EU - Commission Proposes to Mandate the Implementation of Common Chargers

​The European Commission published a proposal to mandate the implementation of common chargers for certain radio devices. As the new requirements exceed the existing article 3(3)(a) of the current RED (Radio Equipment Directive 2015/53/EU), an amendment of the RED itself is necessary.

The proposal introduces four new requirements:

1. USB-C as the standard charging port
2. USB Power Delivery as fast charging technology
3. Unbundling of chargers from the sale of the radio device
4. Information about chargers to the user

These changes shall apply initially to mobile phones, tablets, headsets, digital cameras, handheld video game consoles and portable speakers. They concern the charging connector of the radio device.

Among others, a new essential requirement shall be added to the RED in article 3(4) to cover the technical requirements. Same as for article 3(1), a Notified Body will not be required, even in the absence of harmonized standards.

The revised wording in the Directive may introduce some additional consequences which are unrelated to the charging.

Wireless charging is not part of the current proposal. A revision of the Commission's Eco-Design Regulation is in preparation to cover also the chargers themselves.

The proposed amendment of the RED still needs to go through the European Parliament and the Council. No time frame has been given yet. Once adopted, a transition period of 24 months will follow.

The publication of the EU Commission in the provided link below includes links to the proposed text, a fact sheet and a FAQ.