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The second phase of the Mandatory Energy Efficiency Labelling Scheme (MEELS) comes into operation today (March 19) with a grace period of 18 months for the trade to make necessary preparations for implementation.
The Government has extended the coverage of the MEELS to washing machines and dehumidifiers in the second phase. These two products account for about 7% of annual electricity consumption in the residential sector. Combined with room air-conditioners, refrigerating appliances and compact fluorescent lamps in the initial phase, the five products covered under the MEELS take up about 70% of annual electricity consumption in the residential sector.
Under the MEELS, energy labels are required to be shown on prescribed products to inform consumers of the energy efficiency performance of the products. Consumers can then make informed choices to help protect the environment by choosing energy-efficient products.
"It is estimated that the extension of the MEELS to the two products will bring about an additional annual energy saving of about 25 gigawatt hours, amounting to a saving of $25 million in household electricity bills every year. In terms of environmental benefits, this will reduce carbon dioxide emission by 17,500 tonnes per year," a government spokesman said.
For information on product energy efficiency and details of the MEELS, people can visit the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department website (www.emsd.gov.hk).
Ends/Friday, March 19, 2010
Issued at HKT 11:03
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