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Proposed Rule2021-25540

Energy Conservation Program: Energy Conservation Standards for Consumer Products; Early Assessment Review; Consumer Furnace Fans

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Published

November 23, 2021

Issuing agencies

Energy Department

Abstract

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.

Full Text

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<title>Federal Register, Volume 86 Issue 223 (Tuesday, November 23, 2021)</title>
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[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 [<a href="http://www.gpo.gov">www.gpo.gov</a>]
[FR Doc No: 2021-25540]

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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.

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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 <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-2021-BT-STD-0029,
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#490a26273a3c242c3b0f3c3b270f28277b797b781a1d0d79797b70092c2c672d262c672e263f">[email&#160;protected]</a>. 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 <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/EERE-2021-BT-STD-0029">www.regulations.gov/docket/EERE-2021-BT-STD-0029</a>. 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: 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:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#abeadbdbc7c2cac5c8cef8dfcac5cfcad9cfd8fadeced8dfc2c4c5d8ebcece85cfc4ce85ccc4dd">[email&#160;protected]</a>.
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: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#ffb396919b9ed1b9969a939bbf978ed19b909ad1989089">[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#fcbd8c8c90959d929f99af889d92989d8e988fad89998f889593928fbc9999d2989399d29b938a">[email&#160;protected]</a>.

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))
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\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.
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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.
**.
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* 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).
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\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).
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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 <a href="http://www.regulations.doe.gov/certification-data/CCMS-4-Furnace_Fans.html#q=Product_Group_s%3A%22Furnace%20Fans%22">www.regulations.doe.gov/certification-data/CCMS-4-Furnace_Fans.html#q=Product_Group_s%3A%22Furnace%20Fans%22</a>.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

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: <a href="http://www.sba.gov/document/support--table-size-standards">www.sba.gov/document/support--table-size-standards</a>.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

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 <a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a>. The
<a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a> 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 <a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a> 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. 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 <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 also 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 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
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#733203031f1a121d10162007121d171201170022061600071a1c1d003316165d171c165d141c05">[email&#160;protected]</a>.

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

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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.