A proposal approved by the European Parliament could set minimum efficiency standards for windows, showerheads and other products that have an indirect impact on energy use.

The European Union's Ecodesign Directive, adopted in 2005, currently has minimum standards for energy-consuming products like TVs, refrigerators, computers, water heaters and boilers.

Last week the European Parliament approved extending the Ecodesign Directive to products that indirectly affect energy use, including insulation, water taps and windows.

The extension still needs to be approved by the Council of Ministers (which, along with the Parliament, makes up the E.U.'s legislative branch), and would not have any immediate impact on products covered by the Directive.

New products won't be considered until late 2011, when the European Commission (the E.U.'s executive branch) presents its second working plan on the Directive. And in 2012, the Commission will assess the effectiveness of the Directive.

Showerhead - CC license by pochacco20