Thailand has more than 12 million households, accounting for around 22% of national energy use. By choosing energy-efficient appliances in Thailand, households can reduce electricity bills while also helping lower the country’s overall energy demand. Most importantly, smarter energy choices support a more sustainable future with reduced environmental impact.1
Why Energy Efficiency Ratings Matter
Energy-efficient appliances use less electricity to perform the same tasks. As a result, they:
- Lower monthly electricity bills
- Reduce strain on national energy resources
- Help cut greenhouse gas emissions
- Support long-term sustainability
Fortunately, Thailand has clear and widely recognised energy labels that make it easier for consumers to compare products and make informed choices.
Energy Efficiency Labels to Look for in Thailand
EGAT Energy Label No. 5
The Energy Label No. 5, issued by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), is the most recognised energy efficiency label in the country. You’ll commonly find it on appliances such as:
- Refrigerators
- Air conditioners
- Electric fans
- Rice cookers
- Lighting products
- Compact fluorescent lamps
This label ranks products from No. 1 to No. 5, with No. 5 indicating the highest energy efficiency. In addition, it displays:
- Estimated annual electricity consumption (kWh/year)
- Estimated annual electricity cost (Baht/year)
Because the program is voluntary, manufacturers usually display the label only when products meet or exceed average efficiency levels. As a result, ratings of No. 1 or No. 2 are rarely seen in retail stores.
To receive a label, a product model must undergo testing at the Thailand Industrial Standards Institute (TISI). This ensures that the energy rating reflects verified performance rather than marketing claims.
Green Label Thailand
Another reliable certification to look for is the Green Label Thailand, awarded by the Thailand Environment Institute (TEI). This label indicates that a product has been assessed for its broader environmental impact, not just energy efficiency.
Green Label products may consider factors such as:
- Resource use
- Environmental impact during production
- Pollution reduction
TEI also maintains a public list of certified eco-friendly electronics and lighting products, which can be a helpful reference when researching purchases.
Shop Smarter: Beyond Labels
While energy ratings are important, sustainable living also means buying thoughtfully. Before purchasing a new gadget, consider:
- Do you really need it?
- Can an existing appliance do the same job?
- Would a multi-purpose appliance reduce clutter and electronic waste?
Choosing fewer, higher-quality, energy-efficient products helps reduce unnecessary consumption and long-term waste.
Final Thoughts
Energy-efficient appliances make a real difference for your wallet and for the environment. By checking energy labels, choosing certified products, and avoiding unnecessary gadgets, households in Thailand can take simple steps toward more sustainable living.
Next time you visit an electronics store, take a moment to read the labels. Small choices add up.
- Image by Gazi Jamal Uddin from Pixabay ↩︎