Update: The comment period is over to support DOE’s proposed updates to improve federal water heater standards.
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has proposed the first update in 13 years to the efficiency standards of residential water heaters. If adopted as proposed, these standards will become effective in 2029 and save more energy than any DOE appliance efficiency standard adopted to date. (July 2023)
The proposed standards would also significantly reduce CO2 emissions and other air pollutants—such as nitrogen oxides—that harm human health. Consumers, in particular those purchasing electric water heaters, would see large utility bill savings as a result of the recommended standards (DOE estimates 11 billion dollars annually!). The updated standards are also expected to reduce utility costs for renters, as stronger efficiency standards help ensure that landlords buy efficient models for their rental units.
This is a key opportunity to improve economic justice and fight climate change. If your organization is interested in signing onto AWHI’s comment letter of support, contact us by Friday, September 15, 2023.
Further resources are available from the Appliance Standards Awareness Project (ASAP).
