Independent electrical retailers across the UK are supporting ambitious government plans to reduce energy consumption from household tumble dryers.
Retra is backing proposals that could transform how consumers choose and use their appliances.
The trade association's response to the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero consultation signals strong industry support for measures that will improve energy efficiency and extend product lifespans.
Retra's detailed submission demonstrates strong support for key proposed measures including eco-programme labelling, Energy Efficiency Index (EEI) requirements, enhanced condensation efficiency standards, and reduced standby power consumption limits. The association particularly endorsed the shift to clearer A-G energy labelling scales and the introduction of acoustic noise classification systems.
Jeff Moody, Commercial Director of Retra, said: "Our members are embedded in communities nationwide, providing expert advice and after-sales support to consumers. We strongly support measures that help consumers make informed choices about energy-efficient appliances whilst ensuring that policy changes remain practical and affordable for small businesses to implement."
The consultation response highlighted several areas where Retra believes the proposals will benefit both consumers and the industry. The association backed standardised eco-programme naming across appliance categories, updated Energy Efficiency Index calculations that reflect real-world usage, and improved condensation efficiency requirements that will enhance indoor air quality.
Retra strongly advocated for policies that extend product lifespans, particularly supporting the 10-year spare parts availability requirement and software update provisions. The association emphasised that these measures are critical for service engineers and support sustainability by giving products longer lifespans.
The response welcomed the introduction of repairability scores and the simplification of energy efficiency scales from the current confusing A+++ to D system to a clearer A-G format. Retra noted that acoustic noise classification will be particularly valuable for consumers in smaller homes.
Recognising the operational realities faced by small retailers, Retra emphasised the importance of adequate transition periods and early access to updated materials and training. The association supported the proposed six-month transition period for ecodesign requirements and additional 4-month period for new energy labels, describing the timeline as "reasonable but requiring careful monitoring of industry readiness."
The submission also encouraged continued alignment with EU regulations to reduce complexity and logistical burdens for retailers, ensuring consistent consumer messaging and supporting trade relationships.
"Independent retailers rely heavily on face-to-face customer engagement, so clear labelling and comprehensive guidance will be essential for successful implementation," Mr Moody added. "We've requested that either old or new label types should be sufficient during the transition period to avoid unnecessary costs and complexity for our members."
Retra is backing proposals that could transform how consumers choose and use their appliances.
The trade association's response to the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero consultation signals strong industry support for measures that will improve energy efficiency and extend product lifespans.
Retra's detailed submission demonstrates strong support for key proposed measures including eco-programme labelling, Energy Efficiency Index (EEI) requirements, enhanced condensation efficiency standards, and reduced standby power consumption limits. The association particularly endorsed the shift to clearer A-G energy labelling scales and the introduction of acoustic noise classification systems.
Jeff Moody, Commercial Director of Retra, said: "Our members are embedded in communities nationwide, providing expert advice and after-sales support to consumers. We strongly support measures that help consumers make informed choices about energy-efficient appliances whilst ensuring that policy changes remain practical and affordable for small businesses to implement."
The consultation response highlighted several areas where Retra believes the proposals will benefit both consumers and the industry. The association backed standardised eco-programme naming across appliance categories, updated Energy Efficiency Index calculations that reflect real-world usage, and improved condensation efficiency requirements that will enhance indoor air quality.
Retra strongly advocated for policies that extend product lifespans, particularly supporting the 10-year spare parts availability requirement and software update provisions. The association emphasised that these measures are critical for service engineers and support sustainability by giving products longer lifespans.
The response welcomed the introduction of repairability scores and the simplification of energy efficiency scales from the current confusing A+++ to D system to a clearer A-G format. Retra noted that acoustic noise classification will be particularly valuable for consumers in smaller homes.
Recognising the operational realities faced by small retailers, Retra emphasised the importance of adequate transition periods and early access to updated materials and training. The association supported the proposed six-month transition period for ecodesign requirements and additional 4-month period for new energy labels, describing the timeline as "reasonable but requiring careful monitoring of industry readiness."
The submission also encouraged continued alignment with EU regulations to reduce complexity and logistical burdens for retailers, ensuring consistent consumer messaging and supporting trade relationships.
"Independent retailers rely heavily on face-to-face customer engagement, so clear labelling and comprehensive guidance will be essential for successful implementation," Mr Moody added. "We've requested that either old or new label types should be sufficient during the transition period to avoid unnecessary costs and complexity for our members."
