A multi-country comparative evaluation of labelling research

Some 73 countries comprising a combined population of 4.9 billion have or are implementing energy efficiency information labels for appliances. Some labels have been designed through research and some have not. This paper presents a comparative evaluation of the market research completed to design new, and evaluate existing, energy information labelling programs in: Australia, China, the European Union (EU), Ghana, India, Mexico, South Africa, Tunisia and the USA. Taking into account the methodological approaches adopted the paper: a) catalogues individual findings; and b) synthesises common lessons learned across the varied projects. Results that appear to be true regardless of cultural or economic context are emphasised to arrive at 'common truths' of labelling design and evaluation research. The findings provide documentation and evidence of the importance of conducting consumer market research when designing a new energy label or modifying an existing one. Some spectacular actual or potential failures are highlighted when this has not been the case. The paper serves as an inventory of work in the field of information labelling design research as well as a best practice guide for policy makers interested in undertaking evaluations of existing labelling schemes