NSW Energy Savings Scheme (ESS) Regulatory and Compliance Framework
Welcome to the National AC Rebates regulatory and compliance framework. This page outlines the mandatory Terms and Conditions governing the delivery of energy-saving incentives under the NSW Energy Savings Scheme (ESS) and the Peak Demand Reduction Scheme (PDRS).
These programs are regulated by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) to ensure transparency and energy efficiency across the state. As an industry leader in environmental certificates and project compliance, EC Focus provides the technical oversight and accreditation necessary to facilitate these rebates.
By engaging with National AC Rebates, all stakeholders—including homeowners, small businesses, and installers—agree to adhere to the combined standards set forth by these entities to ensure high-quality installations and the valid creation of energy-saving certificates.
The information provided within this Regulatory and Compliance Framework is subject to change without notice due to ongoing updates to the NSW Energy Savings Scheme (ESS) Rule. To ensure you are viewing the most current requirements, stakeholders are encouraged to stay updated by visiting the official scheme websites directly
The legal framework underpinning the Energy Savings Scheme (ESS) is developed by the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (NSW DCCEEW). It includes:
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Part 1, Schedule 4A to the Electricity Supply Act 1995
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Part 6 of the Electricity Supply (General) Regulation 2014
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the Energy Savings Scheme Rule of 2009
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orders granting exemptions from the Energy Savings Scheme
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the Energy Savings Scheme – Scheme Regulator Exemptions Rule No. 1 of 2016.
The Energy Savings Scheme (ESS) is part of the NSW Energy Security Safeguard. It offers financial incentives to help households and businesses reduce their energy use. Review
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How the ESS works
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Governance of the ESS
The Home Energy Efficiency Retrofits (HEER) method is a calculation method under the ESS. It provides a way to calculate energy savings from a range of energy efficiency upgrades in households and small businesses. It’s a requirement under our framework that all upgrades are safe and compliant, and meet legislative requirements (including licensing requirements).
The Energy Security Safeguard (the Safeguard) is an initiative of the NSW Government. Its purpose is to help ensure our energy system is more reliable, affordable and sustainable.
The Safeguard is established in the Electricity Supply Act 1995 (Act) and given effect through the following schemes.
EC Focus Terms and Conditions establish the formal, data-driven framework for participants in energy-saving programs like the NSW ESS. These terms outline responsibilities for data accuracy, compliance with government standards for certificate creation, and liability limitations for project stakeholders.