Introduction
Energy efficiency is now a major compliance and regulatory consideration for all manufacturers of electrical equipment in India. All manufacturers of electrical goods are required to ensure that the electrical products they manufacture meet required energy performance standards and also carry valid star labels.
As a manufacturer or importer, it is important to renew your BEE Registration and update your labels to continue selling your products in India and to avoid penalties imposed on you for non-compliance.
This will be a guide for manufacturers on renewing BEE registrations, updating their labels, complying with the requirements of BEE, and how to avoid regulatory problems.
What is BEE Registration?
The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), is a statutory body in India which is under the ministry of power and has been established in accordance with the energy conservation act of 2001.
BEE also undertakes the regulation of Standards and Labelling (S&L) program in India where every appliance must have the energy efficiency star rating (1 to 5).
What is the BEE Star Label?
The BEE Star Label is a label that gives you information about:
• How much energy is used
• Energy efficiency rating (1-5 stars)
• When the label expires
• Manufacturer information
• Model number.
All appliances (air conditioners, refrigerators, LED lights, ceiling fans and water heaters) must have BEE registration before they can be sold in India.
When is BEE Renewal Required?
There are certain situations where it is necessary to renew the BEE Registration Number, which are as follows:
1. Expires registration of the model.
2. Change of rated star standards.
3. Introduction of a new labelling cycle made by the BEE.
4. Change to technical specification.
5. Manufacturer becomes no longer registered.
Generally, BEE stays on average for two to three years, and all manufacturers must adhere to the new norms of energy consumption.
Step-by-Step Process to Renew BEE Registration
When a BEE number needs to be renewed, follow the steps below:
Step 1: Check that your current registration is valid.
Check:
Model registration
Star label cycle
Manufacturer registration
File renewal before expiration.
Step 2: Conduct Further Testing (If Necessary)
If there is a new star rating cycle introduced by the BEE, the product must be tested by the standards set out in the new energy rating cycle to keep your BEE Registration.
All tests must be done at NABL accredited laboratories.
The test report must comply with current BEE standards.
Step 3: Log in to the BEE's Online Portal
On the official BEE Standards and Labelling portal renewal applications must be completed online.
You will need to provide:
The test report
Details about the model
An undertaking
Pay the BEE fees
Step 4: Pay Your Renewal Fee
The fees related to your renewal will be determined based on the product, the brand and the model.
It is important that you make payments on time to avoid late fees at the time of your renewal.
Step 5: Approval Issuance of the Updated Star Label
When your application has been successfully verified:
Your renewal has been granted by the BEE.
The updated star label has been issued.
The manufacturer is legally permitted to continue working within their product and sell that product.
How to Update Star Labels?
When Revised Energy Standards Are Issued, Star Labels Must Be Replaced
- When New Energy Standards Are Issued
- When Product Efficiency Changes
- When Models Are Changed
- When Label Format Changes
The Process for Replacing Star Labels
1. Testing Under New Standards
2. Application for a Model Amendment or Renewal
3. Submission of Updated Technical Documents
4. Approval of New Star Ratings
5. Printing and Affixing New Star Labels to the Product
Once a New Star Label Cycle Goes into Effect Old Star Labels May No Longer Be Used.
What Documents Will Be Required for Renewal?
Generally the following will be required for renewal:
- Existing Certificate of Registration
- Update Test Reports
- Letter of Authorization
- Brand Authorization (If Applicable)
- An Undertaking
- Proof of Payment
What Are The Penalties For Failure To Renew Or Incorrect Label?
When Companies Fail To Comply With The Energy Conservation Act Companies Are Subject To:
- Financial Penalties
- Seizure of Product
- Prohibition on Sale
- Cancellation of Registration
- Legal Action
Wrong Labelling of Appliances or marketing Appliances with a star label that has expired can result in a regulatory examination and eventual monetary reprimand on the manufacturer.
Viable Suggestions to prevent compliance problems
Renewal of BEE certifications 6 months prior to the date of expiry.
Monitor new BEE decal cycles
Keep your test results current
Ensure your star decals print correctly
Do not over-declare your star rating
Consult with compliance specialists if necessary.
Common obstacles encountered when renewing BEE certification
1. Delays for lab tests
2. BEE rejected because of the outcome of non-compliant testing
3. Incorrect documents
4. Errors in calculation
5. Transitions to the new decal cycle have some confusion.
A good long-term plan will allow you to minimize last-minute regulatory risk.
Conclusion
All manufacturers and importers of (notified) appliances in India are required to maintain their BEE registrations and update their star decals.
With changes in regulatory requirements (energy efficiency) now being put into place, all businesses must remain informed, as the consequences of non-compliance are severe, and they also risk loss of reputation and trust from consumers in the energy-efficient appliance market.
Timely BEE registration renewals and updates will help assure compliance with and enhance trust with consumers in the energy-efficient.
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