ESS Submission Process
How to submit an ESS IHEAB application for large commercial HPWH systems via the TESSA portal.
The NSW Energy Savings Scheme (ESS) uses the IHEAB method (Integrated High Efficiency Appliance for Buildings) for large commercial heat pump water heaters. The scheme is administered by IPART and submissions are made through the TESSA portal.
Before submitting, ensure audit files have passed Gate B review and the client has provided written approval of the final certificate results.
ESS IHEAB Activity Summary
- Activity: IHEAB — Integrated High Efficiency Appliance for Buildings
- Regulator: IPART NSW
- Certificate type: Energy Savings Certificates (ESCs)
- Portal: TESSA Portal
- Reference: ESS IHEAB Method Guide — stored on EnergyAE SharePoint under Regulations/NSW/ESS
Pre-Submission Checklist
- Gate B review passed (100% pass rate required).
- Client has confirmed approval of final ESC quantities in writing.
- All audit files are assembled and named per the ESS Audit Files naming convention.
- No ZIP files — TESSA does not accept ZIP files. All files must be uploaded individually.
- Controller Declaration is signed and included.
- Manufacturer Declaration is included if model names differ between documents.
- Client TESSA account is active and EnergyAE has secondary user access.
Submitting to TESSA
- Log in to the TESSA Portal using the EnergyAE secondary user credentials for this client.
- Create a new product application and select the IHEAB method.
- Enter product details for each model.
- Upload all required documents individually (no ZIPs).
- Complete the application form fields — certificate quantities will be calculated by IPART based on the submitted modelling data.
- Submit the application.
For full portal steps, refer to the ESS IHEAB Method Guide and the ESS Information for Scheme Participants.
After Submitting
- Save the TESSA application reference number to the Monday.com item and EMO.
- Save a submission confirmation to
05-Submissionin the project SharePoint folder. - Advise the client that the ESS application has been submitted using the Submission Confirmation Email Template. Advise processing typically takes 6–10 weeks.
- Monitor the TESSA Accepted Products List for approval status.