NOM-029-ENER-2017 is an Official Mexican Standard that establishes energy efficiency requirements, test methods, and labeling specifications for external power supplies (EPS) used with electrical or electronic equipment in Mexico. The standard aims to reduce energy consumption, minimize standby power losses, and provide consumers with clear efficiency information, contributing to Mexico’s energy conservation and environmental goals.

Scope and Applicability:

NOM-029-ENER-2017 applies to external power supplies, defined as devices that:

  • Convert AC (alternating current) from the mains to DC (direct current) or lower-voltage AC for powering equipment.
  • Operate at single-phase voltages up to 300 V AC and 50/60 Hz.

Covered products include:

  • Power adapters for devices like laptops, smartphones, routers, speakers, and gaming consoles.
  • Chargers for portable electronics.
  • EPS with single or multiple output voltages, including USB chargers.

Exclusions:

  • Internal power supplies (e.g., within a computer).
  • Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS).
  • Medical device power supplies.
  • EPS for industrial or specialized use not intended for general consumer products. The standard applies to new EPS sold, manufactured, or imported in Mexico, whether standalone or bundled with equipment.

NOM-029-ENER-2017

Key Requirements:

1. Energy Efficiency Limits:

  • Active Mode Efficiency: Sets minimum average efficiency levels (expressed as a percentage) for EPS operating at 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% of rated load. For example, a typical EPS must achieve ≥88% efficiency for standard-voltage outputs.
  • No-Load Power Consumption: Limits standby power use (e.g., ≤0.1 W for low-voltage EPS, ≤0.21 W for others) when the EPS is connected but not powering a device.
  • Requirements vary by EPS type (e.g., low-voltage, multiple-voltage, or high-power units above 250 W).

2. Test Methods:

  • Specifies procedures based on international standards, notably the U.S. Department of Energy’s test protocol (10 CFR Part 430, Appendix Z) and IEC methods, adapted for Mexico.
  • Tests measure:
  • Active mode efficiency across load conditions.
  • No-load power consumption.
  • Output voltage and current accuracy.
  • Testing is conducted under controlled conditions (e.g., 115 V AC, 60 Hz, 25°C ambient temperature).

3. Labeling:

4. Compliance:

  • Manufacturers or importers must obtain a Certificate of Conformity from accredited certification bodies through testing by approved laboratories.

Purpose and Enforcement:

NOM-029-ENER-2017 promotes energy savings by targeting EPS, which are ubiquitous in consumer electronics and contribute significantly to standby power losses. By aligning with international efficiency benchmarks (e.g., U.S. Level VI standards), it encourages manufacturers to adopt efficient designs, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Enforcement is managed by:

  • The Comisión Nacional para el Uso Eficiente de la Energía (CONUEE).
  • PROFECO (Federal Consumer Protection Agency) for market surveillance.
  • Customs authorities for import verification.

Non-compliance—such as exceeding no-load limits or lacking certification—can lead to fines, product seizures, or sales bans.

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