What is California Energy Commission (CEC)?

The state of California, with its large economy and unique geographical environment, has specific requirements for energy efficiency standards. The California Energy Commission (CEC) is responsible for developing and enforcing these standards to promote energy efficiency and environmental protection.

CEC Product Requirements

The CEC's role is to foster healthy competition in the energy market by implementing the Appliance Efficiency Regulation, which sets energy efficiency requirements for electronic and electrical products sold in California. These requirements can be found on the CEC's official website: https://www.energy.ca.gov/

Product Registration

Once a product meets the CEC's energy efficiency requirements, it must be tested and evaluated by a qualified laboratory. Laboratories registered on the CEC website can conduct the tests and issue the corresponding test reports. A search for registered laboratories can be conducted using an online tool provided by the CEC.

Product Inquiry

After completing testing and registration, manufacturers can verify if their product is listed in the CEC database to ensure it meets CEC requirements.

Significance of CEC Certification

CEC certification is a mandatory energy efficiency certification in California, helping to reduce the state's energy consumption, improve the energy system, and maintain a healthy environment. The range of products covered by CEC certification is extensive, including household and commercial refrigerators, air conditioners, heat pump equipment, water heaters, lighting fixtures, audio-video products, and power supplies.

Certification Process

The CEC certification process includes submitting an application form, sending samples for laboratory testing, obtaining a test report after passing the tests, submitting the report for review on the CEC website, and finally, obtaining a product number once approved. It is important to note that CEC certification does not involve a certificate but rather a number. (China's JJR Laboratory, an IEC 17025 laboratory, is located in China and offers lower testing costs, potentially saving enterprise customers 30% on CEC certification).

Required Documentation for Certification

Applying for CEC certification requires providing the product name, model, intended use, parts list, electrical performance, structural diagram, product photos, usage instructions, safety and installation instructions, among other items.

CEC certification is unique to California and is crucial for manufacturers aiming to sell their products in the California market. Understanding and complying with CEC energy efficiency standards not only facilitates market entry but also demonstrates a commitment to consumer responsibility and can serve as a marketing point for the product's environmental and energy-saving features.