Electrolux requires that its products fulfil and exceed all regulatory limits.
In Europe, minimum efficiency-performance standards (MEPS) and other environmental requirements were in effect in 2010 for dishwashers, washing machines, refrigerators and freezers. Revised rules for energy labelling were also launched in the EU during 2010. These changes in legislation and the need to modify products could potentially have a material impact on Electrolux. However, their financial implications have not been quantitatively collated on Group level.
Sales of the Group’s green ranges, the most energy- and water-efficient appliances, accounted for 22% of sold units.
Net sales of Floor Care Green Range products doubled during 2010.
Electrolux qualifies for 2008–2010 tax credits for the sale of Energy Star appliances manufactured in the US. The energy-efficiency parameters for qualifying for the credits have been raised for each product type, compared to previous generations of credits.
Electrolux Appliances has also been named the ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year for Appliances by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Electrolux has increased shipments of ENERGY STAR qualified appliances to 4.9 million in 2010, nearly a 12% increase from 2009.
Guidelines and tips for the efficient use of products are included in the product user materials and are available at www.electrolux.com/sustainability.