Energy Conservation Program: Energy Conservation Standards for Consumer Products; Early Assessment Review; Consumer Furnace Fans, 66465-66471 [2021-25540]
Download as PDF
<![CDATA[
Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 223 / Tuesday, November 23, 2021 / Proposed Rules
• Federal Rulemaking Website: Go to
https://www.regulations.gov and search
for Docket ID NRC–2021–0194.
• NRC’s Agencywide Documents
Access and Management System
(ADAMS): You may obtain publicly
available documents online in the
ADAMS Public Documents collection at
https://www.nrc.gov/reading-rm/
adams.html. To begin the search, select
‘‘Begin Web-based ADAMS Search.’’ For
problems with ADAMS, please contact
the NRC’s Public Document Room (PDR)
reference staff at 1–800–397–4209, 301–
415–4737, or by email to
PDR.Resource@nrc.gov.
• NRC’s PDR: You may examine and
purchase copies of public documents,
by appointment, at the NRC’s Public
Document Room (PDR), Room P1 B35,
One White Flint North, 11555 Rockville
Pike, Rockville, Maryland 20852. To
make an appointment to visit the PDR,
please send an email to PDR.Resource@
nrc.gov or call 1–800–397–4209 or 301–
415–4737, between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00
p.m. (ET), Monday through Friday,
except Federal holidays.
lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with PROPOSALS1
B. Submitting Comments
The NRC encourages electronic
comment submission through the
Federal rulemaking website (https://
www.regulations.gov). Please include
Docket ID NRC–2021–0194 in your
comment submission.
The NRC cautions you not to include
identifying or contact information that
you do not want to be publicly
disclosed in your comment submission.
The NRC will post all comment
submissions at https://
www.regulations.gov as well as enter the
comment submissions into ADAMS.
The NRC does not routinely edit
comment submissions to remove
identifying or contact information.
If you are requesting or aggregating
comments from other persons for
submission to the NRC, then you should
inform those persons not to include
identifying or contact information that
they do not want to be publicly
disclosed in their comment submission.
Your request should state that the NRC
does not routinely edit comment
submissions to remove such information
before making the comment
submissions available to the public or
entering the comment into ADAMS.
techniques that the staff uses in
evaluating specific issues or postulated
events, and to describe information that
the staff needs in its review of
applications for permits and licenses.
The DG, entitled ‘‘Guidance for
Implementation of 10 CFR 50.59,
‘‘Changes, Tests and Experiments,’’ at
Non-power Production or Utilization
Facilities,’’ is temporarily identified by
its task number, DG–2007 (ADAMS
Accession No. ML21243A103).
This DG, if finalized, would describe
an approach that is acceptable to the
staff of the NRC to meet the regulatory
requirements of § 50.59 of title 10 of the
Code of Federal Regulations (10 CFR) at
NPUFs, as defined in the DG. It would
endorse, with clarifications and an
exception, Nuclear Energy Institute
(NEI) 21–06, ‘‘Guidelines for 10 CFR
50.59 Implementation at Non-power
Production and Utilization Facilities,’’
issued August 2021 (ADAMS Accession
No. ML21236A089).
The staff is also issuing for public
comment a draft regulatory analysis
(ADAMS Accession No. ML21243A104)
for DG–1389. The staff developed the
regulatory analysis to assess the value of
issuing DG–2007 as well as alternative
courses of action.
III. Backfitting, Forward Fitting, and
Issue Finality
The issuance of this DG, if finalized,
would not constitute backfitting, as that
term is defined in 10 CFR 50.109,
‘‘Backfitting,’’ because § 50.109 does not
apply to research reactors, testing
facilities, and other non-power facilities
licensed under 10 CFR part 50, as
documented in the preamble to the
proposed rule, ‘‘Non-Power Production
or Utilization Facility License Renewal’’
(82 FR 15643; March 30, 2017).
Dated: November 15, 2021.
For the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
Meraj Rahimi,
Chief, Regulatory Guide and Programs
Management Branch, Division of Engineering,
Office of Nuclear Regulatory Research.
[FR Doc. 2021–25260 Filed 11–22–21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7590–01–P
II. Additional Information
The NRC is issuing for public
comment a DG in the NRC’s ‘‘Regulatory
Guide’’ series. This series was
developed to describe methods that are
acceptable to the NRC staff for
implementing specific parts of the
agency’s regulations, to explain
VerDate Sep<11>2014
17:20 Nov 22, 2021
Jkt 256001
PO 00000
Frm 00004
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
66465
DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
10 CFR Part 430
[EERE–2021–BT–STD–0029]
RIN 1904–AE64
Energy Conservation Program: Energy
Conservation Standards for Consumer
Products; Early Assessment Review;
Consumer Furnace Fans
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 for amended energy
conservation standards for consumer
furnace fans to determine whether to
amend applicable energy conservation
standards for this product. Specifically,
through this request for information
(‘‘RFI’’), DOE seeks data and
information to evaluate whether
amended energy conservation standards
would result in significant savings of
energy; be technologically feasible; and
be economically justified. DOE
welcomes written comments from the
public on any subject within the scope
of this document (including those topics
not specifically 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 are requested and will be
accepted on or before December 23,
2021.
ADDRESSES: Interested persons are
encouraged to submit comments using
the Federal eRulemaking Portal at
www.regulations.gov. Follow the
instructions for submitting comments.
Alternatively, interested persons may
submit comments, identified by docket
number EERE–2021–BT–STD–0029, by
any of the following methods:
1. Federal eRulemaking Portal:
www.regulations.gov. Follow the
instructions for submitting comments.
2. Email: To
ConsumerFurnFan2021STD0029@
ee.doe.gov. Include docket number
EERE–2021–BT–STD–0029 in the
subject line of the message.
No facsimile (‘‘fax’’) transmissions
will be accepted. For detailed
instructions on submitting comments
and additional information on this
process, see section IV of this document.
Although DOE has routinely accepted
public comment submissions through a
variety of mechanisms, including postal
mail and hand delivery/courier, the
Department has found it necessary to
SUMMARY:
E:\FR\FM\23NOP1.SGM
23NOP1
66466
Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 223 / Tuesday, November 23, 2021 / Proposed Rules
make temporary modifications to the
comment submission process in light of
the ongoing coronavirus 2019 (‘‘COVID–
19’’) pandemic. DOE is currently
suspending receipt of public comments
via postal mail and hand delivery/
courier. If a commenter finds that this
change poses an undue hardship, please
contact Appliance Standards Program
staff at (202) 586–1445 to discuss the
need for alternative arrangements. Once
the COVID–19 pandemic health
emergency is resolved, DOE anticipates
resuming all of its regular options for
public comment submission, including
postal mail and hand delivery/courier.
Docket: The docket for this activity,
which includes Federal Register
notices, comments, and other
supporting documents/materials, is
available for review at
www.regulations.gov. All documents in
the docket are listed in the
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:
www.regulations.gov/docket/EERE2021-BT-STD-0029. 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
www.regulations.gov.
Ms.
Catherine Rivest, 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–
7335. Email:
ApplianceStandardsQuestions@
ee.doe.gov.
Ms. Linda Field, U.S. Department of
Energy, Office of the General Counsel,
GC–33, 1000 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20585–0121.
Telephone: (202) 586–3440. Email:
Linda.Field@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.
lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with PROPOSALS1
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
A. Scope & Product Classes
B. Significant Savings of Energy
C. Technological Feasibility
1. Technology Options
2. Screening Analysis
3. Engineering Efficiency Analysis
D. Economic Justification
1. Life-Cycle Cost and Payback Period
Analysis
2. Manufacturer Impact Analysis
III. Submission of Comments
I. Introduction
DOE has established an early
assessment review process to conduct a
more focused analysis to evaluate, based
on statutory criteria, whether a new or
amended energy conservation standard
is warranted. 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 a new or amended
energy conservation standard. If DOE
makes an initial determination that a
new or amended energy conservation
standard would satisfy the applicable
statutory criteria or DOE’s analysis is
inconclusive, DOE would undertake the
preliminary stages of a rulemaking to
issue a new or amended energy
conservation standard. If DOE makes an
initial determination based upon
available evidence that a new or
amended energy conservation standard
would not meet the applicable statutory
criteria, DOE would engage in notice
and comment rulemaking before issuing
a final determination that new or
amended energy conservation standards
are not warranted.
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 B 2 of EPCA
established the Energy Conservation
Program for Consumer Products Other
Than Automobiles. These products
include consumer furnace fans, the
subject of this document. (42 U.S.C.
6295(f)(4)(D))
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. 6291), test procedures (42
U.S.C. 6293), labeling provisions (42
Table of Contents
1 All references to EPCA in this document refer
to the statute as amended through the Energy Act
of 2020, Public Law 116–260 (Dec. 27, 2020).
2 For editorial reasons, upon codification in the
U.S. Code, Part B was redesignated Part A.
I. Introduction
A. Authority
B. Rulemaking History
II. Request for Information
VerDate Sep<11>2014
17:20 Nov 22, 2021
Jkt 256001
PO 00000
Frm 00005
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
U.S.C. 6294), energy conservation
standards (42 U.S.C. 6295), and the
authority to require information and
reports from manufacturers (42 U.S.C.
6296).
Federal energy efficiency
requirements for covered products
established under EPCA generally
supersede State laws and regulations
concerning energy conservation testing,
labeling, and standards. (42 U.S.C.
6297(a)–(c)) DOE may, however, grant
waivers of Federal preemption in
limited instances for particular State
laws or regulations, in accordance with
the procedures and other provisions set
forth under 42 U.S.C. 6297(d).
DOE must follow specific statutory
criteria for prescribing new or amended
standards for covered products. EPCA
requires that any new or amended
energy conservation standard prescribed
by the Secretary of Energy (‘‘Secretary’’)
be designed to achieve the maximum
improvement in energy or water
efficiency that is technologically
feasible and economically justified. (42
U.S.C. 6295(o)(2)(A)) The Secretary may
not prescribe an amended or new
standard that will not result in
significant conservation of energy, or is
not technologically feasible or
economically justified. (42 U.S.C.
6295(o)(3))
EPCA also requires that, not later than
6 years after the issuance of any final
rule establishing or amending a
standard, DOE must publish either a
notice of determination that standards
for the product do not need to be
amended, or a notice of proposed
rulemaking (‘‘NOPR’’) including new
proposed energy conservation standards
(proceeding to a final rule, as
appropriate). (42 U.S.C. 6295(m)(1))
DOE is publishing this RFI to collect
data and information to inform its
decision to satisfy the 6-year-lookback
review requirement.
B. Rulemaking History
DOE established energy conservation
standards at 10 CFR 430.32(y) for
furnace fans through a final rule
published in the Federal Register on
July 3, 2014 (‘‘July 2014 Final Rule’’). 79
FR 38130. Compliance with the
prescribed standards established for
consumer furnace fans in the July 2014
Final Rule was required as of July 3,
2019. DOE’s energy conservation
standard for furnace fans use the fan
energy rating (‘‘FER’’) metric, which is
the ratio of the electrical energy
consumption to airflow, expressed as
watts per 1,000 cubic feet per minute of
airflow (‘‘W/1,000 cfm’’). 10 CFR
430.32(y). The test procedure for
determining FER is establishes at 10
E:\FR\FM\23NOP1.SGM
23NOP1
66467
Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 223 / Tuesday, November 23, 2021 / Proposed Rules
CFR part 430 subpart B appendix AA,
Uniform Test Method for Measuring the
Energy Consumption of Furnace Fans
(‘‘appendix AA’’). In parallel to this
rulemaking, DOE is considering whether
amendments are warranted for the
current test procedure for furnace fans.
On July 7, 2021, DOE published an early
assessment request for information
concerning the test procedure for
furnace fans. 86 FR 35660.
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 an
energy conservation standards
rulemaking. Below DOE has identified
certain topics for which information and
data are requested to assist in the
evaluation of the potential for amended
energy conservation standards. DOE
also welcomes comments on other
issues relevant to its early assessment
that may not specifically be identified in
this document.
A. Scope & Product Classes
When evaluating and establishing
energy conservation standards, DOE
divides covered products into product
classes by the type of energy used, or by
capacity or other performance-related
features that justify differing standards.
(42 U.S.C. 6295(q)) In making a
determination whether a performancerelated feature justifies a different
standard, DOE must consider such
factors as the utility of the feature to the
consumer and other factors DOE
determines are appropriate. (Id.)
A ‘‘furnace fan’’ is ‘‘an electricallypowered device used in a consumer
product for the purpose of circulating
air through ductwork.’’ 10 CFR 430.2.
DOE has established ten product classes
for furnace fans: Non-Weatherized, Non-
Condensing Gas Furnace Fans; NonWeatherized, Condensing Gas Furnace
Fans; Weatherized Non-Condensing Gas
Furnace Fans; Non-Weatherized, NonCondensing, Oil Furnace Fans; NonWeatherized Electric Furnace/Modular
Blower Fans; Mobile Home NonWeatherized, Non-Condensing Gas
Furnace Fans; Mobile Home NonWeatherized, Condensing Gas Furnace
Fans; Mobile Home Electric Furnace/
Modular Blower Fans; Mobile Home
Weatherized Gas Furnace Fans; and
Mobile Home Non-Weatherized Oil
Furnace Fans. 10 CFR 430.32(y). Mobile
Home Weatherized Gas Furnace Fans
and Mobile Home Non-Weatherized Oil
Furnace Fans are not currently subject
to performance standards because DOE
did not have sufficient data to analyze
and establish standards for these
product classes at the time of the July
2014 Final Rule. 79 FR 38180, 38150
(July 3, 2014). The current standards for
furnace fans are shown in Table II–1.
TABLE II–1—ENERGY CONSERVATION STANDARDS FOR COVERED CONSUMER FURNACE FANS *
FER **
(W/1,000 cfm)
Product class
Non-Weatherized, Non-Condensing Gas Furnace Fan (NWG–NC) .............................................................................
Non-Weatherized, Condensing Gas Furnace Fan (NWG–C) .......................................................................................
Weatherized Non-Condensing Gas Furnace Fan (WG–NC) ........................................................................................
Non-Weatherized, Non-Condensing Oil Furnace Fan (NWO–NC) ...............................................................................
Non-Weatherized Electric Furnace/Modular Blower Fan (NWEF/NWMB) ....................................................................
Mobile Home Non-Weatherized, Non-Condensing Gas Furnace Fan (MH–NWG–NC) ...............................................
Mobile Home Non-Weatherized, Condensing Gas Furnace Fan (MH–NWG–C) .........................................................
Mobile Home Electric Furnace/Modular Blower Fan (MH–EF/MB) ...............................................................................
Mobile Home Non-Weatherized Oil Furnace Fan (MH–NWO) .....................................................................................
Mobile Home Weatherized Gas Furnace Fan (MH–WG) ** ..........................................................................................
FER = 0.044
FER = 0.044
FER = 0.044
FER = 0.071
FER = 0.044
FER = 0.071
FER = 0.071
FER = 0.044
Reserved.
Reserved.
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
QMax
QMax
QMax
QMax
QMax
QMax
QMax
QMax
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
182.
195.
199.
382.
165.
222.
240.
101.
lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with PROPOSALS1
* Furnace fans incorporated into hydronic air handlers, small-duct high-velocity (‘‘SDHV’’) modular blowers, SDHV electric furnaces, and CAC/
HP indoor units are not subject to the standards listed in this table.
** QMax is the airflow, in cfm, at the maximum airflow-control setting measured using the final DOE test procedure at 10 CFR part 430, subpart
B, appendix AA.
Additionally, in the analysis
conducted in support of the July 2014
Final Rule, DOE excluded several
products for which it was not aware of
any shipments. These products
included Weatherized Non-Condensing
Oil Furnace Fans; Weatherized Electric
Furnace/Modular Blower Fans; Mobile
Home Weatherized Oil Furnace Fans;
Mobile Home Weatherized Electric
Furnace/Modular Blower Fans; and
Non-Weatherized, Condensing Oil
Furnace Fans; and Hydronic Air
Handlers. 79 FR 38130, 38150 (July 3,
2014). DOE also excluded furnace fans
used in single-package central air
conditioners (‘‘CAC’’) and heat pumps
(‘‘HP’’) and split-system CAC/HP
blower-coil units. 79 FR 38130, 38145
(July 3, 2014). DOE noted that its test
procedure for furnace fans at the time
was not equipped to address these
furnace fans for such products, as would
VerDate Sep<11>2014
17:20 Nov 22, 2021
Jkt 256001
be required for the adoption of
standards under 42 U.S.C. 6295(o)(3). 79
FR 38130, 38149 (July 3, 2014). DOE
stated that it may consider these and
other such products as data information
become available with which to develop
credible analyses for them. 79 FR 38130,
38145–38149 (July 3, 2014).
On March 9, 2021, DOE published a
Decision and Order granting a waiver to
ECR International, Inc. (‘‘ECR’’) for
certain furnace fan basic models from
specified portions of the DOE test
procedure and prescribed an alternate
test procedure for such models.
The basic models for which the
waiver was granted are factory-equipped
for operation at an external static
pressure (‘‘ESP’’) of 0.20 inches water
column (‘‘’’ w.c.’’) and cannot operate
within the ESP range of 0.65″–0.70″ w.c.
required in appendix AA. 86 FR 13530,
13531 (March 9, 2021). The Decision
PO 00000
Frm 00006
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
and Order was based, in part, on ECR’s
statement that for these models, which
are designed for heating only (i.e., not
intended to be paired with a central air
conditioner), the higher ESP required
for the test reduces airflow, which in
turn increases the temperature rise to
the high temperature limit, resulting in
the unit shutting off before the test can
be completed. As a result, DOE is
considering whether separate product
classes are warranted for furnace fans
designed for ‘‘heating only’’
applications. Specifically, DOE is
reviewing whether such products
provide a unique utility and have
performance characteristics that affect
their energy consumption as measured
by the FER metric.
Issue 1: DOE seeks comment on
whether there are any products that are
covered by the definition of ‘‘furnace
fans’’ and should be regulated by DOE,
E:\FR\FM\23NOP1.SGM
23NOP1
66468
Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 223 / Tuesday, November 23, 2021 / Proposed Rules
but are not covered by any of the current
classes of furnace fans that are regulated
by DOE.
Issue 2: DOE seeks information
regarding any other new product classes
it should consider for inclusion in its
analysis. In particular, DOE seeks
information regarding furnace fans
designed for ‘‘heating only’’
applications and whether separate
product classes, with separate energy
conservation standards, are warranted
for such products. DOE also requests
relevant data detailing the
corresponding impacts on energy use
that would justify separate product
classes (i.e., explanation for why the
presence of certain performance-related
features would increase or decrease
energy consumption).
lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with PROPOSALS1
B. Significant Savings of Energy
In the July 2014 Final Rule, DOE
established an energy conservation
standard for furnace fans that is
expected to result in 3.99 quadrillion
British thermal units (‘‘quads’’) of fullfuel-cycle 3 (‘‘FFC’’) energy savings over
a 30-year period. 79 FR 38130, 38131–
38132. In that Final Rule, DOE adopted
TSL 4, which was composed of a mix
of efficiency levels (‘‘ELs’’) 1 and 4. 79
FR 38130, 38184 and 38201 (July 3,
2014). In the corresponding analysis,
DOE estimated that the max-tech level
(EL 6) would have reduced FER values
by at least 10 percent more than EL 1
and EL 4. 79 FR 38130, 38159 (July 3,
2014). Additionally, in the July 2014
Final Rule, DOE estimated that an
energy conservation standard
established at an energy efficiency level
equivalent to that achieved using the
maximum available technology (‘‘maxtech’’) would have resulted in 1.65
additional quads of savings. 79 FR
38130, 38192 (July 3, 2014).
While DOE’s request for information
is not limited to the following issues,
DOE is particularly interested in
comment, information, and data on the
following.
Issue 3: In order to accurately
disaggregate energy savings by product
class, DOE is interested in shipments
data, broken out by product class,
efficiency level, and region.
Issue 4: DOE requests feedback on the
levels of energy savings that could be
expected from the adoption of morestringent standards for furnace fans.
3 The FFC metric includes the energy consumed
in extracting, processing, and transporting primary
fuels (i.e., coal, natural gas, petroleum fuels). The
FFC metric is discussed in DOE’s statement of
policy and notice of policy amendment. 76 FR
51282 (Aug. 18, 2011), as amended at 77 FR 49701
(Aug. 17, 2012).
VerDate Sep<11>2014
17:20 Nov 22, 2021
Jkt 256001
Issue 5: DOE requests data on the
typical operating conditions for furnace
fans when performing heating, cooling,
and constant-circulating functions.
Additionally, DOE seeks field data on
the ESP when furnace fans are in use.
Issue 6: DOE requests data on the
fraction of time spent and furnace fan
energy consumed by system mode
(heating, cooling, constant circulation).
Issue 7: DOE requests feedback and
sources of data or recommendations to
support sizing criteria of furnace fans
for typical consumer space heating and
space cooling applications.
Issue 9: DOE seeks information on
each of the aforementioned technologies
regarding their market adoption, costs,
and any concerns with incorporating
them into products (e.g., impacts on
consumer utility, potential safety
concerns, manufacturing/production/
implementation issues, etc.),
particularly as to changes that may have
occurred since the July 2014 Final Rule.
Issue 10: DOE seeks comment on any
other technology options that it should
consider for inclusion in its analysis
and if these technologies may impact
equipment features or user utility.
C. Technological Feasibility
2. Screening Analysis
1. Technology Options
The purpose of the screening analysis
is to evaluate the technologies that
improve product efficiency to determine
which technologies will be eliminated
from further consideration and which
will be passed to the engineering
analysis for further consideration. DOE
determines whether to eliminate certain
technology options from further
consideration based on the following
criteria: Technological feasibility;
practicability to manufacture, install,
and service; adverse impacts on product
utility or product availability; adverse
impacts on health or safety; and uniquepathway proprietary technologies. 10
CFR part 430, subpart C, appendix A,
6(c)(3).
In the July 2014 Final Rule, DOE
screened out fan housing and airflow
path design modifications as these were
found to increase envelope sizes, which
would adversely impact practicability to
manufacture and install, as well as
product utility. 79 FR 38130, 38153.
Therefore, the technology options that
DOE did not screen out were: (1)
Inverter-driven PSC fan motors; (2)
high-efficiency fan motors; (3) multistage or modulating heating controls;
and (4) backward-inclined impellers. Id.
Issue 11: DOE requests feedback on
what impact, if any, the screening
criteria described in this section would
have on each of the aforementioned
technology options with respect to
furnace fans. Similarly, DOE seeks
information regarding how these same
criteria would affect any other
technology options not already
identified in this document with respect
to their potential use in furnace fans.
Issue 12: With respect to fan housing
and airflow path design modifications,
which were screened out in the
previous rulemaking analysis, DOE
seeks information on whether, based on
current and projected assessments, this
technology option should remain
screened out under the screening
criteria described in this section.
During the analysis conducted in
support of July 2014 Final Rule, DOE
considered a number of technology
options that manufacturers could use to
reduce energy consumption in furnace
fans. In total, DOE considered eight
technology options that would be
expected to improve the efficiency of
furnace fans: (1) Fan housing and
airflow path design modifications; (2)
high-efficiency fan motors (in some
cases paired with multi-stage or
modulating heating controls); (3)
inverter-driven permanent-split
capacitor (‘‘PSC’’) fan motors; (4)
backward-inclined impellers; (5)
constant-airflow brushless permanent
magnet (‘‘BPM’’) motor control relays;
(6) toroidal transformers; (7) switching
mode power supplies; and (8) multistaging and modulating heating
controls. 79 FR 38130, 38150 (July 3,
2014).
Constant-airflow BPM motor control
relays, toroidal transformers, and
switching mode power supplies were
removed from consideration as
technology options because they only
apply to standby mode and off mode
operation and were no longer applicable
once DOE revised its proposed scope of
coverage to no longer address hydronic
air handlers (which is the only furnace
fan product class for which standby
mode and off mode energy consumption
is not already fully accounted for in the
DOE energy conservation standards
rulemakings for consumer furnaces and
residential CAC and HPs). 79 FR 38130,
38150 (July 3, 2014).
Issue 8: DOE seeks information on the
aforementioned technologies, including
their applicability to the current market
and how these technologies may impact
the energy use of furnace fans as
measured according to the DOE test
procedure. DOE also seeks information
on how these technologies may have
changed since they were considered in
the July 2014 Final Rule analysis.
PO 00000
Frm 00007
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
E:\FR\FM\23NOP1.SGM
23NOP1
lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with PROPOSALS1
Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 223 / Tuesday, November 23, 2021 / Proposed Rules
3. Engineering Efficiency Analysis
The engineering analysis estimates
the cost-efficiency relationship of
equipment at different levels of
increased energy efficiency (‘‘efficiency
levels’’). This relationship serves as the
basis for the cost-benefit calculations for
consumers, manufacturers, and the
Nation, as described further in section
II.D of this document.
As discussed, the current energy
conservation standard for each furnace
fan product class is based on FER, in
watts per 1,000 CFM, and determined
according to an equation using the
furnace fan’s airflow (in CFM) at the
maximum airflow-control setting
measured using the DOE test procedure
at appendix AA. The current standards
for furnace fans are found at 10 CFR
430.32(y).
As part of DOE’s analysis, DOE
develops efficiency levels as potential
energy conservation standards to
evaluate in the rulemaking analyses.
Among these, DOE typically establishes
efficiency levels at the maximumavailable and maximum technologically
feasible (‘‘max-tech’’) efficiencies. The
maximum-available efficiency level
represents the highest efficiency units
currently available on the market. The
max-tech level represents the maximum
improvement in energy efficiency or
maximum reduction in energy use that
is technologically feasible.
DOE has performed an initial review
of furnace fan basic models reported in
DOE’s Compliance Certification
Management System (‘‘CCMS’’)
Database,4 to assess the potential to
improve efficiency relative to current
(i.e., baseline) standard levels. DOE
observed that models are currently
available with FERs significantly lower
than the currently allowable FER energy
conservation standards. For example,
DOE has observed certain models in the
MH–NWG–C, NWG–C, NWO–NC, and
WG–NC classes that have certified FER
ratings at least 100 W/1,000 cfm below
their applicable standards. For the
NWG–C class in particular, certain
models have FER ratings that are less
than 10% of their applicable FER
standard. Further, several models from
the NWO–NC class have ratings more
than 300 W/1,000 cfm below their
applicable standards, which correspond
to ratings that are approximately 30% of
the applicable standard. DOE has also
observed that certain technology
options, and in particular constantairflow BPM motors, are incorporated in
4 Available at www.regulations.doe.gov/
certification-data/CCMS-4-Furnace_
Fans.html#q=Product_Group_
s%3A%22Furnace%20Fans%22.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
17:20 Nov 22, 2021
Jkt 256001
models at both baseline and max-tech
efficiency levels.
Issue 13: DOE seeks input on whether
the maximum-available efficiency levels
(i.e., the lowest available FER levels) are
appropriate and technologically feasible
for consideration as possible energy
conservation standards for furnace fans
for each current product class. DOE
seeks information on the design options
incorporated into these maximumavailable models, and also on the order
in which manufacturers incorporate
each design option when improving
efficiency from the baseline to the
maximum-available efficiency level (i.e.,
which design options would be
included at intermediate efficiency
levels between the baseline and
maximum-available). DOE also requests
information on the design changes
implemented to achieve efficiencies
greater than the max-tech considered in
the July 2014 Final Rule analysis.
Issue 14: DOE seeks feedback on what
design options would be incorporated at
a max-tech efficiency level, and the
efficiencies associated with those levels,
for each product class. As part of this
request, DOE also seeks information as
to whether there are limitations on the
use of certain combinations of design
options. DOE is particularly interested
in any design options that may have
become available since the July 2014
Final Rule that would allow greater
energy savings relative to the max-tech
efficiency levels assessed for each
product class in that rulemaking.
Issue 15: DOE seeks input on the costs
associated with design options
incorporated into furnace fans to
improve efficiency, including the design
options incorporated into the
maximum-available models. DOE also
requests information on the investments
necessary to incorporate specific design
options, including, but not limited to,
costs related to new or modified tooling
(if any), materials, engineering and
development efforts to implement each
design option, and manufacturing/
production impacts.
D. Economic Justification
In determining whether a proposed
energy conservation standard is
economically justified, DOE analyzes,
among other things, the potential
economic impact on consumers,
manufacturers, and the Nation. DOE
seeks comment on whether there are
economic barriers to the adoption of
more-stringent energy conservation
standards. DOE also seeks comment and
data on any aspects of its economic
justification analysis from the July 2014
Final Rule that may indicate whether a
more-stringent energy conservation
PO 00000
Frm 00008
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
66469
standard would be economically
justified or cost effective.
While DOE’s request for information
is not limited to the following issues,
DOE is particularly interested in
comment, information, and data on the
following.
1. Life-Cycle Cost and Payback Period
Analysis
DOE conducts the life-cycle cost
(‘‘LCC’’) and payback period (‘‘PBP’’)
analysis to evaluate the economic effects
of potential energy conservation
standards for furnace fans on individual
consumers. For any given efficiency
level, DOE measures the PBP and the
change in LCC relative to an estimated
baseline level. The LCC is the total
consumer expense over the life of the
equipment, consisting of purchase,
installation, and operating costs
(expenses for energy use, maintenance,
and repair). The PBP is the estimated
amount of time (in years) it takes
consumers to recover the increased
purchase cost (including installation) of
a more-efficient product through lower
operating costs. Inputs to the calculation
of total installed cost include the cost of
the equipment—which includes the
manufacturer selling price, distribution
channel markups, and sales taxes—and
installation costs. Inputs to the
calculation of operating expenses
include annual energy consumption,
energy prices and price projections,
repair and maintenance costs,
equipment lifetimes, discount rates, and
the year that compliance with new and
amended standards is required.
Issue 16: DOE requests feedback on
the typical distribution channels for
furnace fans. In particular, DOE seeks
comment on whether there is a market
share for replacement furnace fans. DOE
further seeks comment on whether there
is a significant retail distribution
channel for furnace fans.
Issue 17: DOE requests shipments
data for furnace fans, broken down by
product class and region, that show
current market shares by efficiency
level. DOE also seeks input on similar
historic data.
Issue 18: DOE requests comment on
the anticipated future market share of
higher-efficiency products as compared
to less-efficient products for each
furnace fan product class, in the absence
of amended efficiency standards.
2. Manufacturer Impact Analysis
The purpose of the manufacturer
impact analysis (‘‘MIA’’) is to estimate
the financial impact of amended energy
conservation standards on
manufacturers of furnace fans, and to
evaluate the potential impact of such
E:\FR\FM\23NOP1.SGM
23NOP1
lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with PROPOSALS1
66470
Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 223 / Tuesday, November 23, 2021 / Proposed Rules
standards on direct employment and
manufacturing capacity. As part of the
MIA, DOE intends to analyze impacts of
amended energy conservation standards
on subgroups of manufacturers of
covered equipment, including small
business manufacturers. DOE uses the
Small Business Administration’s
(‘‘SBA’’) small business size standards
to determine whether manufacturers
qualify as small businesses, which are
listed by the North American Industry
Classification System (‘‘NAICS’’).5
Manufacturing of furnace fans is
classified under NAICS 333415, ‘‘Airconditioning and warm air heating
equipment and commercial and
industrial refrigeration equipment
manufacturing,’’ and the SBA sets a
threshold of 1,250 employees or less for
a domestic entity to be considered as a
small business. This employee
threshold includes all employees in a
business’ parent company and any other
subsidiaries.
One aspect of assessing manufacturer
burden involves examining the
cumulative impact of multiple DOE
standards and the product-specific
regulatory actions of other federal
agencies that affect the manufacturers of
a covered product or equipment.
Multiple regulations affecting the same
manufacturer can strain profits and lead
companies to abandon product lines or
markets with lower expected future
returns than competing products. For
these reasons, DOE conducts an analysis
of cumulative regulatory burden as part
of its rulemakings pertaining to
appliance efficiency.
Issue 19: To the extent feasible, DOE
seeks the names and contact
information of any domestic or foreignbased manufacturers of the covered
product in the United States.
Issue 20: DOE requests the names and
contact information of small business
manufacturers, as defined by the SBA’s
size threshold, that distribute covered
products in the United States. In
addition, DOE requests comment on any
other manufacturer subgroups that
could disproportionally be impacted by
amended energy conservation
standards. DOE requests feedback on
any potential approaches that could be
considered to address impacts on
manufacturers, including small
businesses.
Issue 21: DOE requests information
regarding how the cumulative
regulatory burden impacts
manufacturers of furnace fans associated
with (1) other DOE standards applying
to different products or equipment that
5 Available online at: www.sba.gov/document/
support--table-size-standards.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
17:20 Nov 22, 2021
Jkt 256001
these manufacturers may also make, and
(2) product-specific regulatory actions of
other Federal agencies. DOE also
requests comment on its methodology
for computing cumulative regulatory
burden and whether there are any
flexibilities it can consider that would
reduce this burden while remaining
consistent with the requirements of
EPCA.
III. Submission of Comments
DOE invites all interested parties to
submit in writing by the date under the
DATES heading, comments and
information on matters addressed in this
notification and on other matters
relevant to DOE’s early assessment of
whether more-stringent energy
conservation standards are warranted
for furnace fans.
Submitting comments via
www.regulations.gov. The
www.regulations.gov web page requires
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. If
this instruction is followed, 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 information to
www.regulations.gov 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 www.regulations.gov
cannot be claimed as CBI. Anyone
submitting comments through the
website will waive any CBI claims on
the information submitted. For
information on submitting CBI, see the
Confidential Business Information
section.
PO 00000
Frm 00009
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
DOE processes submissions made
through 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 www.regulations.gov
provides after you have successfully
uploaded your comment.
Submitting comments via email.
Comments and documents submitted
via email also will be posted to
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 in a cover letter.
Include your first and last names, email
address, telephone number, and
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. 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 only 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 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. 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,
E:\FR\FM\23NOP1.SGM
23NOP1
Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 223 / Tuesday, November 23, 2021 / Proposed Rules
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
ApplianceStandardsQuestions@
ee.doe.gov.
Signing Authority
This document of the Department of
Energy was signed on November 17,
2021, by Kelly J. Speakes-Backman,
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for
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 November
18, 2021.
Treena V. Garrett,
Federal Register Liaison Officer, U.S.
Department of Energy.
[FR Doc. 2021–25540 Filed 11–22–21; 8:45 am]
lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with PROPOSALS1
BILLING CODE 6450–01–P
VerDate Sep<11>2014
17:20 Nov 22, 2021
Jkt 256001
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2021–1013; Project
Identifier MCAI–2020–01530–T]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; BAE
Systems (Operations) Limited
Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
AGENCY:
The FAA proposes to
supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD)
2017–12–08, which applies to all BAE
Systems (Operations) Limited Model
BAe 146–100A, –200A, and –300A
airplanes; and Model Avro 146–RJ70A,
146–RJ85A, and 146–RJ100A airplanes.
AD 2017–12–08 requires revising the
maintenance or inspection program, as
applicable, to incorporate new or
revised structural inspection
requirements. Since the FAA issued AD
2017–12–08, the FAA has determined
that new or more restrictive
airworthiness limitations are necessary.
This proposed AD would require
revising the existing maintenance or
inspection program, as applicable, to
incorporate new or more restrictive
airworthiness limitations. The FAA is
proposing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: The FAA must receive comments
on this proposed AD by January 7, 2022.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments,
using the procedures found in 14 CFR
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following
methods:
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
instructions for submitting comments.
• Fax: 202–493–2251.
• Mail: U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590.
• Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail
address above between 9 a.m. and 5
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays.
For service information identified in
this NPRM, contact BAE Systems
(Operations) Limited, Customer
Information Department, Prestwick
International Airport, Ayrshire, KA9
2RW, Scotland, United Kingdom;
telephone +44 1292 675207; fax +44
1292 675704; email RApublications@
baesystems.com; internet https://
SUMMARY:
PO 00000
Frm 00010
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
66471
www.baesystems.com/Businesses/
RegionalAircraft/index.htm. You may
view this service information at the
FAA, Airworthiness Products Section,
Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South
216th St., Des Moines, WA. For
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on
the internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–
1013; or in person at Docket Operations
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
The AD docket contains this NPRM, any
comments received, and other
information. The street address for
Docket Operations is listed above.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Todd Thompson, Aerospace Engineer,
Large Aircraft Section, International
Validation Branch, FAA, 2200 South
216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198;
telephone and fax 206–231–3228; email
todd.thompson@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
The FAA invites you to send any
written relevant data, views, or
arguments about this proposal. Send
your comments to an address listed
under ADDRESSES. Include ‘‘Docket No.
FAA–2021–1013; Project Identifier
MCAI–2020–01530–T’’ at the beginning
of your comments. The most helpful
comments reference a specific portion of
the proposal, explain the reason for any
recommended change, and include
supporting data. The FAA will consider
all comments received by the closing
date and may amend the proposal
because of those comments.
Except for Confidential Business
Information (CBI) as described in the
following paragraph, and other
information as described in 14 CFR
11.35, the FAA will post all comments
received, without change, to https://
www.regulations.gov, including any
personal information you provide. The
agency will also post a report
summarizing each substantive verbal
contact received about this proposed
AD.
Confidential Business Information
CBI is commercial or financial
information that is both customarily and
actually treated as private by its owner.
Under the Freedom of Information Act
(FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt
from public disclosure. If your
comments responsive to this NPRM
contain commercial or financial
information that is customarily treated
E:\FR\FM\23NOP1.SGM
23NOP1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 223 (Tuesday, November 23, 2021)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 66465-66471]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-25540]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
10 CFR Part 430
[EERE-2021-BT-STD-0029]
RIN 1904-AE64
Energy Conservation Program: Energy Conservation Standards for
Consumer Products; Early Assessment Review; Consumer Furnace Fans
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 for amended energy conservation standards for
consumer furnace fans to determine whether to amend applicable energy
conservation standards for this product. Specifically, through this
request for information (``RFI''), DOE seeks data and information to
evaluate whether amended energy conservation standards would result in
significant savings of energy; be technologically feasible; and be
economically justified. DOE welcomes written comments from the public
on any subject within the scope of this document (including those
topics not specifically 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 are requested and will be
accepted on or before December 23, 2021.
ADDRESSES: Interested persons are encouraged to submit comments using
the Federal eRulemaking Portal at www.regulations.gov. Follow the
instructions for submitting comments. Alternatively, interested persons
may submit comments, identified by docket number EERE-2021-BT-STD-0029,
by any of the following methods:
1. Federal eRulemaking Portal: www.regulations.gov. Follow the
instructions for submitting comments.
2. Email: To [email protected]. Include docket
number EERE-2021-BT-STD-0029 in the subject line of the message.
No facsimile (``fax'') transmissions will be accepted. For detailed
instructions on submitting comments and additional information on this
process, see section IV of this document.
Although DOE has routinely accepted public comment submissions
through a variety of mechanisms, including postal mail and hand
delivery/courier, the Department has found it necessary to
[[Page 66466]]
make temporary modifications to the comment submission process in light
of the ongoing coronavirus 2019 (``COVID-19'') pandemic. DOE is
currently suspending receipt of public comments via postal mail and
hand delivery/courier. If a commenter finds that this change poses an
undue hardship, please contact Appliance Standards Program staff at
(202) 586-1445 to discuss the need for alternative arrangements. Once
the COVID-19 pandemic health emergency is resolved, DOE anticipates
resuming all of its regular options for public comment submission,
including postal mail and hand delivery/courier.
Docket: The docket for this activity, which includes Federal
Register notices, comments, and other supporting documents/materials,
is available for review at www.regulations.gov. All documents in the
docket are listed in the 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: www.regulations.gov/docket/EERE-2021-BT-STD-0029. 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
www.regulations.gov.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. Catherine Rivest, 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) 586-7335. Email:
[email protected].
Ms. Linda Field, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the General
Counsel, GC-33, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20585-0121.
Telephone: (202) 586-3440. 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. Scope & Product Classes
B. Significant Savings of Energy
C. Technological Feasibility
1. Technology Options
2. Screening Analysis
3. Engineering Efficiency Analysis
D. Economic Justification
1. Life-Cycle Cost and Payback Period Analysis
2. Manufacturer Impact Analysis
III. Submission of Comments
I. Introduction
DOE has established an early assessment review process to conduct a
more focused analysis to evaluate, based on statutory criteria, whether
a new or amended energy conservation standard is warranted. 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 a new or
amended energy conservation standard. If DOE makes an initial
determination that a new or amended energy conservation standard would
satisfy the applicable statutory criteria or DOE's analysis is
inconclusive, DOE would undertake the preliminary stages of a
rulemaking to issue a new or amended energy conservation standard. If
DOE makes an initial determination based upon available evidence that a
new or amended energy conservation standard would not meet the
applicable statutory criteria, DOE would engage in notice and comment
rulemaking before issuing a final determination that new or amended
energy conservation standards are not warranted.
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 B \2\ of EPCA established the Energy
Conservation Program for Consumer Products Other Than Automobiles.
These products include consumer furnace fans, the subject of this
document. (42 U.S.C. 6295(f)(4)(D))
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ All references to EPCA in this document refer to the statute
as amended through the Energy Act of 2020, Public Law 116-260 (Dec.
27, 2020).
\2\ For editorial reasons, upon codification in the U.S. Code,
Part B was redesignated Part 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.
6291), test procedures (42 U.S.C. 6293), labeling provisions (42 U.S.C.
6294), energy conservation standards (42 U.S.C. 6295), and the
authority to require information and reports from manufacturers (42
U.S.C. 6296).
Federal energy efficiency requirements for covered products
established under EPCA generally supersede State laws and regulations
concerning energy conservation testing, labeling, and standards. (42
U.S.C. 6297(a)-(c)) DOE may, however, grant waivers of Federal
preemption in limited instances for particular State laws or
regulations, in accordance with the procedures and other provisions set
forth under 42 U.S.C. 6297(d).
DOE must follow specific statutory criteria for prescribing new or
amended standards for covered products. EPCA requires that any new or
amended energy conservation standard prescribed by the Secretary of
Energy (``Secretary'') be designed to achieve the maximum improvement
in energy or water efficiency that is technologically feasible and
economically justified. (42 U.S.C. 6295(o)(2)(A)) The Secretary may not
prescribe an amended or new standard that will not result in
significant conservation of energy, or is not technologically feasible
or economically justified. (42 U.S.C. 6295(o)(3))
EPCA also requires that, not later than 6 years after the issuance
of any final rule establishing or amending a standard, DOE must publish
either a notice of determination that standards for the product do not
need to be amended, or a notice of proposed rulemaking (``NOPR'')
including new proposed energy conservation standards (proceeding to a
final rule, as appropriate). (42 U.S.C. 6295(m)(1)) DOE is publishing
this RFI to collect data and information to inform its decision to
satisfy the 6-year-lookback review requirement.
B. Rulemaking History
DOE established energy conservation standards at 10 CFR 430.32(y)
for furnace fans through a final rule published in the Federal Register
on July 3, 2014 (``July 2014 Final Rule''). 79 FR 38130. Compliance
with the prescribed standards established for consumer furnace fans in
the July 2014 Final Rule was required as of July 3, 2019. DOE's energy
conservation standard for furnace fans use the fan energy rating
(``FER'') metric, which is the ratio of the electrical energy
consumption to airflow, expressed as watts per 1,000 cubic feet per
minute of airflow (``W/1,000 cfm''). 10 CFR 430.32(y). The test
procedure for determining FER is establishes at 10
[[Page 66467]]
CFR part 430 subpart B appendix AA, Uniform Test Method for Measuring
the Energy Consumption of Furnace Fans (``appendix AA''). In parallel
to this rulemaking, DOE is considering whether amendments are warranted
for the current test procedure for furnace fans. On July 7, 2021, DOE
published an early assessment request for information concerning the
test procedure for furnace fans. 86 FR 35660.
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 an energy conservation standards rulemaking. Below DOE has
identified certain topics for which information and data are requested
to assist in the evaluation of the potential for amended energy
conservation standards. DOE also welcomes comments on other issues
relevant to its early assessment that may not specifically be
identified in this document.
A. Scope & Product Classes
When evaluating and establishing energy conservation standards, DOE
divides covered products into product classes by the type of energy
used, or by capacity or other performance-related features that justify
differing standards. (42 U.S.C. 6295(q)) In making a determination
whether a performance-related feature justifies a different standard,
DOE must consider such factors as the utility of the feature to the
consumer and other factors DOE determines are appropriate. (Id.)
A ``furnace fan'' is ``an electrically-powered device used in a
consumer product for the purpose of circulating air through ductwork.''
10 CFR 430.2. DOE has established ten product classes for furnace fans:
Non-Weatherized, Non-Condensing Gas Furnace Fans; Non-Weatherized,
Condensing Gas Furnace Fans; Weatherized Non-Condensing Gas Furnace
Fans; Non-Weatherized, Non-Condensing, Oil Furnace Fans; Non-
Weatherized Electric Furnace/Modular Blower Fans; Mobile Home Non-
Weatherized, Non-Condensing Gas Furnace Fans; Mobile Home Non-
Weatherized, Condensing Gas Furnace Fans; Mobile Home Electric Furnace/
Modular Blower Fans; Mobile Home Weatherized Gas Furnace Fans; and
Mobile Home Non-Weatherized Oil Furnace Fans. 10 CFR 430.32(y). Mobile
Home Weatherized Gas Furnace Fans and Mobile Home Non-Weatherized Oil
Furnace Fans are not currently subject to performance standards because
DOE did not have sufficient data to analyze and establish standards for
these product classes at the time of the July 2014 Final Rule. 79 FR
38180, 38150 (July 3, 2014). The current standards for furnace fans are
shown in Table II-1.
Table II-1--Energy Conservation Standards for Covered Consumer Furnace
Fans *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Product class FER ** (W/1,000 cfm)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-Weatherized, Non-Condensing Gas Furnace Fan FER = 0.044 x QMax +
(NWG-NC). 182.
Non-Weatherized, Condensing Gas Furnace Fan (NWG- FER = 0.044 x QMax +
C). 195.
Weatherized Non-Condensing Gas Furnace Fan (WG- FER = 0.044 x QMax +
NC). 199.
Non-Weatherized, Non-Condensing Oil Furnace Fan FER = 0.071 x QMax +
(NWO-NC). 382.
Non-Weatherized Electric Furnace/Modular Blower FER = 0.044 x QMax +
Fan (NWEF/NWMB). 165.
Mobile Home Non-Weatherized, Non-Condensing Gas FER = 0.071 x QMax +
Furnace Fan (MH-NWG-NC). 222.
Mobile Home Non-Weatherized, Condensing Gas FER = 0.071 x QMax +
Furnace Fan (MH-NWG-C). 240.
Mobile Home Electric Furnace/Modular Blower Fan FER = 0.044 x QMax +
(MH-EF/MB). 101.
Mobile Home Non-Weatherized Oil Furnace Fan (MH- Reserved.
NWO).
Mobile Home Weatherized Gas Furnace Fan (MH-WG) Reserved.
**.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Furnace fans incorporated into hydronic air handlers, small-duct high-
velocity (``SDHV'') modular blowers, SDHV electric furnaces, and CAC/
HP indoor units are not subject to the standards listed in this table.
** QMax is the airflow, in cfm, at the maximum airflow-control setting
measured using the final DOE test procedure at 10 CFR part 430,
subpart B, appendix AA.
Additionally, in the analysis conducted in support of the July 2014
Final Rule, DOE excluded several products for which it was not aware of
any shipments. These products included Weatherized Non-Condensing Oil
Furnace Fans; Weatherized Electric Furnace/Modular Blower Fans; Mobile
Home Weatherized Oil Furnace Fans; Mobile Home Weatherized Electric
Furnace/Modular Blower Fans; and Non-Weatherized, Condensing Oil
Furnace Fans; and Hydronic Air Handlers. 79 FR 38130, 38150 (July 3,
2014). DOE also excluded furnace fans used in single-package central
air conditioners (``CAC'') and heat pumps (``HP'') and split-system
CAC/HP blower-coil units. 79 FR 38130, 38145 (July 3, 2014). DOE noted
that its test procedure for furnace fans at the time was not equipped
to address these furnace fans for such products, as would be required
for the adoption of standards under 42 U.S.C. 6295(o)(3). 79 FR 38130,
38149 (July 3, 2014). DOE stated that it may consider these and other
such products as data information become available with which to
develop credible analyses for them. 79 FR 38130, 38145-38149 (July 3,
2014).
On March 9, 2021, DOE published a Decision and Order granting a
waiver to ECR International, Inc. (``ECR'') for certain furnace fan
basic models from specified portions of the DOE test procedure and
prescribed an alternate test procedure for such models.
The basic models for which the waiver was granted are factory-
equipped for operation at an external static pressure (``ESP'') of 0.20
inches water column (``'' w.c.'') and cannot operate within the ESP
range of 0.65''-0.70'' w.c. required in appendix AA. 86 FR 13530, 13531
(March 9, 2021). The Decision and Order was based, in part, on ECR's
statement that for these models, which are designed for heating only
(i.e., not intended to be paired with a central air conditioner), the
higher ESP required for the test reduces airflow, which in turn
increases the temperature rise to the high temperature limit, resulting
in the unit shutting off before the test can be completed. As a result,
DOE is considering whether separate product classes are warranted for
furnace fans designed for ``heating only'' applications. Specifically,
DOE is reviewing whether such products provide a unique utility and
have performance characteristics that affect their energy consumption
as measured by the FER metric.
Issue 1: DOE seeks comment on whether there are any products that
are covered by the definition of ``furnace fans'' and should be
regulated by DOE,
[[Page 66468]]
but are not covered by any of the current classes of furnace fans that
are regulated by DOE.
Issue 2: DOE seeks information regarding any other new product
classes it should consider for inclusion in its analysis. In
particular, DOE seeks information regarding furnace fans designed for
``heating only'' applications and whether separate product classes,
with separate energy conservation standards, are warranted for such
products. DOE also requests relevant data detailing the corresponding
impacts on energy use that would justify separate product classes
(i.e., explanation for why the presence of certain performance-related
features would increase or decrease energy consumption).
B. Significant Savings of Energy
In the July 2014 Final Rule, DOE established an energy conservation
standard for furnace fans that is expected to result in 3.99
quadrillion British thermal units (``quads'') of full-fuel-cycle \3\
(``FFC'') energy savings over a 30-year period. 79 FR 38130, 38131-
38132. In that Final Rule, DOE adopted TSL 4, which was composed of a
mix of efficiency levels (``ELs'') 1 and 4. 79 FR 38130, 38184 and
38201 (July 3, 2014). In the corresponding analysis, DOE estimated that
the max-tech level (EL 6) would have reduced FER values by at least 10
percent more than EL 1 and EL 4. 79 FR 38130, 38159 (July 3, 2014).
Additionally, in the July 2014 Final Rule, DOE estimated that an energy
conservation standard established at an energy efficiency level
equivalent to that achieved using the maximum available technology
(``max-tech'') would have resulted in 1.65 additional quads of savings.
79 FR 38130, 38192 (July 3, 2014).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\3\ The FFC metric includes the energy consumed in extracting,
processing, and transporting primary fuels (i.e., coal, natural gas,
petroleum fuels). The FFC metric is discussed in DOE's statement of
policy and notice of policy amendment. 76 FR 51282 (Aug. 18, 2011),
as amended at 77 FR 49701 (Aug. 17, 2012).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
While DOE's request for information is not limited to the following
issues, DOE is particularly interested in comment, information, and
data on the following.
Issue 3: In order to accurately disaggregate energy savings by
product class, DOE is interested in shipments data, broken out by
product class, efficiency level, and region.
Issue 4: DOE requests feedback on the levels of energy savings that
could be expected from the adoption of more-stringent standards for
furnace fans.
Issue 5: DOE requests data on the typical operating conditions for
furnace fans when performing heating, cooling, and constant-circulating
functions. Additionally, DOE seeks field data on the ESP when furnace
fans are in use.
Issue 6: DOE requests data on the fraction of time spent and
furnace fan energy consumed by system mode (heating, cooling, constant
circulation).
Issue 7: DOE requests feedback and sources of data or
recommendations to support sizing criteria of furnace fans for typical
consumer space heating and space cooling applications.
C. Technological Feasibility
1. Technology Options
During the analysis conducted in support of July 2014 Final Rule,
DOE considered a number of technology options that manufacturers could
use to reduce energy consumption in furnace fans. In total, DOE
considered eight technology options that would be expected to improve
the efficiency of furnace fans: (1) Fan housing and airflow path design
modifications; (2) high-efficiency fan motors (in some cases paired
with multi-stage or modulating heating controls); (3) inverter-driven
permanent-split capacitor (``PSC'') fan motors; (4) backward-inclined
impellers; (5) constant-airflow brushless permanent magnet (``BPM'')
motor control relays; (6) toroidal transformers; (7) switching mode
power supplies; and (8) multi-staging and modulating heating controls.
79 FR 38130, 38150 (July 3, 2014).
Constant-airflow BPM motor control relays, toroidal transformers,
and switching mode power supplies were removed from consideration as
technology options because they only apply to standby mode and off mode
operation and were no longer applicable once DOE revised its proposed
scope of coverage to no longer address hydronic air handlers (which is
the only furnace fan product class for which standby mode and off mode
energy consumption is not already fully accounted for in the DOE energy
conservation standards rulemakings for consumer furnaces and
residential CAC and HPs). 79 FR 38130, 38150 (July 3, 2014).
Issue 8: DOE seeks information on the aforementioned technologies,
including their applicability to the current market and how these
technologies may impact the energy use of furnace fans as measured
according to the DOE test procedure. DOE also seeks information on how
these technologies may have changed since they were considered in the
July 2014 Final Rule analysis.
Issue 9: DOE seeks information on each of the aforementioned
technologies regarding their market adoption, costs, and any concerns
with incorporating them into products (e.g., impacts on consumer
utility, potential safety concerns, manufacturing/production/
implementation issues, etc.), particularly as to changes that may have
occurred since the July 2014 Final Rule.
Issue 10: DOE seeks comment on any other technology options that it
should consider for inclusion in its analysis and if these technologies
may impact equipment features or user utility.
2. Screening Analysis
The purpose of the screening analysis is to evaluate the
technologies that improve product efficiency to determine which
technologies will be eliminated from further consideration and which
will be passed to the engineering analysis for further consideration.
DOE determines whether to eliminate certain technology options from
further consideration based on the following criteria: Technological
feasibility; practicability to manufacture, install, and service;
adverse impacts on product utility or product availability; adverse
impacts on health or safety; and unique-pathway proprietary
technologies. 10 CFR part 430, subpart C, appendix A, 6(c)(3).
In the July 2014 Final Rule, DOE screened out fan housing and
airflow path design modifications as these were found to increase
envelope sizes, which would adversely impact practicability to
manufacture and install, as well as product utility. 79 FR 38130,
38153. Therefore, the technology options that DOE did not screen out
were: (1) Inverter-driven PSC fan motors; (2) high-efficiency fan
motors; (3) multi-stage or modulating heating controls; and (4)
backward-inclined impellers. Id.
Issue 11: DOE requests feedback on what impact, if any, the
screening criteria described in this section would have on each of the
aforementioned technology options with respect to furnace fans.
Similarly, DOE seeks information regarding how these same criteria
would affect any other technology options not already identified in
this document with respect to their potential use in furnace fans.
Issue 12: With respect to fan housing and airflow path design
modifications, which were screened out in the previous rulemaking
analysis, DOE seeks information on whether, based on current and
projected assessments, this technology option should remain screened
out under the screening criteria described in this section.
[[Page 66469]]
3. Engineering Efficiency Analysis
The engineering analysis estimates the cost-efficiency relationship
of equipment at different levels of increased energy efficiency
(``efficiency levels''). This relationship serves as the basis for the
cost-benefit calculations for consumers, manufacturers, and the Nation,
as described further in section II.D of this document.
As discussed, the current energy conservation standard for each
furnace fan product class is based on FER, in watts per 1,000 CFM, and
determined according to an equation using the furnace fan's airflow (in
CFM) at the maximum airflow-control setting measured using the DOE test
procedure at appendix AA. The current standards for furnace fans are
found at 10 CFR 430.32(y).
As part of DOE's analysis, DOE develops efficiency levels as
potential energy conservation standards to evaluate in the rulemaking
analyses. Among these, DOE typically establishes efficiency levels at
the maximum-available and maximum technologically feasible (``max-
tech'') efficiencies. The maximum-available efficiency level represents
the highest efficiency units currently available on the market. The
max-tech level represents the maximum improvement in energy efficiency
or maximum reduction in energy use that is technologically feasible.
DOE has performed an initial review of furnace fan basic models
reported in DOE's Compliance Certification Management System (``CCMS'')
Database,\4\ to assess the potential to improve efficiency relative to
current (i.e., baseline) standard levels. DOE observed that models are
currently available with FERs significantly lower than the currently
allowable FER energy conservation standards. For example, DOE has
observed certain models in the MH-NWG-C, NWG-C, NWO-NC, and WG-NC
classes that have certified FER ratings at least 100 W/1,000 cfm below
their applicable standards. For the NWG-C class in particular, certain
models have FER ratings that are less than 10% of their applicable FER
standard. Further, several models from the NWO-NC class have ratings
more than 300 W/1,000 cfm below their applicable standards, which
correspond to ratings that are approximately 30% of the applicable
standard. DOE has also observed that certain technology options, and in
particular constant-airflow BPM motors, are incorporated in models at
both baseline and max-tech efficiency levels.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\4\ Available at www.regulations.doe.gov/certification-data/CCMS-4-Furnace_Fans.html#q=Product_Group_s%3A%22Furnace%20Fans%22.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Issue 13: DOE seeks input on whether the maximum-available
efficiency levels (i.e., the lowest available FER levels) are
appropriate and technologically feasible for consideration as possible
energy conservation standards for furnace fans for each current product
class. DOE seeks information on the design options incorporated into
these maximum-available models, and also on the order in which
manufacturers incorporate each design option when improving efficiency
from the baseline to the maximum-available efficiency level (i.e.,
which design options would be included at intermediate efficiency
levels between the baseline and maximum-available). DOE also requests
information on the design changes implemented to achieve efficiencies
greater than the max-tech considered in the July 2014 Final Rule
analysis.
Issue 14: DOE seeks feedback on what design options would be
incorporated at a max-tech efficiency level, and the efficiencies
associated with those levels, for each product class. As part of this
request, DOE also seeks information as to whether there are limitations
on the use of certain combinations of design options. DOE is
particularly interested in any design options that may have become
available since the July 2014 Final Rule that would allow greater
energy savings relative to the max-tech efficiency levels assessed for
each product class in that rulemaking.
Issue 15: DOE seeks input on the costs associated with design
options incorporated into furnace fans to improve efficiency, including
the design options incorporated into the maximum-available models. DOE
also requests information on the investments necessary to incorporate
specific design options, including, but not limited to, costs related
to new or modified tooling (if any), materials, engineering and
development efforts to implement each design option, and manufacturing/
production impacts.
D. Economic Justification
In determining whether a proposed energy conservation standard is
economically justified, DOE analyzes, among other things, the potential
economic impact on consumers, manufacturers, and the Nation. DOE seeks
comment on whether there are economic barriers to the adoption of more-
stringent energy conservation standards. DOE also seeks comment and
data on any aspects of its economic justification analysis from the
July 2014 Final Rule that may indicate whether a more-stringent energy
conservation standard would be economically justified or cost
effective.
While DOE's request for information is not limited to the following
issues, DOE is particularly interested in comment, information, and
data on the following.
1. Life-Cycle Cost and Payback Period Analysis
DOE conducts the life-cycle cost (``LCC'') and payback period
(``PBP'') analysis to evaluate the economic effects of potential energy
conservation standards for furnace fans on individual consumers. For
any given efficiency level, DOE measures the PBP and the change in LCC
relative to an estimated baseline level. The LCC is the total consumer
expense over the life of the equipment, consisting of purchase,
installation, and operating costs (expenses for energy use,
maintenance, and repair). The PBP is the estimated amount of time (in
years) it takes consumers to recover the increased purchase cost
(including installation) of a more-efficient product through lower
operating costs. Inputs to the calculation of total installed cost
include the cost of the equipment--which includes the manufacturer
selling price, distribution channel markups, and sales taxes--and
installation costs. Inputs to the calculation of operating expenses
include annual energy consumption, energy prices and price projections,
repair and maintenance costs, equipment lifetimes, discount rates, and
the year that compliance with new and amended standards is required.
Issue 16: DOE requests feedback on the typical distribution
channels for furnace fans. In particular, DOE seeks comment on whether
there is a market share for replacement furnace fans. DOE further seeks
comment on whether there is a significant retail distribution channel
for furnace fans.
Issue 17: DOE requests shipments data for furnace fans, broken down
by product class and region, that show current market shares by
efficiency level. DOE also seeks input on similar historic data.
Issue 18: DOE requests comment on the anticipated future market
share of higher-efficiency products as compared to less-efficient
products for each furnace fan product class, in the absence of amended
efficiency standards.
2. Manufacturer Impact Analysis
The purpose of the manufacturer impact analysis (``MIA'') is to
estimate the financial impact of amended energy conservation standards
on manufacturers of furnace fans, and to evaluate the potential impact
of such
[[Page 66470]]
standards on direct employment and manufacturing capacity. As part of
the MIA, DOE intends to analyze impacts of amended energy conservation
standards on subgroups of manufacturers of covered equipment, including
small business manufacturers. DOE uses the Small Business
Administration's (``SBA'') small business size standards to determine
whether manufacturers qualify as small businesses, which are listed by
the North American Industry Classification System (``NAICS'').\5\
Manufacturing of furnace fans is classified under NAICS 333415, ``Air-
conditioning and warm air heating equipment and commercial and
industrial refrigeration equipment manufacturing,'' and the SBA sets a
threshold of 1,250 employees or less for a domestic entity to be
considered as a small business. This employee threshold includes all
employees in a business' parent company and any other subsidiaries.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\5\ Available online at: www.sba.gov/document/support--table-size-standards.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
One aspect of assessing manufacturer burden involves examining the
cumulative impact of multiple DOE standards and the product-specific
regulatory actions of other federal agencies that affect the
manufacturers of a covered product or equipment. Multiple regulations
affecting the same manufacturer can strain profits and lead companies
to abandon product lines or markets with lower expected future returns
than competing products. For these reasons, DOE conducts an analysis of
cumulative regulatory burden as part of its rulemakings pertaining to
appliance efficiency.
Issue 19: To the extent feasible, DOE seeks the names and contact
information of any domestic or foreign-based manufacturers of the
covered product in the United States.
Issue 20: DOE requests the names and contact information of small
business manufacturers, as defined by the SBA's size threshold, that
distribute covered products in the United States. In addition, DOE
requests comment on any other manufacturer subgroups that could
disproportionally be impacted by amended energy conservation standards.
DOE requests feedback on any potential approaches that could be
considered to address impacts on manufacturers, including small
businesses.
Issue 21: DOE requests information regarding how the cumulative
regulatory burden impacts manufacturers of furnace fans associated with
(1) other DOE standards applying to different products or equipment
that these manufacturers may also make, and (2) product-specific
regulatory actions of other Federal agencies. DOE also requests comment
on its methodology for computing cumulative regulatory burden and
whether there are any flexibilities it can consider that would reduce
this burden while remaining consistent with the requirements of EPCA.
III. Submission of Comments
DOE invites all interested parties to submit in writing by the date
under the DATES heading, comments and information on matters addressed
in this notification and on other matters relevant to DOE's early
assessment of whether more-stringent energy conservation standards are
warranted for furnace fans.
Submitting comments via www.regulations.gov. The
www.regulations.gov web page requires 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. If this instruction is followed, 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 information to www.regulations.gov 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 www.regulations.gov cannot be claimed as CBI. Anyone submitting
comments through the website will waive any CBI claims on the
information submitted. For information on submitting CBI, see the
Confidential Business Information section.
DOE processes submissions made through 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 www.regulations.gov
provides after you have successfully uploaded your comment.
Submitting comments via email. Comments and documents submitted via
email also will be posted to 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 in a cover letter. Include your first
and last names, email address, telephone number, and 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. 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 only 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 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. 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,
[[Page 66471]]
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 November
17, 2021, by Kelly J. Speakes-Backman, Principal Deputy Assistant
Secretary for 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 November 18, 2021.
Treena V. Garrett,
Federal Register Liaison Officer, U.S. Department of Energy.
[FR Doc. 2021-25540 Filed 11-22-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P
