Kuwait Introduces Mandatory Energy Efficiency Regulation for Water Heaters

Kuwait’s Public Authority for Industry (PAI) has notified the World Trade Organization of a new mandatory technical regulation introducing energy performance requirements and energy efficiency labelling for water heaters.

The regulation is based on Kuwaiti Standard KWS 1903:2025, which establishes minimum energy performance standards (MEPS), testing requirements, and an official energy efficiency label for water heaters placed on the Kuwaiti market.

From 30 November 2026, all water heaters within the scope of the regulation must fully comply before importation or sale. Each model will be required to undergo individual registration via Kuwait’s TABEK conformity platform and obtain an approved Energy Efficiency (EE) label, issued with a unique serial number.

Included Products:

Water heaters intended for domestic and similar use, including:

• Electric storage water heaters

• Instantaneous (tankless) electric water heaters

• Heat pump water heaters

• Water heaters with storage tanks

With:

• Rated power: up to 70 kW

• Storage capacity: up to 2,000 litres (except for gas fired water heaters where the maximum capacity is 300 litres)

Optional Products:

The requirements specified in this standard for the following categories of water heaters are voluntary at the present stage of implementation:

• Solar water heaters (combined or not with additional energy supply)

• Fuel gas water heaters

Excluded Products:

The following products are currently excluded from the regulation:

• Water heaters using solid fuels

• Water heaters designed for making hot drinks and/or food only

Manufacturers, exporters, and importers are strongly encouraged to begin compliance planning early, including testing, documentation, and TABEK registration, to avoid disruption once enforcement begins.