New refrigerator standard and changes to labelling
As part of the ongoing work of the trans-Tasman equipment energy efficiency programme (E3), EECA and the Australian government agencies responsible for product energy efficiency, are considering a revision to the Standards for refrigerators and freezers. Standards are being revised to keep up with technological advances in the market.
We are currently seeking comments on the Regulatory Impact Statement which is outlined below:
>> Download the Regulatory Impact Statement detailing this proposal [PDF 3.21 MB]
There will be a revised energy labelling algorithm (the calculation used to determine a star rating). This algorithm will decrease current star ratings by about 2 stars, in order to encourage greater efficiency at the higher star ratings.
A change to the labelling will be needed to reflect this change. As outlined in the regulatory impact statement, there will be a transition stage to phase in the new label.
From 1 April 2010 all fridges and freezers manufactured or imported to NZ will need to be registered using the revised test method (AS/NZS 4474.1:2007). They will also need to be registered to, and meet the requirements of the revised MEPS and Labelling Standard (AS/NZS 4474.2: 2008). At this time both the new test method and the new label must be used.
However old stock manufactured or imported before 1 April 2010, which was registered to the older standard, may be sold and may display the old label.
In New Zealand since April 2008, new registrations have been required to use the revised test method (AS/NZS 4474.1:2007).
The energy rating label and MEPS standard AS/NZS 4474.2 will be revised, and will go through the Standards public comment process, to implement the changes. The key elements are a 10 star energy label design and a new labelling algorithm. This means if you wish to comment on the proposed 10 star energy label, you will need to take part in the Standards consultation.
A range of other changes will be included in the standard such as the change in the definition of MEPS from a model average energy to a maximum permitted energy.
There will be a reduction in the check testing tolerance from 10% to 7.5%, in order to improve reported energy consumption claims.
A meeting was held on 16 July 2008 to discuss the changes, and written submissions can be sent to EECA by close of business on Thursday 14 August 2008.
>> Download the Regulatory Impact Statement detailing this proposal [PDF 3.21 MB]