SINCE 8% of the electric energy in Europe is related to the use of household appliances, Electrolux is calling on decision makers in Britain and Europe to introduce legislation and incentive programs to speed up the replacement of energy inefficient appliances. A number of governments have already introduced such programs.
For example: Italian consumers get an income tax deduction of 20% of the purchase price up to a maximum of EUR 200 if they replace old appliances with the most energy efficient. Also the US government has brought in tax credits for producers who introduce efficient appliances.
The recent research from Electrolux estimates that if all households in Britain were to replace their more than ten-year-old appliances with new models, the carbon dioxide emissions would be reduced by 2.6 million tonnes – and electricity by 3 million MWH (the equivalent of a gas power station). Water savings would add up to 26.5 million cubic meters per year. Furthermore the economic savings would be £265.8 million.
Electrolux has greatly improved the energy efficiency of its products over the last ten years. The reflection of the company’s commitment to the environment is the prestigious Sustainable Energy Award in the Corporate Commitment Category from the European Commission which it received this year.
