Top Ten - most efficient appliances

Consumers have many things to take into consideration when purchasing a new appliance. Whilst it is relatively easy to compare, say, price or features of a product, it is more difficult to source reliable and objective information on the energy efficiency of a particular appliance.

WWF helped to develop TOPTEN, an online search tool which allows consumers to identify which appliances are the most energy efficient. You can compare the products and their energy efficiency: washing machines, fridges and freezers, TV sets, computers, cars are all listed. Independent verifiers guarantee objective comparisons, but also ensure that brand names are familiar to shoppers in each country.

TOPTEN promotes consumer awareness and encourages consumers to demand energy efficient products. It also informs retailers and large buyers about their best purchase options. Increased demand from consumers and retailers will increase the pressure on manufacturers to offer a wider range of energy efficient products.

TOPTEN should thus complement existing schemes promoting energy efficient devices and hopefully serve as a basis for further instruments and initiatives.

Versions of this tool are currently developed for 11 European countries, most with support from the European Commission.