Appliance Standards Related Information

Setting minimum efficiency standards for selected products is an important way to reduce the costs and emissions associated with fossil fuel generation. By setting minimum energy efficiency standards on energy-using products, sales of inefficient models are phased out and higher efficiency models penetrate the marketplace faster. This results in widespread reductions in energy consumption without the use of public funding and saves money for both consumers and ratepayers while cutting GHG emissions. Implementation of federal standards for products has achieved massive energy savings and improved product performance.

There is an opportunity, however, for states and provinces to establish expanded lists of products and updated standards. In 2003, Connecticut authorized its DPUC to set standards for new products and to update them periodically. As part of the 2007 Act Concerning Electricity and Energy Efficiency, Connecticut expanded the list to include nine additional products and set new standards for residential furnaces and boilers purchased by the state. New Brunswick has also established authority to set appliance standards.

By helping consumers use less energy, state and provincial appliance standards decrease emissions and operating costs. These standards complement building codes, electricity procurement reforms, and other demand-side measures.