Italy introduces new environmental classes for biomass heating appliances
The European Commission’s standstill period for the notified Italian regulation ends on 25 September 2026.
The Italian Ministry of Environment and Energy Security has published a draft adamant to Ministerial Decree No. 186/2017, proposing significant updated to the environmental certification framework biomass-fired heating appliances. The initiative ais to further air quality by introducing stricter emission limits and higher efficiency requirements for solid biomass appliances.
A key element of the proposal is the expansion of the existing environmental classification system. In addition to the current classes, new six-star and seven-star environmental categories are set to be introduced. For higher classes, significantly stricter values apply for particulate matter (PP), organic gaseous compounds (TOC) and carbon monoxide (CO), as well as more stringent requirements regarding the efficiency of the appliances. At the same time, the requirements relation to nitrogen oxides (NOX) are being revised.
The proposed requirements will apply to a brand range of biomass heating appliances, including
- wood-burning room heaters (EN 13240 / EN 16510-2-1)
- closed and open fireplace inserts for wood combustion (EN 13229 / EN 16510-2-2)
- wood-burning cookers (EN 12815 / EN 16510-2-3)
- slow heat release appliances (EN 15250 / EN 16510-2-5)
- heating boilers up to 500 kW (EN 303-5 – Heating boilers – Part 5)
- pellet stoves, inset appliances and pellet cookers (EN 14785 / EN 16510-2-6)
- combined wood- and pellet-fired appliances (EN 16510-2-7)
At the same time, the draft updated references to the latest European produc standars within the EN 16510 series, aligning the Italian framework with current European standardization developments.
Another noteworthy change concerns locally built masonry appliances. Under specific conditions, appliances constructed in accordance with EN 15544 may be granted an equivalent -star environmental classification. To qualify, installers will be required to provide technical documentation, a declaration of conformity, and results from flue draught measurements carried out during commissioning.
The draft regulation also places greater emphasis on user information. Manufacturers of manually operated appliances will be required to provide concise operating instructions covering ignition procedures, fuel loading practices, and recommendations regarding suitable firewood. Audiovisual guidance material may also be used to support end users in achieving proper appliance operation and low emission combustion.
With these proposed amendments, Italy continues its effort to reduce emissions from biomass heating while supporting the objectives of European air quality policy. For manufacturers, the future environmental classification system will place even greater importance on achieving very low emissions and high efficiency levels.
The draft regulation is currently undergoing the legislative approval process. Consequently, the proposed requirements and emission limits may still be subject the amended regulation enters into force.
