UPSC Prelims 2016 Q78: Environment & Ecology – Renewable Energy & Green Technologies
On which of the following can you find the Bureau of Energy Efficiency Star Label?
1. Ceiling fans
2. Electric geysers
3. Tubular fluorescent lamps
Select the correct answer
using the code given below:
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 3 only
- (c) 2 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) Star Label
The BEE was set up in 2002 under the Energy Conservation Act, 2001.
Its Standards and Labelling programme began in 2006.
More stars mean more energy saved.
| Appliance | Carries the BEE Star Label? |
|---|---|
| 1. Ceiling fans | Yes |
| 2. Electric geysers | Yes |
| 3. Tubular fluorescent lamps | Yes |
Other labelled products:
| Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Mandatory | Room air conditioners, frost-free refrigerators, distribution transformers, colour TVs |
| Voluntary | Washing machines, computers, pump sets |
The bank earlier stored corrupted options; they are now the original UPSC options.
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Tubular fluorescent lamps also carry the star label.
- (b) Incorrect. Ceiling fans and electric geysers also carry it.
- (c) Incorrect. Ceiling fans are also star-labelled.
- (d) CORRECT. Ceiling fans, electric geysers and tubular fluorescent lamps all carry the label.
Key point
BEE (2002, Energy Conservation Act 2001, Ministry of Power): star labels on fans, geysers, tube lights, ACs, refrigerators and more; five stars is best.
Remember
BEE star label covers fans, geysers and tube lights.
Common mistakes
- Thinking only air conditioners and refrigerators are star-rated.
- Placing the BEE under the Environment Ministry; it is under Power.
- Assuming fewer stars means better efficiency.
Exam tip
Most household electrical appliances are now star-labelled. In such lists, mark all.
Sources
- Bureau of Energy Efficiency — Standards and Labelling Programme
- Energy Conservation Act, 2001