Background
Australia’s Greenhouse and Energy Minimum Standards (GEMS) Act 2012 establishes a national framework for appliance and equipment energy efficiency, setting minimum efficiency standards and labelling requirements to reduce energy consumption.
In December 2025, the Energy and Climate Change Ministerial Council agreed to introduce minimum energy performance (MEPS) requirements for heat pump water heaters (HPWH) following their consideration of the Decision Regulation Impact Statement (DRIS).
Exposure Draft Consultation
We’re now seeking your feedback on the exposure draft determination which will implement the Energy and Climate Change Ministerial Councils’ decision to introduce MEPS for HPWHs. The exposure draft guidance document and explanatory statement provides further information on the intent of the determination.
This exposure draft was developed following previous engagement with industry and key stakeholders.
Feedback is requested by Monday, 5 October 2026.
Online Forum
We are holding an online forum for Australian stakeholders to provide feedback at 10am-11am (AEST) on 22 September 2026. To receive an invite to this online forum please register here.
The E3 Program
This work is being progressed through the Equipment Energy Efficiency (E3) Program. The E3 Program is a collaboration between the Australian Government, states and territories of Australia, and the New Zealand Government to improve the energy efficiency and energy performance of appliances and equipment.
Please contact us if you have any questions.
