The Electrical & Mechanical Services Department today introduced two new voluntary energy efficiency labelling schemes to cover televisions and LCD monitors.

The new schemes function on the basis of a "recognition type" labelling system. 

To qualify for this type of labels, the products must meet the energy efficiency and performance requirements of the respective schemes. 

Initially, the department's schemes covered only household appliances. New schemes were introduced to cover office equipment in December, 2000, and vehicles in February, 2002.

With the present extension, the schemes now cover:

* nine types of household appliances - refrigerators, room coolers, washing machines, electric clothes dryers, compact fluorescent lamps, electric storage water heaters, electric rice cookers, dehumidifiers and televisions;

* four types of office equipment - photocopiers, multifunction devices, laser printers and LCD monitors; and

* petrol-powered passenger cars.

Labels inform consumers of consumption, efficiency

Under the schemes, manufacturers, importers and local agents of some common types of household appliances and office equipment are invited to apply for energy labels to be attached to their products to inform consumers of individual products' energy consumption and efficiency. 

With this information, consumers will be able to make better choices.