Englewood Cliffs, N.J. — LG Electronics Inc. has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with three of the world’s top certification organizations to promote reliable methods for testing the energy efficiency of consumer electronics and home appliance products.
Under the agreement, LG products will undergo tests by Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL), Intertek and CSA International to ensure they comply with the highest standards of energy efficiency and applicable government requirements.
The three testing organizations will inspect products from LG’s factories around the world and conduct tests in nine initial categories including refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines and TVs. The number of products will gradually increase to include the company’s complete product portfolio, said LG.
In addition, the testing bodies will evaluate the company’s progress in the LG Electronics Energy Assurance Program (LEAP), which will focus on both consistent energy consumption performance and enhancing energy efficiency in the manufacturing process.
LG said the voluntary testing should enhance its commitment and reputation in the area of energy efficiency.
“This initiative is another example of LG’s proactive approach to responsibly managing energy usage and verifying the reliability of our results while further strengthening LG’s position as a leader in consumer electronics and home appliances,” said Yong Nam, vice chairman and CEO for LG Electronics in a statement.
LG has had some testing issues cited by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), which resulted in the ban of certain LG French-door refrigerator-freezers from using the ENERGY STAR label effective January 2, 2010.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the DOE have released a new set of actions designed to strengthen the Energy Star program. This includes a new two-step process to expand testing of Energy Star-qualified products in addition to third-party testing already underway.