By introducing ErP 2026, the European Union is significantly tightening the requirements for fans starting in July. New efficiency limits, revised evaluation methods and expanded documentation requirements affect not only fan manufacturers but also OEMs, plant engineers and operators. ebm‑papst provides information on the most important changes and explains what users should prepare for now.

The new fan regulation significantly raises the minimum efficiency levels and continues to assess efficiency using the Fan Efficiency Grade (FEG); however, efficiency is now based on updated measurement conditions. A new feature is the stronger focus on partial load operation, placing the focus no longer solely on the best point, but on the overall efficiency level across the real operating range.

For the first time, the regulation clearly defines when a fan is considered complete. The interaction between the impeller, motor and stator is decisive. Anyone who produces incomplete fans or integrates them into their own systems and places them on the market under their own name is considered a manufacturer for regulatory purposes—with all obligations regarding conformity assessment and CE marking.

ErP 2026 is also bringing about significantly increased transparency requirements. In the future, manufacturers must provide comprehensive information on energy efficiency, repairability and disassembly. Additionally, defined spare parts must be kept available for up to ten years after product discontinuation, while product information must be stored digitally for up to 20 years.

The regulation applies from July 24, 2026 onwards to so-called stand-alone fans and new products. For fans that are integrated into other products or applications—such as ventilation units, heat pumps or refrigeration systems—and are already on the market prior to this date, the requirements take effect on July 24, 2027. Replacement fans will be subject to clear restrictions starting in 2027 and may only be used under defined conditions.

ebm‑papst has been specifically preparing its portfolio for the requirements of ErP 2026 for years. Fully designed fans, system-specific efficiency assessments and transparent documentation make the transition easier for customers. In addition, ebm‑papst provides support through consulting, measurements and digital design tools to help implement compliant solutions early on.