The Peak Demand Reduction Scheme (PDRS) pays for permanent reductions in electricity demand at peak times. A variable-speed pool pump is a classic target: it can run for hours at low power rather than short bursts at high power, which cuts demand when the grid is stressed. Installers who already do pool or electrical work can add a certificate line to jobs.
What the activity covers
The pool pump activity, called SYS2 in the PDRS rule, applies to installing a new high-efficiency pool pump or replacing an existing pump with one. Per the NSW method guide, it applies at residential buildings and small business sites. Recent rule changes, as published by the NSW government, lowered the minimum star rating to 4 stars, split baselines into two categories by the pump’s nameplate input power, and changed the calculation so that multi-speed and variable-speed pumps earn more. Because rule changes happen, always check the current PDRS method guide before quoting.
How the certificate is calculated
PRCs are created from the activity’s peak demand reduction capacity, which is calculated from the new pump’s rating against a baseline for the old one. The scheme defines the formula and the number of years it applies. We have not reproduced the numbers here since they change by rule version. See the peak demand reduction capacity explainer for how the concept works.
How the claim works
- Check the product. The pump must be a listed or eligible model meeting the star rating.
- Check the premises. Residential or small business, in NSW.
- Install and record. Photograph the old and new pump, the labels and the site, and record the installation date and the premises details.
- Get consent. The customer signs an agreement with the Accredited Certificate Provider (ACP), who creates the PRCs. Our answer on becoming or using an ACP explains the role.
- Receive the discount or payment. Either the customer sees a discount on the invoice, or the installer is paid for the certificates.
Value and timing
PRC prices are low. Reported PRC spot has been about $3 at the time of writing, though that is a moving figure: see the PRC price. The certificate value is a modest contribution compared with the STCs on a solar job, so its appeal is as an add-on that lowers a customer’s price.
What this means for installers
For a NSW electrician or pool installer, the activity is useful if you have steady pump upgrades, can capture photos on every job and trust your ACP. For solar installers, the PDRS also has battery incentives. Learn the full list on NSW PDRS activities. For NSW’s wider certificate picture see ESC and PRC pay for installers, plus how it works and pricing.