On April 14, APGA submitted comments in support of the Department of Energy’s (DOE) proposed withdrawal of its determination to classify miscellaneous gas products as covered consumer products under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA).
APGA joined the American Gas Association (AGA) and the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) in urging DOE to reverse its prior determination, which would have subjected products such as decorative gas hearths and outdoor heaters to federal minimum efficiency standards.
The joint comments emphasized that the original classification was neither economically justified nor likely to result in meaningful energy savings, falling short of EPCA’s statutory requirements. Throughout multiple rounds of public comment in 2022, the groups consistently raised concerns about the DOE’s flawed assumptions, inaccurate data, and the limited potential for energy conservation associated with these products. These gas appliances are primarily used for aesthetic or comfort purposes, not as primary heating sources. As such, applying energy efficiency standards to them would impose undue regulatory burdens without delivering corresponding benefits.
The comments also voiced support for technical input provided by the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA), which further supported the case for withdrawal.
If the withdrawal is finalized, DOE will prevent unwarranted regulation of certain products, preserve consumer choice, and uphold energy policy grounded in sound economic and environmental reasoning.
APGA will continue to monitor the proceedings and provide updates on any future developments.
For questions on this article, please contact Sydney Novoa of APGA by phone at 202-464-0834 or email at snovoa@apga.org.