The US Department of Energy (DOE) announced that its proposed regulations to set energy efficiency standards for central air conditioning systems and heat pumps have been sent to the Federal Register for publication. The proposed standards would increase the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) to 12 for new air conditioners and heat pumps, a 20% increase from the current legal standard of 10 SEER.
The proposed rule would replace the standard set out in the final days of the Clinton administration, which would have raised the SEER standard to 13, a 30% increase. The DOE, directed by President Bush to review that rule, found that the 13 SEER standard would have an undue impact on consumers and manufacturers. According to the DOE, the 12 SEER standard set out in the new proposed rule would achieve significant energy savings in a way that is much less burdensome for consumers and manufacturers.
The Department is inviting public comment on the proposed standard, and will conduct a public hearing approximately 60 days from the date of publication. Requests to speak at the public hearing must be received by the DOE within 45 days of the date of publication. For more information, visit the Department of Energy.
