An important update on the work of the Equipment Energy Efficiency (E3) Program (this is MEPS) was released in early March 2026. The Energy and Climate Change Ministerial Council agreed to the release of the E3 Strategy, a suite of documents that guide the direction of appliance and equipment energy efficiency across Australia and New Zealand to 2035. The E3 Strategy has been developed collaboratively by the Australian, state, territory and New Zealand governments, and reflects the strong, long-standing partnership across all E3 jurisdictions.
The E3 Strategy documents are now available at: Equipment Energy Efficiency Strategy | Energy Rating
The E3 Strategy consists of three key documents:
- E3 Strategic Plan – provides the long-term vision for the next decade, ensuring the E3 Program remains responsive to rapid technological change and emerging energy priorities.
- E3 Implementation Plan – sets out the coordinated actions governments will take to deliver on the Strategic Plan’s objectives.
- Annual E3 Workplan – outlines priority activities and projects for each year.
What the Strategy delivers
The E3 Strategy identifies practical opportunities to:
- strengthen energy efficiency standards and information for appliances and equipment
- increase consumer access to energy-saving products
- reduce emissions and contribute to long-term energy security
- ensure the program remains agile and aligned with future technologies and market conditions
Next steps
The E3 Strategy marks a key milestone for the program. Over the coming months, work will commence on delivering the actions set out in the Implementation Plan and annual Workplan. Stakeholders will be kept informed as this work progresses.
AREMA will participate in the next E3RC meeting scheduled for 1 April.