What Is ErP Certification? Essential Guide for Lighting Exports to the EU

I. What Is ErP Certification? Why Is It Critical for Lighting Exports?

ErP, short for "Energy-related Products" Directive, is a core EU eco-design framework requirement. It is not a single certification mark but a collection of regulations aimed at reducing the environmental impact of products throughout their life cycle by setting minimum energy efficiency standards.

For lighting products, ErP certification is mandatory. Any lighting product seeking access to the EU and European Economic Area (EEA) markets must comply with the corresponding ErP regulatory requirements; otherwise, it will be denied customs clearance and market access. This is not only a technical barrier but also a direct reflection of an enterprise’s social responsibility and product competitiveness.

II. Core Regulation Interpretation: EU 2019/2020 Energy Efficiency Regulation

Currently, ErP requirements for light sources and independent control devices are primarily governed by Regulation (EU) 2019/2020. This regulation officially took effect on September 1, 2021, replacing the old ErP Directive with more comprehensive and stricter requirements.

Scope of Applicable Products

It covers a wide range of products, including:

• Various household and commercial lighting (e.g., LED bulbs, tubes, spotlights, panel lights);
• Light source modules;
• Independent control devices (drivers).

Notably, the regulation also specifies exemptions, such as battery-powered lighting and lighting specifically designed for ships/automobiles. Clarifying whether a product falls within the scope is the first step before certification.

III. Core Technical Requirements of ErP Certification for Lighting

Under Regulation (EU) 2019/2020, lighting products must meet the following key energy efficiency and performance indicators:

1. Energy Efficiency Class Requirements

The regulation sets minimum energy efficiency thresholds, measured by the Energy Efficiency Index (EEI). Your product must meet or exceed this limit to be compliant.

2. Energy Label Requirements

A revised energy labeling system (ranging from Class A to Class G) has been reintroduced, replacing the previous confusing "A+"-series ratings. This allows consumers to easily understand a product’s energy efficiency.

3. Functional Requirements & Durability

• Lumen Maintenance: The luminous flux maintenance rate at specified time points (e.g., 6,000 hours) must meet standards.
• Survival Factor: The proportion of products that can still operate normally after a specified period.
• Start-Up Time: The lighting activation speed must comply with requirements.
• Color Rendering Index (CRI): Requirements for the ability to accurately reproduce colors.

4. Information Requirements

Mandatory information (e.g., rated values, service life, color temperature) must be provided in product technical documents, on official websites, and on packaging to ensure transparency.

IV. ErP Certification Process: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Product Testing

Submit samples to an authoritative third-party testing institution like GTG Testing Group for comprehensive testing of energy efficiency, photoelectric performance, and durability in accordance with standards.

Step 2: Technical Documentation Preparation

Organize and compile technical documents that meet regulatory requirements, including product descriptions, design drawings, test reports, and Declaration of Conformity (DoC).

Step 3: Energy Label Generation

Create a compliant energy label based on test data, ensuring it meets the format and content requirements of Regulation (EU) 2019/2020.

Step 4: Declaration of Conformity

The manufacturer or its authorized representative in the EU must sign an official Declaration of Conformity, confirming the product’s compliance with ErP requirements.

Step 5: Information Registration & Submission

Upload product information and the energy label to the EU’s EPREL database (European Product Registry for Energy Labeling)—a key step for market supervision.

V. Choose GTG Testing Group: Your Guardian for ErP Certification

Faced with complex technical regulations and strict market supervision, selecting an experienced and fully qualified partner is crucial. The Lighting Testing Division of GTG Testing Group, with its profound industry experience and cutting-edge technical capabilities, provides one-stop ErP certification solutions for you:

1. Professional Interpretation

Our expert team continuously tracks EU regulatory updates, providing you with the latest and most accurate regulatory interpretations and consulting services.

2. Precise Testing

Equipped with internationally advanced testing equipment, we can accurately conduct all ErP-related tests, ensuring authoritative and reliable data.

3. End-to-End Services

From pre-testing and formal testing to technical document compilation and EPREL database registration guidance, we offer full-process services to save you time and effort.

4. Efficiency & Speed

Optimized process management helps your products quickly achieve compliance, shortening the time-to-market cycle.

Conclusion

ErP certification is no longer just a "passport" for lighting exports to Europe, but also a "touchstone" for a product’s green value and brand strength. By planning ahead and proactively complying, you can remain competitive in this era of emphasis on sustainable development.

Contact the Lighting Testing Division of GTG Testing Group now—let our professional technical services light the way for your products to enter the European market!