The Energy Department confirmed on Monday that it intends to rescind numerous regulations governing the energy and water efficiency of electric and gas appliances, affecting 47 specific rules. Officials claimed that these standards are contributing to higher consumer costs and deteriorating life quality. This decision is part of a broader strategy following a recent executive order from President Trump, which tasked the Energy Department with eliminating water pressure standards seen as restrictive to appliance effectiveness.
Critics including energy-efficiency experts and climate advocates argue that this rollback will significantly increase operating costs for common appliances such as dehumidifiers, air conditioners, and industrial air compressors. Andrew deLaski, executive director of the Appliance Standards Awareness Project, condemned the potential for cost increases, stating it could force families to cope with less efficient and more expensive products. He further pointed out that such a rollback might contravene anti-backsliding provisions within established federal energy laws, making it legally questionable.
For decades, the United States has set standards that regulate the amount of energy and water that household appliances, such as dishwashers, water heaters, and washing machines, can consume. Advocates for maintaining these standards argue that they serve essential roles in promoting energy conservation and protecting consumers from unnecessary cost burdens. As the Energy Department prepares for these changes, significant opposition is mounting over the potential implications for American households and environmental sustainability.
Critics including energy-efficiency experts and climate advocates argue that this rollback will significantly increase operating costs for common appliances such as dehumidifiers, air conditioners, and industrial air compressors. Andrew deLaski, executive director of the Appliance Standards Awareness Project, condemned the potential for cost increases, stating it could force families to cope with less efficient and more expensive products. He further pointed out that such a rollback might contravene anti-backsliding provisions within established federal energy laws, making it legally questionable.
For decades, the United States has set standards that regulate the amount of energy and water that household appliances, such as dishwashers, water heaters, and washing machines, can consume. Advocates for maintaining these standards argue that they serve essential roles in promoting energy conservation and protecting consumers from unnecessary cost burdens. As the Energy Department prepares for these changes, significant opposition is mounting over the potential implications for American households and environmental sustainability.
