Product classification
HS code for Electrical power: 2716.00
Electrical energy.
Classification of electrical power under HS 2716.00
Electrical power, or electrical energy, is classified under HS code 2716.00. This is a unique entry within the Harmonized System because it represents an intangible commodity. While Chapter 27 primarily deals with mineral fuels, oils, and products of their distillation, electrical energy is included here as a distinct item for international trade and customs purposes. The classification follows the specific provision in the HS nomenclature that allows for the recording of cross-border electricity trade. Unlike other goods that are classified based on their physical composition or mechanical function, electrical energy is classified by its nature as a utility. This code is used by grid operators and utility companies when transmitting electricity across international borders via high-voltage transmission lines.
- Covers
- Alternating current (AC) electrical energy
- Direct current (DC) electrical energy
- Grid-transmitted electricity
- Renewable energy (wind, solar) transmitted as electricity
- Also under 2716.00
- Nord Pool Spot (Nordic electricity market)
- PJM Interconnection (US electricity market)
- ENTSO-E (European network of transmission system operators)
- Hydro-Québec (exports to USA)
Codes often confused with 2716.00
Common mistake. Electrical power is sometimes confused with the equipment used to generate or transform it. For instance, electric motors and generators are classified under heading 8501, and electrical transformers are under heading 8504. It is also important not to confuse electrical energy with primary cells or batteries, which are classified under 8506 or 8507. HS code 2716.00 is strictly for the energy itself, not the storage medium or the generation hardware.
Top exporters and importers of HS 271600 (the code used for electrical power), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 271600 (the code used for electrical power) in UN Comtrade data was France, with 11% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Germany, with 12% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 271600, not only electrical power.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 France $7.1B 11% of world exports
- 2 Germany $6.2B 9.5% of world exports
- 3 Switzerland $4.5B 6.8% of world exports
World total: $65.9B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Germany $8.9B 12% of world imports
- 2 Italy $6.3B 8.9% of world imports
- 3 United Kingdom $4.7B 6.5% of world imports
World total: $71.4B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries that did not report are estimated from what other countries recorded trading with them. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Brazil NCM code for electrical power
Brazil classifies electrical power under NCM 2716.00.00: HS 2716.00 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
EU Regulatory Requirements
This product falls under the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). Importers to the EU must declare embedded carbon emissions and purchase CBAM certificates.
Questions about electrical power
What is the HS code for Electrical power?
The HS code for Electrical power is 271600 (Electrical energy). The HS code for electrical energy is 2716.00.
How do I classify Electrical power for customs?
Electrical power is classified under HS code 271600 — Electrical energy. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is electrical energy subject to customs duties?
While it has an HS code for tracking and regulatory purposes, many jurisdictions apply specific utility taxes or exemptions rather than standard import duties on electrical energy.
Which countries are the top exporters of electrical power (HS 271600)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 271600 (the code used for electrical power) in UN Comtrade data were France ($7.1B, 11% of world exports), Germany ($6.2B) and Switzerland ($4.5B). World exports came to about $65.9B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Which countries are the top importers of electrical power (HS 271600)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 271600 (the code used for electrical power) in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($8.9B, 12% of world imports), Italy ($6.3B) and the United Kingdom ($4.7B). World imports came to about $71.4B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Is the HS code for Electrical power the same in all countries?
The base HS code 271600 for Electrical power is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.
What is the NCM code for electrical power in Brazil?
In Brazil, electrical power (HS 271600) is classified under NCM 2716.00.00.