The Equipment Energy Efficiency Program (E3) has published a product profile on space heaters in Australia and New Zealand and is looking for feedback to support a ratings scheme for these appliances.
According to E3, space heating accounts for around a third of residential energy use in Australia and New Zealand. Energy rating labelling and supporting tools could help consumers compare different heating technologies, to make a more informed decision to best meet their heating needs.
The product profile provides an overview of the space heater market and products, outlines existing government policies (domestic and international) for space heater energy efficiency, and identifies the scope to assist consumers to recognise and select more efficient space heaters. This information and the feedback E3 receives will provide a foundation for the development of a comparative energy rating labelling system.
The space heating technologies considered include:
- Electric resistance (portable and fixed)
- Reverse cycle air conditioners (heat pumps) – room, multi-split, ducted
- Gas space and decorative appliances
- Solid fuel combustion heaters
- Gas ducted
- Hydronic and boiler central systems
- In-slab central heating.
The product profile is the next step in a process that began in late 2018, when the New South Wales Department of Planning, Industry and Environment allocated $7 million to aid in progressing E3 Program work, including the key area of residential space heaters.
In February 2019, the Australian government announced under its Climate Solutions Package that it would provide $6.5 million to examine options to expand energy rating labelling to include space heating appliances such as gas and electric heaters.
The product profile was prepared by the Australian Government’s Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources and the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (DPIE), with the assistance of EnergyConsult.
Submissions must be submitted by 5pm AEST on Monday, July 5, 2021.
For more information, click here.