How we develop new requirements

Revising or developing new energy efficiency regulation measures is an extensive process. The steps include: 

  • Engaging with industry to understand product markets
  • Identifying and assessing options to improve energy efficiency
  • Seeking public and industry feedback on proposed change
  • Developing Standards and technical requirements with industry
  • Seeking Cabinet approval
  • Helping industry to transition to the new requirements.

Equipment Energy Efficiency (E3) members maintain regular communication with key industry stakeholders through direct relationships and the E3 Review Committee.

How the E3 programme is administered(external link)

New regulations under development

Under the Equipment Energy Efficiency (E3) Programme, EECA works with our partners to profile the energy savings potential of different technologies and market interventions. We prioritise them for investigation and review accordingly.

E3 Prioritisation Plan 2021-2022(external link)

Energy Efficiency Regulations review  [PDF 2.1 MB]

  • Heat pump water heaters

    Regulatory policy options are being considered to improve the energy efficiency of heat pump water heaters in Australia and New Zealand.

  • Distribution transformers

    EECA and the Australian Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) have consulted on policy options to improve the energy efficiency of distribution transformers in New Zealand and Australia.

  • Electronic Displays: televisions, computer monitors, and digital signage displays

    At the end of 2024, the Australian Energy and Climate Change Ministerial Council, agreed to introduce new minimum energy performance and labelling requirements for electronic displays.

  • Residential space heaters

    EECA and the Australian Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) have consulted on a Space Heating Comparison Methodology

  • LED lighting

    On 28 April 2018, the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) Energy Council Ministers, alongside New Zealand Minister of Energy and Resources - Megan Woods, agreed to introduce minimum standards for LED lamps that align with European Union regulations.

  • Air conditioners & heat pumps

    Find out about the current regulation amendment process for air conditioners and heat pumps above 65kW in New Zealand.

  • Chillers

    At the end of 2024, the Australian Energy and Climate Change Ministerial Council, agreed to introduce new minimum energy performance requirements for chillers.

  • Domestic fridges and freezers

    Find out about the current regulation amendment process for household refrigerating appliances in New Zealand.

  • Three-phase electric motors

    Find out about the consultation process for improving the energy efficiency of three phase electric motors in New Zealand and Australia.

  • Commercial ice makers

    Find out about the process for improving the energy efficiency of commercial ice makers in New Zealand and Australia.

  • External power supplies

    Find out about the consultation process for improving the energy efficiency of external power supplies in New Zealand and Australia.

  • Air conditioners - seasonal energy efficiency performance calculations

    EECA and the Australian Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water (DCCEEW) are consulting on the technical formulas used in calculating air conditioner cooling seasonal performance.