In co-operation with the German Solar Energy Society, the IZT has completed a feasibility study for the Federal Environment Agency (UBA). The title of the study: "New environmental labels based on ISO 14024 for the product group: thermal solar systems". The results of the study suggested that the "Blue Angel" should only be awarded to solar collectors in the future. The energy amortisation period was derived as an easily communicable assessment standard. However, those coating processes that use carcinogenic chromium VI compounds should be excluded from the ecolabel, as is the case in Austria. The results of the study were of a recommendatory nature.

The project pursued two objectives: Firstly, to revise the RAL-UZ 73 eco-label for solar collectors, taking into account the technological developments in the industry since the award, in particular the examination of the differentiation between galvanic and non-galvanic coating processes for selective absorber surfaces. Secondly, the extent to which it is sensible and feasible to extend the existing eco-label for solar collectors to complete solar thermal systems should be examined.

The project was divided into two parts: Firstly, the creation of a feasibility study and secondly, the development of proposals for product requirements.
The core task of the feasibility study was to select the products and define the area of application and scope on the basis of surveys and extensive market research into existing and future technological developments and the impact of the existing eco-label. Based on the product selection, the relevant environmental impacts were determined and the need for product optimisation and ecological requirements identified.

In the second part of the study, the product requirements regarding the avoidance of harmful substances, energy yield and recyclable design were specified and instrumentalised as substantiated criteria for the award of the eco-label fit for use.

The study ended with an expert discussion with the interested parties, which included a presentation of the criteria developed and was intended to enable the results to be validated or modified. The final results of the study were then summarised in a final report and utilised through publications in industry-specific specialist publications.