This is an excerpt from EERE Network News, a weekly electronic newsletter.
December 09, 2009
DOE Enforces Reporting Requirements for Appliance Standards
DOE announced on December 9 that manufacturers of certain residential products have until January 8, 2010, to submit accurate certification reports and compliance statements as part of the agency's enhanced enforcement of its appliance standards for energy efficiency. Under federal law, manufacturers of some products covered by DOE appliance standards are required to certify that their models meet the standards. Those that have fallen short of this requirement can rectify the situation in the next 30 days without penalty. The 30-day grace period will help DOE ensure compliance with its regulations, sanction those who fail to comply, and treat all those subject to the requirements fairly and equally.
Following this 30-day window, DOE will begin aggressively enforcing these reporting requirements, including seeking civil penalties or fines. The 30-day grace period does not apply to violations of the actual energy efficiency standards, as DOE will continue to take action against any manufacturer whose products do not meet the standards. Both manufacturers and companies that trademark or label products are subject to the reporting requirements. The requirements include a certification report for each basic appliance model covered by the energy standards, along with a signed compliance statement. See the DOE press release and fact sheet (PDF 42 KB), as well as the Web site for DOE's Appliances and Commercial Equipment Standards Program. Download Adobe Reader.
