[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 12 (Thursday, January 18, 2018)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 2566-2574]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2018-00776]
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Proposed Rules
Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of
the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these
notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in
the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules.
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Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 12 / Thursday, January 18, 2018 /
Proposed Rules
[[Page 2566]]
DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
10 CFR Parts 429 and 430
[EERE-2017-BT-TP-0024]
Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedure for Microwave Ovens
AGENCY: Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Department of
Energy.
ACTION: Request for information (``RFI'').
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SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of Energy (``DOE'') is initiating a data
collection process through this request for information to consider
whether to amend DOE's test procedures for microwave ovens. To inform
interested parties and to facilitate this process, DOE has gathered
data, identifying several issues associated with the currently
applicable test procedures on which DOE is interested in receiving
comment. The issues outlined in this document mainly concern the
measurement of active mode, standby mode, and off mode energy use, and
an integrated annual energy use metric for microwave ovens; and any
additional topics that may inform DOE's decisions in a future test
procedure rulemaking, including methods to reduce regulatory burden
while ensuring the procedures' accuracy. DOE welcomes written comments
from the public on any subject within the scope of this document
(including topics not raised in this RFI).
DATES: Written comments and information are requested and will be
accepted on or before February 20, 2018.
ADDRESSES: Interested persons are encouraged to submit comments using
the Federal eRulemaking Portal at http://www.regulations.gov. Follow
the instructions for submitting comments. Alternatively, interested
persons may submit comments, identified by docket number EERE-2017-BT-
TP-0024, by any of the following methods:
1. Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov. Follow
the instructions for submitting comments.
2. Email: to [email protected]. Include docket number EERE-
2017-BT-TP-0024 in the subject line of the message.
3. Postal Mail: Appliance and Equipment Standards Program, U.S.
Department of Energy, Building Technologies Office, Mailstop EE-5B,
1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20585-0121. Telephone:
(202) 287-1445. If possible, please submit all items on a compact disc
(``CD''), in which case it is not necessary to include printed copies.
4. Hand Delivery/Courier: Appliance and Equipment Standards
Program, U.S. Department of Energy, Building Technologies Office, 950
L'Enfant Plaza SW, Suite 600, Washington, DC 20024. Telephone: (202)
287-1445. If possible, please submit all items on a CD, in which case
it is not necessary to include printed copies.
No telefacsimilies (faxes) will be accepted. For detailed
instructions on submitting comments and additional information on this
process, see section III of this document.
Docket: The docket for this activity, which includes Federal
Register notices, comments, and other supporting documents/materials,
is available for review at http://www.regulations.gov. All documents in
the docket are listed in the http://www.regulations.gov index. However,
some documents listed in the index, such as those containing
information that is exempt from public disclosure, may not be publicly
available.
The docket web page can be found at https://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_standards/standards.aspx?productid=33. The docket
web page contains simple instructions on how to access all documents,
including public comments, in the docket. See section III for
information on how to submit comments through http://www.regulations.gov.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dr. Stephanie Johnson, U.S. Department
of Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Building
Technologies Office, EE-5B, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20585-0121. Telephone: (202) 287-1943. Email:
[email protected].
Ms. Celia Sher, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the General
Counsel, GC-33, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20585-0121.
Telephone: (202) 287-6122. Email: [email protected].
For further information on how to submit a comment or review other
public comments and the docket, contact the Appliance and Equipment
Standards Program staff at (202) 287-1445 or by email:
[email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Table of Contents
I. Introduction
A. Authority and Background
B. Rulemaking History
1. Active Mode Amendments
2. Standby Mode Amendments
II. Request for Information
A. Scope and Definitions
B. Test Procedure
1. Consumer Usage
2. Active Mode Test Methods
3. Standby Mode and Off Mode Test Methods
4. Integrated Annual Energy Use Metric
C. Other Test Procedure Topics
III. Submission of Comments
I. Introduction
Microwave ovens are included in the list of ``covered products''
for which DOE is authorized to establish and amend energy conservation
standards and test procedures. (42 U.S.C. 6292(a)(10)) DOE's test
procedures for microwave ovens are prescribed at title 10 of the Code
of Federal Regulations (``CFR'') part 430, subpart B, appendix I
(``Appendix I''). The following sections discuss DOE's authority to
establish and amend test procedures for microwave ovens, as well as
relevant background information regarding DOE's consideration of test
procedures for this product.
A. Authority and Background
The Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975 (``EPCA'' or ``the
Act''),\1\ Public Law 94-163 (42 U.S.C. 6291-6317, as codified), among
other things, authorizes DOE to regulate the energy efficiency of a
number of consumer products and industrial equipment. Title III, Part B
\2\ of EPCA established the
[[Page 2567]]
Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products Other Than
Automobiles, which sets forth a variety of provisions designed to
improve energy efficiency. These products include microwave ovens, the
subject of this RFI. (42 U.S.C. 6292(a)(10))
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\1\ All references to EPCA in this document refer to the statute
as amended through the Energy Efficiency Improvement Act of 2015
(EEIA 2015), Public Law 114-11 (April 30, 2015).
\2\ For editorial reasons, upon codification in the U.S. Code,
Part B was redesignated Part A.
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Under EPCA, DOE's energy conservation program consists essentially
of four parts: (1) Testing, (2) labeling, (3) Federal energy
conservation standards, and (4) certification and enforcement
procedures. Relevant provisions of the Act specifically include
definitions (42 U.S.C. 6291), energy conservation standards (42 U.S.C.
6295), test procedures (42 U.S.C. 6293), labeling provisions (42 U.S.C.
6294), and the authority to require information and reports from
manufacturers (42 U.S.C. 6296).
Federal energy efficiency requirements for covered products
established under EPCA generally supersede State laws and regulations
concerning energy conservation testing, labeling, and standards. (42
U.S.C. 6297) DOE may, however, grant waivers of Federal preemption for
particular State laws or regulations, in accordance with the procedures
and other provisions of EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6297(d))
The Federal testing requirements consist of test procedures that
manufacturers of covered products must use as the basis for: (1)
Certifying to DOE that their products comply with the applicable energy
conservation standards adopted pursuant to EPCA (42 U.S.C. 6295(s)),
and (2) making representations about the efficiency of those consumer
products (42 U.S.C. 6293(c)). Similarly, DOE must use these test
procedures to determine whether the products comply with relevant
standards promulgated under EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6295(s))
Under 42 U.S.C. 6293, EPCA sets forth the criteria and procedures
DOE must follow when prescribing or amending test procedures for
covered products. EPCA requires that any test procedures prescribed or
amended under this section be reasonably designed to produce test
results which measure energy efficiency, energy use or estimated annual
operating cost of a covered product during a representative average use
cycle or period of use and not be unduly burdensome to conduct. (42
U.S.C. 6293(b)(3))
In addition, if DOE determines that a test procedure amendment is
warranted, it must publish proposed test procedures and offer the
public an opportunity to present oral and written comments on them. (42
U.S.C. 6293(b)(2))
EPCA also requires that, at least once every 7 years, DOE evaluate
test procedures for each type of covered product, including microwave
ovens, to determine whether amended test procedures would more
accurately or fully comply with the requirements for the test
procedures to not be unduly burdensome to conduct and be reasonably
designed to produce test results that reflect energy efficiency, energy
use, and estimated operating costs during a representative average use
cycle or period of use. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(1)(A)) If the Secretary
determines, on his own behalf or in response to a petition by any
interested person, that a test procedure should be prescribed or
amended, the Secretary shall promptly publish in the Federal Register
proposed test procedures and afford interested persons an opportunity
to present oral and written data, views, and arguments with respect to
such procedures. The comment period on a proposed rule to amend a test
procedure shall be at least 60 days and may not exceed 270 days. In
prescribing or amending a test procedure, the Secretary shall take into
account such information as the Secretary determines relevant to such
procedure, including technological developments relating to energy use
or energy efficiency of the type (or class) of covered products
involved. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(2)) If DOE determines that test procedure
revisions are not appropriate, DOE must publish its determination not
to amend the test procedures. DOE is publishing this RFI to collect
data and information to inform its decision in satisfaction of the 7-
year review requirement specified in EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(1)(A))
In addition, EPCA requires that DOE amend its test procedures for
all covered products to integrate measures of standby mode and off mode
energy consumption into the overall energy efficiency, energy
consumption, or other energy descriptor, unless the current test
procedure already incorporates the standby mode and off mode energy
consumption, or if such integration is technically infeasible. (42
U.S.C. 6295(gg)(2)(A)) If an integrated test procedure is technically
infeasible, DOE must prescribe separate standby mode and off mode
energy use test procedures for the covered product, if a separate test
is technically feasible. (Id.)
B. Rulemaking History
DOE's current test procedures for microwave ovens are codified at
Appendix I. For reasons discussed in the following sections, the
current test procedures for microwave ovens address standby mode and
off mode energy use only.
1. Active Mode Amendments
DOE originally established test procedures for microwave ovens in
an October 3, 1997 final rule that addressed active mode energy use
only. 62 FR 51976. Those procedures were based on the International
Electrotechnical Commission (``IEC'') Standard 705-Second Edition 1998
and Amendment 2-1993, ``Methods for Measuring the Performance of
Microwave Ovens for Households and Similar Purposes'' (``IEC Standard
705''). On July 22, 2010, DOE published in the Federal Register a final
rule for the microwave oven test procedures (the ``July 2010 Repeal
Final Rule''), in which it repealed the regulatory test procedures for
measuring the cooking efficiency of microwave ovens. 75 FR 42579. In
the July 2010 Repeal Final Rule, DOE determined that the existing
microwave oven test procedure did not produce representative and
repeatable test results. 75 FR 42579, 42580. DOE stated at that time
that it was unaware of any test procedures that had been developed that
address these concerns. 75 FR 42579, 42581.
On October 24, 2011, DOE published an RFI to initiate a test
procedure rulemaking to develop active mode testing methodologies for
microwave ovens (the ``October 2011 RFI''). 76 FR 65631. DOE
specifically sought information, data, and comments regarding
representative and repeatable methods for measuring the energy use of
microwave ovens in active mode, in particular for the microwave-only
and convection-microwave cooking (i.e., microwave plus convection and
any other means of cooking) modes.
To inform its consideration of a test procedure for the microwave
oven active mode, DOE conducted testing to evaluate potential methods
for measuring the active mode energy use for these products, including
the microwave-only, convection-only, and convection-microwave cooking
modes. On June 5, 2012, DOE published a notice of data availability
(``NODA'') to present test results and analytical approaches that DOE
was considering for potential amendments to the microwave oven test
procedures and to request additional comment and information on these
results (the ``June 2012 NODA''). 77 FR 33106. In the June 2012 NODA,
DOE presented test results from microwave-only, convection-only, and
convection-microwave cooking mode testing using water loads, food
simulation mixtures, and real food loads. DOE also presented test
results
[[Page 2568]]
from testing of the convection-only cooking mode using the aluminum
test block specified in the DOE conventional oven test procedures then
in effect in Appendix I.\3\
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\3\ The DOE conventional oven test procedures in Appendix I were
later repealed in a final rule published on December 16, 2016. 81 FR
91418. DOE determined that the conventional oven test procedures did
not accurately represent consumer use as it favors conventional
ovens with low thermal mass and does not capture cooking
performance-related benefits due to increased thermal mass of the
oven cavity. 81 FR 91418, 91423-91424.
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On February 4, 2013, DOE published a notice of proposed rulemaking
(``NOPR'') in which it proposed adding provisions to the microwave oven
test procedures to measure active mode energy use for microwave ovens,
including microwave-only ovens and convection microwave ovens (the
``February 2013 NOPR''). 78 FR 7940. For measuring the energy use in
microwave-only cooking mode, DOE proposed test methods based on the
November 2011 draft version of IEC Standard 60705. DOE also proposed
provisions for measuring the energy use of convection microwave ovens
in convection-only cooking mode based on the test procedures for
conventional ovens in Appendix I. DOE further proposed to calculate the
energy use of convection-microwave cooking mode for convection
microwave ovens by apportioning the microwave-only mode and convection-
only mode energy consumption measurements based on typical consumer
use. 78 FR 7940, 7942.
The IEC issued an update of IEC Standard 60705 on June 30, 2014. To
date, DOE has not issued a final rule to re-establish test procedures
for measuring the active mode of microwave ovens.
2. Standby Mode Amendments
On March 9, 2011, DOE published an interim final rule (the ``March
2011 Interim Final Rule'') amending the test procedures for microwave
ovens. 76 FR 12825. The March 2011 Interim Final Rule incorporated by
reference into the microwave oven test procedures IEC Standard 62301,
``Household electrical appliances-Measurement of standby power,'' First
Edition 2005-06 (``IEC Standard 62301 (First Edition)'') regarding test
conditions and testing procedures for measuring the average standby
mode and average off mode power consumption. 76 FR 12825, 12828. As
authorized by EPCA, DOE also incorporated into the microwave oven test
procedure definitions of ``active mode,'' ``standby mode,'' and ``off
mode'' based on the definitions provided in the finalized draft version
of IEC Standard 62301 Edition 2.0 2011-01 (``IEC Standard 62301 (Second
Edition)''). 76 FR 12825, 12836. In addition, DOE adopted language to
clarify the application of IEC Standard 62301 (First Edition) to
measuring standby mode and off mode power. Specifically, DOE defined
the test duration for cases in which the measured power is not stable
and varies in a cyclic manner, because the standby mode power
consumption of microwave oven displays can vary depending on the time-
of-day displayed on the clock. 76 FR 12825, 12828.
The amendments adopted in the March 2011 Interim Final Rule became
effective on April 8, 2011. However, DOE noted that in order to ensure
that the amended test procedures adequately address the EPCA
requirement to consider the most recent version of IEC Standard 62301,
and recognizing that the IEC issued IEC Standard 62301 (Second Edition)
in January of 2011, DOE issued the microwave oven test procedure as an
interim final rule and offered an additional 180-day comment period to
consider whether any changes should be made to the interim final rule
in light of publication of IEC Standard 62301 (Second Edition). DOE
stated that it would consider these comments and, to the extent
necessary, publish a final rulemaking incorporating any changes. 76 FR
12825, 12830-12831. In response to the March 2011 Interim Final Rule,
the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (``AHAM'') commented
that, among other things, DOE should incorporate by reference IEC
Standard 62301 (Second Edition), stating that such incorporation would
provide for optimal international harmonization, give clarity and
consistency to the regulated community, and decrease test burden.
(AHAM, No. 31 at pp. 3-4 \4\)
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\4\ Document No. 31 in Docket No. EERE-2008-BT-TP-0011,
available for review at https://www.regulations.gov.
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Based in part on public comment, DOE further analyzed IEC Standard
62301 (Second Edition). DOE subsequently published a final rule on
January 18, 2013 (the ``January 2013 Final Rule''), amending the test
procedures for microwave ovens to reference certain provisions of IEC
Standard 62301 (Second Edition), along with clarifying language, for
the measurement of standby mode and off mode energy use. 78 FR 4015. In
the narrow case of microwave ovens with power consumption that varies
as a function of the time displayed, DOE maintained the existing use of
IEC Standard 62301 (First Edition) for measuring standby mode power to
minimize manufacturer burden. 78 FR 4015, 4021. DOE also determined
that microwave ovens combined with other appliance functionality are
covered under the definition of ``microwave oven'' at 10 CFR 430.2, but
due to a lack of data and information, did not adopt provisions to
measure the standby mode and off mode energy use of the microwave oven
component of a combined cooking product.\5\ 78 FR 4015, 4022.
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\5\ Appendix I defines ``combined cooking product'' as a
household cooking appliance that combines a cooking product with
other appliance functionality, which may or may not include another
cooking product. Combined cooking products include the following
products: Conventional range, microwave/conventional cooking top,
microwave/conventional oven, and microwave/conventional range.
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II. Request for Information
In the following sections, DOE has identified a variety of issues
on which it seeks input to aid in the development of the technical and
economic analyses regarding whether amended test procedures for
microwave ovens may be warranted. Specifically, DOE is requesting
comment on any opportunities to streamline and simplify testing
requirements for microwave ovens.
Additionally, DOE welcomes comments on other issues relevant to the
conduct of this process that may not specifically be identified in this
document. In particular, DOE notes that under Executive Order 13771,
``Reducing Regulation and Controlling Regulatory Costs,'' Executive
Branch agencies such as DOE are directed to manage the costs associated
with the imposition of expenditures required to comply with Federal
regulations. See 82 FR 9339 (Feb. 3, 2017). Pursuant to that Executive
Order, DOE encourages the public to provide input on measures DOE could
take to lower the cost of its regulations applicable to microwave ovens
consistent with the requirements of EPCA.
A. Scope and Definitions
This RFI covers those products that meet the definition for
``microwave oven,'' as codified at 10 CFR 430.2. Specifically, as
codified, ``microwave oven'' means a category of cooking products which
is a household cooking appliance consisting of a compartment designed
to cook or heat food by means of microwave energy, including microwave
ovens with or without thermal elements designed for surface browning of
food and convection microwave ovens. This includes any microwave
oven(s) component of a
[[Page 2569]]
combined cooking product. 10 CFR 430.2.
B. Test Procedure
As discussed in section I.B of this document, DOE's current test
procedures for microwave ovens are codified at Appendix I and address
standby mode and off mode energy use only.
DOE is requesting information and data to update its understanding
of consumer use of microwave ovens. DOE is also requesting comment on
whether any more recent developments since the February 2013 NOPR would
allow for DOE to develop active mode test procedures for microwave
ovens, including microwave-only ovens and convection microwave ovens.
As stated in the Rulemaking History section of this document, in the
February 2013 NOPR, DOE proposed active mode test procedures for
microwave-only ovens and convection microwave ovens, and requested
comment from interested parties on the proposed amendments. To date,
DOE has not issued a final rule establishing test procedures for active
mode. In this document, DOE discusses the current status of IEC
Standard 60705 and requests information to help it determine whether it
should consider test procedures that measure the active mode energy use
for microwave ovens. Additionally, DOE has identified potential testing
issues related to newly-available product features that DOE did not
consider at the time of the January 2013 Final Rule, that may relate to
standby mode and off mode energy use. DOE is requesting comment on
appropriate test procedures to account for these features. DOE is also
seeking comment on the technical feasibility of establishing an
integrated metric that combines active mode, standby mode, and off mode
energy use.
Each of these issues is discussed in greater detail in the
subsections that follow. DOE is also requesting information on any
other issues that may need to be addressed in a test procedure
rulemaking for microwave ovens.
1. Consumer Usage
As part of the February 2013 NOPR, DOE presented results from a
consumer usage survey conducted by Lawrence Berkeley National
Laboratories (``LBNL'') to evaluate the consumer usage habits for
microwave ovens.\6\ 78 FR 7940, 7943-7944. The survey collected data
from 2258 households on the typical cycle lengths, the annual number of
cooking cycles, and the annual hours of use for microwave-only ovens.
The survey also collected data from 653 households on the typical cycle
lengths, the annual number of cooking cycles, and the annual hours of
use for each available cooking mode for convection microwave ovens. The
results from the LBNL study are presented in Table II.1 and Table II.2.
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\6\ Alison Williams, Hung-Chia (Dominique) Yang, Bereket Beraki,
Louis-Benoit Desroches, Scott J. Young, Chun Chun Ni, Henry Willem,
and Camilla Dunham Whitehead: LBNL; Sally M. Donovan, Consultant,
Melbourne, Australia. (2012) Surveys of Microwave Ovens in U.S.
Homes. Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, LBNL-5947E. December
4, 2012.
\7\ Fan-only mode refers to the operation of the fan after a
cooking cycle for the purposes of cooling down the cavity and other
components of the microwave oven.
Table II.1--LBNL Consumer Usage Data for Microwave-Only Ovens
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Cycle length Number of Annual hours
Mode (minutes (min)) annual cycles (hours)
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Microwave-Only Cooking....................................... 2.62 1026 44.9
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Table II.2--LBNL Consumer Usage Data for Convection Microwave Ovens
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Cycle length Number of Annual hours
Mode (min) annual cycles (hours)
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Microwave-Only Cooking.......................................... 2.54 842 35.7
Convection-Only Cooking......................................... 18.70 101 31.7
Convection-Microwave Cooking.................................... 15.00 69 17.3
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In the February 2013 NOPR, DOE also noted that Whirlpool
Corporation (``Whirlpool'') provided data from an informal poll of
their employees that suggested that for convection microwave oven
owners, 90 percent of the total number of cooking cycles in the field
is in the microwave-only cooking mode, and the remaining 10 percent of
cooking cycles is a mix of convection-microwave cooking mode and
convection-only cooking mode, which is in relative agreement with the
consumer usage data collected by LBNL. 78 FR 7940, 7944.
In the February 2013 NOPR, DOE also presented estimates for the
annual energy use for each operating mode for microwave-only and
convection microwave ovens based on its testing and available consumer
usage data. 78 FR 7940, 7950.
Table II.3--February 2013 NOPR Estimate Annual Energy Use for Microwave-Only Ovens
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Annual energy
Mode Cycle length Number of Annual hours Average power use (kilowatt-
(min) annual cycles (hours) (watts (W)) hours (kWh))
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Microwave-Only Cooking.......... 2.62 1026 44.9 1582.7 71.1
Microwave-Only Fan-Only Mode \7\ 0 0 0 0 0
Standby/Off..................... .............. .............. 8715.1 2.7 23.5
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[[Page 2570]]
Table II.4--February 2013 NOPR Estimate Annual Energy Use for Convection Microwave Ovens
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Cycle length Number of Annual hours Average power Annual energy
Mode (min) annual cycles (hours) (W) use (kWh)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Microwave-Only Cooking.......... 2.54 842 35.7 1582.7 56.5
Convection-Only Cooking......... 18.70 101 31.7 1299.4 41.2
Convection-Microwave Cooking.... 15.00 69 17.3 1421.3 24.6
Microwave-Only Fan-Only Mode.... 0 0 0 0 0
Convection-Only Fan-Only Mode... 1.10 101 1.9 39.1 0.07
Convection-Microwave Fan-Only 0.88 69 1.0 39.1 0.04
Mode...........................
Standby/Off..................... .............. .............. 8672.4 2.7 23.4
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Issue B.1: DOE requests any more recent consumer usage data, if
available, to characterize the consumer usage habits for microwave
ovens, including both microwave-only ovens and convection microwave
ovens.
2. Active Mode Test Methods
As discussed in section I.B.1 of this document, in the July 2010
Repeal Final Rule, DOE repealed the active mode test provisions
originally established in Appendix I because they did not produce
representative and repeatable measurements of microwave oven energy use
in active mode. 75 FR 42579. DOE proposed in the February 2013 NOPR to
add provisions to the microwave oven test procedures in Appendix I for
measuring energy use in microwave-only cooking mode in a repeatable and
representative manner, based on the November 2011 draft version of IEC
Standard 60705. 78 FR 7940. AHAM commented on the February 2013 NOPR
that it ``supports harmonization with IEC Standard 60705. But DOE
should not base the U.S. test procedure on a draft of that standard.
Instead, DOE should wait to harmonize with the final IEC Standard
60705.'' (AHAM, No. 18 at p. 4 \8\) On June 30, 2014, IEC published the
updated version of IEC Standard 60705-Edition 4.1. Therefore in this
RFI, DOE is seeking additional feedback on active model topics from the
February 2013 NOPR given that IEC Standard 60705 is now finalized and
in response to AHAM's previous comment supporting harmonization. DOE is
requesting data and information on microwave oven active mode test
methods, including data and information that may not have been
available at the time of the previous rulemaking.
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\8\ Document No. 18 in Docket No. EERE-2010-BT-TP-0023,
available for review at http://www.regulations.gov.
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a. Microwave-Only Cooking Mode
DOE notes that the water-heating test method specified in IEC
Standard 60705-Edition 4.1 is the same as the November 2011 draft
version of IEC Standard 60705. The test method in IEC Standard 60705-
Edition 4.1 involves measuring the energy consumption required to heat
water loads of 275 grams (``g''), 350 g, and 1000 g, in 600 milliliter
(``ml''), 900 ml, and 2000 ml borosilicate glass test containers,
respectively, by 45-50 degrees Celsius (``[deg]C'') and 50-55 [deg]C.
The test method also requires that the difference in the final measured
water temperature between these two tests must be at least 2 [deg]C.
The results from these two different temperature-rise tests at each
load size are then used to linearly interpolate the energy consumption
required to heat the load by 50 [deg]C. The cooking cycle energy
consumption for each water load size is then weighted based on consumer
usage to calculate a weighted-average per-cycle cooking energy
consumption. The weighting factors specified in IEC Standard 60705-
Edition 4.1 are: 275 g = 3/11; 350 g = 6/11; 1000 g = 2/11.
In the February 2013 NOPR, DOE presented results from testing to
evaluate the repeatability of an August 2010 draft version of the IEC
Standard 60705 water-heating test method for measuring the cooking
cycle energy consumption.\9\ 78 FR 7940, 7945. The results, presented
in Table II.5, showed minimal test-to-test variation for each water
load size.
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\9\ The August 2010 draft version IEC Standard 60705 used at the
time of DOE testing used a smaller test container for the 275 g
water load (400 ml capacity) than specified in the November 2011
draft version IEC Standard 60705 and the published IEC Standard
60705-Edition 4.1 (600 ml capacity). Because the dimensions of the
test containers are sufficiently similar and the specific heat of
the glass containers is relatively low compared to that of water,
DOE determined that the effect on the measured energy use would be
small and, in particular, the difference in repeatability and
reproducibility of the two test containers would not be significant.
Table II.5--February 2013 NOPR IEC Standard 60705 Cooking Cycle Test Results
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Draft revised IEC standard 60705 cooking cycle test
---------------------------------------------------------------
275 g water 350 g water 1000 g water Overall
load load load weighted
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Energy Consumption (watt-hours (Wh))........... Average................................ 37.99 44.34 114.90 56.11
Min.................................... 32.54 39.14 104.86 50.35
Max.................................... 46.61 54.68 130.87 66.54
Test-to-Test Variation--Standard Error (%)..... Average................................ 1.08 1.06 0.44 0.58
Min.................................... 0.05 0.10 0.09 0.03
Max.................................... 2.31 2.59 0.78 1.25
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DOE also noted in the February 2013 NOPR that the European
Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization (``CENELEC'') conducted
a round-robin testing program to evaluate the repeatability and
reproducibility of the draft version of IEC Standard 60705. 78 FR 7940,
7945. A total of five manufacturer test labs and five independent test
labs in Europe conducted testing on each of four microwave oven models.
For the
[[Page 2571]]
measured weighted per-cycle cooking energy consumption, the results
showed that the test-to-test variation expressed as standard error
within each laboratory was on average 0.56 percent, and the lab-to-lab
variation was on average 2.30 percent. For the measured weighted
cooling down energy consumption (i.e., energy consumption in the fan-
only mode), the results showed that the test-to-test variation
expressed as standard error within each laboratory was on average 0.24
percent and the lab-to-lab variation was on average 6.14 percent. 78 FR
7940, 7945.
While IEC Standard 60705-Edition 4.1 was not finalized at the time
of the February 2013 NOPR, DOE received comments stating that the
water-heating test method in IEC Standard 60705 is based on extensive
testing and considered both repeatable and reproducible, and more
specifically with regard to the CENELEC data, that issues related to
the test procedures are not unique to United States as microwave ovens
do not vary significantly across countries. (AHAM, No. 18 at pp. 2-3;
AHAM, No. 27 at p. 4; \10\ Whirlpool, No. 15 at p. 1 \11\)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\10\ Document No. 27 in Docket No. EERE-2010-BT-TP-0023,
available for review at http://www.regulations.gov.
\11\ Document No. 15 in Docket No. EERE-2010-BT-TP-0023,
available for review at http://www.regulations.gov.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Issue B.2: DOE requests comment on any developments in microwave
oven testing methods since the February 2013 NOPR that would assist DOE
in determining whether to develop test procedures that measure active
mode energy consumption in microwave-only mode. DOE requests comment
and data on the representativeness, repeatability, reproducibility, and
testing burdens associated with any suggested test methods. This
request includes information on any testing experiences with IEC
Standard-Edition 4.1 since its adoption.
DOE also notes that the Informative Annex F in IEC Standard 60705-
Edition 4.1 includes a test method for measuring the fan-only mode
energy consumption of the microwave oven during the cooling down period
for a period of 15 minutes after the completion of a cooking cycle that
achieves a water-load temperature-rise of 50 [deg]C. In the February
2013 NOPR, DOE noted that for all of the products in its test sample,
which included countertop and over-the-range microwave-only and
convection microwave ovens, none contained a fan that operated at the
end of the microwave-only cooking cycle. DOE noted that when the door
was closed after the load was removed at the end of the cooking cycle,
the microwave ovens reverted to standby mode. However, DOE recognized
that there may be microwave ovens on the market or future microwave
ovens that could potentially operate in fan-only mode at the end of the
microwave-only cooking cycle. As a result, DOE proposed in the February
2013 NOPR to include provisions for measuring the fan-only mode cooling
down energy consumption only for microwave ovens equipped with a fan
that operates automatically at the completion of the cooking cycle to
cool down the microwave oven. 78 FR 7940, 7945-7946. AHAM opposed
including a requirement to measure fan-only mode during the cooling
down period for the following reasons: (1) If DOE pursues an active
mode test procedure it should harmonize with IEC Standard 60705, which
includes fan-only mode measurement only in an informative annex and not
as a mandatory measurement; (2) the fan-only mode test procedure is not
repeatable and reproducible; and (3) the energy consumed by the fan is
miniscule, especially compared to the active mode cooking cycle energy
use. (AHAM, No. 27 at pp. 6-7)
Issue B.3: DOE requests comment on whether any microwave ovens
currently on the market operate in fan-only mode during the cooling
down period after the end of the microwave-only cooking cycle. This
request includes comments about fan-only mode for all types of fans,
including exhaust fans, convection fans, and magnetron fans. DOE also
requests information on manufacturers' experience with the fan-only
mode test procedure in IEC Standard 60705-Edition 4.1, specifically
with regard to the repeatability and reproducibility of the test
method.
b. Convection Microwave Ovens
In the February 2013 NOPR, DOE proposed test methods for measuring
the active mode energy consumption of convection microwave ovens. DOE
proposed to measure the energy consumption of the microwave-only
cooking mode for convection microwave ovens using the test procedures
described in section II.B.2.a of this document. DOE also proposed to
measure the energy consumption of the convection-only cooking mode
based on the aluminum test block test method specified at the time of
the February 2013 NOPR in the DOE conventional oven test procedures in
Appendix I. Finally, DOE proposed to calculate the energy consumption
of the convection-microwave cooking cycle by apportioning the
microwave-only mode and convection-only mode energy consumption
measurements based on typical consumer use. 78 FR 7940, 7947.
AHAM and Whirlpool stated that DOE should not develop test
procedures for convection microwave ovens because: (1) They represent
only 4 percent of microwave oven shipments, (2) the potential for
energy savings is trivial compared to the added test burden, and (3)
there are currently no international test standards for measuring the
convection function of the microwave oven. (AHAM, No. 18 at p. 3; AHAM,
No. 27 at p. 3; Whirlpool, No. 15 at pp. 4-6)
Issue B.4. DOE requests any updated shipments data, since the
February 2013 NOPR, for convection microwave ovens. DOE also requests
comment on any development of industry standards that measure the
convection function of a convection microwave oven.
In the February 2013 NOPR, DOE initially determined that testing
using actual or simulated food loads does not produce repeatable or
reproducible results. DOE also understood that using thermocouples
during a convection-microwave cooking cycle would not be appropriate
due to safety concerns. As a result, DOE did not propose test methods
using actual or simulated food loads, or thermocouples, for measuring
the energy consumption of convection microwave ovens. 78 FR 7940, 7949.
In lieu of testing using actual or simulated food loads, DOE presented
test results showing that the proposed aluminum block test method for
testing in convection-only cooking mode produced repeatable results. 78
FR 7940, 7948.
DOE proposed to add the calculated convection-only cooking cycle
energy consumption and the measured fan-only mode energy consumption to
calculate the total convection-only mode energy consumption. 78 FR
7940, 7949. DOE further proposed to apply a field use factor to the
calculation of the convection-only mode energy consumption to account
for the typical consumer use of this cooking mode. Id.
AHAM commented that with regard to the proposed aluminum block test
method that: (1) It would be impossible to get a consistent
thermocouple reading because the aluminum test block would be rotating
on the turntable, and (2) the proposed aluminum test block test load
was not representative of actual consumer food loads in a convection
microwave oven. (AHAM, No. 27 at pp. 8-10) AHAM also stated, for the
same reasons discussed in section II.B.2.a of this document, that it
opposed a fan-only mode energy use measurement. (AHAM, No. 27 at p. 9)
AHAM
[[Page 2572]]
commented that if DOE were to establish an active mode test procedure
for microwave ovens and convection microwave ovens, DOE should follow
the approach taken in IEC Standard 60705 and require measurement of
only the primary cooking function of convection microwave ovens. AHAM
added that this approach: (1) Would allow consumers to compare products
according to how they view them--as microwave ovens; (2) would
harmonize with the international approach, reducing burden on
manufacturers; and (3) would not result in a significant loss in energy
savings because there was not significant technology available to
reduce energy use in active mode in either the microwave or convection
functions. (AHAM, No. 27 at pp. 7-8)
Issue B.5: DOE requests information on any developments since the
February 2013 NOPR that DOE should consider in determining whether to
develop test procedures that measure active mode energy consumption for
convection microwave ovens. Such information could include potential
test methods for measuring energy use in microwave-only, convection-
only, and convection-microwave cooking modes
c. Installation Configurations for Over-the-Range Microwave Ovens
As discussed in the February 2013 NOPR, for over-the-range
microwave ovens, products equipped with a fan designed to vent air out
of the microwave oven cooking cavity both during the cooking cycle and
during the fan-only mode cooling down period offer two installation
configurations: (1) Such that the vent fan exhausts air from the
cooking cavity to the outdoors and (2) such that the vent fan
recirculates air from the cooking cavity back into the room
(``recirculation configuration'').\12\ For the majority of products in
DOE's test sample, the default installation configuration for the
venting fan was for air recirculation back into the room. In the
February 2013 NOPR, DOE proposed to require that over-the-range
microwave ovens be installed with the exhaust vent/recirculation fan
installed in the recirculation configuration in accordance with
manufacturer's instructions. 78 FR 7940, 7946.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\12\ Manufacturer's installation instructions include procedures
for reconfiguring the vent fan, which typically involve removing an
external vent fan cover plate, rotating the blower assembly, and
replacing the cover plate.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
AHAM commented in response to the February 2013 NOPR that, to its
knowledge, for safety reasons manufacturers do not recommend that
anyone other than trained service technicians disassemble a microwave
oven. AHAM stated that DOE should require that over-the-range microwave
ovens be installed in the as-shipped configuration in accordance with
the manufacturer's instructions. AHAM added that its members stated
that this would not add test burden to them as their laboratories are
already capable of testing in both configurations. In addition, AHAM
stated that it does not expect that the configuration will affect the
measured energy, and thus, different installation configurations should
provide consistent measurements across products. (AHAM, No. 27 at p. 5)
Issue B.6: As DOE considers developing test procedures to measure
the active mode energy consumption for microwave ovens, DOE seeks
information on appropriate installation conditions for over-the-range
microwave ovens. In particular, DOE seeks information on the
installation requirements for these products, including: (1) Whether
any products are shipped with the venting fan installed in the outdoor
venting configuration and (2) whether instructions advise that only
trained service technicians install these products. In addition, if
interested parties believe that products should be tested in the as-
shipped configuration, DOE welcomes comment on specific vent
requirements for products shipped in the outdoor venting configuration
(e.g., duct dimensions, materials, etc.).
3. Standby Mode and Off Mode Test Methods
a. Displays and Clocks
The current standby mode and off mode test procedures for microwave
ovens in Appendix I specify that the microwave oven must be set up in
accordance with section 5.2 ``Preparation of product'' of IEC 62301
(Second Edition). This provision requires preparing and setting up the
microwave oven in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, and
if no manufacturer instructions are available, using the factory or
``default'' settings, or where there are no indications for such
settings, testing the microwave oven as supplied. For the microwave
oven standby mode and off mode power measurement, if a microwave oven
drops from a higher power state to a lower power state, section 3.1.3.1
in Appendix I requires allowing sufficient time for the microwave oven
to reach the lower power state before measuring power consumption.
Microwave Ovens With the Option To Turn On/Off the Clock Display
DOE notes that most manufacturer instructions provide procedures
for setting the clock display as part of the initial setup of the
product. DOE is also aware that some microwave ovens available on the
market may provide the user with the option to turn the clock display
on or off. DOE notes that in both of these cases, based on the
provisions in the test procedures, if the manufacturer's instructions
for the initial setup of the product include instructions to set the
clock display, then the microwave oven would be tested with the clock
display powered on, as described above.
Issue B.7: DOE requests information to help it determine whether
the standby mode and off mode test procedures for microwave ovens
should be amended, in particular for microwave ovens with an option to
turn the display on or off. DOE seeks data on the standby power
consumption with the display turned on and off. DOE also seeks
information on the control logic of this function implemented in
different models. For example, does the display automatically turn on
and remain on indefinitely after the door is opened or if the microwave
cooking cycle is operated? DOE requests consumer usage data on how
frequently consumers power off the clock display when this option is
available, and on how much consumers value a microwave oven clock
display that is capable of remaining powered on at all times.
Issue B.8: DOE seeks additional information regarding how
manufacturer instructions for the initial setup of the microwave oven
differ from the default as-shipped settings of the microwave oven, and
the merits of requiring initial setup in accordance with manufacturer
instructions versus only requiring testing using the default settings.
Microwave Ovens That Automatically Power Down the Clock Display
DOE is aware that some microwave ovens available on the market
automatically power down the display after a period of user inactivity,
which reduces the standby power consumption of the product. As
discussed previously, Appendix I requires testing such products after
the display powers down and reaches a stable state. However, DOE
recognizes that some manufacturer instructions provide instructions,
not in the initial setup section, for disabling this feature so that
the clock/display remains on at all times; others do not provide
instructions for disabling this feature.
Issue B.9: DOE seeks information to help it consider whether to
amend the standby mode and off mode test procedures for microwave ovens
to
[[Page 2573]]
address microwave ovens with an automatic power-down function. DOE
seeks information on the control logic of this function implemented in
different models. In addition, DOE requests consumer usage data on how
frequently consumers disable the automatic power-down function when
this feature is available.
Issue B.10: DOE also requests comment on whether there are any
other options or features that the current test procedures may not
clearly delineate how to test, and how to test such options/features.
b. Connected Functions
DOE is aware of a manufacturer that currently offers one over-the-
range microwave oven model that uses Bluetooth[supreg] technology to
connect certain control functions to a corresponding Bluetooth-equipped
conventional range. The Bluetooth connection allows the microwave oven
to synchronize its clock time to that of the range, and to coordinate
the operation of the microwave ovens vent fan and/or cooking top
surface lights with the functional state of the range. For example,
with this feature enabled, the vent fan or cooking top surface lights
on the microwave oven can be programmed to automatically turn on
whenever the cooking top component of the conventional range is in use.
The products' controls may consume different amounts of energy
depending on whether the Bluetooth function is enabled or disabled.
Issue B.11: DOE requests information to help it determine whether
to amend the standby mode and off mode test procedures to address
microwave ovens that use Bluetooth technology, including information as
to suitable test methods. DOE seeks information (such as survey data)
on whether consumers typically use this Bluetooth connection, when
available.
DOE understands that certain consumer cooking products include
internet connections to allow for additional control functions. In
these cases, the product controls may consume different amounts of
energy depending on whether the internet connection is enabled or
disabled, and if enabled, whether it is connected to a network. DOE is
not aware of any microwave ovens currently on the market that include
this feature.
Issue B.12: DOE requests comment on whether any microwave ovens
currently available on the market incorporate this feature. If such
products exist or manufacturers have plans to introduce such products,
DOE seeks comment on: (1) Details about why this feature is useful, (2)
the potential energy impacts of microwave ovens equipped with a
connected configuration, and (3) appropriate energy-related settings to
use for testing.
4. Integrated Annual Energy Use Metric
The current DOE energy conservation standards for microwave ovens
are based on standby power consumption, in watts. 10 CFR 430.32(j)(3).
EPCA requires that, if DOE develops active mode test procedures for
microwave ovens, it must also incorporate active mode, standby mode,
and off mode energy use into a single energy use metric, unless it is
technically infeasible to do so. (42 U.S.C. 6295(gg)(2)(A))
Issue B.13: DOE welcomes input that would help it consider methods
for calculating integrated annual energy use. DOE requests comment on
the technical feasibility of establishing an integrated annual energy
use metric for microwave ovens that incorporates active mode, standby
mode, and off mode energy use. DOE also seeks data on the consumer
usage habits for each available operating mode for both microwave-only
ovens and convection microwave ovens.
C. Other Test Procedure Topics
In addition to the issues identified earlier in this document, DOE
welcomes comment on any other aspect of the existing test procedures
for microwave ovens not already addressed in this document. DOE
particularly seeks information that would improve the repeatability,
and reproducibility, as well as the ability of the test procedures to
provide results that are representative of actual use. DOE also
requests information that would help DOE create a procedure that would
limit manufacturer test burden through streamlining or simplifying
testing requirements. Comments regarding the repeatability and
reproducibility are also welcome.
DOE also requests feedback on any potential amendments to the
existing test procedure(s) that could be considered to address impacts
on manufacturers, including small businesses. Regarding the Federal
test method, DOE seeks comment on the degree to which the DOE test
procedure should consider and be harmonized with the most recent
relevant industry standards for microwave ovens and whether there are
any changes to the Federal test method that would provide additional
benefits to the public. DOE also requests comment on the benefits and
burdens of adopting any industry/voluntary consensus-based or other
appropriate test procedure, without modification. As discussed in
sections II.B.2.a and II.B.3 of this document, DOE is aware of the IEC
test procedure, IEC Standard 60705, which includes tests for measuring
energy use in microwave-only cooking mode for microwave ovens, and IEC
Standard 62301, which includes tests for measuring the power
consumption in standby mode and off mode. IEC Standard 60705 also
includes an informative annex, which specifies a test method for
measuring the fan-only mode energy consumption of microwave ovens
during a cooling down period after the completion of a cooking cycle.
Additionally, DOE requests comment on whether the existing test
procedures limit a manufacturer's ability to provide additional
features to consumers on microwave ovens. DOE particularly seeks
information on how the test procedures could be amended to reduce the
cost of new or additional features and make it more likely that such
features are included on microwave ovens.
III. Submission of Comments
DOE invites all interested parties to submit in writing by February
20, 2018, comments and information on matters addressed in this notice
and on other matters relevant to DOE's consideration of amended test
procedures for microwave ovens. These comments and information will aid
in the development of a test procedure NOPR for microwave ovens if DOE
determines that amended test procedures may be appropriate for these
products.
Submitting comments via http://www.regulations.gov. The http://www.regulations.gov web page will require you to provide your name and
contact information. Your contact information will be viewable to DOE
Building Technologies staff only. Your contact information will not be
publicly viewable except for your first and last names, organization
name (if any), and submitter representative name (if any). If your
comment is not processed properly because of technical difficulties,
DOE will use this information to contact you. If DOE cannot read your
comment due to technical difficulties and cannot contact you for
clarification, DOE may not be able to consider your comment.
However, your contact information will be publicly viewable if you
include it in the comment or in any documents attached to your comment.
Any information that you do not want to be publicly viewable should not
be included in your comment, nor in any document attached to your
comment. Persons viewing comments will see only
[[Page 2574]]
first and last names, organization names, correspondence containing
comments, and any documents submitted with the comments.
Do not submit to http://www.regulations.gov information for which
disclosure is restricted by statute, such as trade secrets and
commercial or financial information (hereinafter referred to as
Confidential Business Information (``CBI'')). Comments submitted
through http://www.regulations.gov cannot be claimed as CBI. Comments
received through the website will waive any CBI claims for the
information submitted. For information on submitting CBI, see the
Confidential Business Information section.
DOE processes submissions made through http://www.regulations.gov
before posting. Normally, comments will be posted within a few days of
being submitted. However, if large volumes of comments are being
processed simultaneously, your comment may not be viewable for up to
several weeks. Please keep the comment tracking number that http://www.regulations.gov provides after you have successfully uploaded your
comment.
Submitting comments via email, hand delivery, or mail. Comments and
documents submitted via email, hand delivery, or mail also will be
posted to http://www.regulations.gov. If you do not want your personal
contact information to be publicly viewable, do not include it in your
comment or any accompanying documents. Instead, provide your contact
information on a cover letter. Include your first and last names, email
address, telephone number, and optional mailing address. The cover
letter will not be publicly viewable as long as it does not include any
comments.
Include contact information each time you submit comments, data,
documents, and other information to DOE. If you submit via mail or hand
delivery, please provide all items on a CD, if feasible. It is not
necessary to submit printed copies. No facsimiles (faxes) will be
accepted.
Comments, data, and other information submitted to DOE
electronically should be provided in PDF (preferred), Microsoft Word or
Excel, WordPerfect, or text (ASCII) file format. Provide documents that
are not secured, written in English and free of any defects or viruses.
Documents should not contain special characters or any form of
encryption and, if possible, they should carry the electronic signature
of the author.
Campaign form letters. Please submit campaign form letters by the
originating organization in batches of between 50 to 500 form letters
per PDF or as one form letter with a list of supporters' names compiled
into one or more PDFs. This reduces comment processing and posting
time.
Confidential Business Information. According to 10 CFR 1004.11, any
person submitting information that he or she believes to be
confidential and exempt by law from public disclosure should submit via
email, postal mail, or hand delivery two well-marked copies: one copy
of the document marked confidential including all the information
believed to be confidential, and one copy of the document marked ``non-
confidential'' with the information believed to be confidential
deleted. Submit these documents via email or on a CD, if feasible. DOE
will make its own determination about the confidential status of the
information and treat it according to its determination.
Factors of interest to DOE when evaluating requests to treat
submitted information as confidential include (1) a description of the
items, (2) whether and why such items are customarily treated as
confidential within the industry, (3) whether the information is
generally known by or available from other sources, (4) whether the
information has previously been made available to others without
obligation concerning its confidentiality, (5) an explanation of the
competitive injury to the submitting person which would result from
public disclosure, (6) when such information might lose its
confidential character due to the passage of time, and (7) why
disclosure of the information would be contrary to the public interest.
It is DOE's policy that all comments may be included in the public
docket, without change and as received, including any personal
information provided in the comments (except information deemed to be
exempt from public disclosure).
DOE considers public participation to be a very important part of
the process for developing test procedures and energy conservation
standards. DOE actively encourages the participation and interaction of
the public during the comment period in each stage of this process.
Interactions with and between members of the public provide a balanced
discussion of the issues and assist DOE in the process. Anyone who
wishes to be added to the DOE mailing list to receive future notices
and information about this process, the subject of this notice, or any
other questions with regards to the Federal test procedures for
microwaves should contact Appliance and Equipment Standards Program
staff at (202) 287-1445 or via email at
[email protected].
Issued in Washington, DC, on December 14, 2017.
Kathleen B. Hogan,
Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency, Energy Efficiency and
Renewable Energy.
[FR Doc. 2018-00776 Filed 1-17-18; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P