In the household electrical appliances sector, the purchasing behaviour of the consumers is sensitive to different attributes (price, brand, aesthetics, appliance features, etc.), but rarely to the energy-efficiency criterion. This represents a strong constraint to the diffusion of efficient appliances. In this paper, the authors present the main types of instruments used to compensate for this apparent lack of concern, through actions stimulating demand or encouraging the supply of more efficient products. International experience in lighting or electrical appliances sectors is investigated as well as French programmes. The conclusion insists on the complementary nature between these different instruments and suggests to combine them according to the existing industrial, technological or competitive contexts.