THE government is set to introduce mandatory energy efficiency labelling for imported electronic appliances.

Innocent Lwoga, the ministerial commissioner for renewable energy, said at a press conference in Dar es Salaam yesterday, that Spearheaded by the Ministry of Energy, the new initiative introduces minimum energy performance standards for air conditioners, refrigerators, fans, steam irons and electric motors.

The standards are designed to ensure that all appliances entering the local market meet minimum efficiency requirements, guiding importers and manufacturers to ensure that products placed on the market are energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.

This shall serve to reduce electricity consumption and cut household energy costs, he said, elaborating that appliances will be rated using a five-star model, with five stars representing the highest level of energy efficiency.

 “A five-star refrigerator will consume less electricity, operate efficiently, and help households save on power bills,” he stated, affirming that efficient energy use will enable the country to make better use of its electricity grid, making power more affordable for households.

 The programme on appliances is aligned with the ten tear clean cooking energy strategic plan and broader government efforts to promote clean and sustainable energy solutions, he stated, asserting that in partnership with the European Union (EU) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the government has invested 5.0bn/ in setting up power efficiency testing laboratories.

The labs will be used to assess the quality and performance of appliances to ensure compliance with the set standard, he said, underlining that this initiative will facilitate ending importation of substandard products.

It will also strengthen regulatory oversight and support local manufacturers through certification and quality assurance, he stated, specifying that standards for refrigerators and air conditioners have already been harmonized under the East African Community (EAC) framework.

Marc Stalmans, the EU delegation’s head of cooperation, praised the initiative as a major success and a testament to strong collaboration, as the programme marks a big leap forward in Tanzania’s technical capacity to manage energy performance.

The new labelling system empowers citizens to make smarter choices and connect energy transition to everyday life, he said, while Gertrude Lyatuu, the UNDP assistant resident representative, said the initiative represents more than a technological milestone, as it reflects a strategic shift toward cleaner, more reliable and affordable energy.

“With the National Energy Efficiency Strategy 2024–2034 now in motion, Tanzania is positioning itself as a regional leader in energy management, driving growth while safeguarding the environment for future generations,” she added.