Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedures for Certain Commercial and Industrial Equipment; Early Assessment Review; Pumps, 60734-60738 [2020-21276]

Download as PDF 60734 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 188 / Monday, September 28, 2020 / Proposed Rules conduct defrost tests as described in sections 3.3.4 and 3.3.5 of this appendix. Calculate If Qgross ˙ DF, expressed in average defrost heat load Q Btu/h, as follows: '.S 25,000 Btu/h: • • Nnp Qvp=0.195 · Qgross · -24 IfQgross > 25,000Btu/h and Qgross :S 70,000 Btu/h: Q. _ Q' gross DF - If Qgross . [ Q 195 · _ 0.049 (Qgross-25,000)]. Nnp 45,000 24 > 70,000 Btu/h: QDF = 0.146 . Qgross . Nnp 24 Where: Qgross is the measured gross capacity in Btu/h at the Suction A condition; and NDF is the number of defrosts per day, equal to 4. Calculate average defrost power input D°F, expressed in Watts, as follows: v·F == <2vF 0.95 X3.412 Where: [FR Doc. 2020–19565 Filed 9–25–20; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6450–01–P DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY 10 CFR Part 431 [EERE–2020–BT–TP–0032] RIN 1904–AE53 Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedures for Certain Commercial and Industrial Equipment; Early Assessment Review; Pumps Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Department of Energy. ACTION: Request for information. AGENCY: The U.S. Department of Energy (‘‘DOE’’) is undertaking an early assessment review to determine whether to proceed with a rulemaking to amend the test procedure for commercial and industrial pumps. This request for SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:57 Sep 25, 2020 Jkt 250001 information (‘‘RFI’’), DOE seeks data and information that could enable the agency to determine whether to amend its current test procedure as well as comment on the availability of consensus-based test procedures for measuring the energy use of commercial and industrial pumps that could be adopted with or without modification. DOE welcomes written comments from the public on any subject within the scope of this document (including topics not raised in this RFI), as well as the submission of data and other relevant information concerning this early assessment review. DATES: Written comments and information will be accepted on or before December 14, 2020. ADDRESSES: Interested persons are encouraged to submit comments using the Federal eRulemaking Portal at https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. Alternatively, interested persons may submit comments, identified by docket PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 number EERE–2020–BT–TP–0032, by any of the following methods: 1. Federal eRulemaking Portal: https:// www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. 2. Email: to Pumps2020TP0032@ ee.doe.gov. Include docket number EERE–2020–BT–TP–0032 in the subject line of the message. 3. Postal Mail: Appliance and Equipment Standards Program, U.S. Department of Energy, Building Technologies Office, Mailstop EE–5B, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20585–0121. Telephone: (202) 287–1445. If possible, please submit all items on a compact disc (‘‘CD’’), in which case it is not necessary to include printed copies. 4. Hand Delivery/Courier: Appliance and Equipment Standards Program, U.S. Department of Energy, Building Technologies Office, 950 L’Enfant Plaza SW, Suite 600, Washington, DC 20024. Telephone: (202) 287–1445. If possible, please submit all items on a CD, in E:\FR\FM\28SEP1.SGM 28SEP1 EP28SE20.000</GPH> Q0 F is the average defrost heat load in Btu/h Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 188 / Monday, September 28, 2020 / Proposed Rules which case it is not necessary to include printed copies. No telefacsimiles (‘‘faxes’’) will be accepted. For detailed instructions on submitting comments and additional information on this process, see section III of this document (Submission of Comments). Docket: The docket for this activity, which includes Federal Register notices, comments, and other supporting documents/materials, is available for review at https:// www.regulations.gov. All documents in the docket are listed in the https:// www.regulations.gov index. However, some documents listed in the index, such as those containing information that is exempt from public disclosure, may not be publicly available. The docket web page can be found at https://www.regulations.gov/ docket?D=EERE-2020-BT-TP-0032. The docket web page contains instructions on how to access all documents, including public comments, in the docket. See section III for information on how to submit comments through https://www.regulations.gov. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Jeremy Dommu, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Building Technologies Office, EE–5B, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20585–0121. Telephone: (202) 586– 9870. Email: ApplianceStandardsQuestions@ ee.doe.gov. Mr. Michael Kido, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the General Counsel, GC–33, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20585–0121. Telephone: 202–586–8145. Email: Michael.Kido@hq.doe.gov. For further information on how to submit a comment or review other public comments and the docket, contact the Appliance and Equipment Standards Program staff at (202) 287– 1445 or by email: ApplianceStandardsQuestions@ ee.doe.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Table of Contents I. Introduction A. Authority B. Rulemaking History II. Request for Information A. Energy Use Measurements B. Representative Average Use Cycle C. Test Burden Reductions D. Consensus-Based Test Procedures III. Submission of Comments I. Introduction DOE established an early assessment review process to conduct a more VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:57 Sep 25, 2020 Jkt 250001 focused analysis of a specific set of facts or circumstances that would allow DOE to determine that, based on statutory criteria, an amended test procedure is not warranted. The purpose of this review is to limit the resources, from both DOE and stakeholders, committed to rulemakings that will not satisfy the requirements in EPCA that an amended test procedure more accurately or fully comply with the requirement that the test procedure produces results that measure energy use during a representative average use cycle for equipment, and not be unduly burdensome to conduct. See 85 FR 8626, 8653–8654 (Feb. 14, 2020). As part of the early assessment, DOE publishes an RFI in the Federal Register, announcing that DOE is initiating a rulemaking proceeding and soliciting comments, data, and information on whether an amended test procedure would more accurately measure energy use during a representative average use cycle or reduce testing burden. Based on the information received in response to the RFI and DOE’s own analysis, DOE will determine whether to proceed with a rulemaking for an amended test procedure. If DOE makes an initial determination based upon available evidence that an amended test procedure would not meet the applicable statutory criteria, DOE would engage in notice and comment rulemaking before issuing a final determination that an amended test procedure is not warranted. If DOE reaches such a determination, the rulemaking would be concluded, which would satisfy the Department’s 7-yearlookback test procedure review requirement under the statute (as discussed in section I.A of this document). Conversely, if DOE makes an initial determination that an amended test procedure would satisfy the applicable statutory criteria, including that adoption of a consensus-based test procedure as the DOE test procedure would more accurately or fully comply with statutory requirements, or DOE’s analysis is inconclusive, DOE would undertake the preliminary stages of a rulemaking to issue an amended test procedure. Beginning such a rulemaking, however, would not preclude DOE from later making a determination that an amended test procedure would not satisfy the requirements in EPCA, based upon the full suite of DOE’s analyses. Id. at 85 FR 8654. PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 60735 A. Authority The Energy Policy and Conservation Act, as amended (‘‘EPCA’’),1 among other things, authorizes DOE to regulate the energy efficiency of a number of consumer products and certain industrial equipment. (42 U.S.C. 6291– 6317) Title III, Part C 2 of EPCA, added by Public Law 95–619, Title IV, § 441(a) (42 U.S.C. 6311–6317 as codified), established the Energy Conservation Program for Certain Industrial Equipment, which sets forth a variety of provisions designed to improve energy efficiency. This equipment includes commercial and industrial pumps (‘‘pumps’’), the subject of this RFI. (42 U.S.C. 6311(1)(A)) Under EPCA, DOE’s energy conservation program consists essentially of four parts: (1) Testing, (2) labeling, (3) Federal energy conservation standards, and (4) certification and enforcement procedures. Relevant provisions of EPCA include definitions (42 U.S.C. 6311), test procedures (42 U.S.C. 6314), labeling provisions (42 U.S.C. 6315), energy conservation standards (42 U.S.C. 6313), and the authority to require information and reports from manufacturers (42 U.S.C. 6316; 42 U.S.C. 6296). Federal energy efficiency requirements for covered equipment established under EPCA generally supersede State laws and regulations concerning energy conservation testing, labeling, and standards. (42 U.S.C. 6316(a) and (b); 42 U.S.C. 6297) DOE may, however, grant waivers of Federal preemption for particular State laws or regulations, in accordance with the procedures and other provisions of EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6316(a); 42 U.S.C. 6297(d)) EPCA also requires that, at least once every 7 years, DOE evaluate test procedures for each type of covered equipment, including pumps, to determine whether amended test procedures would more accurately or fully comply with the requirements for the test procedures to not be unduly burdensome to conduct and be reasonably designed to produce test results that reflect energy efficiency, energy use, and estimated operating costs during a representative average use cycle. (42 U.S.C. 6314(a)(1)) DOE is publishing this RFI to collect data and information to inform its decision, in 1 All references to EPCA in this document refer to the statute as amended through America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2018, Public Law 115–270 (October 23, 2018). 2 For editorial reasons, upon codification in the U.S. Code, Part C was redesignated Part A–1. E:\FR\FM\28SEP1.SGM 28SEP1 60736 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 188 / Monday, September 28, 2020 / Proposed Rules order to satisfy the 7-year review requirement. not specifically be identified in this document. B. Rulemaking History DOE’s test procedure for measuring pump energy efficiency was established in a final rule published on January 25, 2016. 81 FR 4086 (‘‘January 2016 Final Rule’’).3 The January 2016 Final Rule established definitions for the term pump, certain pump components, and several categories and configurations of pumps. The procedure incorporates by reference the Hydraulic Institute (‘‘HI’’) Standard 40.6–2014, ‘‘Methods for Rotodynamic Pump Efficiency Testing’’ (‘‘HI 40.6–2014’’), with several modifications related to measuring the hydraulic power, shaft power, and electric input power of pumps, inclusive of electric motors and any continuous or non-continuous controls.4 A. Energy Use Measurements DOE’s current test procedure for pumps can be found at 10 CFR part 431, subpart Y, appendix A, ‘‘Uniform Test Method for the Measurement of Energy Consumption of Pumps’’ (‘‘Appendix A’’). It measures energy use by determining the constant load pump energy index (‘‘PEICL’’)—used for pumps sold without continuous or noncontinuous controls—and the variable load pump energy index (‘‘PEIVL’’)— used for pumps sold with continuous or non-continuous controls. 10 CFR 431.464(a)(2). The PEICL and PEIVL metrics both describe the weighted average performance of the rated pump at specific load points (i.e., pump energy rating, or ‘‘PER’’), normalized with respect to the performance of a minimally compliant pump without controls (‘‘PERSTD’’). The PER represents an average of driver power input to the motor at three load points (for pumps sold without continuous or noncontinuous controls) or an average of driver power input to the continuous or non-continuous controls at four load points (for pumps sold with such controls). The test procedure contains methods to determine the appropriate index for all equipment to which this test procedure applies either by (a) measuring the bare pump shaft input power and calculating efficiency, or losses, of the motor and any continuous control (i.e., calculation-based method) or (b) measuring the input power to the driver, or motor, and any continuous or non-continuous controls for a given pump directly (i.e., testing-based method). See 10 CFR part 431, subpart Y, appendix A, Table 1. The test procedure also prescribes the specific categories and configurations of pumps to which the calculation-based and testing-based methods apply. Id. DOE seeks comment on whether existing test procedure requirements (e.g., measurement equipment, test conditions, data collection, specific testing-based and calculation-based approaches) accurately measure energy use without adding undue burden to the test procedure. DOE is particularly interested in whether changes in equipment testing methodology or new equipment on the market since the test procedure was established may necessitate amending the procedure. II. Request for Information DOE is publishing this RFI to collect data and information during the early assessment review to inform its decision, consistent with its obligations under EPCA, as to whether the Department should proceed with a test procedure rulemaking. Accordingly, in the following sections, DOE has identified specific issues on which it seeks input to aid its analysis of whether an amended test procedure for pumps would more accurately or fully comply with the requirement that the test procedure produce results that measure energy use during a representative average use cycle for the equipment, and not be unduly burdensome to conduct. In particular, DOE is interested in: (1) Any information indicating that there has not been sufficient technological or other changes since DOE last conducted a test procedure rulemaking analysis for pumps to suggest an amended test procedure could satisfy these criteria; or (2) whether adopting a consensus-based test procedure, without modification, as the DOE test procedure would more accurately or fully comply with the statutory requirement. DOE also welcomes comments on other issues relevant to its early assessment that may 3 On March 23, 2016, DOE published a correction to the January 2016 Final Rule to correct the placement of the product-specific enforcement provisions related to pumps under 10 CFR 429.134(h). 81 FR 15426. 4 A ‘‘continuous control’’ is a control that adjusts the speed of the pump driver continuously over the driver operating speed range in response to incremental changes in the required pump flow, head, or power output. A ‘‘non-continuous control’’ is a control that adjusts the speed of a driver to one of a discrete number of non-continuous preset operating speeds, and does not respond to incremental reductions in the required pump flow, head, or power output. 10 CFR 431.462. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:57 Sep 25, 2020 Jkt 250001 B. Representative Average Use Cycle The current DOE test procedure for pumps measures energy use during a representative average use cycle. Pumps PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 are used in a variety of situations where there is a need to move liquids from one location to another. As currently defined, a pump is a type of equipment designed to move liquids (including entrained gases, free solids, and totally dissolved solids) by physical or mechanical action. It includes both the bare pump itself and the mechanical equipment, driver, and controls that a manufacturer includes with the bare pump at the time of sale. See 10 CFR 431.462. DOE seeks comment on what constitutes a representative average use cycle for pumps. C. Test Burden Reductions In the January 2016 Final Rule, DOE estimated a cost of $2.9 million to the industry to test pump basic models in accordance with the test procedure adopted in the Final Rule. 81 FR 4368 (January 26, 2016).5 This estimate included setup, testing, and takedown, with the final industry cost calculation assuming two tests per basic model. DOE’s test procedure for pumps allows manufacturers the option of rating pumps sold with single-phase motors as bare pumps (using a calculation-based method) or as pumps with motors using the testing-based methods.6 DOE’s calculations of testing costs assumed that the majority of pump basic models would be certified based on the bare pump configuration and subsequent ratings for the same bare pump sold with any number of applicable motors and continuous controls could be generated using the calculation-based approach. DOE seeks comment on whether any modifications to the test procedure could reduce these costs while still allowing for accurate determinations of energy use during a representative average use cycle. D. Consensus-Based Test Procedures The current DOE test procedure for pumps generally incorporates by reference HI 40.6–2014, with minor modifications to ensure repeatable and reproducible test results and additional provisions related to measuring the hydraulic power, shaft power, and 5 See Final Rule ‘‘Technical Support Document: Energy Efficiency Program for Consumer Products and Commercial and Industrial Equipment: Pumps’’, Section 12.4.9, ‘‘Compliance, Certification and Enforcement Testing Expense’’, December 2015. EERE–2011–BT–STD–0031. 6 In the case of the calculation-based method, only the bare pump performance is physically measured—the performance of the motor and any continuous or non-continuous controls would be addressed through a series of calculations. In the case of the testing-based method, the input power to the pump at the motor or at the continuous or non-continuous control, if any, is directly measured and used to calculate PEICL or PEIVL. 81 FR 4127– 4131 (January 25, 2016). E:\FR\FM\28SEP1.SGM 28SEP1 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 188 / Monday, September 28, 2020 / Proposed Rules electric input power of pumps, inclusive of electric motors and any continuous or non-continuous controls, which are not included in HI 40.6–2014. DOE seeks comment on the availability of consensus-based test procedures for measuring the energy use of pumps that could be adopted without modification and more accurately or fully comply with the requirement that the test procedure produce results that measure energy use during a representative average use cycle for the equipment, and not be unduly burdensome to conduct. With respect to consensusbased test procedures, DOE describes recent developments in this area since the publication of the January 2016 Final Rule below. a. HI Standard 40.6 As stated, DOE’s test procedure for pumps generally incorporates HI 40.6– 2014. Since publication of the January 2016 Final Rule, the Hydraulics Institute updated HI 40.6–2014 with the publication of HI Standard 40.6–2016, ‘‘Methods for Rotodynamic Pump Efficiency Testing’’ (‘‘HI 40.6–2016’’). This update aligned the definitions and procedures specified in HI Standard 40.6 with the DOE test procedure for pumps. DOE requests comments on the updated standard HI 40.6–2016 and on whether DOE should incorporate HI 40.6–2016 by reference as the DOE test procedure for pumps. Specifically, DOE requests information on whether the updates in HI 40.6–2016 impact the measured values, and if so, to what extent. DOE also requests information on the impact of the updates in HI 40.6– 2016 to the test burden and the representativeness of the test results. b. IEC 61800–9–2:2017 (Adjustable Speed Electrical Power Drive Systems) While DOE’s test procedure for pumps incorporates by reference HI 40.6–2014, as noted previously, DOE also includes additional provisions related to measuring the hydraulic power, shaft power, and electric input power of pumps, inclusive of electric motors and any continuous or noncontinuous controls—these provisions are not included in HI 40.6–2014, and at the time of finalization of DOE’s test procedure, similar provisions were not available in any other industry test standard. Since publication of the January 2016 Final Rule, the International Electrotechnical Commission (‘‘IEC’’) published standard IEC 61800–9–2:2017 ‘‘Adjustable speed electrical power drive systems—Part 9– 2: Ecodesign for power drive systems, motor starters, power electronics and VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:57 Sep 25, 2020 Jkt 250001 their driven applications—Energy efficiency indicators for power drive systems and motor starters’’ (‘‘IEC 61800–9–2:2017’’), which addresses test methods and reference losses for motor and controls combinations (i.e., ‘‘power drive systems’’). Specifically, Annex A of IEC 61800–9–2:2017 describes reference losses for complete drive modules (i.e., controls) and power drive systems at different operating points, comparable to the approach already presented in section VII.E.1.2 of appendix A to subpart Y of part 431. A second edition of this standard is projected to be published in November 2021 to address further the test method and evaluate the reference losses based on test results.7 DOE requests comments on the approach presented in Annex A of IEC 61800–9–2:2017 to represent reference losses for complete drive modules (i.e., controls) and power drive systems (i.e., motor and controls combinations) and on whether DOE should incorporate by reference this approach in lieu of the calculations in section VII of Appendix A, or if any considerations for updates should be postponed until the second edition of IEC 61800–9–2 is published. c. Adoption of Other Consensus-Based Test Procedures DOE requests comment on whether another consensus-based test procedure could be adopted, with or without modification, and meet the criteria in EPCA related to representativeness and test burden. If so, DOE requests comment on the benefits and burdens of adopting any such industry/voluntary consensus-based or other appropriate test procedure, with or without modification. III. Submission of Comments DOE invites all interested parties to submit in writing by December 14, 2020, comments and information on matters addressed in this notice and on other matters relevant to DOE’s early assessment of whether amendments to the test procedure for pumps would more accurately or fully comply with the requirement that the test procedure produces results that measure energy use during a representative average use cycle for the equipment, and not be unduly burdensome to conduct. Submitting comments via https:// www.regulations.gov. The https:// www.regulations.gov web page will require you to provide your name and 7 Electric Motors Systems Annex (EMSA). (March 2019) Round Robin of Converter Losses, Report of Results of Phase 1. Available at: https:// www.motorsystems.org/files/otherfiles/0000/0206/ RR_C_report_phase_1_final_1_d_20190322.pdf. PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 60737 contact information. Your contact information will be viewable to DOE Building Technologies staff only. Your contact information will not be publicly viewable except for your first and last names, organization name (if any), and submitter representative name (if any). If your comment is not processed properly because of technical difficulties, DOE will use this information to contact you. If DOE cannot read your comment due to technical difficulties and cannot contact you for clarification, DOE may not be able to consider your comment. However, your contact information will be publicly viewable if you include it in the comment or in any documents attached to your comment. Any information that you do not want to be publicly viewable should not be included in your comment, nor in any document attached to your comment. Persons viewing comments will see only first and last names, organization names, correspondence containing comments, and any documents submitted with the comments. Do not submit to https:// www.regulations.gov information for which disclosure is restricted by statute, such as trade secrets and commercial or financial information (hereinafter referred to as Confidential Business Information (‘‘CBI’’)). Comments submitted through https:// www.regulations.gov cannot be claimed as CBI. Comments received through the website will waive any CBI claims for the information submitted. For information on submitting CBI, see the Confidential Business Information section. DOE processes submissions made through https://www.regulations.gov before posting. Normally, comments will be posted within a few days of being submitted. However, if large volumes of comments are being processed simultaneously, your comment may not be viewable for up to several weeks. Please keep the comment tracking number that https:// www.regulations.gov provides after you have successfully uploaded your comment. Submitting comments via email, hand delivery/courier, or postal mail. Comments and documents submitted via email, hand delivery/courier, or postal mail also will be posted to https:// www.regulations.gov. If you do not want your personal contact information to be publicly viewable, do not include it in your comment or any accompanying documents. Instead, provide your contact information on a cover letter. Include your first and last names, email address, telephone number, and E:\FR\FM\28SEP1.SGM 28SEP1 60738 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 188 / Monday, September 28, 2020 / Proposed Rules optional mailing address. The cover letter will not be publicly viewable as long as it does not include any comments. Include contact information each time you submit comments, data, documents, and other information to DOE. If you submit via postal mail or hand delivery/ courier, please provide all items on a CD, if feasible. It is not necessary to submit printed copies. Faxes will not be accepted. Comments, data, and other information submitted to DOE electronically should be provided in PDF (preferred), Microsoft Word or Excel, WordPerfect, or text (ASCII) file format. Provide documents that are not secured, written in English and free of any defects or viruses. Documents should not contain special characters or any form of encryption and, if possible, they should carry the electronic signature of the author. Campaign form letters. Please submit campaign form letters by the originating organization in batches of between 50 to 500 form letters per PDF or as one form letter with a list of supporters’ names compiled into one or more PDFs. This reduces comment processing and posting time. Confidential Business Information. Pursuant to 10 CFR 1004.11, any person submitting information that he or she believes to be confidential and exempt by law from public disclosure should submit via email, postal mail, or hand delivery/courier two well-marked copies: One copy of the document marked confidential including all the information believed to be confidential, and one copy of the document marked ‘‘non-confidential’’ with the information believed to be confidential deleted. Submit these documents via email or on a CD, if feasible. DOE will make its own determination about the confidential status of the information and treat it according to its determination. It is DOE’s policy that all comments may be included in the public docket, without change and as received, including any personal information provided in the comments (except information deemed to be exempt from public disclosure). DOE considers public participation to be a very important part of the process for developing test procedures and energy conservation standards. DOE actively encourages the participation and interaction of the public during the comment period in each stage of this process. Interactions with and between members of the public provide a balanced discussion of the issues and assist DOE in the process. Anyone who wishes to be added to the DOE mailing VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:57 Sep 25, 2020 Jkt 250001 list to receive future notices and information about this process should contact Appliance and Equipment Standards Program staff at (202) 287– 1445 or via email at ApplianceStandardsQuestions@ ee.doe.gov. Signing Authority This document of the Department of Energy was signed on September 22, 2020, by Alexander N. Fitzsimmons, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency Energy, Efficiency and Renewable Energy, pursuant to delegated authority from the Secretary of Energy. That document with the original signature and date is maintained by DOE. For administrative purposes only, and in compliance with requirements of the Office of the Federal Register, the undersigned DOE Federal Register Liaison Officer has been authorized to sign and submit the document in electronic format for publication, as an official document of the Department of Energy. This administrative process in no way alters the legal effect of this document upon publication in the Federal Register. Signed in Washington, DC, on September 22, 2020. Treena V. Garrett, Federal Register Liaison Officer, U.S. Department of Energy. [FR Doc. 2020–21276 Filed 9–25–20; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6450–01–P FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION 12 CFR Parts 308 and 390 RIN 3064–AF38 Removal of Transferred OTS Regulations Regarding Prompt Corrective Action Directives and Conforming Amendments to Other Regulations Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking. AGENCY: In order to streamline FDIC regulations, the FDIC proposes to rescind and remove from the Code of Federal Regulations rules entitled ‘‘Prompt Corrective Action’’ that were transferred to the FDIC from the Office of Thrift Supervision (OTS) on July 21, 2011, in connection with the implementation of Title III of the DoddFrank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (Dodd-Frank Act), and amend certain sections of existing FDIC regulations governing the issuance and SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 review of orders pursuant to the prompt corrective action provisions of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act to make it clear that such rules apply to all insured depository institutions for which the FDIC is the appropriate Federal banking agency. DATES: Comments must be received on or before October 28, 2020. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments, identified by RIN 3064–AF38, by any of the following methods: • FDIC Website: https:// www.fdic.gov/regulations/laws/federal/. Follow instructions for submitting comments on the agency website. • Email: Comments@fdic.gov. Include RIN 3064–AF38 on the subject line of the message. • Mail: Robert E. Feldman, Executive Secretary, Attention: Comments, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, 550 17th Street NW, Washington, DC 20429. • Hand Delivery to FDIC: Comments may be hand-delivered to the guard station at the rear of the 550 17th Street NW building (located on F Street) on business days between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. • Federal eRulemaking Portal: https:// www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. Please include your name, affiliation, address, email address, and telephone number(s) in your comment. All statements received, including attachments and other supporting materials, are part of the public record and are subject to public disclosure. You should submit only information that you wish to make publicly available. Please note: all comments received will be posted generally without change to https://www.fdic.gov/regulations/ laws/federal/, including any personal information provided. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Robert Watkins, Review Examiner, Division of Risk Management Supervision, (202) 898–3865; Andrea Winkler, Acting Assistant General Counsel, Legal Division, (202) 898– 3727; or Kristine Schmidt, Counsel, Legal Division, (202) 898–6686, krschmidt@fdic.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. Policy Objectives The policy objective of the rule is to remove unnecessary and duplicative regulations in order to simplify them and improve the public’s understanding of them. Part 390, subpart Y outlines administrative procedures related to prompt corrective action that are equivalent to procedures outlined in part 308, subpart Q of the FDIC’s existing regulations. Thus, the FDIC is E:\FR\FM\28SEP1.SGM 28SEP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 188 (Monday, September 28, 2020)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 60734-60738]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-21276]


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DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

10 CFR Part 431

[EERE-2020-BT-TP-0032]
RIN 1904-AE53


Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedures for Certain 
Commercial and Industrial Equipment; Early Assessment Review; Pumps

AGENCY: Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Department of 
Energy.

ACTION: Request for information.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of Energy (``DOE'') is undertaking an 
early assessment review to determine whether to proceed with a 
rulemaking to amend the test procedure for commercial and industrial 
pumps. This request for information (``RFI''), DOE seeks data and 
information that could enable the agency to determine whether to amend 
its current test procedure as well as comment on the availability of 
consensus-based test procedures for measuring the energy use of 
commercial and industrial pumps that could be adopted with or without 
modification. DOE welcomes written comments from the public on any 
subject within the scope of this document (including topics not raised 
in this RFI), as well as the submission of data and other relevant 
information concerning this early assessment review.

DATES: Written comments and information will be accepted on or before 
December 14, 2020.

ADDRESSES: Interested persons are encouraged to submit comments using 
the Federal eRulemaking Portal at https://www.regulations.gov. Follow 
the instructions for submitting comments. Alternatively, interested 
persons may submit comments, identified by docket number EERE-2020-BT-
TP-0032, by any of the following methods:
    1. Federal eRulemaking Portal: https://www.regulations.gov. Follow 
the instructions for submitting comments.
    2. Email: to [email protected]. Include docket number 
EERE-2020-BT-TP-0032 in the subject line of the message.
    3. Postal Mail: Appliance and Equipment Standards Program, U.S. 
Department of Energy, Building Technologies Office, Mailstop EE-5B, 
1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20585-0121. Telephone: 
(202) 287-1445. If possible, please submit all items on a compact disc 
(``CD''), in which case it is not necessary to include printed copies.
    4. Hand Delivery/Courier: Appliance and Equipment Standards 
Program, U.S. Department of Energy, Building Technologies Office, 950 
L'Enfant Plaza SW, Suite 600, Washington, DC 20024. Telephone: (202) 
287-1445. If possible, please submit all items on a CD, in

[[Page 60735]]

which case it is not necessary to include printed copies.
    No telefacsimiles (``faxes'') will be accepted. For detailed 
instructions on submitting comments and additional information on this 
process, see section III of this document (Submission of Comments).
    Docket: The docket for this activity, which includes Federal 
Register notices, comments, and other supporting documents/materials, 
is available for review at https://www.regulations.gov. All documents in 
the docket are listed in the https://www.regulations.gov index. However, 
some documents listed in the index, such as those containing 
information that is exempt from public disclosure, may not be publicly 
available.
    The docket web page can be found at https://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-2020-BT-TP-0032. The docket web page contains 
instructions on how to access all documents, including public comments, 
in the docket. See section III for information on how to submit 
comments through https://www.regulations.gov.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Jeremy Dommu, U.S. Department of 
Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Building 
Technologies Office, EE-5B, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20585-0121. Telephone: (202) 586-9870. Email: 
[email protected].
    Mr. Michael Kido, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the General 
Counsel, GC-33, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20585-0121. 
Telephone: 202-586-8145. Email: [email protected].
    For further information on how to submit a comment or review other 
public comments and the docket, contact the Appliance and Equipment 
Standards Program staff at (202) 287-1445 or by email: 
[email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Table of Contents

I. Introduction
    A. Authority
    B. Rulemaking History
II. Request for Information
    A. Energy Use Measurements
    B. Representative Average Use Cycle
    C. Test Burden Reductions
    D. Consensus-Based Test Procedures
III. Submission of Comments

I. Introduction

    DOE established an early assessment review process to conduct a 
more focused analysis of a specific set of facts or circumstances that 
would allow DOE to determine that, based on statutory criteria, an 
amended test procedure is not warranted. The purpose of this review is 
to limit the resources, from both DOE and stakeholders, committed to 
rulemakings that will not satisfy the requirements in EPCA that an 
amended test procedure more accurately or fully comply with the 
requirement that the test procedure produces results that measure 
energy use during a representative average use cycle for equipment, and 
not be unduly burdensome to conduct. See 85 FR 8626, 8653-8654 (Feb. 
14, 2020).
    As part of the early assessment, DOE publishes an RFI in the 
Federal Register, announcing that DOE is initiating a rulemaking 
proceeding and soliciting comments, data, and information on whether an 
amended test procedure would more accurately measure energy use during 
a representative average use cycle or reduce testing burden. Based on 
the information received in response to the RFI and DOE's own analysis, 
DOE will determine whether to proceed with a rulemaking for an amended 
test procedure.
    If DOE makes an initial determination based upon available evidence 
that an amended test procedure would not meet the applicable statutory 
criteria, DOE would engage in notice and comment rulemaking before 
issuing a final determination that an amended test procedure is not 
warranted. If DOE reaches such a determination, the rulemaking would be 
concluded, which would satisfy the Department's 7-year-lookback test 
procedure review requirement under the statute (as discussed in section 
I.A of this document).
    Conversely, if DOE makes an initial determination that an amended 
test procedure would satisfy the applicable statutory criteria, 
including that adoption of a consensus-based test procedure as the DOE 
test procedure would more accurately or fully comply with statutory 
requirements, or DOE's analysis is inconclusive, DOE would undertake 
the preliminary stages of a rulemaking to issue an amended test 
procedure. Beginning such a rulemaking, however, would not preclude DOE 
from later making a determination that an amended test procedure would 
not satisfy the requirements in EPCA, based upon the full suite of 
DOE's analyses. Id. at 85 FR 8654.

A. Authority

    The Energy Policy and Conservation Act, as amended (``EPCA''),\1\ 
among other things, authorizes DOE to regulate the energy efficiency of 
a number of consumer products and certain industrial equipment. (42 
U.S.C. 6291-6317) Title III, Part C \2\ of EPCA, added by Public Law 
95-619, Title IV, Sec.  441(a) (42 U.S.C. 6311-6317 as codified), 
established the Energy Conservation Program for Certain Industrial 
Equipment, which sets forth a variety of provisions designed to improve 
energy efficiency. This equipment includes commercial and industrial 
pumps (``pumps''), the subject of this RFI. (42 U.S.C. 6311(1)(A))
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ All references to EPCA in this document refer to the statute 
as amended through America's Water Infrastructure Act of 2018, 
Public Law 115-270 (October 23, 2018).
    \2\ For editorial reasons, upon codification in the U.S. Code, 
Part C was redesignated Part A-1.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Under EPCA, DOE's energy conservation program consists essentially 
of four parts: (1) Testing, (2) labeling, (3) Federal energy 
conservation standards, and (4) certification and enforcement 
procedures. Relevant provisions of EPCA include definitions (42 U.S.C. 
6311), test procedures (42 U.S.C. 6314), labeling provisions (42 U.S.C. 
6315), energy conservation standards (42 U.S.C. 6313), and the 
authority to require information and reports from manufacturers (42 
U.S.C. 6316; 42 U.S.C. 6296).
    Federal energy efficiency requirements for covered equipment 
established under EPCA generally supersede State laws and regulations 
concerning energy conservation testing, labeling, and standards. (42 
U.S.C. 6316(a) and (b); 42 U.S.C. 6297) DOE may, however, grant waivers 
of Federal preemption for particular State laws or regulations, in 
accordance with the procedures and other provisions of EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 
6316(a); 42 U.S.C. 6297(d))
    EPCA also requires that, at least once every 7 years, DOE evaluate 
test procedures for each type of covered equipment, including pumps, to 
determine whether amended test procedures would more accurately or 
fully comply with the requirements for the test procedures to not be 
unduly burdensome to conduct and be reasonably designed to produce test 
results that reflect energy efficiency, energy use, and estimated 
operating costs during a representative average use cycle. (42 U.S.C. 
6314(a)(1)) DOE is publishing this RFI to collect data and information 
to inform its decision, in

[[Page 60736]]

order to satisfy the 7-year review requirement.

B. Rulemaking History

    DOE's test procedure for measuring pump energy efficiency was 
established in a final rule published on January 25, 2016. 81 FR 4086 
(``January 2016 Final Rule'').\3\ The January 2016 Final Rule 
established definitions for the term pump, certain pump components, and 
several categories and configurations of pumps. The procedure 
incorporates by reference the Hydraulic Institute (``HI'') Standard 
40.6-2014, ``Methods for Rotodynamic Pump Efficiency Testing'' (``HI 
40.6-2014''), with several modifications related to measuring the 
hydraulic power, shaft power, and electric input power of pumps, 
inclusive of electric motors and any continuous or non-continuous 
controls.\4\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \3\ On March 23, 2016, DOE published a correction to the January 
2016 Final Rule to correct the placement of the product-specific 
enforcement provisions related to pumps under 10 CFR 429.134(h). 81 
FR 15426.
    \4\ A ``continuous control'' is a control that adjusts the speed 
of the pump driver continuously over the driver operating speed 
range in response to incremental changes in the required pump flow, 
head, or power output. A ``non-continuous control'' is a control 
that adjusts the speed of a driver to one of a discrete number of 
non-continuous preset operating speeds, and does not respond to 
incremental reductions in the required pump flow, head, or power 
output. 10 CFR 431.462.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

II. Request for Information

    DOE is publishing this RFI to collect data and information during 
the early assessment review to inform its decision, consistent with its 
obligations under EPCA, as to whether the Department should proceed 
with a test procedure rulemaking. Accordingly, in the following 
sections, DOE has identified specific issues on which it seeks input to 
aid its analysis of whether an amended test procedure for pumps would 
more accurately or fully comply with the requirement that the test 
procedure produce results that measure energy use during a 
representative average use cycle for the equipment, and not be unduly 
burdensome to conduct. In particular, DOE is interested in: (1) Any 
information indicating that there has not been sufficient technological 
or other changes since DOE last conducted a test procedure rulemaking 
analysis for pumps to suggest an amended test procedure could satisfy 
these criteria; or (2) whether adopting a consensus-based test 
procedure, without modification, as the DOE test procedure would more 
accurately or fully comply with the statutory requirement. DOE also 
welcomes comments on other issues relevant to its early assessment that 
may not specifically be identified in this document.

A. Energy Use Measurements

    DOE's current test procedure for pumps can be found at 10 CFR part 
431, subpart Y, appendix A, ``Uniform Test Method for the Measurement 
of Energy Consumption of Pumps'' (``Appendix A''). It measures energy 
use by determining the constant load pump energy index 
(``PEICL'')--used for pumps sold without continuous or non-
continuous controls--and the variable load pump energy index 
(``PEIVL'')--used for pumps sold with continuous or non-
continuous controls. 10 CFR 431.464(a)(2). The PEICL and 
PEIVL metrics both describe the weighted average performance 
of the rated pump at specific load points (i.e., pump energy rating, or 
``PER''), normalized with respect to the performance of a minimally 
compliant pump without controls (``PERSTD''). The PER 
represents an average of driver power input to the motor at three load 
points (for pumps sold without continuous or non-continuous controls) 
or an average of driver power input to the continuous or non-continuous 
controls at four load points (for pumps sold with such controls).
    The test procedure contains methods to determine the appropriate 
index for all equipment to which this test procedure applies either by 
(a) measuring the bare pump shaft input power and calculating 
efficiency, or losses, of the motor and any continuous control (i.e., 
calculation-based method) or (b) measuring the input power to the 
driver, or motor, and any continuous or non-continuous controls for a 
given pump directly (i.e., testing-based method). See 10 CFR part 431, 
subpart Y, appendix A, Table 1. The test procedure also prescribes the 
specific categories and configurations of pumps to which the 
calculation-based and testing-based methods apply. Id. DOE seeks 
comment on whether existing test procedure requirements (e.g., 
measurement equipment, test conditions, data collection, specific 
testing-based and calculation-based approaches) accurately measure 
energy use without adding undue burden to the test procedure. DOE is 
particularly interested in whether changes in equipment testing 
methodology or new equipment on the market since the test procedure was 
established may necessitate amending the procedure.

B. Representative Average Use Cycle

    The current DOE test procedure for pumps measures energy use during 
a representative average use cycle. Pumps are used in a variety of 
situations where there is a need to move liquids from one location to 
another. As currently defined, a pump is a type of equipment designed 
to move liquids (including entrained gases, free solids, and totally 
dissolved solids) by physical or mechanical action. It includes both 
the bare pump itself and the mechanical equipment, driver, and controls 
that a manufacturer includes with the bare pump at the time of sale. 
See 10 CFR 431.462. DOE seeks comment on what constitutes a 
representative average use cycle for pumps.

C. Test Burden Reductions

    In the January 2016 Final Rule, DOE estimated a cost of $2.9 
million to the industry to test pump basic models in accordance with 
the test procedure adopted in the Final Rule. 81 FR 4368 (January 26, 
2016).\5\ This estimate included setup, testing, and takedown, with the 
final industry cost calculation assuming two tests per basic model. 
DOE's test procedure for pumps allows manufacturers the option of 
rating pumps sold with single-phase motors as bare pumps (using a 
calculation-based method) or as pumps with motors using the testing-
based methods.\6\ DOE's calculations of testing costs assumed that the 
majority of pump basic models would be certified based on the bare pump 
configuration and subsequent ratings for the same bare pump sold with 
any number of applicable motors and continuous controls could be 
generated using the calculation-based approach. DOE seeks comment on 
whether any modifications to the test procedure could reduce these 
costs while still allowing for accurate determinations of energy use 
during a representative average use cycle.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \5\ See Final Rule ``Technical Support Document: Energy 
Efficiency Program for Consumer Products and Commercial and 
Industrial Equipment: Pumps'', Section 12.4.9, ``Compliance, 
Certification and Enforcement Testing Expense'', December 2015. 
EERE-2011-BT-STD-0031.
    \6\ In the case of the calculation-based method, only the bare 
pump performance is physically measured--the performance of the 
motor and any continuous or non-continuous controls would be 
addressed through a series of calculations. In the case of the 
testing-based method, the input power to the pump at the motor or at 
the continuous or non-continuous control, if any, is directly 
measured and used to calculate PEICL or PEIVL. 
81 FR 4127-4131 (January 25, 2016).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

D. Consensus-Based Test Procedures

    The current DOE test procedure for pumps generally incorporates by 
reference HI 40.6-2014, with minor modifications to ensure repeatable 
and reproducible test results and additional provisions related to 
measuring the hydraulic power, shaft power, and

[[Page 60737]]

electric input power of pumps, inclusive of electric motors and any 
continuous or non-continuous controls, which are not included in HI 
40.6-2014. DOE seeks comment on the availability of consensus-based 
test procedures for measuring the energy use of pumps that could be 
adopted without modification and more accurately or fully comply with 
the requirement that the test procedure produce results that measure 
energy use during a representative average use cycle for the equipment, 
and not be unduly burdensome to conduct. With respect to consensus-
based test procedures, DOE describes recent developments in this area 
since the publication of the January 2016 Final Rule below.
a. HI Standard 40.6
    As stated, DOE's test procedure for pumps generally incorporates HI 
40.6-2014. Since publication of the January 2016 Final Rule, the 
Hydraulics Institute updated HI 40.6-2014 with the publication of HI 
Standard 40.6-2016, ``Methods for Rotodynamic Pump Efficiency Testing'' 
(``HI 40.6-2016''). This update aligned the definitions and procedures 
specified in HI Standard 40.6 with the DOE test procedure for pumps.
    DOE requests comments on the updated standard HI 40.6-2016 and on 
whether DOE should incorporate HI 40.6-2016 by reference as the DOE 
test procedure for pumps. Specifically, DOE requests information on 
whether the updates in HI 40.6-2016 impact the measured values, and if 
so, to what extent. DOE also requests information on the impact of the 
updates in HI 40.6-2016 to the test burden and the representativeness 
of the test results.
b. IEC 61800-9-2:2017 (Adjustable Speed Electrical Power Drive Systems)
    While DOE's test procedure for pumps incorporates by reference HI 
40.6-2014, as noted previously, DOE also includes additional provisions 
related to measuring the hydraulic power, shaft power, and electric 
input power of pumps, inclusive of electric motors and any continuous 
or non-continuous controls--these provisions are not included in HI 
40.6-2014, and at the time of finalization of DOE's test procedure, 
similar provisions were not available in any other industry test 
standard. Since publication of the January 2016 Final Rule, the 
International Electrotechnical Commission (``IEC'') published standard 
IEC 61800-9-2:2017 ``Adjustable speed electrical power drive systems--
Part 9-2: Ecodesign for power drive systems, motor starters, power 
electronics and their driven applications--Energy efficiency indicators 
for power drive systems and motor starters'' (``IEC 61800-9-2:2017''), 
which addresses test methods and reference losses for motor and 
controls combinations (i.e., ``power drive systems''). Specifically, 
Annex A of IEC 61800-9-2:2017 describes reference losses for complete 
drive modules (i.e., controls) and power drive systems at different 
operating points, comparable to the approach already presented in 
section VII.E.1.2 of appendix A to subpart Y of part 431. A second 
edition of this standard is projected to be published in November 2021 
to address further the test method and evaluate the reference losses 
based on test results.\7\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \7\ Electric Motors Systems Annex (EMSA). (March 2019) Round 
Robin of Converter Losses, Report of Results of Phase 1. Available 
at: https://www.motorsystems.org/files/otherfiles/0000/0206/RR_C_report_phase_1_final_1_d_20190322.pdf.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    DOE requests comments on the approach presented in Annex A of IEC 
61800-9-2:2017 to represent reference losses for complete drive modules 
(i.e., controls) and power drive systems (i.e., motor and controls 
combinations) and on whether DOE should incorporate by reference this 
approach in lieu of the calculations in section VII of Appendix A, or 
if any considerations for updates should be postponed until the second 
edition of IEC 61800-9-2 is published.
c. Adoption of Other Consensus-Based Test Procedures
    DOE requests comment on whether another consensus-based test 
procedure could be adopted, with or without modification, and meet the 
criteria in EPCA related to representativeness and test burden. If so, 
DOE requests comment on the benefits and burdens of adopting any such 
industry/voluntary consensus-based or other appropriate test procedure, 
with or without modification.

III. Submission of Comments

    DOE invites all interested parties to submit in writing by December 
14, 2020, comments and information on matters addressed in this notice 
and on other matters relevant to DOE's early assessment of whether 
amendments to the test procedure for pumps would more accurately or 
fully comply with the requirement that the test procedure produces 
results that measure energy use during a representative average use 
cycle for the equipment, and not be unduly burdensome to conduct.
    Submitting comments via https://www.regulations.gov. The https://www.regulations.gov web page will require you to provide your name and 
contact information. Your contact information will be viewable to DOE 
Building Technologies staff only. Your contact information will not be 
publicly viewable except for your first and last names, organization 
name (if any), and submitter representative name (if any). If your 
comment is not processed properly because of technical difficulties, 
DOE will use this information to contact you. If DOE cannot read your 
comment due to technical difficulties and cannot contact you for 
clarification, DOE may not be able to consider your comment.
    However, your contact information will be publicly viewable if you 
include it in the comment or in any documents attached to your comment. 
Any information that you do not want to be publicly viewable should not 
be included in your comment, nor in any document attached to your 
comment. Persons viewing comments will see only first and last names, 
organization names, correspondence containing comments, and any 
documents submitted with the comments.
    Do not submit to https://www.regulations.gov information for which 
disclosure is restricted by statute, such as trade secrets and 
commercial or financial information (hereinafter referred to as 
Confidential Business Information (``CBI'')). Comments submitted 
through https://www.regulations.gov cannot be claimed as CBI. Comments 
received through the website will waive any CBI claims for the 
information submitted. For information on submitting CBI, see the 
Confidential Business Information section.
    DOE processes submissions made through https://www.regulations.gov 
before posting. Normally, comments will be posted within a few days of 
being submitted. However, if large volumes of comments are being 
processed simultaneously, your comment may not be viewable for up to 
several weeks. Please keep the comment tracking number that https://www.regulations.gov provides after you have successfully uploaded your 
comment.
    Submitting comments via email, hand delivery/courier, or postal 
mail. Comments and documents submitted via email, hand delivery/
courier, or postal mail also will be posted to https://www.regulations.gov. If you do not want your personal contact 
information to be publicly viewable, do not include it in your comment 
or any accompanying documents. Instead, provide your contact 
information on a cover letter. Include your first and last names, email 
address, telephone number, and

[[Page 60738]]

optional mailing address. The cover letter will not be publicly 
viewable as long as it does not include any comments.
    Include contact information each time you submit comments, data, 
documents, and other information to DOE. If you submit via postal mail 
or hand delivery/courier, please provide all items on a CD, if 
feasible. It is not necessary to submit printed copies. Faxes will not 
be accepted.
    Comments, data, and other information submitted to DOE 
electronically should be provided in PDF (preferred), Microsoft Word or 
Excel, WordPerfect, or text (ASCII) file format. Provide documents that 
are not secured, written in English and free of any defects or viruses. 
Documents should not contain special characters or any form of 
encryption and, if possible, they should carry the electronic signature 
of the author.
    Campaign form letters. Please submit campaign form letters by the 
originating organization in batches of between 50 to 500 form letters 
per PDF or as one form letter with a list of supporters' names compiled 
into one or more PDFs. This reduces comment processing and posting 
time.
    Confidential Business Information. Pursuant to 10 CFR 1004.11, any 
person submitting information that he or she believes to be 
confidential and exempt by law from public disclosure should submit via 
email, postal mail, or hand delivery/courier two well-marked copies: 
One copy of the document marked confidential including all the 
information believed to be confidential, and one copy of the document 
marked ``non-confidential'' with the information believed to be 
confidential deleted. Submit these documents via email or on a CD, if 
feasible. DOE will make its own determination about the confidential 
status of the information and treat it according to its determination.
    It is DOE's policy that all comments may be included in the public 
docket, without change and as received, including any personal 
information provided in the comments (except information deemed to be 
exempt from public disclosure).
    DOE considers public participation to be a very important part of 
the process for developing test procedures and energy conservation 
standards. DOE actively encourages the participation and interaction of 
the public during the comment period in each stage of this process. 
Interactions with and between members of the public provide a balanced 
discussion of the issues and assist DOE in the process. Anyone who 
wishes to be added to the DOE mailing list to receive future notices 
and information about this process should contact Appliance and 
Equipment Standards Program staff at (202) 287-1445 or via email at 
[email protected].

Signing Authority

    This document of the Department of Energy was signed on September 
22, 2020, by Alexander N. Fitzsimmons, Deputy Assistant Secretary for 
Energy Efficiency Energy, Efficiency and Renewable Energy, pursuant to 
delegated authority from the Secretary of Energy. That document with 
the original signature and date is maintained by DOE. For 
administrative purposes only, and in compliance with requirements of 
the Office of the Federal Register, the undersigned DOE Federal 
Register Liaison Officer has been authorized to sign and submit the 
document in electronic format for publication, as an official document 
of the Department of Energy. This administrative process in no way 
alters the legal effect of this document upon publication in the 
Federal Register.

    Signed in Washington, DC, on September 22, 2020.
Treena V. Garrett,
Federal Register Liaison Officer, U.S. Department of Energy.
[FR Doc. 2020-21276 Filed 9-25-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P
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