On May 15, 2026, SAC/TC20 (Energy Fundamentals and Management) issued notice to call for comments for draft of national mandatory standard Minimum allowable values of the energy efficiency and energy efficiency grades for room air conditioners (project no. 20251031-Q-469, hereinafter referred to as “the Standard”), and the call-for-comment period will end on July 12, 2026.

The Standard specifies the energy efficiency grades, minimum allowable values of energy efficiency, test methods, and implementation requirements for room air conditioners. It is applicable to air-cooled condensing units, hermetically sealed motor-compressors, with a rated cooling capacity not greater than 14,000 W and climate type T1 room air conditioners, as well as low ambient temperature air source heat pump air heaters with a rated heating capacity not greater than 14,000 W, and it does not apply to mobile air conditioners, multi-split air conditioners (heat pump) units, ducted air conditioners (heat pump) units, or kitchen air conditioners. Once implemented, it will replace the currently effective national standard GB 21455-2019 with the same name.

The revision of GB 21455-2019 mainly aims at supporting the tasks and goals stated in national policies such as the Green and Efficient Refrigeration Action Plan and the Notice on Further Strengthening the Updating, Upgrading and Implementation of Energy Conservation Standards. It is also an action to actively fulfil the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, as well as taking into account the development characteristics of the refrigeration industry and the schedule of the National Plan for Implementing the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (2025–2030).

The revised contents intend to accelerate the industrial upgrade and improve the global competitiveness of Chinese products, as well as:

·         Grade 1 should be equivalent to advanced international level;

·         Optimize energy efficiency evaluation system;

·         Increase market access requirements to eliminate low energy efficiency products for a better market product structure;

·         Facilitate the green and low carbon transition of the whole industrial chain.

Comparing with GB 21455-2019, besides changes in terms and definitions, other main modifications include:

·         Revise the energy efficiency grade indicators;

·         Revise the minimum allowable values of energy efficiency for products;

·         Revise the test methods for the coefficient of performance;

·         Add the implementation requirements for this Standard;

·         Add the test and calculation method for the comprehensive dynamic annual performance index (CAPF).

For foreign stakeholders, with China’s carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals, the energy efficiency parameter of all types of products may be revised to support the task. Considering energy efficiency is a mandatory item for market access for covered products, it is necessary to stay up-to-date on the potential compliance requirements change and take appropriate actions to avoid risks.