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Proposed Rule2021-13982

Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedures for Consumer Products; Early Assessment Review: Dehumidifiers

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Published

June 30, 2021

Issuing agencies

Energy Department

Abstract

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 dehumidifiers. Through this request for information ("RFI"), DOE seeks data and information regarding issues pertinent to whether an amended test procedure 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 product without being unduly burdensome to conduct. 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.

Full Text

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<title>Federal Register, Volume 86 Issue 123 (Wednesday, June 30, 2021)</title>
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[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 123 (Wednesday, June 30, 2021)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 34640-34644]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [<a href="http://www.gpo.gov">www.gpo.gov</a>]
[FR Doc No: 2021-13982]

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DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

10 CFR Part 430

[EERE-2019-BT-TP-0026]

Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedures for Consumer
Products; Early Assessment Review: Dehumidifiers

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

ACTION: Request for information.

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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 dehumidifiers. Through this
request for information (``RFI''), DOE seeks data and information
regarding issues pertinent to whether an amended test procedure 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 product without being unduly
burdensome to conduct. 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.

DATES: Written comments and information are requested and will be
accepted on or before July 30, 2021.

ADDRESSES: Interested persons are encouraged to submit comments using
the Federal eRulemaking Portal at <a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a>. Follow the
instructions for submitting comments. Alternatively, interested persons
may submit comments, identified by docket number EERE-2019-BT-TP-0026,
by any of the following methods:
1. Federal eRulemaking Portal: <a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a>. Follow the
instructions for submitting comments.
2. Email: to <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#bbffded3ced6d2dfd2ddd2dec9898b8a82efeb8b8b898dfbdede95dfd4de95dcd4cd">[email&#160;protected]</a>. Include docket
number EERE-2019-BT-TP-0026 in the subject line of the message.
No telefacsimilies (``faxes'') will be accepted. For detailed
instructions on submitting comments and additional information on this
process, see section III of this document.
Although DOE has routinely accepted public comment submissions
through a variety of mechanisms, including the Federal eRulemaking
Portal, email, postal mail, or hand delivery/courier, the Department
has found it necessary to make temporary modifications to the comment
submission process in light of the ongoing 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 <a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a>. All documents in the
docket are listed in the <a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a> 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 <a href="http://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-">www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-</a> 2019-BT-TP-0026. 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 <a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a>.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Bryan Berringer, 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) 586-0371. Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#1c5d6c6c70757d727f794f687d72787d6e786f4d69796f687573726f5c797932787379327b736a">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
Mr. Pete Cochran, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the General
Counsel, GC-33, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20585-0121.
Telephone: (202) 586-9496. Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#1444716071663a577b777c66757a547c653a707b713a737b62">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
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:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#abeadbdbc7c2cac5c8cef8dfcac5cfcad9cfd8fadeced8dfc2c4c5d8ebcece85cfc4ce85ccc4dd">[email&#160;protected]</a>.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Table of Contents

I. Introduction
A. Authority and Background
B. Rulemaking History
II. Request for Information
A. Scope and Definitions
B. Test Procedure
1. Updates to Industry Standards
2. Variable-Speed Dehumidifiers
3. Psychrometer Setup
4. Smart Technology
5. Ventilation Air
C. Other Test Procedure Topics
III. Submission of Comments

I. Introduction

DOE established an early assessment review process to conduct a
more focused analysis that would allow DOE to determine, based on
statutory criteria, whether an amended test procedure is 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 the Energy Policy and Conservation Act, as amended
(``EPCA''),\1\ 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 or

[[Page 34641]]

period of use for the product, and not be unduly burdensome to conduct.
See 85 FR 8626, 8653-8654 (Feb. 14, 2020).
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\1\ All references to EPCA in this document refer to the statute
as amended through jthe Energy Act of 2020, Public Law 116-260 (Dec.
27, 2020).
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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.
Conversely, if DOE makes an initial determination that an amended
test procedure would satisfy the applicable statutory criteria, 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 and Background

EPCA, 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, which sets forth a variety of provisions designed to
improve energy efficiency. These products include dehumidifiers, the
subject of this RFI. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(13); 42 U.S.C. 6295 (cc))
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\2\ For editorial reasons, upon codification in the U.S. Code,
Part B was redesignated Part A.
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The energy conservation program under EPCA consists essentially of
four parts: (1) Testing, (2) labeling, (3) Federal energy conservation
standards, and (4) certification and enforcement procedures. Relevant
provisions of EPCA specifically include definitions (42 U.S.C. 6291),
test procedures (42 U.S.C. 6293), energy conservation standards (42
U.S.C. 6295), labeling provisions (42 U.S.C. 6294), 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) 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. 6297(d))
The Federal testing requirements consist of test procedures that
manufacturers of covered products must use as the basis for: (1)
Certifying to DOE that their products comply with the applicable energy
conservation standards adopted pursuant to EPCA (42 U.S.C. 6295(s)),
and (2) making representations about the efficiency of those consumer
products (42 U.S.C. 6293(c)). Similarly, DOE must use these test
procedures to determine whether the products comply with relevant
standards promulgated under EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6295(s))
EPCA requires that the test procedure for dehumidifiers be based on
the test criteria used under the ENERGY STAR Program Requirements for
Dehumidifiers developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, as
in effect on August 8, 2005, unless revised by DOE pursuant to 42
U.S.C. 6293. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(13)) Under 42 U.S.C. 6293, EPCA sets
forth the criteria and procedures DOE must follow when prescribing or
amending test procedures for covered products. EPCA requires that any
test procedures prescribed or amended under this section be reasonably
designed to produce test results which measure energy efficiency,
energy use or estimated annual operating cost of a covered product
during a representative average use cycle or period of use and not be
unduly burdensome to conduct. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(3))
EPCA also requires that, at least once every 7 years, DOE review
test procedures for all covered products, including dehumidifiers, to
determine whether amended test procedures would more accurately or
fully comply with the requirements for the test procedures to be
reasonably designed to produce test results that reflect energy
efficiency, energy use, and estimated operating costs during a
representative average use cycle or period of use and not be unduly
burdensome to conduct (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(1)(A)) DOE is publishing this
RFI to collect data and information to inform its decision in
satisfaction of this 7-year review requirement.

B. Rulemaking History

DOE last amended the test procedure for dehumidifiers on July 31,
2015 (``July 2015 Final Rule''), to provide technical clarifications
and improve repeatability of the test procedure. 80 FR 45802. The July
2015 Final Rule also established a new test procedure for dehumidifiers
at appendix X1 that, among other things, established separate
provisions for testing whole-home dehumidifiers. Id. DOE's test
procedures for dehumidifiers are prescribed at Title 10 of the Code of
Federal Regulations (``CFR'') part 430, subpart B, appendix X1
(``appendix X1''). Manufacturers were not required to use appendix X1
until the compliance date of a subsequent amendment to the energy
conservation standards for dehumidifiers. On June 13, 2016, DOE
published a final rule establishing amended energy conservation
standards for dehumidifiers, for which compliance was required
beginning June 13, 2019. 81 FR 38338.

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 amended test procedure rulemaking. Accordingly, in the
following sections, DOE has identified a variety of issues on which it
seeks input to determine whether, and if so how, amended test
procedures for dehumidifiers would more accurately or fully comply with
the requirements in EPCA that test procedures be reasonably designed to
produce test results which reflect energy use during a representative
average use cycle or period of use, without being unduly burdensome to
conduct (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(3)).

A. Scope and Definitions

EPCA defines a dehumidifier as a self-contained, electrically
operated, and mechanically encased assembly consisting of--(1) a
refrigerated surface (evaporator) that condenses moisture from the
atmosphere; (2) a refrigerating system, including an electric motor;
(3) an air-circulating fan; and (4) a means for collecting or disposing
of the condensate. (42 U.S.C. 6291(34)) In codifying a regulatory
definition of ``dehumidifier,'' DOE interpreted the statutory
definition as excluding portable air conditioners, room air
conditioners, and packaged terminal air conditioners. 10 CFR 430.2.
Products meeting this definition are subject to DOE's regulations for
testing, certifying,

[[Page 34642]]

and complying with energy conservation standards.
In the July 2015 Final Rule, DOE established definitions for two
dehumidifier configurations: ``portable dehumidifiers'' and ``whole-
home dehumidifiers.'' 80 FR 45802, 45805. A ``portable dehumidifier''
is a dehumidifier designed to operate within the dehumidified space
without ducting (although means may be provided for optional duct
attachment). 10 CFR 430.2. A ``whole-home dehumidifier'' is a
dehumidifier designed to be installed with ducting to deliver return
process air to its inlet and dehumidified process air to one or more
locations in the dehumidified space. Id.
Issue 1: DOE seeks comment on whether the current definitions of
``dehumidifier,'' ``portable dehumidifier,'' and ``whole-home
dehumidifier'' require amendment, and if so, how the terms should be
defined.
Issue 2: DOE requests comment on whether the existing equipment
definitions specified in 10 CFR 430.2 for dehumidifiers require
amendments to distinguish further between portable and whole-home
units. If they do, DOE seeks information on what identifying
characteristics may be included in potential amended definitions to
differentiate better between the two configurations.

B. Test Procedure

Dehumidifiers are tested in accordance with appendix X1, which
incorporates American National Standard Institute (``ANSI'')/
Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (``AHAM'') Standard DH-1-
2008, ``Dehumidifiers,'' (``ANSI/AHAM DH- 1-2008''), with modification.
In part, the DOE test procedure specifies a different dry- bulb
temperature (65 degrees Fahrenheit (``[deg]F'') for portable
dehumidifiers and 73 [deg]F for whole-home dehumidifiers) than ANSI/
AHAM DH-1-2008, while still maintaining the relative humidity specified
by ANSI/AHAM DH-1-2008. See Section 4.1.1 of appendix.
X1. Appendix X1 also includes instructions regarding
instrumentation, condensate collection, control settings, setup, and
ducting for whole-home dehumidifiers. See Sections 3.1.2.2; 3.1.1.4;
3.1.1.5; 3.1.1.1; and 3.1.3 of appendix X1.
Under the current test procedure, there is a single method to
measure a dehumidifier's product capacity. A unit's capacity is the
volume of water, in pints, the unit removes from the ambient air per
day, normalized to a standard ambient temperature and relative
humidity. See Section 2.14 of appendix X1. The Integrated Energy Factor
(``IEF''), representing the efficiency of the unit expressed in liters
per kilowatt-hour, is the ratio between the capacity and the combined
amount of energy consumed by the unit in dehumidification mode and
standby and/or off mode(s), adjusted for the representative number of
hours per year spent in each mode. See Section 5.4 of appendix X1.
1. Updates to Industry Standards
As discussed, the dehumidifier test procedure at appendix X1
references ANSI/AHAM DH-1-2008, an industry test procedure for
dehumidifiers, with modification. In 2017, AHAM published a revision to
ANSI/AHAM DH-1 (``ANSI/AHAM DH-1-2017''). ANSI/AHAM DH-1-2017 includes
provisions for testing dehumidifier energy use in off-cycle, inactive,
and off modes, and for including energy consumption in those modes in
efficiency calculations. ANSI/AHAM DH-1-2017 also made other changes.
First, it lowered the standard dry-bulb temperature condition for
dehumidifiers from 80 [deg]F (as in ANSI/AHAM DH-1-2008) to 65 [deg]F
(with the required wet-bulb temperature changing accordingly to
maintain the same relative humidity).
Second, it tightened the maximum allowed variation for dry-bulb and
wet-bulb temperature readings from 2.0 [deg]F to 1.0 [deg]F and from
1.0 [deg]F to 0.5 [deg]F, respectively. Third, it added guidance for
instrumentation setup, multiple air-intakes and control settings.
Issue 3: DOE seeks comment on whether the references to ANSI/AHAM
DH-1-2008 at appendix X1 should be updated to the most current version,
ANSI/AHAM DH-1-2017.
Issue 4: DOE requests comment and information on whether, and if
so, how updating the references in appendix X1 to ANSI/AHAM DH-1-2017
would impact the measured energy efficiency of dehumidifiers tested
under the current DOE test procedure.
Issue 5: DOE requests comment on the impact on test burden were DOE
to reference ANSI/AHAM DH-1-2017.
Issue 6: DOE specifically requests feedback on the reduction of the
maximum-allowed temperature variation in ANSI/AHAM DH-1-2017, the
potential test burden increase from this change, and any effects on
reliability or reproducibility of results.
Issue 7: DOE requests information on whether any modifications to
ANSI/AHAM DH-1-2017, other than modifications consistent with those
made to ANSI/AHAM DH-1-2008 in the current DOE test procedure, would be
needed to ensure that DOE's test procedure produces results that are
representative of an average use cycle and is not unduly burdensome to
conduct.
2. Variable-Speed Dehumidifiers
DOE is aware that dehumidifiers are available on the United States
market that incorporate variable-speed compressors; i.e., ``variable-
speed dehumidifiers.'' Variable-speed dehumidifiers can avoid
compressor cycling efficiency losses by modulating the compressor speed
to match the amount of dehumidification required for a room. These
units also avoid condensate re-evaporation into the ambient room air,
which can occur when a dehumidifier cycles off its compressor but not
its fan during off-cycle mode. The current test procedure in appendix
X1 does not capture these ``cycling losses'' for single-speed
dehumidifiers (and avoidance of such losses for variable-speed
dehumidifiers) because the test unit operates at full capacity
throughout the test.
In the July 2015 Final Rule, DOE considered a load-based test which
would capture cycling behavior in dehumidifiers with single-speed
compressors or speed modulation for variable-speed dehumidifiers. The
load-based test would involve adding moisture to the test chamber at a
fixed rate and allowing the control system of the dehumidifier to
respond to changing moisture levels in the room. 80 FR 45802, 45809.
DOE elected not to adopt a load-based test for the dehumidifier test
procedure in the July 2015 Final Rule, due to concerns about the
potential increase in test burden. Id. at 80 FR 45810.
Issue 8: DOE seeks data on single-speed dehumidifiers: (1) Their
energy use when cycling on and off due to varying relative humidity in
the room, (2) the extent of re-evaporation when operating in off-cycle
mode, and (3) the effect of re-evaporation on dehumidification mode
efficiency.
Issue 9: DOE seeks feedback and data regarding any alternative test
methods that may produce results that are more representative of
variable-speed dehumidifier energy consumption, including, but not
limited to, a load-based test approach.
Issue 10: DOE is also interested in information about the nature
and extent of the test burden associated with a load-based test for
dehumidifiers.
3. Psychrometer Setup
Appendix X1, with reference to Section 4 ``Instrumentation'' of
ANSI/AHAM DH-1-2008, requires dehumidifiers with a single air intake to

[[Page 34643]]

be monitored with an aspirating-type psychrometer \3\ perpendicular to,
and one foot in front of, the unit; and, in the case of multiple air
intakes, to be monitored with a separate sampling tree. See Sections
3.1.1, 3.1.1.2, 3.1.1.3 of appendix X1. In the July 2015 Final Rule,
DOE considered whether certain psychrometer configuration issues, such
as variable levels of residual heat from the psychrometer fan and
variable air velocity influencing the accuracy of temperature sensors,
were detrimental to test repeatability. 80 FR 45812-45813. As discussed
in the July 2015 Final Rule, DOE was unable to determine whether any
repeatability improvements are associated with adjusting the fan
location in relation to the dry-bulb and wet-bulb temperature sensors,
or with tightening the air velocity requirements through the
psychrometer. DOE also did not have sufficient data to quantify the
burdens associated with such requirements. Id. at 80 FR 45813.
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\3\ In an aspirating-type psychrometer, a wet-bulb and a dry-
bulb thermometer are mounted inside a case that also contains a fan.
The fan draws air across both thermometers, and the resulting wet-
bulb and dry-bulb temperatures are used to determine the percent
relative humidity.
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Additionally, since publication of the July 2015 Final Rule, DOE
has received feedback from a testing laboratory that use of a sampling
tree ducted to an aspirating psychrometer is a common configuration for
testing of other refrigerant-based products, and that placing the
psychrometer itself in front of the test unit may impede the
instrument's ability to effectively monitor the inlet air conditions.
In the July 2015 Final Rule, DOE considered a proposal to require
sampling trees for testing all dehumidifiers, regardless of the number
of air intakes, for consistency and repeatability. However, based on
available data, DOE was unable to conclude at that time that the use of
a sampling tree would be more reliable than the psychrometer-only
approach. Id. at 80 FR 45812-45813.
Issue 11: DOE seeks data on the effect of residual heat from the
psychrometer fan and the effects of psychrometer air velocity on
temperature measurement repeatability when using a psychrometer, rather
than a humidity sensor, under the current (appendix X1) test procedure.
DOE seeks information and data on measures that can be employed to
minimize any such effects when using a psychrometer, as well as
information regarding the repeatability of measurements when such
measures are used.
Issue 12: DOE requests comment on any potential test burden
increases associated with additional requirements regarding
psychrometer fan placement and orientation relative to the temperature
sensors, and any burden associated with reducing the acceptable
psychrometer air velocity range.
Issue 13: DOE requests comment on whether it would be appropriate
to require, or to allow, sampling trees to be used with aspirating
psychrometers regardless of the number of air intakes for a given
model, including any data confirming repeatability and especially
repeatability relative to using an aspirating psychrometer without a
sampling tree.
4. Smart Technology
DOE notes that many types of household products (e.g.
refrigerators, dryers, room air conditioners) are now equipped with
``connected'' functionality, such as mobile alerts/messages, remote
control, and energy information and demand response capabilities to
support future smart grid interconnection. DOE is aware that certain
manufacturers have incorporated some of these features, such as WiFi
capability, into dehumidifiers. On September 17, 2018, DOE published an
RFI on the emerging smart technology appliance and equipment market. 83
FR 46886. In that RFI, DOE sought information to better understand
market trends and issues in the emerging market for appliances and
commercial equipment that incorporate smart technology. DOE's intent in
issuing the RFI was to ensure that DOE did not inadvertently impede
such innovation in fulfilling its statutory obligations in setting
efficiency standards for covered products and equipment. DOE seeks
comments, data and information on the issues presented in the RFI as
they may apply to dehumidifiers.
Issue 14: DOE requests data on the prevalence of connected
functionality in dehumidifiers currently on the market in the United
States.
Issue 15: DOE requests information on whether the current test
procedures for dehumidifiers impede the ability of manufacturers to
provide smart technology operations on dehumidifiers.
5. Ventilation Air
Appendix X1 requires that any fresh-air inlet on a whole-home
dehumidifier be capped and sealed during testing. See Section 3.1.3 of
appendix X1. In the July 2015 Final Rule, DOE determined that, while
sealing the fresh-air inlet on dehumidifiers designed to operate with
the fresh-air intake open may negatively impact capacity and
efficiency, those effects are not significant enough to warrant the
added test burden of providing separate fresh-air inflow. 80 FR 45811.
DOE also noted the lack of data regarding representative consumer use
of fresh-air inlet ducts for whole-home dehumidifiers.
Issue 16: DOE requests data about the prevalence of fresh-air inlet
use among whole-home dehumidifier consumers.
Issue 17: DOE seeks feedback on the test burden increases
associated with adding another air-stream in the testing configuration
to account for the fresh-air inlet on those whole-home dehumidifiers
equipped with such a feature.

C. Other Test Procedure Topics

In addition to the issues identified earlier in this document, DOE
welcomes comment on any other aspect of the existing test procedures
for dehumidifiers.

III. Submission of Comments

DOE invites all interested parties to submit in writing by July 30,
2021, comments and information on matters addressed in this notice and
on other matters relevant to DOE's consideration of amended test
procedures for dehumidifiers. These comments and information will aid
in the development of a test procedure notice of proposed rulemaking
for dehumidifiers if DOE determines that amended test procedures may be
appropriate for these products.
Submitting comments via <a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a>. The
<a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a> 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. Following this instruction, persons viewing comments will see
only first and last names, organization names,

[[Page 34644]]

correspondence containing comments, and any documents submitted with
the comments.
Do not submit to <a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a> 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 <a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a> 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 <a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a> 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 <a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a>
provides after you have successfully uploaded your comment.
Submitting comments via email. Comments and documents submitted via
email will be posted to <a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a>. 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 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. No faxes will 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
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Documents should not contain special characters or any form of
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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. According 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. Submit these documents
via email to <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#7236171a071f1b161b141b17004042434b2622424240443217175c161d175c151d04">[email&#160;protected]</a>. 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
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#08497878646169666b6d5b7c69666c697a6c7b597d6d7b7c6167667b486d6d266c676d266f677e">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
Signing Authority
This document of the Department of Energy was signed on June 25,
2021, by Kelly Speakes-Backman, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary
and Acting 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 June 25, 2021.
Treena V. Garrett,
Federal Register Liaison Officer, U.S. Department of Energy.
[FR Doc. 2021-13982 Filed 6-29-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P

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This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.