Consequently, there is a need to introduce two additional classes, to be designated as A+ and A++, as an interim arrangement until a comprehensive revision of the energy labelling classes takes place.

requirements to purchase equipment and vehicles based on lists of energy-efficient product specifications of different categories of equipment and vehicles to be drawn up by the authorities or agencies referred to in Article 4(4) , using, where applicable, minimised life-cycle cost analysis or comparable methods to ensure cost-effectiveness;

(c) requirements to purchase, replace or retrofit equipment and vehicles using lists of energy-efficient product specifications of different categories of equipment and vehicles to be drawn up by the authorities or agencies referred to in Article 4(3), using, where applicable as evaluation criteria, minimised life cycle cost or comparable methods to ensure cost-effectiveness;

(b) requirements to purchase equipment and vehicles based on lists of energy-efficient product specifications of different categories of equipment and vehicles to be drawn up by the authorities or agencies referred to in Article 4(3), using, where applicable, minimised life cycle cost analysis or comparable methods to ensure cost-effectiveness;

Since Council Directive 92/42/EEC of 21 May 1992 on efficiency requirements for new hot-water boilers fired with liquid or gaseous fuels , Directive 96/57/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 3 September 1996 on energy efficiency requirements for household electric refrigerators, freezers and combinations thereof and Directive 2000/55/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 September 2000 on energy efficiency requirements for ballasts for fluorescent lighting already contain provisions for the revision of the energy efficiency requirements, they should be integrated into the present framework.

(4) The effect of labelling on energy efficiency will diminish, or disappear, unless further and more efficient classes are defined.