One year on from the introduction of the EU Energy related Product (ErP) directive, the heating industry has made significant progress in meeting goals – in terms of existing and new technologies.

Shane Knight, category director for heating at F & P, Primaflow & Connections, says the 2015 legislation forced manufacturers, installers and distributors to re-examine the efficiency of their space and water heating products.

He said: “Initially there was confusion across the industry, in terms of what the implications of the legislation would be. But, one year on, we’ve worked hard to clear the older, non-compliant products and focus on supplying energy-efficient boilers, and investigate new technologies.

“The industry supply chain is quite interlinked, so we’ve had to keep open dialogue with both manufacturers and installers so that we can make sure we meet the challenges set out in the new legislation.”

The ErP directive, introduced in September 2015, set out targets to reduce the EU’s energy usage by 20% and increase renewable energies by 20%, by 2020. The directive applied to all domestic and commercial heating products, as well as renewable technologies.

Under the new legislation all products are required to be labelled according to their energy rating with an A+++ rating being equivalent to 150% efficient and a G being more than 30% efficient.

Mr Knight says the directive, coupled with a drive for continued innovation, means the type of products are likely to change dramatically over the next few years.

“The heating industry has had to adapt to many new developments, particularly with developers of new build homes opting for more energy efficient options. Many manufacturers are conscious of the fact that gas boilers may not be the main source of heating by 2020 and are investigating new initiatives such as ground source heat pumps and solar heating.

“The directive is one of many changes in legislation that has impacted the industry, and it remains important that all organisations adapt and respond positively.”

Mr Knight continued: “There is still more advancement needed to reach the EU targets and everyone needs to play their part.

“As a leading UK distributor of plumbing, heating and bathroom materials, F & P is fully committed to this initiative and will continue to support the drive to reduce energy usage.”