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The second phase of the Mandatory Energy Efficiency Labelling Scheme (MEELS) will be fully implemented on Monday (September 19) to include washing machines and dehumidifiers under the scheme.
The MEELS was introduced in May 2008 through the Energy Efficiency (Labelling of Products) Ordinance (Cap. 598), under which energy labels are required to be shown on all prescribed products for supply in Hong Kong to inform consumers of their efficiency performance. Following the successful implementation of the first phase of the scheme, which covered three types of products, namely room air-conditioners, refrigerating appliances and compact fluorescent lamps, the scheme was extended to cover washing machines and dehumidifiers on March 19, 2010, with a grace period of 18 months.
Upon expiry of the grace period, with effect from September 19, washing machines and dehumidifiers must carry energy labels with information on their energy efficiency performance before they are supplied to the local market.
"The energy label classifies energy performance into five grades. Products with a Grade 1 energy label are among the most energy-efficient on the market. The information can help consumers make informed decisions in purchasing more energy-efficient products," a Government spokesman said today (September 16).
"Any person who supplies a prescribed product that does not properly bear an energy label or is not a listed model will commit an offence under the Ordinance and is liable to a fine of $100,000. The Electrical and Mechanical Services Department will conduct inspections at retail shops to monitor compliance with the Ordinance," the spokesman said.
The five products covered under the MEELS altogether account for about 70 per cent of annual electricity consumption in the residential sector. The implementation of the two phases of the MEELS is expected to bring an energy saving of 175 million kWh per year, or an annual saving of about $175 million in household electricity bills. In terms of environmental benefits, an annual reduction of carbon dioxide emissions by about 120 000 tonnes will be achieved.
For more details of the MEELS and information on listed models, please visit the website of the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (www.emsd.gov.hk).
Ends/Friday, September 16, 2011
Issued at HKT 14:31
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