Potential for expansion of the WELS scheme to include domestic irrigation controllers
Background Research Project
Prepared by Irrigation Australia and HydroPlan for the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts
30 September 2008
PDF file
- Potential for expansion of the WELS scheme to include domestic irrigation controllers (PDF - 511 KB)
About the report
A domestic irrigation controller is a device which can initiate and end domestic irrigation events. They may do this with or without complementary equipment. The devices are differentiated by their capacity to control the application of water in a temporal and spatial sense, and by the extent to which they interact with their environment and users. This report reviews technical and other issues relating to expanding the WELS Scheme to include domestic irrigation controllers.
The report provides useful background information that will assist in the preparation of a cost benefit analysis and regulation impact statement in 2009 on the potential inclusion of this product into the WELS Scheme.
Background
In late 2005, an independent analysis was conducted of potential products which might be suitable for including in an expanded WELS Scheme. In 2006-07 a shortlist of products was agreed by Australian, state and territory governments and the National Water Commission.
New products to be considered for WELS labelling are:
- combination washer/dryers that use water in dryer mode
- evaporative air coolers
- instantaneous gas hot water heaters
- hot water circulators and
- domestic irrigation controllers.
Consideration is also being given to the introduction of new minimum water efficiency standards for:
- clothes washers
- taps
- dishwashers
- combination washer/dryers
- showers
- urinals and
- other potential new products.
Raising the minimum water efficiency standard for toilets is also being considered.
Research is underway to determine the feasibility and implications of expanding the Scheme. This work includes the preparation of cost benefit analyses and three regulation impact statements. Technical background reports such as this one are being made available on this website for public comment once they are finalised.
Before you download
Most publications are downloadable as PDF files. Adobe Acrobat Reader is required to view PDF files.
If you are unable to access a publication, please contact us to organise a suitable alternative format.
Key
Links to an another web site
Opens a pop-up window