Decision Regulation Impact Statement – Household Refrigerators and Freezers

Author(s) : Equipment Energy Efficiency

Type of monograph: Booklet

Summary

This decision Regulation Impact Statement (RIS) proposes changes to energy efficiency regulations applicable to household refrigerators and freezers . In 2016 , a round 1,050,000 refrigerators and freezers were sold in Australia, with an estimated refrigerator stock of 12.5 million units and a freezer stock of 3.3 million. In 2016, New Zealand refrigerator and freezer sales totalled approximately 212,800 and stock levels were estimated to be approximately 2.3 million and 1.1 million respectively. 2 Regulations in both countries require that household refrigerators and freezers supplied to consumers meet minimum energy performance standards (MEPS) and also display the Energy Rating Label (ERL). MEPS specify the minimum level of energy performance that products/appliances must meet or exceed before they can be offered for sale. The ERL provides consumers with a product’s energy performance information at point - of - sale that enables them to compare similar products using their star ratings and estimated annual energy consumptions. MEPS requirements were first introduced in 1999 in Australia (2002 in New Zealand) and were upgraded in 2005 in both countries. The ERL was introduced nationally in Australia in the early 1990s (2002 in New Zealand) and was re - graded in Australia in 2000 and in both countries in 2010. These policy actions have been taken to reduce energy use, lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and provide consumers with improved purchasing information.
The objective of the proposed government actions is to resolve issues with the regulations that impede the supply and purchase of energy efficient or effective household refrigerators and freezers. Without government action, these market distortions and unnecessary costs would continue. Resolving the issues would also contribute to government objectives to improve energy productivity and reduce GHG emissions.

Details

  • Original title: Decision Regulation Impact Statement – Household Refrigerators and Freezers
  • Record ID : 30022579
  • Languages: English
  • Subject: Regulation
  • Publication: Equipment energy efficiency committee - Australia/Australia
  • Publication date: 2017/11
  • Document available for consultation in the library of the IIR headquarters only.

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