The new version of BEE energy efficiency for color TV sets in India has stricter star rating limit requirements

Recently, according to The Times of India, India has surpassed Japan to become the world's fourth-largest economy, so more and more electronic products will enter the Indian market and the color TV sets are one of them.

Here, we will introduce the applicable scope, test items, and limits for applying for BEE energy efficiency for color TVs.

I. What is BEE Energy Efficiency?

In May 2006, based on the Energy Conservation Act, 2001 of India, the Ministry of Power established the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) as the owner of the energy efficiency labeling program, responsible for developing, formulating, and implementing India's energy labeling program.

The purpose of this program is to provide energy efficiency performance information to help consumers choose energy-saving products and encourage manufacturers to optimize their technologies. It was officially implemented on May 18, 2006.

Initially, the energy efficiency standards for color TVs were voluntary but gradually became mandatory.

a. Objective and Background

The BEE energy efficiency labeling program aims to identify the energy consumption efficiency of electrical appliances through a star rating system (1 to 5 stars), guiding consumers to choose energy-saving products and encouraging manufacturers to optimize their technologies.

b. Rating Basis

The energy efficiency grade is based on the "Annual Energy Consumption (AEC)" calculation, with the formula being:

AEC = [(Standby power consumption × 6) + (On-mode power consumption × 12)] × 0.365 kWh/year

II. Evolution of Energy Efficiency Standards for Color TVs and Key Versions

a. 2022 Edition Standard (Effective Date: July 1, 2022 - December 31, 2024)

- Scope: Color TVs with a resolution of ≤ 1920×1080 (Full HD).

- Core Changes: Compared to the 2019 edition, the energy efficiency requirements for each star level have been raised by one level (e.g., the original 5-star standard is only equivalent to 4 stars in the new version).

- Grade Formula Examples:

1-star: (0.022 × A) + 2.63 < AEC ≤ (0.024 × A) + 2.63

2-star: (0.019 × A) + 2.63 < AEC ≤ (0.022 × A) + 2.63

3-star: (0.016 × A) + 2.63 < AEC ≤ (0.019 × A) + 2.63

4-star: (0.013 × A) + 2.63 < AEC ≤ (0.016 × A) + 2.63

5-star: AEC ≤ (0.013 × A) + 2.63

Where A represents the screen area (cm²)

b. 2024 Amendment (Effective Date: January 1, 2025 - December 31, 2027), this is the current version

Main Updates:

- Added an evaluation equation for resolution adaptability, covering mainstream 1920×1080 models.

- Strengthened testing methods and label information regulations, requiring the marking of energy consumption data and star ratings.

- Introduced mandatory third-party laboratory certification to ensure compliance.

- Grade Formula Examples:

1-star: (0.019 × A) + 2.63 < AEC ≤ (0.022 × A) + 2.63

2-star: (0.016 × A) + 2.63 < AEC ≤ (0.019 × A) + 2.63

3-star: (0.013 × A) + 2.63 < AEC ≤ (0.016 × A) + 2.63

4-star: (0.011 × A) + 2.63 < AEC ≤ (0.013 × A) + 2.63

5-star: AEC ≤ (0.011 × A) + 2.63

Where A represents the screen area (cm²)

III. Compliance Requirements and Implementation Process

a. Testing Methods

- Standby and on-mode power consumption must be measured in a BEE-recognized laboratory and calculate the AEC value.

- The testing environment must meet the standard temperature, humidity, and voltage conditions.

b. Label Specifications

- Products must be affixed with a BEE energy efficiency label, clearly displaying: **star rating, annual energy consumption (kWh/year), screen size**, etc.

c. Transition from Old to New Standards

- During the transition period (e.g., the end of 2024), manufacturers must apply for certificate updates in advance and submit new label designs.

IV. Impact on Consumers and Manufacturers

a. Consumer Purchase Recommendations

- Advantages of High Star Ratings: 5-star TVs save approximately 15% to 20% more energy than 3-star models, reducing electricity bills over time.

- Energy Efficiency ≠ Absolute Energy Saving: Actual energy consumption still depends on screen size, brightness settings (e.g., setting to medium brightness can save 30% of energy), and usage duration.

- Correlation with Picture Quality: 5-star energy efficiency TVs typically use more advanced panels (such as OLED), offering better contrast and color performance.

b. Manufacturer Response Strategies - Required technical upgrades: Adopt low-power panels (such as OLED/QLED), optimize power management modules.

- Pay attention to the impact of resolution: A 4K screen has four times the pixel count of a 1080p screen, resulting in higher energy consumption. A balance must be struck between picture quality and energy efficiency.

V. Clarification of Common Misconceptions

- Misconception 1: "A TV with a Grade 1 energy efficiency rating is always more energy-efficient than one with a Grade 3 rating."

Correct Answer: Energy efficiency grades reflect energy conversion efficiency, but a large-sized Grade 1 energy-efficient TV may consume more power than a small-sized Grade 3 model (e.g., a 75-inch Grade 1 vs. a 65-inch Grade 3).

- Misconception 2: "Supporting HDR decoding means high energy efficiency."

Correct Answer: HDR functionality may increase power consumption. A comprehensive assessment should be made by considering peak brightness parameters (e.g., for LCD, it should be >1000 nit).

Summary

The BEE energy efficiency standards promote energy conservation in the TV industry by gradually raising the threshold for star ratings (e.g., the new standard in 2025), mandating labeling, and implementing third-party certification. Consumers should choose energy efficiency grades based on **screen size, resolution, and actual usage habits**, rather than blindly pursuing higher star ratings. Manufacturers need to continuously optimize panel technology and power management to meet the dynamically updated compliance requirements.

BTL currently has the capability to test color TVs for BEE energy efficiency and has obtained CNAS/A2LA accreditation. It has issued a large number of test reports for many first-line brand manufacturers and accumulated rich project testing experience. It can provide complete testing services for a wide range of manufacturers and offer more convenient one-stop services.