New UK standard for ‘net zero’ buildings
Trade bodies and building design specialists have agreed on a new UK standard to define the performance requirements of ‘net zero’ buildings and how they are heated. The UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard (UKNZCBS) has been developed following consultations with a range of industry bodies to create a means for designing and operating more […]
GEMS compliance and enforcement update
The GEMS Energy Efficiency Compliance and Enforcement division of the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water has released this report to AREMA outlining the extent of 2023-2024 store inspections, check testing and enforcement. Market SurveillanceDuring 2023-24, 159 physical store inspections were undertaken. Of these: The non-compliance recorded at the time of the […]
AREMA annual dinner a networking opportunity
AREMA is inviting its members, associates and industry colleagues to join in a night of fun, food and networking at the organisation’s annual dinner on Thursday 14 November 2024. This event has become a perfect opportunity to connect with fellow industry professionals. This year, an Australian test cricketer has been booked to entertain the guests. […]
Energy performance for ice-makers
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water is consulting on an exposure draft determination introducing minimum energy performance standards (MEPS) for commercial ice-makers. The exposure draft determination and accompanying explanatory statement can be viewed at (Greenhouse and Energy Minimum Standards (GEMS) determination for commercial ice-makers – Climate (dcceew.gov.au)). The Decision Regulation Impact […]
Victorian Energy Upgrades Review
The Victorian Government’s May budget included an investment of $5.9 million for a Strategic Review of the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program (the Review). This is to ensure the VEU continues to be key driver in helping Victorians electrify their homes and businesses, lower energy costs, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Review’s Terms of Reference (ToR) […]
Consultation opens on commercial refrigeration use of HFC refrigerants
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water has finally opening public consultation on options to reduce the use of high GWP HFC refrigerants in the commercial and industrial refrigeration sector. The consultation paper is available at Commercial and industrial refrigeration: Reducing the climate impact of refrigerants – Climate (dcceew.gov.au). Consultation is open until […]
New global warming potential (GWP) limits for air conditioners
New and amended government regulations setting the GWP limits for air conditioners will come into effect for single head AC portable and window units from 1 July 2024. Units with a charge size of 2.6 kg or less have been limited to refrigerants with a GWP of 750 or less. This applies to import and […]
New videos for consumers and industry on refrigerant impact
The Australian Government’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water released two new videos on world Refrigeration Day (26 June), to advise consumers about the impact of HFC refrigerants on the environment and promote the use of licensed technicians. The department says many Australians are unaware that most aircon and refrigeration systems contain […]
South Australian pilot program on energy upgrades
The Federal Government is investing in energy upgrades for 500 South Australian households with a pilot program that will also coordinate power usage to help lower bills and ease pressure on the grid. Through the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), the government is delivering $6.2 million to SA power networks to better monitor usage and […]
U.S. tightens efficiency rules for water heater and other appliances
The New York Times reports that the Biden administration has adopted stricter energy-efficiency standards for residential water heaters, the most consequential move in a flurry of changes designed to reduce the energy used by many common appliances including stoves, dishwashers and lightbulbs. The Department of Energy said the new standards, taken together, will save American […]