Improving the energy efficiency of commercial ice makers
Consultation is now open on whether to introduce minimum energy performance standards (MEPS) for commercial ice makers.
Commercial ice maker energy use is increasing in Australia and New Zealand with the expansion of the foodservice and food retailing sectors and a growing population.
Like other refrigeration equipment, there is a wide range in the energy efficiency of models on the market. The cost of energy use over the life of an ice maker is several times the initial price, so purchasing less efficient models (even at an upfront price saving) will result in higher costs to businesses and the community.
Buyers are not always aware of the energy consumption or operating costs of the models they are considering because the information is either unavailable or presented in ways that make it difficult to compare models.
Without MEPS, the economic and financial costs of commercial ice makers in Australia and New Zealand will remain higher than is necessary.
Our Consultation Regulation Impact Statement (CRIS) identifies a range of options to improve the energy efficiency of commercial ice makers supplied in Australia and New Zealand. You can find the CRIS on the consultation page.
Written submissions are invited on any aspect of the CRIS. Your submissions and comments will help us to better understand:
- the accuracy of our market and modelling assumptions
- the effect of MEPS on suppliers, buyers and users of commercial ice makers
- energy use by commercial ice makers.
Stakeholder feedback will help Energy Ministers decide whether to introduce MEPS for commercial ice makers, including the timeline for introducing any regulations.
Have your say by 5pm AEST, Monday 12 June 2023.
Read more
