(RightIsRight.co) – The Department of Energy (DOE) has completed new rules for a common household machine, rules that will slam everyone in the name of encouraging the market to adopt heat pump technology.
The DOE’s final energy efficiency standards for water heaters are set to affect standard electric water heaters, bumping up the number of those using heat pumps, as per the agency.
Likewise, the department, leading the Biden administration’s drive, targets appliances from pool pump motors to lightbulbs in its rule-making spree.
Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm said in a statement, “Almost every U.S. household has a water heater, and for too long outdated energy efficiency standards have led to higher utility bills for families.”
She continued “[T]he Biden-Harris Administration is continuing to put American consumers first with new, effective rules—supported by industry—that save both energy and money.”
According to the DOE, the new benchmarks are expected to shift over 50% of newly made electric water heaters towards heat pump technology, a significant leap from the current 3%. Compliance with these rules kicks in in 2029.
As for gas-fired water heaters, the DOE plans a “modest” efficiency boost. However, standards for gas-powered ones are not part of this week’s rule-making agenda.
The DOE estimates that these regulations could lead to a significant $124 billion in energy bill savings over thirty years and emissions reductions equivalent to those from 43 million homes in one year.
Nevertheless, it is important to note that while heat pump models are seen as a key to greening America’s buildings, they generally come with a $1,000 upfront price premium compared to some alternatives and may not be as effective in colder climates.
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