Energy Labelling in Australia

• The Energy Rating Label (Fig. 1) gives 1) a star rating to provide consumers with a quick assessment of the product’s energy efficiency; and 2) a comparative energy consumption value (kW/year) when tested to the relevant Australian Standard.

• The Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) set the minimum level of energy efficiency a product must meet for it to be sold in the Australian marketplace. They are regulatory tools used to improve the energy efficiency of appliances and equipment in Australia and prevent manufacturers, importers and retailers from lawfully suppling products that do not meet predetermined efficiency levels.  The Minimum Energy Performance Standards have been applied to: household refrigerators and freezers, mains pressure electric storage water heaters, three phase electric motors, singe phase air conditioners, three phase air conditioners up to 65kW cooling capacity, distribution transformers, linear fluorescent lamps and associated ballasts, commercial refrigeration systems, incandescent lamps, compact fluorescent lamps, external power supplies, set top boxes, televisions, commercial building chillers, close control air conditioners, transformers, and electronic step-down converters for Electrowetting Light Valve (ELV) lamps.  In addition, the following products are currently being proposed for regulation in the future: standby power, boiling and chilled water dispensers, vending machines, commercial icemakers, and other lamps and lighting equipment.

• The ENERGY STAR labelling system is a scheme developed to respond to consumer desire for more environmentally sound office products. The ENERGY STAR label was established to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants caused by the inefficient use of energy; and make it easy for consumers to identify and purchase energy-efficient products. It is an international standard for energy efficient office equipment.

• The E₃ program is a co-funded program with the Australian Commonwealth Government, state and territory governments and New Zealand Government. It focuses on initiatives that require a nationally consistent framework to improve energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse emissions from household appliances and residential, commercial and industrial equipment.

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