There is currently no easy way for consumers to compare the energy use, energy efficiency, running cost or greenhouse gas emissions of different heater types, e.g. air conditioners (heat pumps), gas space heaters, and electric resistance heaters. Space heating accounts for around a third of residential energy use in Australia and New Zealand. Space heating is important for the wellbeing and comfort of households. In colder climates, where the need for heating is greatest, the use of space heaters is a major driver of household costs. The Department of Climate Change, energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) is exploring options that would support consumers to make easy energy performance comparisons of residential space heaters. Overview and consultation documents here.
DCCEEW will use the information and feedback obtained from public consultation on this paper to refine the comparison methodology. With a suitable comparison methodology identified, DCCEEW can continue to explore options that would support consumers to make easy energy performance comparisons of residential space heaters.
The department welcomes written submissions on this paper. The department would like to know what your views are on the comparison methodology and the reasons for your views.
Submissions should be provided by 27 September 2024. To provide feedback on the paper, please make a submission at: https://consult.dcceew.gov.au/space-heater-comparison-methodology. Enquiries may be emailed with the subject line “Space Heating Comparison Methodology Consultation” to the Australian Government Department of Climate Change, Energy the Environment and Water (DCCEEW): spaceheating@dcceew.gov.au.