Energy Labelling: A Comparison of Existing Programs

Panel: Panel 3: Market Transformation: Innovation, Development and Dissemination

Authors:
Nancy Casey-McCabe, Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, Energy & Environment Division
Jeffrey P. Harris, Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, Energy & Environment Division

Abstract

A broad range of market development strategies are being used to promote existing and new energy efficient products. One such strategy involves product rating, labeling, and certification. These programs offer a means to identify energy efficient products and encourage innovative new technology. Programs can be instituted by government agencies, by manufacturers and industry associations, or by some ?hird-partyƒ, such as environmental groups, consumer advocates or utility consortia. This paper examines the key issues involved with labeling using examples of programs in the United States, Canada, and Europe.

For the most part, consumers seem unaware of the long-term cost savings and environmental benefits associated with energy efficient products. Labeling efforts _aim to raise awareness among consumers and shift purchasing practices towards the more energy efficient and/or environmentahy preferable products, thereby expanding the marketplace for these types of products. Different approaches are utilized. For example, some rating and labeling programs offer a means for buyers to compare similar products and make moreinformed choices about energy efficiency and other criteria; while others identify and endorse a limited number of products which meet a specified performance level.