Search Results for keywords:"Energy Conservation Standards"

The Department of Energy (DOE) has announced a final interpretive rule regarding energy conservation standards for products like residential furnaces and commercial water heaters. The rule states that non-condensing technology and its associated venting is considered a "feature" that must be preserved under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA). This decision comes after public comments and aims to prevent eliminating this technology through energy-saving regulations. This interpretation may limit potential energy savings but allows consumers more choices and prevents unnecessary building modifications. The DOE also withdrew previous proposals on energy conservation standards that were inconsistent with this interpretation.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) confirmed the withdrawal of separate “short-cycle” product classes for dishwashers, residential clothes washers, and consumer clothes dryers. The DOE concluded that such features do not justify different energy conservation standards because they can comply with existing standards using current technologies. This decision follows a Fifth Circuit Court's remand, requiring the DOE to explore other alternatives rather than simply revoking these product classes. The DOE's analysis found that current standards do not prevent manufacturers from designing appliances with short-cycle features that meet energy conservation requirements, ensuring consumers retain desired utility.

The Department of Energy (DOE) has decided to withdraw a proposed rule that aimed to update energy conservation standards for battery chargers. Originally published on March 15, 2023, the proposal suggested changes like maximum energy usage limits but was met with mixed feedback. Some supported the energy savings and environmental benefits, while others raised concerns about impacts on manufacturers and the basis for the standards. Due to the volume of feedback, the change in administration, and the resources required, DOE chose not to move forward with this rule for now but may revisit it in the future with updated data and opinions.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has introduced new energy conservation standards for commercial refrigerators, freezers, and refrigerator-freezers. These changes aim to significantly reduce energy consumption, are technologically feasible, and economically justified. Starting March 24, 2025, the new standards will be in effect, requiring compliance by January 22, 2029. The department predicts considerable energy savings and reduced emissions resulting from these updated standards.

The Department of Energy (DOE) is seeking comments to help improve its procedures for setting energy conservation standards for consumer products and certain commercial equipment. This request is part of the implementation of the Executive Order "Unleashing American Energy" and aims to ensure consistency with recent directives while meeting statutory obligations. The DOE is encouraging feedback on various topics, including safeguarding consumer choice, reducing regulatory burdens, promoting market competition, and analyzing the costs and benefits of regulations. Comments are due by June 2, 2025, and can be submitted online, via email, or by mail.

The Department of Energy (DOE) is delaying the start date of new energy conservation standards for gas-fired instantaneous water heaters. Originally set to take effect on December 26, 2024, the new rules will now begin on March 21, 2025, allowing more time for review. This delay is in response to a presidential memorandum calling for a temporary halt on new regulations to evaluate any factual, legal, or policy concerns. The DOE is also inviting public comments on the implications of this delay and any issues it might raise.