[Federal Register Volume 84, Number 161 (Tuesday, August 20, 2019)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 43071-43079]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2019-17762]


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 Proposed Rules
                                                 Federal Register
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 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. 84, No. 161 / Tuesday, August 20, 2019 / 
Proposed Rules  

[[Page 43071]]



DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

10 CFR Part 430

[EERE-2016-BT-TP-0012]


Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedure for Dishwashers

AGENCY: Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Department of 
Energy.

ACTION: Request for information.

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SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of Energy (``DOE'') is initiating a data 
collection process through this request for information (``RFI'') to 
consider whether to amend DOE's test procedure for consumer 
dishwashers. As part of this RFI, DOE seeks comment on whether there 
have been changes in product testing methodology or new products on the 
market since the last test procedure update that may create the need to 
make amendments to the test procedure for dishwashers. Specifically, 
DOE seeks data and information that could enable the agency to propose 
that the current test procedure produces results that are 
representative of an average use cycle for the product and is not 
unduly burdensome to conduct, and therefore does not need amendment. To 
inform interested parties and to facilitate this process, DOE has also 
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 consumer 
usage patterns; appropriate testing conditions and methods; efficiency 
metrics; and any additional topics that may inform DOE's decision 
whether to conduct a future test procedure rulemaking. 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 September 19, 2019.

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-2016-BT-
TP-0012, by any of the following methods:
    1. Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov. Follow 
the instructions for submitting comments.
    2. Email: [email protected]. Include docket number 
EERE-2016-BT-TP-0012 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=38&action=viewlive. 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: Mr. Bryan Berringer, 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) 586-0371. Email: 
[email protected].
    Ms. Elizabeth Kohl, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the 
General Counsel, GC-33, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20585-0121. Telephone: (202) 586-7796. 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
II. Request for Information
    A. Scope and Definitions
    B. Energy and Water Consumption Test Procedure
    1. Representativeness
    a. Cycle Selections
    b. Power-Dry Feature
    c. Test Load Items
    d. Annual Number of Cycles
    e. Soils
    f. Loading Pattern
    g. Preconditioning Cycles
    h. Detergent
    i. Rinse Aid
    j. Water Hardness
    k. Water Softener Regeneration Cycles
    l. Standby Testing
    m. Ambient Temperature
    n. Relative Humidity
    2. Repeatability and Reproducibility
    C. Efficiency Metrics
    D. Other Test Procedure Topics
    1. Test Procedure Waivers
    2. Other Topics
III. Submission of Comments

I. Introduction

    Consumer dishwashers are included in the list of ``covered 
products'' for which DOE is authorized to establish and amend energy 
conservation standards and test procedures. (42

[[Page 43072]]

U.S.C. 6292(a)(6)) DOE's test procedures for consumer dishwashers are 
prescribed at Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations (``CFR'') 
part 430, subpart B, appendix C1 (``appendix C1''). The following 
sections discuss DOE's authority to establish and amend test procedures 
for consumer dishwashers, 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, as amended 
(``EPCA''),\1\ among other things, authorizes DOE to regulate the 
energy efficiency of a number of consumer products and certain 
industrial equipment. (42 U.S.C. 6291-6317) Title III, Part B \2\ of 
EPCA established the Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products 
Other Than Automobiles, which sets forth a variety of provisions 
designed to improve energy efficiency. These products include consumer 
dishwashers, the subject of this RFI. (42 U.S.C. 6292(a)(6))
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    \1\ All references to EPCA in this document refer to the statute 
as amended through America's Water Infrastructure Act of 2018, 
Public Law 115-270 (October 23, 2018).
    \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, 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, taking into consideration the 
most current versions of Standards 62301 and 62087 of the International 
Electrotechnical Commission (``IEC''), 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.)
    EPCA also requires that, at least once every 7 years, DOE evaluate 
test procedures for each type of covered product, including consumer 
dishwashers, 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))

B. Rulemaking History

    DOE originally established its test procedure for consumer 
dishwashers in 1977 at 10 CFR part 430, subpart B, appendix C 
(``appendix C''). 42 FR 39964 (Aug. 8, 1977). Since that time, the test 
procedure has undergone a number of amendments. In 1983, DOE amended 
the test procedure to revise the representative average-use cycles to 
more accurately reflect consumer use and to address consumer 
dishwashers that use 120 degree Fahrenheit (``[deg]F'') inlet water. 48 
FR 9202 (March 3, 1983). DOE amended the test procedure again in 1984 
to redefine the term ``water heating dishwasher.'' 49 FR 46533 (Nov. 
27, 1984). In 1987, DOE amended the test procedure to address models 
that use 50 [deg]F inlet water. 52 FR 47549 (Dec. 15, 1987). In 2001, 
DOE revised the test procedure's testing specifications to improve 
testing repeatability, amended the definitions of ``compact 
dishwasher'' and ``standard dishwasher,'' and reduced the average 
number of use cycles per year from 322 to 264. 66 FR 65091 (Dec. 18, 
2001). In 2003, DOE again revised the test procedure to more accurately 
measure consumer dishwasher efficiency, energy use, and water use. 68 
FR 51887 (Aug. 29, 2003) (``August 2003 final rule''). The August 2003 
final rule amendments included the following revisions: (1) The 
addition of a method to rate the efficiency of soil-sensing products, 
(2) the addition of a method to measure standby power, and (3) a 
reduction in the average-use cycles per year from 264 to 215. Id. On 
October 31, 2012, DOE established a new test procedure for consumer 
dishwashers in appendix C1. 77 FR 65941 (``October 2012 final rule''). 
Appendix C1 follows the same general procedures as those included in 
the previously used appendix C, with updates to: (1) Revise the 
provisions for measuring energy consumption in standby mode or off 
mode; (2) add requirements for consumer dishwashers with water 
softeners to account for

[[Page 43073]]

regeneration cycles; (3) require an additional preconditioning cycle; 
(4) include clarifications regarding certain definitions, test 
conditions, and test setup; and (5) replace obsolete test load items 
and soils. Id. at 65982-65987.
    The current version of the test procedure includes provisions for 
determining estimated annual energy use (``EAEU'') in kilowatt-hours 
per year (``kWh/year''), estimated annual operating cost (``EAOC'') in 
dollars per year, and water consumption in gallons per cycle (``gal/
cycle''). 10 CFR 430.23(c).
    As of May 30, 2013, manufacturers must use appendix C1 to 
demonstrate compliance with DOE's energy conservations standards for 
dishwashers, which are set forth at 10 CFR 430.32(f)(3). The current 
energy conservation standards for consumer dishwashers are consistent 
with recommendations submitted to DOE by groups representing 
manufacturers, energy and environmental advocates, and consumer groups 
on July 30, 2010.\3\ 77 FR 31918, 31919 (May 30, 2012).
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    \3\ This collective set of comments, titled ``Agreement on 
Minimum Federal Efficiency Standards, Smart Appliances, Federal 
Incentives and Related Matters for Specified Appliances'' (the 
``Joint Petition''), recommended specific energy conservation 
standards for consumer dishwashers that, in the commenters' view, 
would satisfy the EPCA requirements. DOE conducted a rulemaking 
analysis on multiple consumer dishwasher efficiency levels, 
including those suggested in the Joint Petition. The Joint Petition 
is located in the DOE docket for the consumer dishwasher energy 
conservation standards rulemaking, Docket No. EERE-2011-BT-STD-0060, 
document number 1 and available for review at https://www.regulations.gov/document?D=EERE-2011-BT-STD-0060-0001.
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    On December 19, 2014, DOE published notice of proposed rulemaking 
(``NOPR'') proposing amended energy conservation standards for 
dishwashers (``December 2014 NOPR''). 79 FR 76142. In response to the 
December 2014 NOPR, manufacturers and the Association of Home Appliance 
Manufacturers (``AHAM'') commented that issues with the existing 
appendix C1 resulted in a flawed analysis for the proposed standards. 
(AHAM, No. 21 at pp. 12-14) \4\ AHAM's comment, as well as other 
comments received on the issues with the test procedure, are addressed 
in greater detail in the relevant later sections of this document.
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    \4\ A notation in the form ``AHAM, No. 21 at pp. 21-24'' 
identifies a written comment: (1) Made by the Association of Home 
Appliance Manufacturers; (2) recorded in document number 21 that is 
filed in the docket of that energy conservation standards rulemaking 
(Docket No. EERE-2014-BT-STD-0021) and available for review at 
http://www.regulations.gov; and (3) which appears on pages 12 
through 14 of document number 21.
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    After considering comments received on the December 2014 NOPR and 
additional information, DOE conducted further analysis through which it 
concluded that amended standards for consumer dishwashers would not be 
economically justified. 81 FR 90072 (Dec. 13, 2016) (``December 2016 
final determination''). In the December 2016 final determination, DOE 
also removed the obsolete version of appendix C. Based on consideration 
of the concerns raised by interested parties on certain aspects of the 
consumer dishwasher test procedure, DOE agreed in the December 2016 
final determination that it would seek additional information on these 
issues. 81 FR 90072, 90076. DOE is publishing this RFI to solicit 
public information, data, and comments from all interested parties on 
these topics.

II. Request for Information

    As an initial matter, DOE seeks comment on whether there have been 
changes in product testing methodology or new products on the market 
since the last test procedure update that may necessitate amendments to 
the test procedure for dishwashers. Specifically, DOE seeks data and 
information that could enable the agency to propose that the current 
test procedure produces results that are representative of an average 
use cycle for the product and is not unduly burdensome to conduct, and 
therefore does not need amendment. DOE also seeks information on 
whether an existing private-sector developed test procedure would 
produce such results and should be adopted by DOE rather than DOE 
establishing its own test procedure, either entirely or by adopting 
only certain provisions of one or more private-sector developed tests.
    In the following sections, DOE has also identified a variety of 
issues on which it seeks input to determine whether amended test 
procedures for consumer dishwashers would more accurately or fully 
comply with the requirements in EPCA that test procedures: (1) Be 
reasonably designed to produce test results which measure energy use 
during a representative average use cycle or period of use; and (2) not 
be unduly burdensome to conduct. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(3))
    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). Consistent with that 
Executive Order, DOE encourages the public to provide input on measures 
DOE could take to lower the cost of its regulations applicable to 
consumer dishwashers consistent with the requirements of EPCA.

A. Scope and Definitions

    A consumer dishwasher is a cabinet-like appliance which with the 
aid of water and detergent, washes, rinses, and dries (when a drying 
process is included) dishware, glassware, eating utensils, and most 
cooking utensils by chemical, mechanical and/or electrical means and 
discharges to the plumbing drainage system. 10 CFR 430.2. Products 
meeting this definition are subject to DOE's regulations for testing, 
certifying, and complying with energy conservation standards.

B. Energy and Water Consumption Test Procedure

    As described, DOE's current energy conservation standards for 
consumer dishwashers are expressed in terms of EAEU, in kWh/year, and 
water consumption, in gal/cycle. 10 CFR 430.32(f)(1). The current test 
procedure at 10 CFR 430.23(c) includes provisions for determining these 
values as well as EAOC, based upon testing procedures in appendix C1.
    In response to the December 2014 NOPR, DOE received a number of 
comments raising concern that certain aspects of the test procedure may 
not be reasonably designed to measure the energy use of dishwashers 
during a representative average use cycle or period of use. DOE also 
received feedback on concerns with repeatability and reproducibility of 
the appendix C1 test procedure. The following sections discuss each of 
these issues in greater detail.
1. Representativeness
    In accordance with 42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(3), DOE's consumer dishwasher 
test procedure must be reasonably designed to produce test results that 
measure energy use, water use, and estimated annual operating cost of 
dishwashers during a representative average use cycle or period of use. 
In this RFI, DOE is requesting information on multiple aspects of the 
test procedure and whether these aspects appropriately reflect that of 
a representative average use cycle.
a. Cycle Selections
    Sections 2.6.1, 2.6.2, and 2.6.3 of appendix C1 currently require 
testing of a dishwasher on the ``normal'' cycle,

[[Page 43074]]

which is defined as the cycle recommended in the manufacturer's 
instructions for daily, regular, or typical use to completely wash a 
full load of normally soiled dishes including the power-dry feature. 
Section 1.12, appendix C1. Most consumer dishwashers available on the 
market offer multiple cycle selections. In response to the December 
2014 NOPR, AHAM commented that were energy conservation standards to be 
set at more stringent levels, consumers may be more likely to select 
more energy and water-intensive cycle selections (e.g., pots and pans) 
rather than the normal cycle to ensure the best cleaning performance. 
(AHAM, No. 21 at p. 9)
    In response to AHAM's comment, DOE is requesting any available 
consumer usage data describing how frequently consumers select the 
normal cycle and other cycle types. DOE notes the availability of data 
gathered in the U.S. Energy Information Agency's (``EIA'') 2015 
Residential Energy Consumption Survey (``RECS''), which surveyed 
consumer use of normal (both with and without heated dry), heavy, 
light, and energy-saver cycle settings. DOE also seeks information on 
whether cycle selection varies based on a specific product's energy and 
water consumption.
    Testing of the normal cycle requires testing with the manufacturer-
recommended washing and drying temperature options. Section 1.12, 
appendix C1. DOE also requests information on additional cycle options 
that may be available with the normal cycle, including any temperature 
or drying options other than those recommended by the manufacturer, the 
means for consumers to select additional cycle options, and the 
frequency with which consumers select the options.
    This information will also help DOE determine whether current or 
amended energy conservation standards, established based on the DOE 
test procedure, affect (or would affect) consumers' cycle selections. 
Using this information will help DOE ensure that DOE does not set 
standards such that energy and water use levels for the normal cycle 
result in consumers selecting more energy and water-intensive cycle 
options. In DOE's view, such standards would not meet the ECPA 
requirements for establishing standards that are technologically 
feasible and economically justified, and would save a significant 
amount of energy.
b. Power-Dry Feature
    Appendix C1 accounts for operation of a dishwasher on the normal 
cycle with the power-dry feature selected. Appendix C1 also accounts 
for the option to eliminate use of the power-dry feature following the 
final rinse operation, i.e., a truncated normal cycle. Section 1.22 of 
appendix C1 defines ``truncated normal cycle'' as the normal cycle 
interrupted to eliminate the power-dry feature after the termination of 
the last rinse operation. Section 1.14 of appendix C1 defines the 
``power-dry feature'' as a feature that introduces electrically-
generated heat into the washing chamber to improve the drying 
performance of the dishwasher. The drying energy consumption 
calculations in section 5.3 of appendix C1 account for the energy 
consumed by the power-dry feature after the termination of the last 
rinse option of the normal cycle.
    The typical implementation of a power-dry feature had been to 
utilize an exposed resistance heater to heat the air inside the washing 
chamber after the final rinse to evaporate the water from the dishware. 
However, manufacturers have innovated additional technologies to 
improve drying.
    Some consumer dishwasher models do not use a resistance heater to 
heat the air, but instead achieve drying by raising the temperature of 
the final rinse water. This increase in the temperature of the final 
rinse water is not addressed in the truncated normal cycle or drying 
energy consumption provisions, as it occurs as part of the final rinse 
and not after the final rinse.
    DOE requests information and data on the extent to which 
manufacturers increase the temperature of the final rinse water as a 
means to improve drying performance. DOE further requests information 
on the extent to which manufacturers implement such a drying strategy 
as part of the normal cycle, and whether and to what extent such units 
provide an option to eliminate this drying function. DOE also requests 
data and information on the energy use associated with increasing the 
temperature of the final rinse water as a means to improve drying 
performance, including any available options.
c. Test Load Items
    Appendix C1 requires testing with four or eight place settings for 
compact and standard dishwashers, respectively.\5\ Sections 2.6.2, 
2.6.3.1, 2.6.3.2, 2.6.3.3, appendix C1. A place setting includes the 
following items: One cup, one saucer, one dinner plate, one bread and 
butter plate, one fruit bowl, one iced tea glass, one dinner fork, one 
salad fork, one knife, and two teaspoons. Section 2.7.2, appendix C1. 
Both compact and standard dishwashers are also loaded with six serving 
pieces: Two serving bowls, one platter, one serving fork, and two 
serving spoons. Section 2.7.3, appendix C1. The place setting and 
serving piece specifications required in appendix C1 are consistent 
with those provided in American National Standards Institute 
(``ANSI'')/AHAM Standard DW-1-2010, Household Electric Dishwashers 
(``ANSI/AHAM DW-1-2010'').
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    \5\ Section 1.4 of appendix C1 defines a ``compact dishwasher'' 
as having a capacity of less than eight place settings plus six 
serving pieces, as specified in ANSI/AHAM DW-1-2010. Section 1.20 of 
appendix C1 defines a ``standard dishwasher'' as having a capacity 
equal to or greater than eight place settings plus six serving 
pieces as specified in ANSI/AHAM DW-1-2010.
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    Based on consumer dishwasher models certified in DOE's Compliance 
Certification Database as of March 2019, among a total of 895 standard-
size models, 11 percent have a reported capacity of eight place 
settings, 70 percent have a capacity of 12 place settings, and 16 
percent have a capacity that is greater than 12 place settings. Because 
appendix C1 specifies testing with eight place settings for a standard-
size dishwasher, almost 89 percent of standard-size consumer 
dishwashers (i.e. dishwashers with a capacity equal to or greater than 
eight place settings) are tested with a load that is smaller than the 
certified capacity. For example, a consumer dishwasher that is 
certified with a capacity of 12 place settings is classified as a 
standard dishwasher and is tested with eight place settings. DOE 
requests information on the typical number of place settings washed by 
consumers in each dishwasher cycle, as well as how the typical number 
of place settings relates to a dishwasher's overall capacity. DOE also 
requests information on whether the number of place settings affects 
energy and water consumption under appendix C1.
    Additionally, DOE received feedback that the test load composition 
of place settings and serving pieces defined in section 2.7.1 of 
appendix C1 may not represent typical consumer loads. For example, the 
appendix C1 test load does not include any plastic items. DOE is aware 
of one industry test method, IEC Standard 60436, Electric dishwashers 
for household use--Methods for measuring the performance (``IEC 
60436''), which includes a melamine bowl as one of the serving pieces 
in the test load. DOE requests information on whether introduction of 
plastic items

[[Page 43075]]

could have an impact on energy or water use, as well as on the typical 
composition of place setting items, serving pieces, and flatware that 
are washed in consumer dishwashers, including the types of items (e.g., 
cups, bowls, and plates) and their characteristics (e.g., size and 
material).
d. Annual Number of Cycles
    DOE's current test procedure calculates EAEU using 215 annual 
cycles. In the December 2014 NOPR and chapter 7 of its accompanying 
technical support document (``TSD''),\6\ DOE discussed the sources for 
this annual number of cycles as part of the energy and water use 
analysis. 79 FR 76142, 76156. DOE noted that the consumer dishwasher 
test procedure amendments in the August 2003 final rule relied on 
compiled survey data of consumers' dishwasher usage habits from a 
number of sources, including the 1997 RECS, several consumer dishwasher 
manufacturers, detergent manufacturers, energy and consumer interest 
groups, independent researchers, and government agencies. Id. These 
data yielded the average usage of 215 cycles per year. Id. DOE 
considered survey data from the 2009 version of RECS, but determined 
that because of the large data set used to develop the 215 cycle value, 
it would retain use of that value. Id. DOE also noted that 215 cycles 
per year is the number of cycles on which the EnergyGuide label 
administered by the Federal Trade Commission is based. Id.
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    \6\ Available at https://www.regulations.gov/document?D=EERE-2014-BT-STD-0021-0005.
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    In response to the December 2014 NOPR, AHAM commented that several 
newer editions of RECS data are available, including most recently (at 
that time) from the 2009 RECS. AHAM also noted that the 2009 RECS data 
include 12,100 households with 7,382 dishwashers, as compared to the 
5,900 households in the 1997 RECS. Additionally, AHAM stated that the 
EIA has instituted a number of improvements to its methodology to 
increase the sample size and data accuracy of the 2009 survey. AHAM 
stated that as a result, the 2009 RECS data would be more appropriate 
to use than the 1997 RECS data. (AHAM, No. 21 at pp. 24-25) The 
Mercatus Center at George Mason University (``Mercatus Center'') 
commented that the number of cycles per year used for the December 2014 
NOPR analysis relied on a survey from 2001, which occurred during an 
extended period of decreasing household sizes and reduction in food 
preparation. (Mercatus Center, No. 11 at p. 7)
    As discussed in chapter 7 of the final rule TSD accompanying the 
December 2016 final determination, the 2009 RECS data provide 
information on the number of cycles per week for each household using a 
consumer dishwasher, categorized in the following bins: (1) Less than 
once per week, (2) once per week, (3) 2-3 times per week, (4) 4-6 times 
per week, and (5) at least once per day. Because the RECS data do not 
include point estimates of usage, DOE considered survey data it used to 
develop the amendments in the August 2003 final rule, which included 
data from a 2001 Arthur D. Little survey,\7\ and that were analyzed 
again as part of the October 2012 final rule to estimate the average 
number of consumer dishwasher cycles per year.\8\ DOE converted the 
information from the 2009 RECS to annual values. The data from the 2009 
RECS indicate an average of 204 annual cycles (rather than 245 as 
derived from the 1997 RECS). Incorporating this value with the 
additional survey data used in the August 2003 final rule suggests a 
value of 207 average annual cycles.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \7\ 68 FR 51887, 51889-51890.
    \8\ 77 FR 31918, 31932.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    DOE requests any additional information on annual consumer use of 
dishwashers, including on the appropriateness of the analysis that 
incorporates the 2009 RECS data and whether it results in a 
representative annual usage estimate. DOE also seeks feedback on the 
suitability of data from the 2015 RECS, which directly asks for the 
typical number of dishwasher cycles per week rather than providing 
binned response options.
e. Soils
    The August 2003 final rule amended the consumer dishwasher test 
procedure to account for the varying energy and water performance of 
units that include soil sensors. 68 FR 51887, 51890, 51893. In that 
rulemaking, DOE relied on survey data gathered by Arthur D. Little 
(``ADL'') \9\ to characterize the quantity of soils that consumers load 
into a dishwasher. Using the soil loads from an earlier version of AHAM 
DW-1 \10\ as a reference point, the ADL report defined a light soil 
load as half the quantity of a single soiled place setting as defined 
in AHAM DW-1. A medium soil load was equivalent to two soiled AHAM DW-1 
place settings and a heavy soil load was approximately equal to four 
soiled AHAM DW-1 place settings. With these load size definitions, ADL 
found that consumers most frequently washed lightly soiled loads (62 
percent of loads), with medium (33 percent) and heavy (5 percent) soil 
loads making up the remainder. The appendix C1 test procedure assumes 
the same distribution of soil loads as identified in the ADL report.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \9\ ADL survey data are available at https://www.regulations.gov/document?D=EERE-2006-TP-0096-0055.
    \10\ Although not identical to the soil loads in ANSI/AHAM DW-1-
2010, they are substantially similar.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In response to the December 2014 NOPR, Samsung Electronics America, 
Inc. (``Samsung'') commented that the soil loads in the current DOE 
test procedure, including the heavy soil load, appear to reflect 
consumer pre-rinsing. Samsung proposed that the DOE test procedure be 
updated to reflect the soiling condition without pre-rinsing to 
encourage consumer dishwasher cycles to be designed for the soiling 
condition without pre-rinsing. Samsung suggested soiling levels per 
AHAM DW-1-2009 \11\ could represent soiling condition without pre-
rinsing. Samsung asserted that adopting more stringent standards 
without amending the test procedure accordingly would drive consumer 
dishwasher cycle designs that use less energy and water under the DOE 
soil condition, but use significantly more water and energy under 
consumer usage with no pre-rinsing. (Samsung, No. 19 at pp. 1-2) AHAM 
asserted that under the standards proposed in the December 2014 NOPR, 
consumers would pre-rinse dishes before placing them in the dishwasher, 
significantly increasing water use. (AHAM, No. 21 at p. 9)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \11\ The soil loads in AHAM DW-1-2009 are identical to those in 
ANSI/AHAM DW-1-2010.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    DOE requests information on whether consumer loads have changed 
since the survey data gathered in support of the August 2003 final 
rule. Specifically, DOE requests data or survey information regarding 
soiling conditions and the frequency of pre-rinsing to inform whether 
any changes to the current soil loads are warranted.
    In addition to the quantity of soils loaded into the dishwasher, 
DOE seeks information on whether the types of soil required in appendix 
C1 result in a test method that measures energy and water use during a 
representative use cycle or period of use. The soil types are defined 
by ANSI/AHAM DW-1-2010; however, appendix C1 does not require flatware 
or serving pieces to be soiled. These soils include: Eggs, corn, 
oatmeal, potatoes, a ground beef mixture, raspberry preserves, coffee 
(including coffee grounds), and tomato juice. DOE notes that the ANSI/
AHAM DW-1-2010 soil load also includes peanut butter,

[[Page 43076]]

which is not used in appendix C1 testing. Appendix C1 requires drying 
the soils on the test load items for approximately 2 hours before 
loading into the dishwasher. DOE notes that other industry test 
procedures, such as IEC 60436, include different soil types, soiling 
methods, and longer drying or baking-on periods for the soils.
    In response to the December 2014 NOPR, AHAM and a group of its 
members gathered data on soils and cleaning performance and presented 
the information to DOE in a meeting on July 8, 2015.\12\ An AHAM member 
tested three consumer dishwashers with varying energy and water 
consumptions, one at the current baseline, one at the standard level 
proposed in the December 2014 NOPR, and one at an intermediate level 
(at 255 kWh/year and 3.1 gal/cycle). The three dishwashers were 
evaluated by the manufacturer on their ability to remove adhered ANSI/
AHAM DW-1-2010 soils and additional fats and grease. The information 
AHAM provided indicated that the dishwashers with energy and water 
consumptions less than the baseline may have more difficulty removing 
certain grease and adhered soils compared to dishwashers that just meet 
the current standard level. (AHAM, No. 27 at pp. 2-13)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \12\ A summary of the meeting and the materials presented at 
this meeting are available at document ID EERE-2014-BT-STD-0021-0027 
on http://www.regulations.gov.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    DOE requests information on the typical mix of soils consumers load 
into their dishwashers, on the appropriateness of the current 
composition of soil loads in appendix C1, and on whether the appendix 
C1 soil loads should be updated to incorporate different types of 
soils, including any additional fats or greases.
f. Loading Pattern
    Section 2.6 of appendix C1 references section 5.8 of ANSI/AHAM DW-
1-2010 for loading instructions. That section requires loading in 
accordance with the manufacturer's recommendation. AHAM stated that 
appendix C1's lack of loading specificity is a source of test procedure 
uncertainty. (AHAM, No. 21 at pp. 13-14) The test load in appendix C1 
includes a mix of soiled and unsoiled items, whereas every item in an 
ANSI/AHAM DW-1-2010 test load is soiled. Manufacturers do not provide 
instructions for loading a mix of soiled and clean items. The 
positioning of soiled items relative to unsoiled items may impact the 
rate at which soils are removed from the test load items, which may 
impact soil sensor responses.
    DOE requests feedback on whether any additional instructions are 
needed beyond referencing a manufacturer's loading recommendation.
    DOE also requests information on how consumers typically load 
dishwashers. Although manufacturer instructions may optimize loading 
patterns to maximize loading capacity and dishwasher performance, 
consumers may use other loading positions and alignment, leading to 
variability in dishwasher performance.
g. Preconditioning Cycles
    Section 2.9 of appendix C1 specifies that two preconditioning 
cycles must be run prior to the energy and water consumption test 
cycles. The purpose of the pre-conditioning cycles is to ensure that 
the water lines and sump area of the pump are primed, as well as to 
ensure that the soil sensors are calibrated for soil-sensing 
dishwashers. Section 2.9 also specifies that the prewash, if any, and 
main wash fill water volumes from the second preconditioning cycle must 
be measured to calculate the detergent amounts to be used during the 
energy and water consumption tests. DOE requests comment on whether two 
preconditioning cycles are adequate or more than is necessary to 
calibrate the soil sensors on all soil-sensing dishwashers. DOE also 
requests comment on whether using the water volumes from the second 
preconditioning cycle would be appropriate for determining the 
detergent amounts if the sensors are still being calibrated during this 
second preconditioning cycle.
h. Detergent
    The detergent formulation used in appendix C1 is Cascade with the 
Grease Fighting Power of Dawn powder. Section 2.10, appendix C1. 
Appendix C1 specifies that the amount of detergent to be used for 
testing is half of the quantity specified in ANSI/AHAM DW-1-2010, 
calculated based on the pre-wash and main wash fill volumes. Id. DOE 
introduced specifications for detergent quantity at the time it 
incorporated soiled loads into the DOE test procedure. 68 FR 51887, 
51890-51891. In that rulemaking, interested parties commented that 
detergent dosing impacts a consumer dishwasher's cleaning performance 
but not energy consumption. Id. Identification of the specific 
detergent was subsequently added in the October 2012 final rule. 77 FR 
65941, 65965.
    In response to the December 2014 NOPR, AHAM commented that the 
detergent quantity requirements are subject to different 
interpretations between test laboratories, as observed during AHAM's 
round robin testing. Specifically, AHAM described difficulty in 
distinguishing pre-wash and main wash fills from each other and from 
any subsequent rinse fills. AHAM stated that this leads to test 
laboratories using different fill volumes in the detergent 
concentration calculations, resulting in different detergent dosing 
that will impact both energy and cleaning performance test results. 
(AHAM, No. 21 at p. 13) DOE has observed that some consumer dishwashers 
use a combination of fills and partial drains during the initial wash 
portions of the cycle, creating potential difficulty in distinguishing 
between the pre-wash and main wash portions of the cycle and the 
corresponding quantities of water remaining in the test unit.
    DOE has also received feedback that consumers are increasingly 
moving from powder or liquid detergents to single-dose detergents 
(e.g., capsules or pods). Therefore, basing the detergent dosing on the 
wash fill volumes may not be representative of consumer use if 
consumers more frequently use a single dose or fixed quantity of powder 
or liquid detergent for every dishwasher cycle regardless of the cycle 
selection or soil load.
    DOE requests information on whether the current powder detergent 
results in a test procedure reasonably designed to measure energy or 
water use during a representative use cycle or period of use. DOE also 
requests comment on whether the test procedure should continue to 
require calculating the detergent dosing based on the measured water 
fill volumes, or whether specifying a fixed amount of detergent, either 
in powder or single-dose form, would be more appropriate. If calculated 
detergent dosages are appropriate, DOE requests information on methods 
to differentiate between the different portions of a wash cycle and how 
to appropriately calculate the corresponding detergent dosing. DOE 
notes that certain manufacturers include dosing recommendations in 
their user guides and requests feedback on whether the detergent dosing 
for testing should reference any such recommendations.
    Additionally, DOE has received feedback from manufacturers that the 
formulations of commercially available detergents often change 
significantly. Detergent manufacturers may make periodic adjustments to 
detergent composition, resulting in different performance 
characteristics depending on when and where the detergent was 
purchased. To address this issue, IEC 60436 specifies the use of a 
reference

[[Page 43077]]

detergent formulation. DOE requests information on whether the use of a 
reference detergent would be appropriate for the DOE test procedure.
i. Rinse Aid
    Appendix C1 currently requires that testing be conducted without 
the use of rinse aid, and that any rinse aid reservoirs remain empty 
for testing. As part of the August 2003 final rule, DOE considered 
using rinse aid for testing that included soiled loads in the test 
procedure. 68 FR 51887, 51890-51891. Interested parties commented that 
rinse aid affects drying performance but would not impact a consumer 
dishwasher's energy performance. Id.
    DOE notes that IEC 60436 specifies the use of a standard rinse aid 
formulation rather than a commercially marketed brand. DOE requests 
information on consumer use of rinse aid, and on whether the use of 
rinse aid has any effect on measured energy and water consumption.
j. Water Hardness
    Appendix C1 does not currently specify any water hardness 
requirement for testing. The water hardness requirement in The ENERGY 
STAR Test Method for Determining Dishwasher Cleaning Performance \13\ 
is consistent with the requirement in ANSI/AHAM DW-1-2010, specifying a 
maximum water hardness of 85 parts per million (``ppm'') of calcium 
carbonate.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \13\ The ENERGY STAR Cleaning Performance Test Method is 
available at https://www.energystar.gov/products/spec/residential_dishwashers_specification_pd.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In response to the December 2014 NOPR, AHAM commented that the lack 
of a water hardness requirement in the DOE test procedure may lead to 
variability in test results between test laboratories. (AHAM, No. 21 at 
p. 14)
    DOE requests information on how water hardness may impact consumer 
dishwasher energy and water performance, and on the burden associated 
with including a water hardness requirement in the DOE test procedure. 
DOE also requests information on the hardness level of water used in 
current testing as compared to the water hardness level specified in 
ANSI/AHAM DW-1-2010, and the degree to which the water hardness level 
impacts whether the test procedure is reasonably designed to measure 
energy or water use during a representative use cycle or period of use.
k. Water Softener Regeneration Cycles
    The dishwasher test procedure at appendix C1 specifies certain 
calculations for energy and water consumption, including calculations 
for dishwashers with water softener regeneration cycles.\14\ Sections 
5.1.3, 5.4.3, 5.5.1.2, 5.5.2.2, 5.6.1.2, and 5.6.2.2, appendix C1. In 
its review of these calculations, DOE observed that if a dishwasher has 
a water softener regeneration event at every or nearly every cycle (or, 
for the purposes of appendix C1, the dishwasher is certified to have 
approximately 215 regeneration cycles per year), the additional energy 
and water consumption associated with the water softener regeneration 
would likely already be accounted for in the measured energy and water 
use of the dishwasher. However, according to appendix C1, such a 
dishwasher would still be required to certify additional energy and 
water use associated with regeneration. DOE requests comment on whether 
such dishwashers exist that would run a regeneration at every or nearly 
every cycle, and whether any additional instructions should be 
specified in appendix C1 for such dishwashers.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \14\ Hard water (water having calcium ion concentrations higher 
than 180 parts per million) prevents soaps and detergents from 
properly sudsing. To address this issue for those consumers that 
have hard water, some consumer dishwashers have a built-in water 
softening system. The water softener system may rely on a sodium 
resin that must be periodically recharged by flushing a saline 
solution over it, a process which is referred to as regeneration. 
During a cycle that includes a regeneration process, additional 
water is mixed with salt supplied by the consumer in a compartment 
separate from the detergent compartment to create the saline 
solution, and this incremental water consumption requires energy to 
heat it to the same temperature as is used for the active cycle.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

l. Standby Testing
    In response to the December 2014 NOPR, AHAM stated that appendix C1 
does not currently specify whether standby testing is to be conducted 
with the door open or closed. AHAM believes this will have a 
significant impact on variability of the measured energy. (AHAM, No. 21 
at p. 13) Section 4.2 of appendix C1 states to follow the test 
procedure in Section 5, Paragraph 5.3.2 of IEC 62301, which specifies 
setup according to the manufacturer's instructions for use. If no 
manufacturer instructions for use are provided, the factory or default 
settings shall be used. When there are no indications of factory or 
default settings, the product is tested as supplied.
    DOE requests comment on whether testing with the door closed is 
representative of energy use in standby mode or off mode during a 
representative average use cycle or period of use (i.e., the door is 
closed when the dishwasher is not in active mode). DOE also requests 
feedback on whether energy is consumed when the door is open, and if 
so, whether the energy consumption with the door open is significantly 
different from the energy consumed with the door closed.
m. Ambient Temperature
    Section 2.5.1 of Appendix C1 currently specifies an ambient 
temperature of 75 [deg]F  5 [deg]F for active mode testing. 
In response to the December 2014 NOPR, AHAM commented that varying 
ambient temperatures can lead to different thermal hold times, which 
can lead to different measured energy results. AHAM stated that it was 
studying whether it is possible to tighten the allowable ambient 
temperature range in order to improve repeatability and 
reproducibility. (AHAM, No. 21 at p. 14) DOE welcomes input regarding 
the impacts of narrowing the allowable ambient temperature range on 
consumer dishwasher energy and water consumption, and whether this 
change would represent a burden for test facilities, and if so the 
extent of the burden.
n. Relative Humidity
    Appendix C1 does not currently specify an ambient relative humidity 
for testing. In response to the December 2014 NOPR, AHAM noted that 
relative humidity can cause variation in energy testing results, and 
suggested that the DOE test procedure incorporate the relative humidity 
specification in ANSI/AHAM DW-1-2010, which according to AHAM is 
current industry practice. (AHAM, No. 21 at p. 14) DOE seeks input on 
whether ambient relative humidity affects energy or water consumption, 
and whether test facilities already maintain an ambient relative 
humidity of 20 to 50 percent, as specified in ANSI/AHAM DW-1-2010. DOE 
requests information on what, if any, additional test burden would 
result from a relative humidity specification and the extent of any 
such burden.
2. Repeatability and Reproducibility
    In response to the December 2014 NOPR, AHAM suggested that the 
repeatability and reproducibility of appendix C1 are not sufficient for 
the test procedure to be used as the basis for an energy conservation 
standards rulemaking. AHAM commented that its round robin testing 
demonstrated that appendix C1's repeatability and reproducibility needs 
to be improved. AHAM stated that it had been working over the past 
several years to identify potential sources of variation in the

[[Page 43078]]

energy test, and to develop potential amendments to the DOE test 
procedure and ANSI/AHAM DW-1-2010 to address them. AHAM commented that 
repeatability and reproducibility would become more critical at more 
stringent standard levels. (AHAM, No. 21 at pp. 12-14)
    In the December 2016 final determination, DOE stated that it would 
seek information on stakeholders' concerns regarding appendix C1. 81 FR 
90072, 90076. In addition to the topics addressed in section II.B.1 of 
this document, DOE has observed in its testing that appendix C1 
produces more consistent results from test to test for non-soil-sensing 
dishwashers than for soil-sensing dishwashers. For soil-sensing 
dishwashers, the sensor response for a given cycle appears to be the 
primary factor in the resulting variation in energy and water use 
results.
    As discussed in section II.B.1.d of this document, survey data from 
ADL indicate that consumers typically load only a small amount of soils 
into their dishwashers. According to the ADL report, even the heaviest 
consumer soil loads (representing 5 percent of consumer dishwasher 
cycles) correspond to the equivalent of only four soiled place settings 
under the DOE test procedure. DOE observed in its tests under appendix 
C1 that this soil level typically triggers the lightest cycle response 
in soil-sensing dishwashers. However, DOE has occasionally observed a 
given soil load trigger a heavier cycle response (i.e. ``outlier'' 
cycle responses that use higher energy and/or water consumption), which 
can have a more pronounced impact when the heavier response occurs with 
the light or medium soil loads because those cycles are weighted more 
heavily in the overall calculations.
    DOE is requesting information on the extent to which variable cycle 
responses for soil-sensing dishwashers are an issue with the DOE 
consumer dishwasher test procedure, and if so, how to address this 
issue. Specifically, DOE seeks information on whether variable cycle 
responses are an issue that may be addressed by further specifying test 
conditions, or if there is a certain amount of variability inherent to 
the dishwasher control schemes and whether such variability would also 
occur as part of a representative average use cycle or period of use. 
DOE is also interested in feedback on any other amendments to the test 
procedure that would ensure that the procedure is reasonably designed 
to measure the energy and water use of the dishwasher during a 
representative average use cycle or period of use.

C. Efficiency Metrics

    DOE's test procedures in 10 CFR 430.23(c) and appendix C1 provide 
results for energy consumption in kWh/year and water consumption in 
gal/cycle. In response to the December 2014 NOPR, DOE received feedback 
that its existing product class structure may not be appropriate for 
consumer dishwasher regulations. The Mercatus Center stated that the 
current separation of consumer dishwashers into product classes on the 
basis of capacity without an identification of product characteristics 
that provide consumer utility is overly broad. (Mercatus Center, No. 11 
at p. 5) The People's Republic of China (``China'') stated that the 
standards proposed in the December 2014 NOPR are fixed values for the 
standard product class, and that these values may be too stringent for 
larger consumer dishwashers within the standard product class. China 
suggested a specific standard for these larger products. (China, No. 25 
at p. 3)
    One potential approach to address the comments raised by the 
Mercatus Center and China would be an energy and water use metric on a 
per-place setting basis. Such an approach would also eliminate the need 
for separate product classes based on capacity. DOE is requesting 
feedback on such a potential approach, including any data 
characterizing how the energy use of dishwashers on the market in the 
United States could be impacted by it.

D. Other Test Procedure Topics

1. Test Procedure Waivers
    DOE has granted two test procedure waivers for the current consumer 
dishwasher test procedure. On April 10, 2017, DOE granted Miele, Inc. a 
test procedure waiver to allow for testing a specified basic model 
intended for a 208-volt power supply rather than the 115 volts or 240 
volts specified in appendix C1.\15\ 82 FR 17227. On November 1, 2013, 
DOE granted Whirlpool Corporation a test procedure waiver to allow for 
testing specified basic models equipped with a water use system, in 
which water from the final rinse cycle is stored for use in the next 
subsequent cycle, with periodic draining and cleaning events.\16\ 78 FR 
65629.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \15\ See case No. DW-012.
    \16\ See case No. DW-011.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The test procedure waivers for these consumer dishwasher basic 
models provide alternate test provisions that are reasonably designed 
to measure energy and water use during a representative average use 
cycle or period of use for the basic models specified in the respective 
Orders. DOE requests feedback on whether the test procedure waiver 
approaches are generally appropriate for testing basic models with 
these features.
2. Other Topics
    In addition to the issues identified earlier in this document, DOE 
welcomes comment on any other aspect of the existing test procedures 
for consumer dishwashers not already addressed by the specific areas 
identified in this document. DOE particularly seeks information to 
ensure that the test procedure is designed to measure energy and water 
use during a representative average use cycle or period of use, and is 
not unduly burdensome to conduct. DOE also requests information that 
would help DOE create a procedure that would limit manufacturer test 
burden through streamlining or simplifying testing requirements.
    DOE also requests feedback on any potential amendments to the 
existing test procedure that could be considered to address impacts on 
manufacturers, including small businesses. DOE requests comment on the 
benefits and burdens of adopting any industry/voluntary consensus-based 
or other appropriate test procedure, without modification.
    DOE recently published an RFI on the emerging smart technology 
appliance and equipment market. 83 FR 46886 (Sept. 17, 2018). In that 
RFI, DOE sought information to better understand market trends and 
issues in the emerging market for appliances and commercial equipment 
that incorporate smart technology. DOE's intent in issuing the RFI was 
to ensure that DOE did not inadvertently impede such innovation in 
fulfilling its statutory obligations in setting efficiency standards 
for covered products and equipment. DOE seeks comments, data, and 
information on the issues presented in the ``smart products'' RFI as 
they may be applicable to dishwashers.
    DOE also recently issued an RFI to seek more information on whether 
its test procedures are reasonably designed, as required by EPCA, to 
produce results that measure the energy use or efficiency of a product 
during a representative average use cycle or period of use. 84 FR 9721 
(Mar. 18, 2019). DOE seeks comment on this issue as it pertains to the 
test procedure for dishwashers.

[[Page 43079]]

III. Submission of Comments

    DOE invites all interested parties to submit in writing by 
September 19, 2019, comments and information on matters addressed in 
this notice and on other matters relevant to DOE's consideration of 
amended test procedures for consumer dishwashers. These comments and 
information will aid in the development of a test procedure NOPR for 
consumer dishwashers 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 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 postal mail. 
Comments and documents submitted via email, hand delivery/courier, or 
postal 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 postal mail 
or hand delivery/courier, 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 to 
[email protected] 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 should contact Appliance and 
Equipment Standards Program staff at (202) 287-1445 or via email at 
[email protected].

    Signed in Washington, DC, on August 6, 2019.
Alexander N. Fitzsimmons,
Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency, Energy 
Efficiency and Renewable Energy.
[FR Doc. 2019-17762 Filed 8-19-19; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P