Energy

Designing homes to conserve energy and use it efficiently, from sources that cause least environmental harm.

Energy rating and labelling schemes

The three main energy labelling schemes operating in New Zealand are:

  • energy rating labels
  • Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS)
  • Energy Star labels.

Energy rating labels

Energy rating labels are compulsory for fridges, freezers, clothes washers, dryers, dishwashers and air conditioning units. The labels contain a star rating for energy efficiency – each star means a 10% saving in running costs. For air conditioning units, ratings are given separately for heating and cooling.

The labels also show energy consumption per year. This is an important consideration, as a large appliance with a high star rating will use more power than a smaller appliance with a lower rating for the same level of use. For dishwashers and washing machines, the labels are also required to show information about standby power.

Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS)

The Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) set minimum energy efficiency requirements for fridges, freezers, electric hot water units and air conditioning units. All of these products must meet the MEPS.

Energy Star labels

Energy Star labels are awarded to products that have low energy use in standby and sleep modes. The scheme is being phased in, starting with home entertainment and electronic appliances such as TVs, CD players, computers and so on, as well as heat pumps and air conditioners. New products will be added regularly.

More information

Energy ratings

MEPS

Energy Star