Alliance to Save Energy Statement on DOE Proposed Changes to Appliance Standards Process Rule

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Alliance to Save Energy today noted the U.S. Department of Energy's proposed updates to the process used to develop appliance and equipment efficiency standards.

DOE's Notice of Proposed Rulemaking would revise the Department's "Process Rule," which governs how energy conservation standards are developed and updated for products such as heating and cooling equipment, water heaters, and household appliances. The proposal focuses on procedural changes that could influence how future standards are evaluated, including updates to analytical thresholds, additional steps in the rulemaking process, and considerations related to test procedures and stakeholder input.

For decades, these standards, authorized by Congress with broad bipartisan support-have helped American households and businesses reduce energy costs while maintaining product performance and consumer choice. A transparent and predictable process has also supported manufacturers, utilities, and other stakeholders in planning, investment, and delivering reliable energy services.

As DOE considers changes to its process rule, it will be important to ensure that the framework continues to reflect statutory requirements, supports innovation, and enables timely updates that keep pace with evolving technologies. Maintaining a balanced approach can help deliver cost-effective savings, operational flexibility, and long-term benefits across the energy system, while providing clarity and certainty for all stakeholders.

"The appliance standards program has a long track record of delivering practical benefits to consumers and businesses alike," said Paula Glover, president and CEO of the Alliance to Save Energy. "We look forward to working with DOE and stakeholders to ensure the process remains transparent, predictable, and focused on achieving cost-effective outcomes that support both affordability and reliability."

About the Alliance

The Alliance to Save Energy is a leading bipartisan, fuel-neutral nonprofit coalition dedicated to advancing energy efficiency as the fastest, most cost-effective way to meet growing energy demand and strengthen economic competitiveness. Convening leaders from industry, government, and the nonprofit sector, the Alliance drives policy, informs regulatory frameworks, and expands awareness of energy efficiency's role in lowering costs and improving energy resilience.

Since 1977, the Alliance has worked to champion energy efficiency as a foundational energy resource that reduces demand, avoids costly infrastructure, and delivers measurable, system-wide impact.

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