Minimum energy performance standards (MEPS) and labelling
New Zealand works with Australia on a joint programme called the Equipment Energy Efficiency (E3) Programme. The E3 programme develops energy efficiency measures for a range of residential, commercial, and industrial products which economic and environmental benefits to consumers and businesses. The E3 allows both countries to honour their commitments under the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Arrangement (TTMRA).
Minimum energy performances standards (MEPS) and labelling are tools which the E3 uses to improve product efficiency. MEPS and/or labelling requirements for products are set out in energy performance standards.
The Standards set out:
- The test method to measure a product's energy consumption and performance (typically, part 1 of the Standard)
- The requirements the product must meet for minimum energy performance standards (MEPS) and/or labelling (typically, part 2 of the Standard).
Products covered by MEPS and/or labelling, and their relevant standards, are listed in schedules 1 and/or 2 of the Energy Efficiency (Energy Using Products) Regulations 2002.
On this page:
Minimum energy performance standards (MEPS)
Minimum energy performance standards (MEPS)
MEPS establishes standards for energy performance that products must meet or exceed before they can be sold to consumers. They improve the average efficiency of products available on the market by raising the performance of the least efficient products.
MEPS are regularly reviewed in consultation with industry to ensure they keep pace with advances in technology. Along with labelling, MEPS give industry the impetus to constantly improve the energy efficiency of products.
Products currently covered by MEPS
Check out the regulatory information for the following products currently covered by MEPS:
- Air conditioners/heat pumps
- Distribution transformers
- Domestic fridges and freezers
- Electric hot water cylinders
- Fluorescent lamps
- Ballasts for fluorescent lamps
- Refrigerated display cabinets
- Three-phase electric motors.
For a list of product models registered under MEPS in New Zealand and Australia, visit the Energy Rating website.
Upcoming and proposed MEPS
Check out the products with proposed and upcoming minimum energy performance standards.
Labelling
Labelling provides information on a product's energy performance at the point of sale, allowing consumers to make more informed purchasing decisions.
The following information is displayed on an energy rating label:
- Energy performance information
- A star rating to allow consumers to compare the energy performance of competing models at a glance
- An estimate of the model's annual energy use is seen on whiteware.
Find out more about energy rating labels
Check out the regulatory information for the following products currently requiring labelling:
- Air conditioners/heat pumps (single phase)
- Dishwashers
- Dryers
- Domestic fridges and freezers
- Washing machines.
Clothes washers, dryers and dishwashers have labelling requirements but they are not subject MEPS.
ENERGY STAR®
In New Zealand EECA also promotes a voluntary, international endorsement programme called ENERGY STAR. ENERGY STAR is the global mark of energy efficiency, awarded to the top 25% most energy efficient appliances, home electronics and office equipment in each category.
Find out more about ENERGY STAR.
More information
- Joint NZ/Aust Energy Rating website
- Products at a glance - a summary of the current and proposed regulatory standards, MEPS and labelling requirements for products in New Zealand
- Find out more about product standards, regulatory steps for retailers and regulatory steps for importers & manufacturers.
