India has many regulatory bodies that work to ensure safety, efficiency, and quality in different sectors. Two of the most important of them are the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). Although both work under the Government of India, their roles are very different. Many products, especially electrical equipment and electronics, may require both approvals. Understanding the variance between BEE and BIS is important for manufacturers, importers, and sellers.

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What is BEE?

The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) is a government agency under the Ministry of Power, India, which was established in 2002 under the Conservation of Energy Act, 2001. Its main goal is to promote energy efficiency and conservation across the country. BEE develops programs and policies that help reduce energy consumption across industries, homes, and businesses. One of its most recognized initiatives is the Star Rating System, which rates appliances like air conditioners, refrigerators and fans based on their energy efficiency. 

These ratings guide consumers to choose energy-saving products, helping them to reduce their electricity bills and reduce their impact on the environment. BEE works with industries and government bodies to set energy standards, conduct audits and raise awareness about energy conservation. In addition, businesses and manufacturers can apply for BEE registration to participate in these initiatives and ensure that their products meet the required energy efficiency standards.

What is BIS?

The BIS stands for Bureau of Indian Standards. BIS is the national standards body of India established under the Act, 2016. BIS is responsible for the development and implementation of standards to ensure the quality, safety and reliability of products and services in India. It operates under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution. One of its key functions is to provide BIS registration and certification through the ISI mark for various products, so that they meet the specified Indian standards. 

It conducts testing in its laboratories, provides hallmarking for gold and silver, and promotes consumer awareness. BIS registration is required for manufacturers and importers to legally sell certain products in the Indian market. BIS plays an important role in supporting industrial development, consumer protection and export competitiveness by maintaining quality standards in products and services used across India.

Also Read: BIS Certification: Now Mandatory to Sell Products on Amazon India

Key Difference between BEE and BIS

When is BEE Certification Required?

Products that consume electricity require BEE certification. It aims to help save energy and promote the use of efficient appliances. BEE labelling is mandatory for some products, while it is voluntary for others. Products with the BEE label typically display a star rating from 1 to 5, where 5 stars indicate the highest energy efficiency. Products that require BEE registration include:

• Air conditioners
• Refrigerators
• Washing machines
• Ceiling fans
• Tube lights
• Water heaters
• Televisions
• Inverters
• Electric geysers

When is BIS Certification Required?

The BIS certification is mandatory for many products, especially those related to safety and public interest. The government issues a list of products under the BIS Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS). Without BIS certification, the product cannot be legally sold in India. Some of the products that need BIS certification are:

• Electrical and electronic items like LED lights, mobile phones, power banks
• Pressure cookers
• Helmets
• Cement
• Milk powders
• Toys
• Steel products

Do Products Require Both BEE and BIS Certification?

Yes, some products require both BEE and BIS certification. This is when a product meets both energy efficiency and quality/safety standards. For example, take the case of a refrigerator:

BIS certification ensures that the refrigerator is made of quality materials and operates safely. BEE certification ensures that the refrigerator uses less electricity and is energy efficient. So, in this case, both approvals have to be obtained before the product can be sold. 

Another example is an air conditioner. It requires: BIS certification for product safety and performance and the BEE rating indicates how much electricity it uses.

Also Read: BIS Certification: Mandatory for Selling on Flipkart 2025 Seller Guide

Why are These Certifications Important?

Both BIS and BEE certifications play an important role in ensuring that the products sold in India are safe, efficient, and reliable. 

Benefits of BEE Certification

• Helps reduce energy bills.
• Encourages the use of eco-friendly equipment.
• It helps the country save electricity and reduce carbon emissions.

Benefits of BIS Certification

• Ensures the safety of consumers.
• Maintains the quality of products in the marketplace.
• Builds trust between manufacturer and consumer.
• Prevents the sale of substandard or counterfeit products.

Conclusion

The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) play different but complementary roles in ensuring the quality and efficiency of products in India. BEE focuses on promoting energy efficiency through initiatives such as the Star Rating System, which helps consumers choose energy-saving appliances. BIS, on the other hand, ensures product quality, safety, and compliance with national standards, offering certifications such as the ISI mark. While BEE certification is often voluntary but mandatory for energy-consuming products, BIS certification is legally required for many products, especially those related to safety. Some products, such as refrigerators and air conditioners, may require both certifications, ensuring that they are both energy-efficient and safe. Together, these certifications protect consumers and build trust in the marketplace.