The EU Ecodesign Regulation: Impacts on the Industry and Air Handling Technology Companies

Significance and Objectives of the ESPR

The revision of ecodesign requirements under the new Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), along with the introduction of a Digital Product Passport, is highly relevant for the entire industry. In the future, only safe, circular, and sustainable products will be permitted on the EU internal market. This is particularly important for the air handling technology sector, as the regulation promotes the production and distribution of energy-efficient climate and ventilation systems. Companies in this field face the challenge of developing even more innovative solutions once their products fall directly under the scope of the new regulation. This includes technologies that reduce energy consumption, lower the carbon footprint, and avoid substances that hinder circularity. The regulation’s goals for the climate and ventilation industry are to promote energy efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and create a market for sustainable HVAC equipment.

Challenges and Opportunities in Implementation

Implementing the EU Ecodesign Regulation presents a range of challenges for the climate and ventilation industry. There is significant pressure to develop new technologies that ensure improved energy efficiency and environmental compatibility, while also integrating ESPR requirements into product development from the outset. Manufacturers must also ensure compliance with the new rules. On the other hand, the regulation offers opportunities for companies willing to invest in sustainable technologies. By developing environmentally friendly products and taking a leading role in energy efficiency, firms can strengthen their market position and tap into new business opportunities in the growing green products market.

The Digital Product Passport (DPP) as a Foundation for Transparency and Traceability

To ensure transparency and traceability in the market and to enforce compliance, the regulation introduces a Digital Product Passport (DPP). This passport is intended to provide all stakeholders along the value chain with access to relevant product information. At the same time, the DPP serves as a tool for market surveillance to prevent unfair competition. The data carrier—such as a QR code—must be physically attached to the product or its packaging. However, the requirements for the DPP should be designed in a way that allows small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to implement them easily and without excessive bureaucracy. This is a key concern for VDMA. Harmonized standards for the DPP system are currently being developed and are expected to be finalized by the end of 2025.

Sustainability Aspects and Innovation Strength of Air Handling Technology

Air handling technology has a relatively high energy consumption. According to VDMA, refrigeration technology alone accounts for around 14 percent of Germany’s total electricity consumption. However, the sector’s innovation strength can significantly reduce these impacts. For example, advances in the aerodynamic design of ventilation systems have led to reduced energy consumption. More efficient refrigerants and heat pumps have also been developed to lower environmental impact. Best practices in the industry include the integration of intelligent control systems and the use of sustainable materials and production processes to minimize the ecological footprint of products.

Future Developments in the Ecodesign Regulation

Future developments in the Ecodesign Regulation will likely focus even more strongly on energy efficiency and environmental compatibility. This could lead to stricter requirements for manufacturers of climate and ventilation systems to further reduce their ecological footprint. Therefore, it is particularly important to ensure regulatory consistency and avoid overlaps, double regulations, or legal uncertainties. In addition, stronger coordination and cooperation at the European level will be necessary to enhance the effectiveness of the regulation and ensure it meets current and future climate and environmental protection demands. VDMA will continue to closely monitor developments and actively participate in the political process.

At this year’s Powtech Technopharm, experts from the Air Handling Technology Association will be present in Hall 10 at Booth 538, where VDMA member companies will showcase their efficient and resource-saving solutions.