The residential sector accounts for approximately 17% of electricity use in South Africa, but as much
as 35% during peak periods. Within households the electric water heater (WH), commonly referred to
as a geyser in South Africa, is responsible for between 40-50% of total consumption and contributes
substantially to morning and evening peaks. Although there is an existing Minimum Energy
Performance Standard (MEPS) regulated by the standing heat loss test (SANS151) it was formulated
many years ago and has not been improved since its introduction. In the current context it is
considered low and ineffective.
Numerous attempts to improve the MEPS have proved futile primarily due to strong resistance from
the industry. The Super-Efficient Equipment and Appliance Deployment (SEAD) is supporting the
South African Government in implementing its Standards & Labeling (S&L) programme for residential
appliances, which includes WH. In an attempt to break this ‘deadlock’ a cost efficiency technical study
on WH was commissioned by SEAD. The research would use global and local industry experts to
conduct the research so as to provide credible empirical data to clarify cost-effectiveness issues and
allow for informed decision making.