If there is a market that can really make a big difference in terms of energy consumption, then China is it.

China View, a news website (http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2007-08/01/content_6463271.htm), reports that 10 000 products produced by Chinese companies have qualified for the label "energy efficient". The programme which started in 1998, saw products from 350 companies submitted for approval in the first six months of 2007. The certification falls into two categories -- energy and water efficiency -- covering 68 kinds of products, including home appliances, lighting, electrical machinery, construction products and office equipment.  

According to Cui Hua, director of the China Standard Certification Center, the programme has increased in popularity as a result of the Chinese Government’s promotion of energy efficiency. She said that only 20 to 30 percent of the total products would be labeled "energy efficient".

It’s interesting to note that the key Chinese institutions - the Minister of Finance and the National Development and Reform Commission – require government departments to give preference with the energy efficiency rating.  

In addition, a new income tax law introduced in March this year gives preferential taxes for manufacturers of energy efficient products.