The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is proposing to withdraw a previous decision to classify certain miscellaneous gas products, like decorative hearths and outdoor heaters, as covered consumer products under energy conservation regulations. This decision is part of the DOE's efforts to comply with the Executive Order "Unleashing American Energy," which aims to ensure that energy regulations are practical and do not overly limit consumer choice. The DOE's proposal suggests that these gas products do not have enough in common functionally to be treated as the same type of product for regulatory purposes. Public comments on this proposal are being accepted until April 14, 2025, through various submission methods, including the Federal eRulemaking Portal.
Simple Explanation
The U.S. Department of Energy wants to stop treating pretty gas fireplaces and outdoor heaters as special products for saving energy rules because they don't work the same way. They're doing this so people have more choices and want to hear what the public thinks until April 14, 2025.