Global Efficiency Shakeup: Microwave, Motor & Water Standards Now in Focus
- Charlene
- Jun 12
- 3 min read
Three major compliance developments across the U.S., Kuwait, and Australia/New Zealand are set to impact energy and water efficiency standards. Here’s what’s changing and how manufacturers must respond.
🇺🇸 The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) plans to eliminate Energy Conservation Standards for Microwave Ovens
In the United States, microwave ovens must comply with energy efficiency standards set by the Department of Energy (DOE), which have been in place since 2016. New standards adopted in 2023, effective June 22, 2026, will further reduce these limits: microwave-only and countertop combination microwaves will be limited to a maximum standby power of 0.6 watts, while built-in and range hood models will be limited to 1.0 watts. Unlike other appliances, such as refrigerators and washing machines, microwave ovens do not require energy efficiency labels and are excluded from the ENERGY STAR program. On May 28, the DOE announced plans to withdraw this decision to save costs and enhance productivity, and they will be collecting comments through July 15, 2025.
Status: Active enforcement - All companies that manufacture and sell microwaves in the United States are required to follow these regulations.
📌 What This Means for Manufacturers
Maintain compliance with 2023 limits unless or until the rule is officially rescinded.
Assign regulatory affairs to track DOE updates and manage stakeholder comments before July 15, 2025.
Consider potential savings or redesigns if the rule is withdrawn — but do not halt compliance workflows prematurely.
🇰🇼 Kuwait Implementation of New Energy Efficiency Standards for Appliances and Motors
Kuwait has announced significant changes to its Energy Efficiency (EE) certification process, which will come into effect on March 1, 2025. Products such as air conditioners, motors, washing machines, dryers, refrigerators, and freezers must now comply with the updated Energy Efficiency (EE) standards and display approved EE labels. The registration process will now be managed exclusively through the TABEK platform. KWS 1897 specifies efficiency classes for single-speed electric motors, as rated by IEC 60034-1, and designed for operation on a sinusoidal voltage source. Energy efficiency level information was updated on June 3, 2025.IE1 - Standard EfficiencyIE2 - High EfficiencyIE3 - Premium EfficiencyIE4 - Super Premium Efficiency
Status: In effect - Air conditioners, motors, washing machines, dryers, refrigerators, and freezers to be imported into Kuwait or placed on the market must be registered in the PAI system and carry the mandatory energy efficiency label.
📌 What This Means for Manufacturers
Register affected product lines immediately through TABEK—older certification routes are now obsolete.
Confirm all motors meet designated IE classification and update labeling accordingly.
Notify engineering and logistics teams of the March 1, 2025 deadline to avoid import disruptions.
🇦🇺🇳🇿 Products Regulated under the Australian and New Zealand WELS Scheme
The WELS scheme aims to protect water resources by reducing consumption, inform consumers about water-saving products, and promote efficient water-using technologies. It utilizes a standard that labels and rates these products, helping consumers identify and purchase them. As of 1 July 2023, the Australia/New Zealand Standard 6400:2016 for electric dishwashers and clothes washing machines is in effect. Additionally, amendments made on 5 June 2025 introduced minimum water efficiency requirements for sanitary products under the WELS scheme.
Status: Active enforcement - For products related to water efficiency, Australian/New Zealand Standard 6400:2016 should be applied.
📌 What This Means for Manufacturers
Review and update product designs to meet amended water efficiency requirements, especially for sanitary products.
Ensure correct WELS labeling is applied before market placement.
Coordinate with regional partners to confirm compliance with both 2023 and 2025 enforcement updates.
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