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Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE)

What is BEE about?

BEE Certification is an energy efficiency compliance program governed by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), operating under the Ministry of Power, Government of India.


Its primary objective is to promote energy conservation and reduce carbon emissions by encouraging the use of energy-efficient appliances and equipment in Indian homes and businesses.

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One of the most widely recognized parts of this program is the Star Labelling Scheme, where energy-consuming appliances are rated from 1-Star to 5-Star based on their efficiency — with 5-Star products being the most efficient.

BEE certification is:

  • Mandatory for certain high-energy-consuming appliances (like air conditioners and refrigerators),

  • Voluntary for others, but highly recommended as it enhances product marketability, consumer trust, and environmental compliance.

Products covered under the scheme must be tested in BEE-approved labs, and manufacturers/importers must obtain permission to affix the Standard Mark (Star Label) on the product.

At EMPL, we assist appliance manufacturers and importers with end-to-end BEE certification, ensuring compliance with testing protocols, energy standards, documentation requirements, and smooth portal-based approvals.

Air Conditioner

Which products are covered?

The BEE Certification currently applies to the following product categories (with more added each year): (Some are under mandatory labelling while others are under voluntary categories. The list is periodically updated by BEE.)

Air Conditioners (Split & Window)

Frost-Free Refrigerators

LED Lamps and Tube Lights

Electric Geysers (Storage Water Heaters)

Ceiling Fans

Washing Machines

Televisions

Direct Cool Refrigerators

  • Entities eligible to apply for BEE Certification include:

    • Manufacturers producing appliances listed under the BEE labelling program.

    • Importers or Brand Owners who sell foreign-made products in India.

    • OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) supplying energy-rated products to other brands.

    Each brand and product model needs to be registered separately under BEE, and all applications must be submitted via the Standards & Labelling (S&L) portal. EMPL helps brands get registered, coordinate mandatory testing, and complete online and offline processes for smooth, compliant certification under the applicable category.

  • The typical BEE certification timeline depends on the product type and readiness of documentation.

    • Product testing at BEE-approved lab: 3 to 5 weeks

    • Brand registration on the BEE portal: 1 week

    • Model registration and label approval: 4 to 6 weeks

    Overall, the BEE certification and labelling process can take around 6 to 10 weeks, provided that all documents and testing reports are in order.

    EMPL helps shorten timelines by ensuring testing is properly scheduled, applications are free of errors, and follow-ups with BEE officials are handled efficiently.

  • Before applying for BEE Certification, businesses should ensure:

    • Product testing is conducted only at BEE-approved labs.

    • Correct product category and technical specifications are identified in line with BEE standards.

    • Legal business documents like GST, PAN, CIN, and authorization letters are ready.

    • Product datasheets and technical drawings are complete.

    • Brand and model names are finalized and correctly mentioned across documents and test reports.

    • Star label artwork is approved before public marketing or packaging.

    At EMPL, we support our clients by auditing documents, ensuring technical accuracy, and managing BEE portal workflows — so clients can focus on product launches and sales while we manage certification behind the scenes.

  • No. It is mandatory only for selected products (like ACs, refrigerators, etc.). For other products, BEE certification is voluntary but highly recommended for improving product credibility and customer confidence.

  • No. If the product falls under BEE's mandatory list, it must be certified and carry a valid star label before import, sale, or distribution.

  • Typically, BEE star labels are valid for 3 years, after which they must be renewed or re-evaluated if the product specifications change or new standards are introduced.

  • EMPL offers end-to-end project handling, from coordinating product testing to portal registration and post-certification support — helping brands get BEE-certified faster and more accurately.

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