Eurofuel Newsletter #2
Dear reader,
Welcome to the second edition of the Eurofuel newsletter for 2025.
In this issue, we highlight the European Commission’s recently launched Ecodesign Working Plan, which aims to boost product efficiency and promote circularity.
We also present Eurofuel’s latest position papers on key EU initiatives: the Omnibus Simplification Proposal, the Clean Industrial Deal, and the Affordable Energy Action Plan.
On the membership front, Eurofuel is pleased to welcome NORA from the United States as a new member, strengthening our transatlantic cooperation. We also report on recent visits to our Italian members, F.I.D.A. and Ecoflam.
Happy reading!
Yours,
Dr Ernst-Moritz Bellingen
Working Plan under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation published
The European Commission has released its first Working Plan under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), covering the period from 2025 to 2030.
This plan outlines the priority product groups and cross-cutting measures to be addressed through upcoming delegated acts under both the ESPR and Energy Labelling regulations.
Priority product categories include textiles, furniture, mattresses, tyres, iron and steel, and aluminium, in addition to energy-related products already targeted under the previous Ecodesign Directive.
Among the key horizontal measures identified are improved repairability for energy-related products and enhanced recyclability for electrical and electronic equipment.
The plan aims to advance the availability of durable, repairable, and recyclable products, supporting the EU’s Clean Industrial Deal and driving the transition to a more circular economy. Future products will be required to meet stricter sustainability standards, helping to reduce environmental impacts while fostering innovation.
The working plan is informed by in-depth technical analysis aligned with the EU’s climate, environmental, and energy efficiency objectives, as well as broad stakeholder engagement, including through the newly established Ecodesign Forum, where SBS is represented.
Ecodesign and energy labelling requirements will be set through delegated acts, based on detailed preparatory studies and impact assessments. Stakeholders will be closely involved throughout the process.
The first requirements for energy-related products are expected to be adopted by 31 December 2026.
Position paper on EU Clean Industrial Deal & Affordable Energy Plan
Eurofuel, the European Liquid Heating Fuels Association, welcomes the launch of the Clean Industrial Deal and the Action Plan for Affordable Energy as a path towards a sustainable and competitive energy future, setting ambitious targets for reducing emissions.
While these strategies emphasise the significance of electrification and hydrogen, they may neglect a crucial aspect of a truly inclusive energy transition: low-carbon renewable liquid fuels.
Eurofuel believes that these fuels offer an immediate, cost-effective, and practical solution to decarbonisation—one that complements existing energy policies while addressing the diverse needs of European consumers and businesses.
By recognising the value of renewable liquid fuels, the EU can ensure a balanced approach that delivers both environmental and economic benefits without imposing unnecessary burdens on consumers.
Position paper on EU Omnibus Simplification Package
Eurofuel supports the European Commission’s initiative to create an Omnibus package for simplifying reporting requirements under EU legislation.
As a key stakeholder in Europe’s decarbonisation efforts, Eurofuel supports the EU’s commitment to greater transparency and accountability in corporate sustainability reporting. However, recent regulatory developments have added complexity and administrative burdens, particularly for SMEs in the liquid fuel sector.
Eurofuel calls on the Commission to ensure that simplification efforts result in a more coherent and practical regulatory framework, facilitating compliance rather than imposing additional barriers.
NORA has become a member of Eurofuel
Eurofuel is pleased to reaffirm its partnership with NORA, reinforcing decades of collaboration in advancing sustainable liquid fuel heating.
Both organizations share a strong focus on innovation, education, and the promotion of safe, efficient, and low-emission heating systems.
While Eurofuel actively engages in EU policymaking, NORA—established by the U.S. Congress in 2000 and funded entirely by industry—focuses on technical development, consumer education, and system efficiency improvements.
NORA supports these goals through research, training programs, and homeowner incentives such as equipment rebates and tax credits.
Joint conferences and knowledge exchange have helped both sides address common challenges, especially in introducing renewable fuels like HVO and FAME.
Europe’s early adoption of HVO offers valuable insights for U.S. trials, while U.S. experience with FAME supports European appliance development.
As environmental standards tighten, this partnership continues to provide vital shared learning, helping the sector evolve and deliver cleaner, more efficient heating solutions.
Eurofuel visits Italian members F.I.D.A. and Ecoflam
As part of our commitment to advancing sustainable heating, Eurofuel recently visited two leading Italian manufacturers - F.I.D.A. and Ecoflam - both driving innovation in low-carbon liquid fuel technologies.
F.I.D.A.: High-Quality Ignition for Modern Fuels
Based near Venice, F.I.D.A. is a key European producer of ignition units for oil condensing boilers and part of the Beckett Group since 2019. With in-house manufacturing and strict testing, F.I.D.A. ensures reliability and compatibility with climate-friendly fuels. “Our components are already suitable for renewable liquid fuels,” says CEO Francesco De Simone, noting their close collaboration with burner manufacturers.
Ecoflam: Burners Ready for Renewable Fuels
Located nearby in Resana and part of the Ariston Group, Ecoflam is developing burners compatible with HVO and FAME while reducing NOx emissions. At their advanced test facility, two dozen burners run on various fuel blends to refine performance and durability. “We’re seeing excellent results with renewable fuels in conventional systems,” says Erica Furin, OEM & UK Subsidiary Director, Burner Division of the Ariston Group.
These visits highlight the technical readiness of low-carbon liquid fuels and the importance of EU-wide support.
Italy’s progress shows what is possible, now it is time to scale it across Europe.