The Department of Energy is proposing tighter regulations on new dishwashers and beverage vending machines to reduce energy and water use and cut greenhouse gas emissions.
DOE's proposed rules are the latest in a long line of more than 100 efficiency-related regulations advanced during President Joe Biden's tenure, which the department has introduced as part of its larger agenda to mitigate climate change and save consumers money on energy costs.
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DOE also announced a separate final rule Friday tightening efficiency standards for electric motors of the sort that drive manufacturing and processing equipment.
“With today’s announcements, DOE is making rapid progress to strengthen outdated energy efficiency standards — as directed by Congress and in coordination with our industry partners and stakeholders — and support healthier, safer communities for the American people," said Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm.
The proposed rule would tighten standards for the maximum estimated annual energy use and per-cycle water use for both standard-size and compact dishwashers beginning in 2027.
DOE estimated the new proposed rule would save consumers a total of nearly $3 billion over 30 years and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 12.5 million metric tons, roughly the equivalent of the combined annual emissions of 1.6 million homes.
Average per-unit savings over the life of the product were estimated at $17 for standard appliances and $30 for compact appliances, while the total cost of conversion to industry required to comply with the proposed standards was approximately $125.6 million.
The vending machine proposal would reduce energy costs for businesses by $20 million annually, according to DOE, and conversion costs were estimated at $1.5 million.
DOE's final electric motor rule, which affects equipment such as fans, compressors, and pumps, takes effect in 2027 and was estimated to save consumers up to $8.8 billion in utility bills over 30 years while carrying an estimated $468 million in conversion costs to industry.
The slew of DOE efficiency rule-making under Biden has touched on everything from pool heaters to light bulbs and stove products.
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Industry groups and Republicans in Congress have opposed various of Biden's efficiency rrules for reducing consumer options, with the stove rule emerging as the hottest issue of all.
Some legislation floated in Congress would rescind some of the Energy Department's efficiency rulemaking authorities.