Search Results for keywords:"Energy Conservation Program"

The U.S. Department of Energy has finalized new rules amending the test procedures for central air conditioners and heat pumps, incorporating updated industry standards. The changes include adding new cooling and heating efficiency measures, SCORE and SHORE, which factor in energy use during off modes. The rule updates various testing standards and clarifies the requirements for systems like dual-fuel heat pumps and those using newer refrigerants. These rules aim to provide more accurate efficiency ratings without increasing testing costs for manufacturers.

The Department of Energy (DOE) is proposing to withdraw its previous decision to classify portable electric spas (PESs) as covered consumer products under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA). This means PESs would not be subject to federal energy conservation standards. DOE determined that classifying PESs is not necessary or appropriate to conserve energy effectively. The agency invites public comments on this decision by May 19, 2025, via their submission portal or other specified methods.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) reviewed the test procedure for commercial warm air furnaces (CWAFs) after a court remand regarding the thermal efficiency two (TE2) metric. The DOE determined that the industry test procedure for measuring energy efficiency during a typical use cycle, considering jacket losses and part-load operation, is inadequate. Consequently, the DOE reaffirmed its new test procedure, which accounts for these factors, ensuring that energy efficiency is accurately measured. This revised procedure will help provide clearer information for consumers and manufacturers when new energy standards are set.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is updating the test procedures for compressors to correct errors and ensure calculations are accurate across different conditions, such as altitude. These changes include fixing formulas for efficiency calculations and updating the definition of "air compressor" to clarify that multiple compression elements are included. The updates align DOE procedures with industry standards and are designed to be more precise without adding extra testing burdens on manufacturers. The updated rules will be effective April 2, 2025, and mandatory for product testing by July 16, 2025.

In a new final rule, the Department of Energy (DOE) has updated its test procedures for small electric motors and electric motors to align more closely with industry standards. This includes incorporating the latest version of the IEEE 112 standard, adding a new IEC standard as an optional method for testing, and providing clearer definitions and testing instructions to improve consistency and reduce testing burdens for manufacturers. The rule emphasizes that these changes will not affect the measured efficiency of the motors and sets specific compliance dates for manufacturers to implement the new procedures. The revisions are expected to reduce costs and harmonize testing practices with international standards.