BEE urges consumers to opt for energy-efficient appliances

After the resounding success of the Standard & Labelling (S&L) program, Union Ministry of Power-led Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) has appealed to the consumers across the country to opt for star-rated energy efficiency appliances to promote sustainable living, conserving energy, reducing electricity bills and ultimately contributing to the planet’s well-being.

In a press release, BEE stated that it has directed all State Designated Agencies (SDAs) of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and other States to play a pivotal role in implementing the S&L program, ensuring compliance, and fostering a sustainable, energy-efficient future for the nation.

According to the release, the impact of this initiative is monumental, considering the significant electricity consumption of appliances in households and commercial establishments. With the demand for electrical energy escalating annually, the S&L program acts as a catalyst for market transformation, promoting the use of high-efficiency products. Notably, during 2020-21, a staggering 56 billion units of electricity were saved, resulting in over Rs 30,000 crore in savings, accompanied by a substantial reduction of approximately 46 million tonnes in CO2 emissions.

BEE Director General Abhay Bakre has called upon the SDAs to be the vanguards of change in the effective implementation of the S&L program emphasising the pivotal role of SDAs in appointing inspecting officers and conducting thorough market surveillance to ensure compliance with energy performance standards.

The S&L program has been a resounding success, saving 109 billion units of electricity and avoiding 88 million tonnes of CO2 emissions since its inception in 2006-2019. The primary objective is to reduce end-use energy consumption without sacrificing service levels. Moreover, the program aims to cultivate consumer awareness, encouraging thoughtful decisions based on both cost-effectiveness and energy performance. It functions as a sentinel, monitoring and verifying annual energy savings through the adoption of energy-efficient appliances while ensuring uncompromised product quality.

The S&L program was introduced in 2006 with an aim to enlighten consumers about the energy and cost-saving potential of various appliances and equipment.