Brussels, 26/11/2001 (Agence Europe) - The European Commission's competition department has completed its examination of two agreements notified by the European Committee of Domestic Equipment Manufacturers (CECED). Nearly all European manufacturers of dishwashers and domestic electric water heaters are party to the agreements, which are designed to improve the energy efficiency of appliances marketed in the EU, but also restrict competition. After examining the agreements, the Commission concluded that the energy savings and environmental benefits outweigh the restrictions on competition. Under the agreements, the parties undertake to stop producing and importing into the Union high-electricity consumption appliances as from 31 December 2001 for electric water heaters and 31 December 2003 for dishwashers. The parties have undertaken to pursue joint energy efficiency targets, improve the information provided to consumers on more energy-efficiency use of appliances and promote the development of appropriate technology. The Commission found that while both agreements have an appreciable effect on competition, there are substantial technical benefits and advantages for consumers - the new electric water heaters and dishwashers will be more efficient and enable consumers to cut their electricity bills, while lower electricity consumption will indirectly help the EU achieve its environmental objectives.