electrical products more

environmentally friendly.

Tumble dryers, microwave ovens, hairdryers, computers and fridges are all

likely to fall within the scope of an EU law on energy using products agreed

by the European Parliament this week.

The aim is to build on existing best practice and ensure that electrical

devices are designed to be energy efficient both in their use and

manufacture.

West Midlands Euro-MP Liz Lynne, says that the new law will play a significant role

in combating climate change.

She said:

"Rules for our EU market of nearly 500 million people will be used

to speed the introduction of the new technology already being used by

industry's market leaders.

"Consumers will benefit from the setting of minimum standards and the

phasing out of wasteful products, and we will reduce electricity use and

carbon dioxide emissions at the same time."

In Britain the Energy Savings Trust has estimated that some fridges and

freezers still on sale cost £35 extra to run each year compared to more

energy efficient models.

The EU law now approved by MEPs sets guidelines for energy efficiency and

other design requirements. It will apply both to imported products and

those made in Europe.

The European Commission in consultation with manufacturers will now draw up specific regulations affecting individual devices

ENDS