Consistent with the requirements under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA), as amended, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has proposed to amend the current energy conservation standards for consumer clothes dryers found at 10 CFR 430.32(h). DOE has tentatively determined that the proposed standards represent the maximum improvement in energy efficiency that is technologically feasible and economically justified, and would result in the significant conservation of energy. Once completed, this rulemaking will fulfill DOE’s statutory obligation to either propose amended standards for this product or determine that the standards do not need to be amended.

Additionally, EPCA directs DOE to provide interested persons an opportunity to present oral and written comments on matters related to any energy conservation standard proposed rule. To satisfy this requirement, DOE held an initial public meeting in May 2021 to discuss the preliminary technical support document and a second meeting in September 2022 to specifically discuss the proposed rule.

On September 25, 2023, the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers and efficiency and consumer organizations and utilities, submitted a joint letter to DOE recommending new and amended efficiency standards for various home appliances for consideration, including clothes dryers. Under the authority provided in 42 U.S.C. 6295(p)(4), DOE is now pursuing this effort through a direct final rule, see 1904-AF59. Although DOE is proceeding with a separate rulemaking through its direct final rule authority, DOE did consider relevant comments, data, and information obtained during this rulemaking process in determining whether the recommended standards from the Joint Agreement are in accordance with 42 U.S.C. 6295(o).