Announcing the 2024 ETL Research Programme

Sharpening ETL standards with regular updates 

The main purpose of the Research Programme is to benchmark the market to ensure the ETL criteria still fulfill the aim of covering the top 25% of the market, thereby achieving the scheme’s aim. Additionally, the Research Programme can include new technologies for inclusion in the scheme. This comprehensive review process, which includes evaluating existing sub-technologies and conducting scoping studies resulting from New Technology Proposals (NTPs), ensures the ETL remains current and effective.  

Staying on top of continually changing measurement standards ensures the process for applicants remains simple, streamlined, and accessible. Additionally, the Research Programme estimates energy and cost savings for each sub-technology, aiding users in making informed decisions. 

Goals of the Research Programme 

The ETL scheme aims to review each of its 65 sets of criteria at least once every four years to stay current, uphold best practices and achieve the scheme’s aim. These updates to benchmarks help users save energy and money and ensure that purchasers of energy-efficient equipment stay ahead of the curve.  

Technical reviews also address any perceived application barriers, making the process smoother for new applicants.  

Criteria under review 

The product criteria under review in the 2024 Research Programme are: 

• Portable Energy Monitoring Equipment 

• Condensing Economisers 

• Non-condensing Economisers 

• Heat Recovery from Flash Steam and Boiler Blowdown Condensate 

• Retrofit Burner Control Systems 

• Converter-Fed Motors 

• Pipework Insulation 

• Solar Thermal Collectors 

• Wastewater Heat Recovery Systems (Instantaneous) 

• Combination Steam Ovens 

• Convection Ovens 

• Undercounter Dishwashers 

• Hood Type Dishwashers 

• Air-to-Water Heat Pumps 

Manufacturers and testers: get involved today 

If you’re a manufacturer or tester of energy efficient equipment, then you can share information and insights during the technical reviews now as part of the 2024 Research Programme by contacting Ricardo: etlresearch@ricardo.com.  

Ricardo will be launching surveys shortly and coordinating workshops in the autumn for each of the sub-technologies currently under review. If you would like to receive any of the surveys or attend any of the workshops that will be held later in the year for each of the above energy efficient equipment, then please contact Ricardo today to register your interest: etlresearch@ricardo.com.  

To submit a New Technology Proposal (NTP), click here. Through NTPs, the ETL has expanded to include Energy Storage systems, Commercial Fans, Professional Foodservice Equipment (PFSE), and our latest addition, Showers. NTPs reflect an ongoing community input and support from industry associations to promote energy efficiency across sectors. 

For manufacturers, showcasing your innovative energy efficient products with ETL accreditation builds trust and expands your audience reach. Our straightforward application process includes support at every step including a helpful YouTube video. 

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