Reading the label
What do those EnerGuide numbers mean?
CBC News
Posted: Jan 27, 2011 1:48 PM ET
Last Updated: Mar 30, 2011 9:32 PM ET
The EnerGuide label was introduced in 1978 to help consumers when they're shopping for appliances and vehicles. If a product carries the label, then it meets or exceeds minimum standards for energy efficiency.
Although the layout of the label can differ depending on the class of appliance described, it shares common characteristics, shown in the graphic below.
The EnerGuide label for vehicles is designed to convey information about fuel efficiency. It includes estimates on gas mileage (in litres burned per 100 kilometres and in miles per gallon) as well as an estimate on how much it would cost to fuel the vehicle for a year. The estimate is based on the Canadian average of driving 20,000 kilometres per year, with 55 per cent city and 45 per cent highway driving. The final figure is also based on the yearly average Canadian fuel price.
Energy Star
The Energy Star label was introduced in the United States in 1992 to identify specific 
models that meet or exceed premium energy efficiency standards. It was first used as an indicator of efficiency for computers and monitors. The program proved so popular that it was expanded to cover more types of office equipment.
It is now used in Canada, the European Union, Japan, Australia, New Zealand and Taiwan and covers around 40 different types of products. The Energy Star label can be included on the EnerGuide label if the product meets those tougher international energy efficiency standards.
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