The Australian Government now regulates the energy efficiency performance of external power supplies, for example external switch mode power supplies, AC charger and AC adaptors.

A new standard AS/NZS 4665.1: 2005 has been released to provide a test method for assessing the energy efficiency of these devices. Test equipment must meet specific measurement uncertainties with the total harmonic distortion of the supply voltage less than 2%. Measurements are conducted at 100%, 75%, 50%, 25% load and no-load conditions. The averaged efficiency measured at various load conditions is then calculated and will determine the energy performance level and mark. TCA has the appropriate test setup to conduct measurements at all voltage and frequency ranges.

The standard also includes information on the energy performance mark. The mark will be optional with most power supplies falling into efficiency level III or IV (high efficiency).

Part 2 of the standard, AS/NZS 4665.2: 2005 has requirements for minimum energy performance standard (MEPS). Registration with regulators is voluntary now and will become mandatory after 01 October 2007. TCA can make applications for registration on your behalf.

You may obtain a copy of the relevant performance standards from www.standards.com.au

In essence this regulation means that external power supplies:

· must be tested as described in AS/NZS 4665.1: 2005 and must comply with MEPS requirements of AS/NZS 4665.2: 2005;
· must be registered with the regulator in either New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland or South Australia
· can be marked voluntarily with the Energy Performance Mark appropriate to the efficiency level contained in AS/NZS 4665.1:2005.
· registration will become mandatory after 01 October 2007.

Contact Robert, Colin or email tcacompliance@energy.com.au for additional information.