Topten Europe, USA and China – Reaching a critical mass to face the global appliance market

Panel: 2. Current energy efficiency policies: On stage and backstage

This is a peer-reviewed paper.

Authors:
Sophie Attali, SOWATT / Guide Topten, France
Eric Bush, Bush energie, Switzerland
Norman Dean, USA
Hu Bo, China
Thérèse Kreitz , Ademe
Anette Michel, Topten International Group

Abstract

Topten selects and presents the most energy efficient products on national markets. A milestone for the Topten network was achieved in 2010, when, additionally to 15 European websites, Topten USA and China were launched. Topten is now present in countries responsible for 55% of the global energy consumption and CO2 emissions.

Topten needs a critical mass of visitors and international presence in order to successfully contribute to a market transformation towards high efficiency products.

- Within Europe, a critical mass of national Topten sites has been reached. The European site ‘Best of Europe’ showcases the best available technology (BAT) across Europe and addresses policy makers, large buyers, researchers and manufacturers rather than consumers.

- TopTen USA has started with 10 product categories and includes user-friendly features such as a search tool for rebate programmes and direct links to online shops and price comparisons. TopTen USA is building up partnerships with key NGOs, developing pilot projects with utilities and optimising its ranking in search engines in order to attract large numbers of visitors.

- Topten China displays the most efficient models of 8 product categories as a starting point. First compliance tests by Topten China have shown that most manufacturers declare the efficiency grade of their products correctly and that most products do meet the performance requirements.

The presence of Topten in different markets allows to make differences in BAT products visible and to promote a wide availability of the best products. Topten plans to expand further to allow for more cross-continental research and comparisons.