Search Results for keywords:"energy efficiency"

The U.S. Department of Energy has decided to update energy conservation standards for gas-fired instantaneous water heaters. These changes aim to make the heaters more energy-efficient, leading to significant energy savings while being both technologically feasible and economically justified. Starting December 26, 2029, manufacturers will need to comply with these new standards, which are calculated to save energy and money over the lifetime of the heaters and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, despite potential minor increases in electricity use. The overall benefits include costs savings for consumers and emissions reductions, though there will be conversion costs for manufacturers to meet these standards.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has assessed that its proposed rule to implement consumer protections for Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing will not have a significant impact on the environment. PACE loans help finance home improvements like solar panels and energy efficiency projects. The proposed rule would require lenders to ensure borrowers can repay these loans, potentially reducing the number of loans issued. While some argue this could limit environmental benefits from such projects, the CFPB found the rule's effect on the environment would be minimal and does not necessitate a more extensive environmental review.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is inviting public input on the development of ENERGY STAR product specifications. Since its inception in 1992, the ENERGY STAR program has been used to identify products that are highly energy-efficient. The EPA emphasizes the importance of stakeholder engagement in maintaining and expanding these product specifications. The public can participate by visiting the ENERGY STAR website or contacting the agency to join its mailing list for updates on product specification activities.

The Department of Energy (DOE) has received a petition from Hussmann Corporation requesting an exemption from their current testing procedures for certain CO2 direct expansion unit cooler models used in walk-in coolers and freezers. The existing test conditions are not suitable for these models because CO2 behaves differently from other refrigerants. DOE has issued an interim waiver allowing Hussmann to use an alternate test procedure while they gather public comments and make a final decision. This interim waiver will help ensure the accurate testing and representation of the energy efficiency of Hussmann's products.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has received a petition for waiver and interim waiver from CellarPro, seeking an exemption from the standard test procedure for specified models of walk-in cooler refrigeration systems. CellarPro argues that the current procedure does not accurately represent the true energy consumption of their models, which are specifically designed for wine storage at higher temperatures than typical coolers. DOE has issued an Interim Waiver Order, requiring CellarPro to use an alternate test procedure that accounts for these design differences, and is seeking public comments on this petition. This decision is based on DOE's acknowledgment that the standard test procedure does not fit the unique characteristics of these systems.

The Department of Energy is delaying the start date of a new rule about testing the energy efficiency of central air conditioners and heat pumps. Originally set to take effect on January 7, 2025, the rule will now start on March 21, 2025. This delay is to allow further review following a directive from the President's office. Despite the delay, comments from the public about further postponing the rule are being sought until March 7, 2025.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has updated its regulations to include the latest version (Version 4.0) of business practice standards for interstate natural gas pipelines, created by the North American Energy Standards Board (NAESB). This update aims to improve efficiency and reliability in the natural gas industry and enhance cybersecurity protections. The new rules go into effect on February 7, 2025, with compliance required by August 1, 2025. FERC continues to exclude certain standards, like optional model contracts, from being incorporated by reference.

On September 11, 2024, the Department of Energy (DOE) received a petition from Dyson Inc. requesting the revocation of certain testing procedures for air cleaners. Dyson argues that the current methods for measuring room size coverage and energy efficiency are inaccurate and misleading to consumers, leading to energy wastage and stifled innovation. Dyson's petition suggests these rules should either be revoked or enforcement paused to allow for a review and possible amendments. The DOE is currently seeking public comments on whether to proceed with rulemaking based on Dyson's proposal.

The Department of Energy (DOE) has decided to delay the effective date of a final rule that updates how energy efficiency is measured for small electric motors and electric motors. The original rule, which was published on January 4, 2021, will be postponed for 60 days starting from January 20, 2021, to allow for further review. This action is in response to a memorandum from the Chief of Staff, and the DOE does not plan to seek public comments on this immediate delay. However, the DOE is open to receiving comments on any potential further delays and the legal or policy issues related to the rule.

The Department of Energy (DOE) has received and published a petition from Air Innovations seeking a waiver from the standard DOE test procedures for certain wine cellar cooling systems. Air Innovations claims that the current test, which evaluates systems at a 35°F temperature, does not accurately reflect the energy usage of their models, which are designed for wine storage at 55°F. DOE has issued an Interim Waiver Order allowing Air Innovations to use an alternate test procedure with revised temperature and humidity settings for these systems while they consider the petition further. Public comments on the matter are invited until February 11, 2021.