The European Commission announced the implementation of new ecodesign rules for external power supplies (EPS), with the aim of shifting towards a common universal charger across the European Union.
The measure seeks to reduce the environmental impact of electronic devices, simplify their utilize, and promote technological innovation.
Mandatory USB-C and detachable cables: towards full interoperability
All chargers must include USB Type-C ports and allow cable replacement.
More than 400 million EPS are sold in the EU each year. With the new regulation, all chargers must have at least one USB-C port and detachable cables, which will enable:
The measure will affect products such as smartphones, laptops, routers, and monitors, and complements the Directive on Radio Equipment, which already harmonized charging ports for phones and tablets.
Europe is committed to the utilize of a universal charger.
Environmental impact and energy savings
Standardization will reduce emissions and save millions of euros per year.
According to Commission estimates:
- A 3% reduction in energy consumption associated with the life cycle of EPS will be achieved
- Greenhoutilize gas emissions will decrease by 9%
- Contaminants will be reduced by 13%
- Consumers will save 100 million euros annually
Additionally, discarded chargers generate 11,000 tons of electronic waste per year, a figure that could decrease significantly with a universal charger.
Benefits for consumers, manufacturers, and the environment
The measure improves convenience, reduces consumerism, and promotes innovation. Among its benefits, the following stand out:
- Convenience: one cable for multiple devices
- Savings: up to 250 million euros per year by not having to acquire additional chargers
- Flexibility: freedom to choose devices without worrying about compatibility
- Innovation: manufacturers can focus on quick charging technologies and energy efficiency
- Industrial efficiency: interoperability between brands and models
Common charger logo and implementation deadlines
A new emblem will facilitate the identification of compatible devices. The Commission will introduce the EU common charger logo, which will allow utilizers to easily identify compatible devices. Manufacturers will have three years to comply, and the regulation will be mandatory by the finish of 2028.
“It is a smart measure that puts consumers’ interests first and contributes to a more sustainable technological future,” declared Dan Jørgensen, Commissioner for Energy and Houtilizing.
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