1️⃣ Overview
The INMETRO Energy Efficiency Certification is a mandatory approval for many electrical and electronic products entering the Brazilian market.
To help manufacturers and exporters plan effectively, this guide summarizes the four key certification stages, along with the expected timeline, document requirements, and important post-certification obligations.
2️⃣ Identify Product Applicability
The first step is to verify whether your product is included in INMETRO’s mandatory certification list (Portaria).
Typical categories requiring energy efficiency certification include:
Refrigerators and Freezers
Air Conditioners
Washing Machines
LED Lamps
Three-phase Motors
Tip: Regularly check the INMETRO website or consult an authorized OCP to confirm the most recent product scope and updates.
3️⃣ Submit to an INMETRO-Accredited Body
Applications must be submitted through an INMETRO-accredited Certification Body (Organismo de Certificação de Produto – OCP).
While testing and documentation reviews are handled by the OCP, the final Energy Efficiency Certificate is issued directly by INMETRO.
Note: Selecting an experienced OCP familiar with your product category can significantly reduce review delays and communication gaps.
4️⃣ Document Preparation
Comprehensive technical documentation is critical to ensure smooth review. You typically need to prepare:
Product Technical Specification Sheet
Circuit Diagrams
List of Critical Components
Portuguese User Manual
Energy Efficiency Test Report (if available)
5️⃣ Product Testing
Once documentation is ready, product samples must undergo energy efficiency testing in INMETRO-accredited laboratories located in Brazil.
Testing follows Brazilian National Standards (ABNT NBR) — many are based on IEC/ISO international standards, but include local Brazilian adaptations that can affect results.
Important: Only local laboratory test reports are accepted for certification; foreign test data cannot replace this requirement.
6️⃣ Label Registration
After successfully passing testing and review, the product must be registered with INMETRO’s official database.
7️⃣ Label Requirements
Certified products must affix the PBE Energy Efficiency Label, which includes:
Efficiency Grade (A–G)
Energy Consumption (kWh/year)
Model & Brand Information
INMETRO Registration Number
Placement & Durability:
The label must be permanently attached to the product, using moisture-resistant, wear-resistant materials that cannot be easily removed.
8️⃣ Typical Duration:
The standalone energy efficiency certification process can usually be completed within 4–6 weeks, assuming all documentation and samples are ready.
9️⃣ Extended Duration:
If your product also requires mandatory safety certification, the total process may extend to 3–6 months.
For complex products (e.g., automotive components) or those requiring factory audits, additional time should be expected.
Estimated Timeframe Overview:
| Process Stage | Duration (Typical) |
|---|---|
| Confirm Requirements | 1 week |
| Document Preparation | 1–2 weeks |
| Testing & Review | 2–4 weeks |
| Label Registration | 1 week |
| Total Estimated | 4–6 weeks |
1. Local Representative Requirement
Foreign companies must appoint a Brazilian importer or authorized agent to act as the legal representative during the certification process. This representative is responsible for communication with INMETRO and product compliance.
1️⃣1️⃣ 2. Annual Surveillance Audit
After obtaining certification, all companies are required to undergo annual surveillance audits, which include:
Factory inspections (may be unannounced)
Market sampling of certified products
Failing to pass surveillance may lead to suspension or cancellation of the certificate.
1️⃣2️⃣ 3. Language & Labeling Requirements
All technical documentation, product manuals, and labeling must be in Portuguese.
The INMETRO and PBE labels must be affixed visibly and permanently on the product before it enters the market.
The INMETRO Energy Efficiency Certification is a structured but detailed process that ensures product compliance with Brazil’s strict efficiency and safety standards.
By preparing documentation carefully, selecting an experienced OCP, and planning ahead for testing and labeling, exporters can minimize delays and achieve smoother market entry.
Q1: Who needs INMETRO energy efficiency certification?
A1: All manufacturers or importers of listed energy-consuming products (e.g., ACs, refrigerators, LED lamps) must obtain certification before import or sale in Brazil.
Q2: How long does the process take?
A2: Standard certification takes 4–6 weeks. Combined safety + efficiency certification can extend to 3–6 months.
Q3: Can overseas test reports be accepted?
A3: No. INMETRO requires testing to be conducted in Brazilian-accredited laboratories.
Q4: How long is the certificate valid?
A4: Typically 5 years, subject to annual surveillance audits.
Q5: What language must documents be in?
A5: All documents, manuals, and labels must be in Portuguese.
BLUEASIA Certification Consulting Services
Email: king.guo@cblueasia.com
Tel: +86 13534225140
BLUEASIA provides professional consulting for Brazil INMETRO certification, including product classification, document preparation, lab testing coordination, and PBE label registration — helping you achieve fast, compliant access to the Brazilian market.
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