Description and Background
The Province of New Brunswick will upgrade the list of regulated appliances and equipment under the Energy Efficiency Act.
Minimum efficiency levels for appliances and equipment are an important complement to energy efficiency standards in building codes. Technology innovation continues to raise potential efficiency levels, so periodic review and upgrading of minimum efficiency standards is needed to keep pace with the market. The federal government and other provinces contribute to continuing research and upgrading of minimum energy performance standards. These can be referenced by our province in its own regulation.
Regulated minimum efficiency levels of appliances and equipment under the Energy Efficiency Act will therefore be upgraded on a two year cycle.
Key Objectives Served by this Action
Low and Stable Energy Prices – Energy efficiency through minimum efficiency levels for appliances and equipment provides permanentenergy cost reductions.
Energy Security – Our reliance on imported energy and our vulnerability to price fluctuations will diminish with reduced consumption, therefore increasing our energy security.
Reliability of the Electricity System – Reducing demand for electricity through minimum efficiency levels for appliances and equipment improves the reliability of the electricity system.
Environmental Responsibility – Reduced energy consumption has the effect of lower air