Canada increases efficiency standards

The Canadian government has amended its Energy Efficiency Regulations. The amendments entered into effect this month.

Once implemented, several industrial products will be subjected to stricter energy efficiency performance standards. Many of these requirements are in concert with minimum standards established in the United States.

Of particular interest are electric motors and dry-type transformers that are imported or shipped across provincial lines for sale or lease within Canada.

Motors that will be impacted include electric induction motors with output power rating of .75-375 kW, generating one to 500 horsepower and other motors ranging in size from .75 to 150 KW and generation one to 200 horsepower.

The requirements have also been tightened for motors including eight pole construction, close-coupled pumps, and others. Additionally, the scope of motors has been expanded to include motors of 150 to 375 kW, which had not been previously regulated.

Also, medium-voltage dry-type transformers must also meet more stringent regulations. This includes those with a high-voltage winding of 35 kilovolts or less and a basic impulse insulation level exceeding 1.2 kilovolts. There is no change for low-voltage (basic impulse insulation less than 1.2 kV) dry-type transformers.

Any regulated electric motors and dry-type transformers manufactured after January 1, 2010 must meet the new requirements as of April 12, 2012.
Dealers must submit their energy efficiency reports to the Canadian Department of Natural Resources (NRCan) before importing motors and transformers impacted by these changes. Testing standards are established and available from the Canadian Standards Association.

A number of other items are being impacted by the regulations. These include residential gas and oil boilers, large air conditioners and heat pumps, and commercial self-contained refrigerators. Additionally, new reporting and compliance requirements are being established for electronic products, external power supplies, digital TV adaptors, electric boilers, and single package vertical air conditioners and heat pumps.