Start of Uniform Energy‐Saving Label: Points of Energy‐Saving Measures for Home Electric Appliances, etc.

Abstract

AbstractJapanese energy conservation measures for home electric appliances and the like are the following: the Retailer Indication System (Uniform Energy‐saving label), Energy‐Saving Labeling Program and Excellent Shop Program, as well as a broadly publicized program to present the information in a list of energy conservation performance on all products of all manufacturers. As the basis of these systems and programs, the concept of the top‐runner criteria has been introduced. The idea is such that on electrical appliances that are considered to be the most energy consuming, the energy conservation target is set out at a point which is higher than any energy conservation efficiency level among commercialized product types or models in each appliance category, and the level of each product has to be seen on the product itself. As an easy‐to‐see display of the energy conservation performance and others, an Energy‐Saving Labeling Program has been introduced in which the energy conservation performance and criteria‐achieving rate as well as its mark are to be presented on the product itself. In addition, a Uniform Energy‐Saving Label to show the relative level of energy conservation performance with a number of stars has been introduced, which includes indicative annual electricity charges, etc. There is an additional program in which home appliance shops that explain and provide correct information regarding these programs and energy conservation and actively promote the sale of the energy‐saving products are evaluated as excellent shops. The current situation and possibility of reduction of standby power consumed by products are also discussed. Copyright © 2007 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.