Ballasts for Fluorescent Lamps

Ballasts for linear fluorescent lamps are required to comply with minimum energy performance standards (MEPS). These apply to:

• Ferromagnetic and electronic ballasts used with linear fluorescent lamps from 10W to 70W
• Ballasts rated for 50 Hz and 230/240/250V supply (or a range that includes these)
• Ballasts supplied as separate components or as part of a luminaire.

 

Importers and manufacturers may not sell ballasts unless they are tested and registered in accordance with the Energy Efficiency (Energy Using Products) Regulations 2002.

Registration*

All models must be registered and undergo a performance test. New Zealand operates a joint energy efficiency programme with Australia, sharing standards and a website. Models registered in Australia do not need extra registration to be sold in New Zealand.

It’s free to register products.

To check which products are registered see the Australian energy rating website.

Exemptions

MEPS do not apply to ballasts used:

• on DC supplies or batteries
• for the production of light (radiation) outside the visible spectrum
• for exit signs within the scope of AS/NZS 2293.

 

Standards

The standard for ballasts for fluorescent lamps, NZHB 4783.2:2001, will be changed to AS/NZS 4783.2 in October 2005. The test standard is AS/NZS 4783.1.

The standards are available on the Standards New Zealand website.

Sales data

In order to track the effectiveness of Energy Rating Labels and MEPS, importers and manufacturers are required to supply EECA with annual sales data and efficiency information.

Coming up

The New Zealand handbook (NZHB) is also recognised in Australia where they use AS/NZS 4783.2:2002. It is likely that AS/NZS 4783.2.2002 will supersede NZHB 4783.2:2001 after October 2005, in alignment with Australian regulators.

The changeover is not expected to cause any disruption to industry.

*Although the term ‘registration’ is used here, the legal requirement in New Zealand is to ‘complete and submit the prescribed forms’. Requirements to register apply only to suppliers in Australia, but completing and submitting the forms on the online database at www.energyrating.gov.au to the New Zealand regulator fulfils requirements here.