Each time the monthly electricity bill arrives at your doorstep, you’re thinking, “How many digits will it be this time?” You’re not alone in your anticipation. That’s every payer in every household who has yet to incorporate energy-efficient appliances.
For instance, a household that has traded traditional ceiling fans for BLDC ceiling fans saves significantly on long-term electricity costs. The difference? Energy efficiency of the latter. This is where the Bureau of Energy Efficiency, set up under the Ministry of Power, comes in. The energy efficiency labelling program introduced by the Bureau was carried out to aid consumers in making well-informed energy decisions. The BEE star rating plays a central role in this effort.
In this blog, we’ll explore what that exactly means and how the revised norms for ceiling fans can drive better consumer choices.
BEE: The Bureau of Energy Efficiency
A statutory body established through the Energy Conservation Act, 2001, the Bureau of Energy Efficiency has been at work for a while now. It functions to reduce energy consumption and enhance energy security within the country. Key roles and responsibilities of the organisation can be summed up as follows:
- Provides for the minimum energy standards to be maintained for appliances
- Provides for the energy standards to be maintained in commercial spaces
- Formulates energy consumption standards for consumers
The BEE Star Rating System for Ceiling Fans
The BEE star rating system, which involves a scale of stars running from 1 to 5, is used to measure the energy efficiency of 28 products, including ceiling fans. The higher the number of stars, the more efficient its operation and the lower its energy consumption.
The BEE star rating for a ceiling fan is determined by calculating its service value.
Service value of a ceiling fan = Air Delivery in CMH/Power Consumption in Watts
Here’s a table that demonstrates the service value of a ceiling fan corresponding to its sweep size:
| Sr. No. | Sweep Size (in mm) | Minimum Air Delivery (in CMH) | Service Value of the Ceiling Fan |
| 1 | 900 | 130 | 3.1 |
| 2 | 1050 | 150 | 3.1 |
| 3 | 1200 | 210 | 4.0 |
| 4 | 1400 | 245 | 4.1 |
| 5 | 1500 | 270 | 4.3 |
Under the former regulations, the rating plan for a ceiling fan with a 1200 mm sweep size would be as follows:
| Star | Service Value |
| 1 Star | ≥ 4.0 |
| 2 Stars | ≥ 4.5 |
| 3 Stars | ≥ 5.0 |
| 4 Stars | ≥ 5.5 |
| 5 Stars | ≥ 6.0 |
Only BLDC ceiling fans were able to achieve a 5-star rating due to enhanced operational efficiency and consistent airflow.
The Revised BEE Star Rating Norms for Ceiling Fans
To strengthen the existing Standards & Labelling Program, the BEE implemented revised norms for ceiling fans, effective from 2026 onwards. Under the new norms:
- Existing star labels and rating plans would no longer be applicable
- Ceiling fans would be required to achieve higher service values to align with the existing benchmarks
- Stringent energy efficiency standards would be applicable for 4 and 5-star ratings
Note: The latest star rating table is available on the official BEE website and can be referred to for more information.
What Buyers Need To Know
The recalibration of the rating system means that ceiling fans, which were previously rated with 5 stars, are likely to qualify for a 4-star rating now. This means that buyers will need to make more energy-efficient choices and take precautions while investing in the latest ceiling fans.
● Choose Fans with BLDC Motors
BLDC (Brushless Direct Current) motors work through electronic commutation. As compared to the mechanical commutation in traditional ceiling fans, the working principle of BLDC motors involves far less energy consumption in providing quality air delivery.
Naturally, they come with the highest rating. For example, the Atomberg Aris Gladius Smart Ceiling Fan comes equipped with a BLDC motor that consumes 45% less power than normal fans.
● Opt for The Highest Ratings
Choosing BEE-certified BLDC ceiling fans is a must. However, equally important is checking the BEE star rating on the label of the fan. BLDC ceiling fans are generally rated the highest and help ensure you’re investing in the option best aligned with the highest benchmark.
● Check the Service Value & Savings
A higher service value is indicative of better air delivery. The service value of BLDC ceiling fans is mentioned on the BEE star label pasted onto the product. Moreover, the star rating, air delivery, and service value of the BLDC ceiling fans you opt for lend insights into the power consumption of the fan. This aids you in calculating energy savings and choosing a fan that brings the highest returns.
Wrapping Up
An increase in global temperatures and intensifying climate change are continuously driving governments to exercise vigilance with regard to energy consumption across residential and commercial spaces. The multiple revisions of the BEE star rating system within a span of five years demonstrate the pressing need for manufacturers and sellers to aspire for higher energy-efficiency standards.
BLDC ceiling fans by Atomberg are produced keeping the highest efficiency standards in view. They don’t just offer consistent performance and quality air delivery but also fit effortlessly into modern and smart homes. With these appliances fitted into your space, you’d never again have to worry about how long your electricity bill is going to look!
