In early February 2008, Noel Leeming signed a partnership agreement with EECA to become the first ENERGY STAR retail partner.

ENERGY STAR is an independent, international labeling programme that identifies the most energy-efficient consumer electronics and home appliances. Is it administered and promoted in New Zealand by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA).

Products that carry the ENERGY STAR label include dishwashers, washing machines, heat pumps, TV's, DVD players, home theatre systems, computers, office equipment and in the very near future, it will also include fridges and freezers.

The ENERGY STAR label gives customers the assurance they are reducing their energy usage and getting more from each unit of energy used. This means lower power bills and less of an impact on the environment.

Noel Leeming has made a commitment to energy efficiency by becoming New Zealand's first ENERGY STAR retail partner. As an ENERGY STAR retail partner, all Noel Leeming products that qualify for ENERGY STAR will carry a label and be clearly visible throughout all stores. Staff are trained to answer customer questions' about the benefits of purchasing an Energy Star product.

Andrew Dutkiewicz, CEO of the Noel Leeming Group says, "We're pleased to be on-board with ENERGY STAR. Our customers are increasingly looking for guidance on choosing products that use less energy. ENERGY STAR products are the best way to offer customers options for purchasing energy-efficient appliances."

"With the clarity provided by the ENERGY STAR label, customers will have assurance they are reducing their energy usage and getting more from each unit of energy used. This in turn means lower power bills and less of an impact on the environment," continues Mr Dutkiewicz.