The Equipment Energy Efficiency Program (E3) has contributed more than a billion dollars to the Australian economy over the past 12 months.
The figure was disclosed in an independent review of the E3 program which highlighted achievements for the 2015/16 financial year.
E3 is a cross jurisdictional program through which the Australian Government, states and territories and the New Zealand Government collaborate to deliver a single, integrated program on energy efficiency standards and energy labelling for equipment and appliances.
The review found that the program contributed $114 million to the New Zealand economy. “Combined, this is an estimated 11.8 million tonnes of carbon emissions avoided per annum,” the report said.
The focus of the program has recently changed to ensure the program regulates products that will deliver the most immediate energy efficiency benefits.
As a result E3 identified six priority areas including lighting, non-domestic fans, swimming pool pumps, refrigerated storage and display cabinets, air conditioners (including chillers) and domestic fridges and freezers.
A consultation Regulation Impact Statement (RIS) on commercial refrigeration was released in June with public submissions closing September 2, 2016.
Energy use from commercial refrigeration is growing in both Australia and New Zealand. By 2035, sales of refrigerated commercial cabinets could increase by more than 50 per cent resulting in increased energy use, despite general improvements from existing regulation.
This consultation RIS looks at several policy proposals to address issues with the current regulations and to update and revise the existing standard to reflect the growing commercial cabinet market.
A final RIS for non domestic fans is expected to be completed by December while a decision RIS for air conditioners and chillers is expected in July 2017.