Introduction
The European Union has introduced significant updates to the CE certification requirements for solar street lights in 2024, focusing on circular economy principles and higher energy efficiency standards. These changes will directly impact distributors, importers, and procurement strategies.
This guide breaks down the key updates and provides a compliance checklist to ensure smooth market access.
1. Circular Economy Requirements: Battery Recyclability
1.1 Mandatory Battery Removability
- Solar lights must allow easy battery removal without specialized tools (to facilitate recycling).
- Design impact: Manufacturers must adjust casing structures and connection mechanisms.
1.2 Battery Material Disclosure
- Manufacturers must provide detailed composition reports (e.g., cobalt, lithium, nickel, lead content).
- Battery suppliers must prove recycling certifications (compliance with EU Battery Regulation 2023/1542).
- QR codes for battery recycling must be included in product documentation.
1.3 Participation in EU Recycling Schemes
- Exporters must register with an approved EU battery recycling program (e.g., ERP, GRS).
- Packaging must display the “crossed-out wheeled bin” symbol (WEEE compliance).
- A recycling fee (€0.5–€2 per unit) applies for battery disposal.
2. Updated Energy Efficiency Standards
2.1 Higher Solar Panel Efficiency Requirements
- Minimum solar cell efficiency increased from 18% to 20% (monocrystalline).
- Testing must follow EN 12975:2024 (updated IV curve verification).
2.2 New Energy Efficiency Index (EEI) Scale
- Old A+++ rating system replaced with A-G scale (stricter benchmarks).
- Minimum LED efficacy: 120 lm/W (previously 100 lm/W).
- Smart features (motion sensors, adaptive dimming) improve EEI score.
2.3 Stricter Standby Power Limits
- Max standby power reduced from 1W to 0.5W.
- Products should include a physical power switch to ensure compliance.
3. Compliance Checklist for Distributors (English)
✅ Battery & Recycling Requirements
- Removable battery design (no special tools needed)
- Battery material disclosure sheet (Co, Li, Ni, Pb content)
- Recycling QR code on product/packaging
- ERP/GPR registration proof for batteries
- WEEE symbol on packaging
✅ Energy Efficiency Standards
- Solar panel efficiency ≥20% (EN 12975:2024 test report)
- LED efficacy ≥120 lm/W (LM-79/LM-80 test data)
- Standby power ≤0.5W (verified measurement)
- New A-G energy label displayed
✅ Documentation & Labeling
- Updated Declaration of Conformity (DoC)
- ENEC/CE mark with notified body number (if applicable)
- Technical file in English/EU language
- IP rating & waterproofing certification
✅ Recommended Best Practices
- Smart control features documentation (if applicable)
- Minimum 5-year warranty statement
- Spare parts availability commitment
Conclusion
The 2024 CE updates reflect the EU’s push for greener, more sustainable solar lighting solutions. Distributors must verify compliance early to avoid shipment rejections or penalties.
Pro Tip: Work closely with manufacturers who already meet these standards to minimize delays in your supply chain.
Would you like a downloadable PDF version of this checklist for your procurement team? Let us know in the comments!
Tags: #SolarStreetLights #EUCompliance #CE2024 #BatteryRecycling #EnergyEfficiency #SolarLightProcurement
