Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to permanently end home appliance and equipment mandates that increase costs and limit consumer choice. The proposal would revise the Process Rule for establishing energy conservation standards affecting products such as air conditioners, gas stoves, washing machines, water heaters, and refrigerators commonly used by Americans.
According to DOE Secretary Chris Wright, the prior mandates restricted consumer options and increased expenses unnecessarily. The proposed rule aims to allow Americans to choose appliances that operate effectively and affordably. Secretary Wright emphasized the goal is to support consumer preference and cost efficiency, calling this approach common sense.
Assistant Secretary of Energy Audrey Robertson noted that since the beginning of the Trump administration, efforts have focused on deregulation to benefit consumers, businesses, and industries. The proposal targets future regulations to promote affordability, maintain consumer choice, and ensure transparency and due diligence.
The DOE also issued a Request for Information seeking public input on the methodologies used in setting energy conservation standards for covered products and equipment. Comments on the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking will be accepted for 30 days after publication in the Federal Register, while feedback on the Request for Information will be accepted for 60 days.
These measures align with President Trump's Executive Order titled “Unleashing Prosperity through Deregulation,” underscoring the administration’s commitment to removing regulations considered burdensome and costly for consumers.