Canada Gazette, Part I, Volume 160, Number 25: Regulations Amending the Energy Efficiency Regulation, 2016 (Amendment 19)

What it does

The proposal would update rules that set minimum energy performance, testing methods, and labelling for many products (about 20 would get stricter efficiency standards, about 15 would get minor updates, and roughly 300 outdated standards would be removed). Examples include electric motors, clothes washers and dryers, refrigerators, water heaters, pool equipment, air cleaners, televisions and commercial equipment. It would adopt many U.S. test procedures and efficiency levels, add EnerGuide labelling for some products, allow companies to comply early on some items, and reorganize the regulation text to make requirements easier to find.

Who it affects

Manufacturers, importers, distributors and retailers who sell regulated products in Canada. Installers, certification labs and testing bodies. Building owners, homeowners and businesses that buy appliances, HVAC equipment, water heaters, motors, pool equipment or commercial water heaters. Utilities and energy-efficiency advocates may also notice effects. (This is a proposed change; timing and exact scope are still subject to the regulatory process.)

Why it matters

If adopted, the rules aim to reduce energy use and electricity demand, lower consumer and business energy bills, and cut greenhouse gas emissions. They could also change which product models are sold in Canada and require manufacturers to redesign or retest products to meet new tests and labels. Harmonizing with U.S. standards could make trade and cross-border sales easier but may also require some Canadian suppliers to adjust. The government estimates substantial net benefits (multi-billion-dollar present-value savings) and measurable energy and emissions reductions by 2050, though those figures are projections tied to the proposal.

Key dates

Published

June 20, 2026

Comment deadline

Unclear

Effective date

Unclear