(March 19, 2010) - The Mandatory Energy Efficiency Labelling Scheme (MEELS)'s second phase comes into operation today, with its coverage extending to washing machines and dehumidifiers. There will be an 18-month grace period for the trade to make implementation preparations.   

These two products account for 7% of annual power consumption in the residential sector. The extension will bring annual energy savings of 25 gigawatt hours, saving $25 million in household power bills every year.

In terms of environmental benefits, the move will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 17,500 tonnes per year, the Electrical & Mechanical Services Department says.

Combined with room air-conditioners, refrigerating appliances and compact fluorescent lamps in the initial phase, the five products covered under the scheme take up 70% of annual electricity consumption in the residential sector.

Under the scheme, energy labels must be shown on prescribed products to inform consumers of the products' energy efficiency performance. Consumers can then make informed choices to help protect the environment by choosing energy-efficient products.

For more details of the Mandatory Energy Efficiency Labelling Scheme (MEELS), please visit the website of the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (www.emsd.gov.hk).

This article is taken from Hong Kong's Information Service Department, please visit the author's website at http://www.news.gov.hk/.