Sustainable Appliance Manufacturing in Bangladesh

Md. Nurul Afser
Deputy Managing Director
Electro Mart Group
Konka, Gree & Haiko Electronics & Home Appliances

The Daily Star(TDS): Do you have any initiatives that promote energy efficiency or sustainable living in Bangladesh?

Md. Nurul Afser (MNA): We drive energy efficiency through both consumer education and technological innovation. On the consumer side, we use transparent labelling, cost-comparison campaigns, and energy audits to demonstrate potential savings of 30–60%. Technologically, we feature Gree's G-Boost inverter (60% savings) and Solar Hybrid ACs with PV Direct Drive, which eliminates conversion losses. Additionally, Konka and Gree washing machines utilise AI load detection and Eco-Wash systems to optimise water and electricity usage automatically.

The future role of smart appliances and IoT in reducing household energy consumption in Bangladesh is set to be transformational and is actively supported by the government's Smart Bangladesh Vision and the National IoT Strategy.

TDS: Which national or international energy/performance certifications or test standards do your power-saving products hold?

MNA: Our products are backed by comprehensive national and international certifications, including BSTI, BUET, ISO-9001:2015, and UKAS. Our manufacturing excellence has been recognised globally, with Gree winning multiple Superbrand Awards and our facility being named the 2025 Best Manufacturer of the Year (Electronics) at the South Asian Business Excellence Awards. We are currently designing platforms to meet rigorous global standards, including IEC/ISO, Energy Star equivalents, and regional regulations like SASO, ESMA, and BSTI.

TDS: Do you have any targets for reducing the average power consumption of your appliance portfolio over the next 5 years?

MNA: We have observed a 35% market surge in energy-efficient appliances over the last two years. Driven by rising electricity tariffs, consumers are increasingly choosing inverter technology (ACs, fridges, washing machines) to lower the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). These appliances offer 30–60% energy savings, justifying the higher initial investment through long-term bill reduction and lower emissions.

TDS: What role does government policy or incentives play in encouraging manufacturers like you to innovate in energy saving?

MNA: Regulations, such as minimum energy performance standards (MEPS) and mandatory energy audits, create market demand for efficient products and processes, forcing manufacturers to innovate to remain competitive. These government actions stimulate the industry's transition towards green manufacturing, fostering a cleaner, more secure, and affordable energy future.