From 1 January 2027, we are adjusting the Recupel contribution for some product categories. We are doing this because we are fully switching to the pay-as-you-go principle. This means that the contribution is aligned with the actual cost of collecting, transporting and processing end-of-life electrical appliances.
This does not mean that all contributions will increase. Contributions for some categories of appliances were already determined according to this principle, while others were not. As a result, some contributions will increase, others will remain unchanged, and some will decrease.
We understand that this may raise some questions. That is why we have brought together all the relevant information in one place.
What is the Recupel contribution used for?
With the contribution, you support a broad chain of activities that gives electrical appliances a new life through repair, reuse or recycling.
- Collection, pick-up and processing
We provide an extensive and free collection network for consumers. Collected appliances are transported to reuse and recycling centres, where they are repaired, reused or recycled. - Prevention, awareness raising and communication
We inform consumers and businesses about the importance of recycling and show them how to sort and dispose of appliances correctly. - Registration and reporting
We register how many appliances are placed on the market and what happens to them at the end of their life. We report these activities to the regional authorities.
What changes for me?
Not all contributions are changing. In the table below, you can easily check the changes that apply to your products. You can filter, select and download the relevant table.
Not sure which category your product belongs to? Use the search function to easily find the correct product category.
Other important changes
Change to the administrative contribution for professional appliances
For professional appliances, we charge an administrative contribution. This is because Recupel is not responsible for the collection, transport and processing of professional appliances. The administrative contribution only covers the costs of reporting, communication, prevention and awareness raising.
From 1 January 2027, this administrative contribution will change from € 0,08 incl. VAT (€ 0,0661 excl. VAT) to € 0,10 incl. VAT (€ 0,0826 excl. VAT).
All-in contribution for professional temperature exchange equipment
From 1 January 2027, professional temperature exchange equipment will be subject to an all-in contribution similar to household appliances, because these appliances are also collected by Recupel for processing.
Specifically, the contribution for professional temperature exchange equipment (category 1.50) is equal to the Recupel contribution for the corresponding category 1.1. From 1 January 2027, the contribution for categories 1.50 and 1.1 amounts to € 13,00 incl. VAT (€ 10,7438 excl. VAT).
Change to the category for dishwashing machines without heat pump
From 1 January 2027, dishwashing machines without heat pump must be declared under category 4.1.1, together with washing machines, dryers and washer-dryer combinations without heat pump, instead of category 4.1.2.
As a result, the names of the following categories will change:
- Category 4.1.1
- Current name: Large white goods – textile > 50 cm
- New name: Large white goods – washing and drying > 50 cm
- Categories 4.1.2 and 5.1.2
- Current name: Large white goods – kitchen
- New name: Large white goods – cooking
Download the appliance list 2027
FAQ
How is the Recupel contribution calculated?
The contribution covers all costs for collecting, transporting and processing electrical appliances. It also supports awareness raising, reporting and the daily operations of Recupel as an organisation.
For professional appliances, except for cooling and freezing equipment, we charge an administrative contribution. This is because Recupel is not responsible for the collection, transport and processing of professional appliances. The administrative contribution only covers the costs of reporting, communication, prevention and awareness raising.
Why does the contribution differ by product category?
Every appliance is different. Factors such as weight, composition and the recycling process determine the cost. That is why the contribution differs by product category.
Why are some contributions increasing now?
When Recupel was established in 2001, the knowledge about the actual recycling costs was limited. In addition, electrical appliances placed on the market before 2001 and for which no contribution had been paid also had to be recycled. As a result, contributions were higher at the time and financial reserves were built up.
Over the past years, Recupel has gradually reduced these reserves by systematically keeping contributions below the actual costs. Today, the reserves are at the level required to guarantee continuity, which means that some contributions now need to increase. That is why we are now fully switching to the pay-as-you-go principle.
Are all contributions increasing?
No. Some are increasing, others remain unchanged, and some are decreasing.
When do the new rates apply?
The rates apply to appliances that you place on the market from 1 January 2027 onwards. You can consult the new appliances list here.
Will the contributions continue to increase?
We evaluate the actual collection and processing costs every year. Factors such as raw material prices or recycling costs may have an impact, meaning that contributions may increase but can also decrease. Based on this evaluation, the appliances list is drawn up and approved by the regional authorities.