GEMS Act energy efficiency standards and labelling
The Greenhouse and Energy Minimum Standards Act 2012 sets energy efficiency standards and labelling for prescribed appliances. Here's what's covered and what suppliers must do.
What the Act does
The Greenhouse and Energy Minimum Standards Act 2012 (GEMS Act) establishes energy efficiency standards and labelling requirements for products sold in Australia. These standards dictate a minimum level of energy performance that certain products must meet before they can be supplied.
The GEMS Regulator, located within the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, is responsible for administering the GEMS Act. This includes setting and updating the standards and ensuring compliance.
The Act’s implementation is aligned with New Zealand through the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Arrangement, facilitating consistency in energy efficiency requirements across both countries.
Products covered
The GEMS Act applies to a range of products used in Australia. These include household appliances such as refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, dishwashers, clothes dryers, televisions, and computer monitors. The Act also covers heating and cooling equipment, including air conditioners and electric water heaters. Certain commercial equipment, such as some lighting, motors, and transformers, are also subject to the GEMS Act.
Each product type listed above is governed by a specific GEMS determination. These determinations outline the minimum performance standards and labelling requirements that must be met. These requirements vary depending on the product category.
Before a product can be supplied in Australia, suppliers are required to register each model with the GEMS Regulator. This registration process ensures compliance with the relevant GEMS determination for that product.
Energy Rating Labels
The Energy Rating Label provides a standardised method for consumers to compare the energy efficiency of products. It employs a star rating system, where a higher number of stars signifies greater energy efficiency. The rating scale typically ranges from 1 to 10 stars.
These labels are a mandatory requirement and must be displayed with the product at the point of sale. This includes situations where the product is being offered for sale online.
Alongside the star rating, the label also displays the annual energy consumption of the product, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). This figure assists consumers in understanding the ongoing energy use and allows for a more informed comparison between different models.
Penalties and enforcement
Civil penalties are in place for breaches of the Energy Efficiency (Minimum Standards and Labelling) laws. These penalties apply to instances such as supplying products that have not been registered, supplying products that do not satisfy the minimum energy performance standard, and incorrect display of the Energy Rating Label.
The GEMS Regulator has the authority to take action beyond financial penalties. This includes the power to seek the removal of products from the Australian market if they are found to be non-compliant.
Recent enforcement activity has focused on overseas suppliers who are selling unregistered or non-compliant products into Australia, often utilising online sales channels.
Frequently asked
Do I have to register every appliance model?
Yes — suppliers must register each model with the GEMS Regulator before supplying it in Australia for products covered by a GEMS determination. Supplying an unregistered product attracts civil penalties.
Are online listings required to show the Energy Rating Label?
Yes. Labels must accompany the product at point of sale, including online listings. The GEMS Regulator has been active against online sellers omitting required labels.