From 20 June consumers will see a new energy saving rating label when buying TVs, washing machines, dishwashers and fridge freezers to help make the right choice on what product is best for the environment.

And to raise awareness of the new rating system Environment Secretary Caroline Spelman has launched a campaign to help consumers choose the most efficient product which will save them money and lower their carbon footprint.

The European Energy Label shows how efficiently a product uses energy.

New products labels are being introduced that will rate appliances on a scale from dark green (most efficient) to red (least efficient).

The ratings generally go from A to G.  The new labels will see the introduction of A+, A++ and A+++ as products become more energy efficient.  For the most efficient product, look for the darkest green band.

You can also look at the amount of energy that the product uses in an hour (kWh). The lower this number is, the less energy the product uses.

For more information visit the Defra (Department of Food Environment and Rural Affairs)website.