[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 180 (Wednesday, September 16, 2020)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 57787-57799]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-18748]


 ========================================================================
 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.
 
 ========================================================================
 

  Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 180 / Wednesday, September 16, 2020 / 
Proposed Rules  

[[Page 57787]]



DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

10 CFR Part 430

[EERE-2020-BT-STD-0013]
RIN 1904-AE50


Energy Conservation Program: Energy Conservation Standards for 
Battery Chargers

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

ACTION: Request for information.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of Energy is undertaking an early 
assessment review for amended energy conservation standards for battery 
chargers to determine whether to amend applicable energy conservation 
standards for this product. Specifically, through this request for 
information (``RFI''), DOE seeks data and information that could enable 
the agency to determine whether it should propose a ``no new standard'' 
determination because a more stringent standard: Would not result in a 
significant savings of energy; is not technologically feasible; is not 
economically justified; or any combination of the foregoing. DOE 
welcomes written comments from the public on any subject within the 
scope of this document (including those topics not specifically raised 
in this RFI), as well as the submission of data and other relevant 
information concerning this early assessment review.

DATES: Written comments and information will be accepted on or before 
November 30, 2020.

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-2020-BT-
STD-0013, 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 the docket 
number EERE-2020-BT-STD-0013 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, 6th Floor, 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 http://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-2020-BT-STD-0013. The docket web page contains 
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. Jeremy Dommu, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Energy 
Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Building Technologies Office, EE-2J, 
1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20585-0121. Telephone: 
(202) 586-9870. Email: [email protected].
    Mr. Michael Kido, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the General 
Counsel, GC-33, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20585-0121. 
Telephone: (202) 586-8145. 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
    1. Authority
    2. Background
    B. Rulemaking Process
II. Request for Information and Comments
    A. Products Covered by This Process
    1. Wireless Battery Chargers
    B. Market and Technology Assessment
    1. Product Classes
    2. Technology Assessment
    C. Screening Analysis
    D. Engineering Analysis
    1. Baseline Efficiency Levels
    2. Maximum Available and Maximum Technologically Feasible Levels
    3. Intermediate Efficiency Levels
    4. Manufacturer Production Costs and Manufacturing Selling Price
    E. Markup Analysis
    F. Energy Use Analysis
    1. Active Mode and Maintenance Mode Energy Consumption
    2. Standby Mode and Off Mode Energy Consumption
    G. Life-Cycle Cost and Payback Analysis
    H. Shipments Analysis
    I. National Impact Analysis
    J. Manufacturer Impact Analysis
    K. Other Energy Conservation Standards Topics
    1. Market Failures
    2. Network Mode/``Smart'' Technology
    3. Other Issues
III. Submission of Comments

I. Introduction

    DOE established an early assessment review process to conduct a 
more focused analysis of a specific set of facts or circumstances that 
would allow DOE to determine that, based on one or more statutory 
criteria, a new or amended energy conservation standard is not 
warranted. The purpose of this review is to limit the resources, from 
both DOE and stakeholders, committed to

[[Page 57788]]

rulemakings that will not satisfy the requirements in EPCA that a new 
or amended energy conservation standard save a significant amount of 
energy, and be economically justified and technologically feasible. See 
85 FR 8626, 8653-8654 (Feb. 14, 2020).
    As part of the early assessment, DOE publishes an RFI in the 
Federal Register, announcing that DOE is considering initiating a 
rulemaking proceeding and soliciting comments, data, and information on 
whether a new or amended energy conservation standard would save a 
significant amount of energy and be technologically feasible and 
economically justified. Based on the information received in response 
to the RFI and DOE's own analysis, DOE will determine whether to 
proceed with a rulemaking for a new or amended energy conservation 
standard.
    If DOE makes an initial determination based upon available evidence 
that a new or amended energy conservation standard would not meet the 
applicable statutory criteria, DOE would engage in notice and comment 
rulemaking before issuing a final determination that new or amended 
energy conservation standards are not warranted. Conversely, if DOE 
makes an initial determination that a new or amended energy 
conservation standard would satisfy the applicable statutory criteria 
or DOE's analysis is inconclusive, DOE would undertake the preliminary 
stages of a rulemaking to issue a new or amended energy conservation 
standard. Beginning such a rulemaking, however, would not preclude DOE 
from later making a determination that a new or amended energy 
conservation standard cannot satisfy the requirements in EPCA, based 
upon the full suite of DOE's analyses. See 85 FR 8626, 8654 (Feb. 14, 
2020).

A. Authority

    The Energy Policy and Conservation Act, as amended (``EPCA''),\1\ 
among other things, authorizes the Department of Energy (``DOE'' or in 
context, ``the Department'') 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. 
These products include battery chargers, the subject of this document. 
(42 U.S.C. 6291(32); 42 U.S.C. 6295(u) (directing DOE to issue a final 
rule that prescribes energy conservation standards for battery chargers 
(or classes of battery chargers) or determine that no energy 
conservation standard is technically feasible and economically 
justified). See 42 U.S.C. 6295(u)(1)(E)(i)(II))
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \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.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    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 EPCA include definitions (42 U.S.C. 
6291), test procedures (42 U.S.C. 6293), labeling provisions (42 U.S.C. 
6294), energy conservation standards (42 U.S.C. 6295), 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(a)-(c)) DOE may, however, grant waivers of Federal 
preemption in limited instances for particular State laws or 
regulations, in accordance with the procedures and other provisions set 
forth under 42 U.S.C. 6297(d).
    The Energy Policy Act of 2005 (``EPACT 2005''), Public Law 109-58 
(Aug. 8, 2005), amended EPCA by defining the term ``battery charger.'' 
(42 U.S.C. 6291 and 42 U.S.C. 6295). That provision also directed DOE 
to prescribe definitions and test procedures related to the energy 
consumption of battery chargers and to issue a final rule that 
determines whether to set energy conservation standards for battery 
chargers or classes of battery chargers. (42 U.S.C. 6295(u)(1)(A) and 
(E))
    Subsequently, the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 
(``EISA 2007''), Public Law 110-140 (Dec. 19, 2007) established 
definitions for active, standby, and off modes and directed DOE to 
amend its test procedures for battery chargers to include a means to 
measure the energy consumed in standby mode and off mode. (42 U.S.C. 
6295(gg)(2)(B)(i)). EISA 2007 also directed DOE to issue a final rule 
that prescribes energy conservation standards for battery chargers or 
classes of battery chargers or to determine that no energy conservation 
standard is technologically feasible and economically justified. (42 
U.S.C. 6295(u)(1)(E))
    EPCA also requires that, not later than 6 years after the issuance 
of any final rule establishing or amending a standard, DOE evaluate the 
energy conservation standards for each type of covered product, 
including those at issue here, and publish either (1) a notice of 
determination that the standards do not need to be amended, or (2) a 
notice of proposed rulemaking (``NOPR'') that includes new proposed 
energy conservation standards (proceeding to a final rule, as 
appropriate). (42 U.S.C. 6295(m)(1)) In making a determination that the 
standards do not need to be amended, DOE must evaluate whether amended 
standards (1) will result in significant conservation of energy, (2) 
are technologically feasible, and (3) are cost effective as described 
under 42 U.S.C. 6295(o)(2)(B)(i)(II). (42 U.S.C. 6295(m)(1)(A); 42 
U.S.C. 6295(n)(2)) Under 42 U.S.C. 6295(o)(2)(B)(i)(II), DOE must 
determine whether the benefits of a standard exceed its burdens by, to 
the greatest extent practicable, considering the savings in operating 
costs throughout the estimated average life of the covered product in 
the type (or class) compared to any increase in the price of, or in the 
initial charges for, or maintenance expenses of, the covered products 
which are likely to result from the imposition of the standard. If DOE 
determines not to amend a standard based on the statutory criteria, not 
later than 3 years after publishing a final determination not to amend 
standards, DOE must publish either a new determination that standards 
for the product do not need to be amended, or propose new energy 
conservation standards. (42 U.S.C. 6295(m)(3)(B)) DOE must make the 
analysis on which a determination is based publicly available and 
provide an opportunity for written comment. (42 U.S.C. 6295(m)(2))
    In cases where DOE proposes new standards, DOE must evaluate that 
proposal against the criteria of 42 U.S.C. 6295(o), as described in the 
following section, and follow the rulemaking procedures set out in 42 
U.S.C. 6295(p). (42 U.S.C. 6295(m)(1)(B)) If DOE decides to amend the 
standard based on the statutory criteria, DOE must publish a final rule 
not later than two years after energy conservation standards are 
proposed. (42 U.S.C. 6295(m)(3)(A))

B. Rulemaking History

    Consistent with EPACT 2005, on December 8, 2006, DOE published a 
final rule that prescribed test procedures for a variety of products. 
71 FR 71340, 71365-71375. That rule, which was codified in multiple 
sections of the Code of Federal Regulations (``CFR''), included a 
definition and test procedures for battery chargers. The test 
procedures for these products are found in 10 CFR part 430, subpart B,

[[Page 57789]]

Appendix Y (``Uniform Test Method for Measuring the Energy Consumption 
of Battery Chargers'').
    Pursuant to EISA 2007, DOE prescribed the test procedure for 
battery chargers in a final rule published March 27, 2009, to 
incorporate standby- and off-mode measurements. 74 FR 13318, 13334-
13336. Additionally, DOE amended the test procedures for battery 
chargers to include an active mode measurement in a test procedure 
final rule. 76 FR 31750.
    DOE initiated the first round of Energy Conservation Standards 
rulemaking by issuing a Framework Document for Battery Chargers and 
External Power Supplies (the Framework Document) on June 4, 2009. 74 FR 
26816. The Framework Document, which explained the issues, analyses, 
and process DOE anticipated using in developing the energy conservation 
standards. On September 15, 2010, after having considered comments from 
interested parties, gathered additional information, and performed 
preliminary analyses for the purpose of developing potential amended 
energy conservation standards for Class A External Power Supplies 
(``EPSs'') and new energy conservation standards for battery chargers 
and non-Class A EPSs, DOE announced a public meeting and the 
availability of a preliminary technical support document (``preliminary 
TSD''). 75 FR 56021. The preliminary TSD discussed the comments DOE 
received at the framework stage of that rulemaking and described the 
actions DOE took in response to those comments.
    After considering all of the comments DOE received from the public 
meeting and in written comments, DOE published a proposal to set energy 
conservation standards for battery chargers. 77 FR 18478 (March 27, 
2012) (``March 2012 NOPR''). Accompanying that proposal, DOE released 
the NOPR technical support document (``TSD''), which incorporated the 
analyses DOE conducted and accompanying technical documentation. In the 
March 2012 NOPR, DOE proposed establishing energy conservation 
standards for battery chargers according to battery energy, charging 
characteristics, and input power source.
    Comments responding to the March 2012 NOPR expressed particular 
interest in the potential interplay between DOE's proposal and a 
competing battery charger energy efficiency requirement that had been 
approved by the California Energy Commission (``the CEC'') on January 
12, 2012. (The CEC is California's primary energy policy and planning 
agency.) The CEC standards, which took effect on February 1, 2013, 
created an overlap between the classes of battery chargers covered by 
the CEC rule and those classes of battery chargers DOE proposed to 
regulate in the March 2012 NOPR. Additionally, the standards proposed 
by DOE differed from the ones issued by the CEC, with some being more 
stringent and others being less stringent than the CEC standards. To 
better understand the impact of the CEC standards on the battery 
charger market in the U.S., DOE published a request for information 
(``RFI'') on March 26, 2013 that sought stakeholder comment on a 
variety of issues related to the CEC standards. 78 FR 18253 (``March 
2013 RFI'').
    DOE published a supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking 
(``SNOPR'') in September 2015 to address stakeholder comments 
responding to the March 2013 RFI by updating and revising its analysis 
to propose standards that were approximately equivalent, or where 
justified, more stringent compared to the CEC standards. 80 FR 52850 
(September 1, 2015) (``September 2015 NOPR''). In addition to updating 
its proposal to account for the impact of the CEC standards, DOE made 
several other changes in preparing these revised standards--including 
adjusting its analyses in line with updated information and data in the 
September 2015 SNOPR.
    DOE issued a final rule in 2016 establishing energy conservation 
standards for battery chargers manufactured on or after June 13, 2018. 
81 FR 38266 (June 13, 2016) (``June 2016 Final Rule''). The current 
energy conservation standards, codified in the CFR at 10 CFR 430.32(z), 
are paired with accompanying test procedures used to evaluate battery 
charger energy consumption. See 10 CFR part 430, subpart B, appendix Y 
(``Appendix Y'').

II. Request for Information

    DOE is publishing this RFI to collect data and information during 
the early assessment review to inform its decision, consistent with its 
obligations under EPCA, as to whether the Department should proceed 
with an energy conservation standards rulemaking. Accordingly, in the 
following sections, DOE has identified specific issues on which it 
seeks input to aid in its analysis of whether an amended standard for 
battery chargers would not save a significant amount of energy or be 
technologically feasible or economically justified. In particular, DOE 
is interested in any information indicating that there has not been 
sufficient technological or market changes since DOE last conducted an 
energy conservation standards rulemaking analysis for battery chargers 
to suggest a more-stringent standard could satisfy these criteria. DOE 
also welcomes comments on other issues relevant to its early assessment 
that may not specifically be identified in this document.
    Pursuant to DOE's recently amended ``Process Rule'' (85 FR 8626 
(Feb. 14, 2020)), DOE stated that as a first step in a proceeding to 
consider establishing or amending an energy conservation standard, such 
as the existing standards for the battery chargers at issue in this 
notice, DOE would publish a notice in the Federal Register announcing 
that DOE is considering initiation of a proceeding, and as part of that 
notice, DOE would request submission of related comments, including 
data and information showing whether any new or amended standard would 
satisfy the relevant requirements in EPCA for a new or amended energy 
conservation standard. Based on the information received in response to 
the notice and its own analysis, DOE would determine whether to proceed 
with a rulemaking for a new or amended standard, or issue a proposed 
determination that the standards do not need to be amended.
    When prescribing new or amended standards for covered products, DOE 
must follow specific statutory criteria. EPCA requires that any new or 
amended energy conservation standard prescribed by the Secretary be 
designed to achieve the maximum improvement in energy or water 
efficiency that is technologically feasible and economically justified. 
(42 U.S.C. 6295(o)(2)(A)) To determine whether a standard is 
economically justified, EPCA requires that DOE determine whether the 
benefits of the standard exceed its burdens by considering, to the 
greatest extent practicable, the following seven factors:
    (1) The economic impact of the standard on the manufacturers and 
consumers of the affected products;
    (2) The savings in operating costs throughout the estimated average 
life of the product compared to any increases in the initial cost, or 
maintenance expenses;
    (3) The total projected amount of energy and water (if applicable) 
savings likely to result directly from the standard;
    (4) Any lessening of the utility or the performance of the products 
likely to result from the standard;
    (5) The impact of any lessening of competition, as determined in 
writing by the Attorney General, that is likely to result from the 
standard;
    (6) The need for national energy and water conservation; and

[[Page 57790]]

    (7) Other factors the Secretary of Energy (``the Secretary'') 
considers relevant. (42 U.S.C. 6295(o)(2)(B)(i)(I)-(VII))
    DOE fulfills these and other applicable requirements by conducting 
a series of analyses throughout the rulemaking process. Table I.1 shows 
the individual analyses that are performed to satisfy each of the 
requirements within EPCA.

       Table I.1--EPCA Requirements and Corresponding DOE Analysis
------------------------------------------------------------------------
            EPCA requirement                Corresponding DOE analysis
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Significant Energy Savings.............   Shipments Analysis.
                                          National Impact
                                          Analysis.
                                          Energy and Water Use
                                          Determination.
Technological Feasibility..............   Market and Technology
                                          Assessment.
                                          Screening Analysis.
                                          Engineering Analysis.
Economic Justification:
    1. Economic Impact on Manufacturers   Manufacturer Impact
     and Consumers.                       Analysis.
                                          Life-Cycle Cost and
                                          Payback Period Analysis.
                                          Life-Cycle Cost
                                          Subgroup Analysis.
                                          Shipments Analysis.
    2. Lifetime Operating Cost Savings    Markups for Product
     Compared to Increased Cost for the   Price Determination.
     Product.                             Energy and Water Use
                                          Determination.
                                          Life-Cycle Cost and
                                          Payback Period Analysis.
    3. Total Projected Energy Savings..   Shipments Analysis.
                                          National Impact
                                          Analysis.
    4. Impact on Utility or Performance   Screening Analysis.
                                          Engineering Analysis.
    5. Impact of Any Lessening of         Manufacturer Impact
     Competition.                         Analysis.
    6. Need for National Energy and       Shipments Analysis.
     Water Conservation.                  National Impact
                                          Analysis.
    7. Other Factors the Secretary        Employment Impact
     Considers Relevant.                  Analysis.
                                          Utility Impact
                                          Analysis.
                                          Emissions Analysis.
                                          Monetization of
                                          Emission Reductions Benefits.
                                          Regulatory Impact
                                          Analysis.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    As noted in Section I.A, DOE is publishing this early assessment 
review RFI to collect data and information that could enable the agency 
to determine whether DOE should propose a ``no new standard'' 
determination because a more stringent standard: (1) Would not result 
in a significant savings of energy; (2) is not technologically 
feasible; (3) is not economically justified; or (4) any combination of 
the foregoing. DOE also seeks input and data from interested parties to 
aid in the development of the technical analyses on which DOE will 
ultimately rely to determine whether (and if so, how) to amend the 
standards for battery chargers.
    In this early assessment review RFI, DOE seeks comment on whether 
there have been any technological or market changes since the June 2016 
Final Rule that would justify a new rulemaking to consider, for 
existing standards, an amendment to establish more stringent standards, 
or whether a ``no new standard'' determination is appropriate pursuant 
to the criteria set forth in Section I.

A. Products Covered by This Process

    This RFI covers those products that meet the various battery 
charger definitions, as codified at 10 CFR 430.2. A battery charger is 
a device that charges batteries for consumer products, including 
battery chargers embedded in other consumer products. 10 CFR 430.2. The 
definitions for specific classes of battery chargers were most recently 
amended in a test procedure final rule, which defined and excluded 
back-up battery chargers \3\ from the test procedure's scope. 81 FR 
31827 (May 20, 2016).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \3\ The term ``back-up battery charger'' means a battery charger 
(but excluding an uninterruptible power supply) that is embedded in 
a separate end-use product that is designed to continuously operate 
using mains power (including end-use products that use external 
power supplies); and whose sole purpose is to recharge a battery 
used to maintain continuity of power in order to provide normal or 
partial operation of a product in case of input power failure. 10 
CFR 430.2.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Issue 1: DOE requests comment on the appropriateness of the current 
definitions for battery charger (and its related battery charger 
classes).
1. Wireless Battery Chargers
    In the June 2016 Final Rule, DOE specified that for battery 
chargers with inductive connections (i.e., wireless battery chargers), 
only those that are more technologically mature--specifically, those 
that are designed to operate in wet conditions--would be subject to 
standards. 81 FR 38266, 38282. DOE planned to address wireless chargers 
designed for dry environments in a separate rulemaking to avoid 
unintentionally impeding the development of a then-nascent technology--
wireless charging. Id.
    With regard to wireless battery chargers, DOE seeks public input on 
the following topics.
    Issue 2: DOE requests information and data on the technologies used 
in wireless battery chargers, including those designed for dry 
environments, the performance characteristics of the technologies, the 
potential consumer utility provided by such technologies, and the 
impact such technologies have on the energy consumption of the wireless 
battery charger.
    Issue 3: DOE seeks information on design options that are (1) 
currently used in wireless battery chargers to reduce energy 
consumption or (2) could be used to reduce energy consumption. DOE also 
requests information on any such technologies currently used in 
prototypes. DOE requests information on the associated costs for any 
identified technologies.
    Issue 4: DOE requests information on whether industry or other 
organizations have developed, or are in the process of developing, 
industry or voluntary standards for wireless battery chargers,

[[Page 57791]]

including those designed for dry environments.

B. Market and Technology Assessment

    The market and technology assessment that DOE routinely conducts 
when analyzing the impacts of a potential new or amended energy 
conservation standard provides information about the battery charger 
industry that will be used to determine whether DOE should propose a 
``no new standard'' determination. DOE uses qualitative and 
quantitative information to characterize the structure of the industry 
and market. DOE identifies manufacturers, estimates market shares and 
trends, addresses regulatory and non-regulatory initiatives intended to 
improve energy efficiency or reduce energy consumption, and explores 
the potential for efficiency improvements in the design and 
manufacturing of battery chargers. DOE also reviews product literature, 
industry publications, and company websites. Additionally, DOE 
considers conducting interviews with manufacturers to improve its 
assessment of the market and available technologies for battery 
chargers.
1. Product Classes
    When evaluating and establishing energy conservation standards, DOE 
may divide covered products into different product classes by the type 
of energy used, or by capacity or other performance-related features 
that justify a different standard. (42 U.S.C. 6295(q)) In making a 
determination whether capacity or another performance-related feature 
justifies a different standard, DOE must consider such factors as the 
utility of the feature to the consumer and other factors DOE deems 
appropriate. (Id.)
    For battery chargers, the current energy conservation standards 
specified in 10 CFR 430.32(z) are based on seven product classes 
determined according to the following performance-related features that 
provide utility to the consumer: Rated battery energy, rated battery 
voltage, and inductive charging capability specifically designed for 
use in a wet environment. Table II.1 lists the current seven product 
classes for battery chargers.

           Table II.1--Current Battery Charger Product Classes
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                            Special
                   Product class      Rated battery      characteristic
 Product class      description       energy  (watt-       or battery
                                     hours (``Wh''))        voltage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1..............  Low-energy.......  <=5 Wh...........  Inductive
                                                        connection and
                                                        designed for use
                                                        in wet
                                                        environment.
2..............  Low-energy, Low-   <100 Wh..........  <4 volts (``V'')
                  voltage.
3..............  Low-energy,        .................  4-10 V
                  Medium-voltage.
4..............  Low-energy, High-  .................  >10 V
                  voltage.
5..............  Medium-energy,     100-3000 Wh......  <20 V
                  Low-voltage.
6..............  Medium-energy,     .................  >=20 V
                  High-voltage.
7..............  High Energy......  >3000 Wh.........  .................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Issue 5: DOE requests feedback on the current battery charger 
product classes and whether changes to these individual product classes 
and their descriptions are needed or whether certain classes should be 
merged or separated (e.g., merge Low-energy, Low-voltage product class 
with that of Low-energy, Medium-voltage etc.). DOE also seeks feedback 
on the potential impacts from combining certain classes, such as the 
elimination of performance-related features or the availability of 
products to meet the current energy conservation standard for these 
products. DOE also requests comment on separating any of the existing 
product classes and whether it would impact product utility by 
eliminating any performance-related features or reduce any compliance 
burdens.
    DOE is also aware that there may be new configurations and features 
available for battery chargers that may not have been available at the 
time of the last energy conservation standards analysis.
    Issue 6: DOE seeks information regarding any other new product 
classes it should consider for inclusion in its analysis. Specifically, 
DOE requests information on the performance-related features (e.g., 
inductive charging vs. conductive charging, presence of charging 
indicators, fast charging capability, etc.) that provide unique 
consumer utility and data detailing the corresponding impacts on energy 
use that would justify separate product classes (i.e., explanation for 
why the presence of these performance-related features would increase 
energy consumption).
2. Technology Assessment
    In analyzing information to determine whether DOE should propose a 
``no new standards determination'' for existing battery charger 
standards, DOE uses information about existing and past technology 
options and prototype designs to help identify technologies that 
manufacturers could use to meet and/or exceed a given set of energy 
conservation standards under consideration. In consultation with 
interested parties, DOE intends to develop a list of technologies to 
consider in its analysis. That analysis will likely include a number of 
the technology options DOE previously considered during its most recent 
standards rulemaking for battery chargers. A complete list of those 
prior options appears in Table II.2 of this RFI. As certain 
technologies have progressed since the June 2016 Final Rule, Table II.3 
of this RFI lists additional technology options that DOE may also 
consider in a future battery charger energy conservation standards 
rulemaking.

       Table II.2--Technology Options for the June 2016 Final Rule
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1...............................  Elimination/Limitation of Maintenance
                                   Current.
2...............................  Elimination of No-Battery Current.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                              Slow Charger
------------------------------------------------------------------------
3...............................  Improved Cores.
4...............................  Termination of Charge Current at Full
                                   Charge.
5...............................  Switched-Mode Power Supply.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                              Fast Charger
------------------------------------------------------------------------
6...............................  Low-Power Integrated Circuits.
7...............................  Schottky Diodes and Synchronous
                                   Rectification.
8...............................  Phase Control to Limit Input Power.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


     Table II.3--Additional Technology Options for Battery Chargers
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1...............................  Printed Circuit Boards with Higher
                                   Copper Content.
2...............................  Alternative Semiconductor Materials.
3...............................  More Efficient SMPS Topologies such as
                                   synchronous rectification.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 57792]]

    Issue 7: DOE seeks information on the technologies listed in Table 
II.2 of this RFI regarding their applicability to the current market 
and how these technologies may impact the energy consumption of battery 
chargers as measured according to the DOE test procedure. DOE also 
seeks information on how these technologies may have changed since they 
were considered in the June 2016 Final Rule analysis. Specifically, DOE 
seeks information on the range of efficiencies or performance 
characteristics that are currently available for each technology 
option.
    Issue 8: DOE seeks information on the technologies listed in Table 
II.3 of this RFI regarding their market adoption, costs, and any 
concerns with incorporating them into products (e.g., impacts on 
consumer utility, potential safety concerns, manufacturing/production/
implementation issues, etc.), particularly as to changes that may have 
occurred since the June 2016 Final Rule.
    Issue 9: DOE seeks comment on other technology options that it 
should consider for inclusion in its analysis and if the incorporation 
of these technologies may impact product features or consumer utility 
of battery chargers.

C. Screening Analysis

    The purpose of the screening analysis is to evaluate the 
technologies that improve equipment efficiency to determine which 
technologies will be eliminated from further consideration and which 
will be passed to the engineering analysis for further consideration. 
In this early assessment RFI, DOE seeks data and information with 
respect to technologies previously screened out or retained that could 
enable the agency to determine whether to propose a ``no new standard'' 
determination because a more stringent standard: (1) Would not result 
in a significant savings of energy; (2) is not technologically 
feasible; (3) is not economically justified; or (4) any combination of 
the foregoing.
    DOE determines whether to eliminate certain technology options from 
further consideration based on the following criteria:
    (1) Technological feasibility. Technologies that are not 
incorporated in commercial products or in working prototypes will not 
be considered further.
    (2) Practicability to manufacture, install, and service. If it is 
determined that mass production of a technology in commercial products 
and reliable installation and servicing of the technology is unlikely 
to be achieved on the scale necessary to serve the relevant market at 
the time of the compliance date of the standard, then that technology 
will not be considered further.
    (3) Impacts on equipment utility or equipment availability. If a 
technology is determined to have significant adverse impact on the 
utility of the equipment to significant subgroups of consumers, or 
result in the unavailability of any covered equipment type with 
performance characteristics (including reliability), features, sizes, 
capacities, and volumes that are substantially the same as equipment 
generally available in the United States at the time, it will not be 
considered further.\4\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \4\ For example, in the analysis for the June 2016 Final Rule 
DOE screened out the option to lower charging current or increase 
charging voltage so that product utility would not be adversely 
impacted. See 81 FR 38266, 38285.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (4) Adverse impacts on health or safety. If it is determined that a 
technology will have significant adverse impacts on health or safety, 
it will not be considered further.
    (5) Unique-Pathway Proprietary Technologies. If a design option 
utilizes proprietary technology that represents a unique pathway to 
achieving a given efficiency level, that technology will not be 
considered further.
10 CFR part 430, subpart C, appendix A 6(c)(3) and 7(b)
    Technology options identified in the technology assessment are 
evaluated against these criteria using DOE analyses and inputs from 
interested parties (e.g., manufacturers, trade organizations, and 
energy efficiency advocates). Technologies that pass through the 
screening analysis are referred to as ``design options'' in the 
engineering analysis. Technology options that fail to meet one or more 
of these criteria are eliminated from consideration.
    Table II.4 summarizes the technology options that DOE screened out 
in the June 2016 Final Rule, and the applicable screening criteria.

                                  Table II.4--Previously Screened Out Technology Options From the June 2016 Final Rule
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                      Screening criteria  (X = Basis for screening out)
                                                                    ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                     Practicability to                       Adverse          Unique-
                     Screened technology option                       Technological     manufacture,    Adverse  impact     impacts on        pathway
                                                                       feasibility      install, and      on  product       health and      proprietary
                                                                                          service           utility           safety       technologies
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-inductive Chargers for Use in Wet Environment..................  ..............  .................  ...............               X   ..............
Capacitive Reactance...............................................  ..............  .................  ...............               X   ..............
Lowering Charging Current or Increasing Voltage....................  ..............  .................               X   ...............  ..............
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Issue 10: DOE requests feedback on what impact, if any, the 
screening criteria described in this section would have on each of the 
technology options listed in Table II.2 and Table II.3 of this RFI with 
respect to battery chargers. Similarly, DOE seeks information regarding 
how these same criteria would affect any other technology options not 
already identified in this document with respect to their potential use 
in battery chargers.
    Issue 11: With respect to the screened out technology options 
listed in Table II.4 of this RFI, DOE seeks information on whether 
these options would, based on current and projected assessments 
regarding each of them, remain screened out under the screening 
criteria described in this section. With respect to each of these 
technology options, what steps, if any, could be (or have already been) 
taken to facilitate the introduction of each option as a means to 
improve battery charger energy efficiency? What impact, if any, is 
there likely to be to the consumer utility of these products with 
respect to the adoption of each of these previously screened out 
options?

D. Engineering Analysis

    The engineering analysis estimates the cost-efficiency relationship 
of

[[Page 57793]]

products at different levels of increased energy efficiency 
(``efficiency levels''). This relationship serves as the basis for the 
cost-benefit calculations for consumers, manufacturers, and the Nation. 
In determining the cost-efficiency relationship, DOE estimates the 
increase in manufacturer production cost (``MPC'') associated with 
increasing the efficiency of products above the baseline, up to the 
maximum technologically feasible (``max-tech'') efficiency level for 
each product class. In this early assessment review RFI, DOE seeks data 
and information with respect to these cost-benefit calculations that 
could enable the agency to determine whether to propose a ``no new 
standard'' determination because a more stringent standard: (1) Would 
not result in a significant savings of energy; (2) is not 
technologically feasible; (3) is not economically justified; or (4) any 
combination of the foregoing.
    DOE historically has used the following three methodologies to 
generate incremental manufacturing costs and establish efficiency 
levels (``ELs'') for analysis: (1) The design-option approach, which 
provides the incremental costs of adding to a baseline model design 
options that will improve its efficiency; (2) the efficiency-level 
approach, which provides the relative costs of achieving increases in 
energy efficiency levels, without regard to the particular design 
options used to achieve such increases; and (3) the cost-assessment (or 
reverse engineering) approach, which provides ``bottom-up'' 
manufacturing cost assessments for achieving various levels of 
increased efficiency, based on detailed cost data for parts and 
material, labor, shipping/packaging, and investment for models that 
operate at particular efficiency levels.
1. Baseline Efficiency Levels
    For each established product class, DOE selects a baseline model as 
a reference point against which any changes resulting from new or 
amended energy conservation standards can be measured. The baseline 
model in each product class represents the characteristics of common or 
typical products in that class. Typically, a baseline model is one that 
meets the current minimum energy conservation standards and provides 
basic consumer utility.
    The current minimum energy conservations standards (which went into 
effect August 12, 2016) represent the current baseline efficiency 
levels for each product class. The current standards for each product 
class are based on unit energy consumption (``UEC''). The current 
standards for battery chargers are found at 10 CFR 430.32(z).
    Issue 12: DOE requests feedback on whether using the current 
established energy conservation standards for battery chargers are 
appropriate baseline efficiency levels for DOE to consider in 
evaluating whether DOE should propose a ``no new standard'' 
determination. DOE requests data and suggestions to evaluate the 
baseline efficiency levels in order to better evaluate amending energy 
conservation standards for these products.
    Issue 13: DOE requests feedback on the appropriate baseline 
efficiency levels for any newly analyzed product classes that are not 
currently in place or for the combined product classes discussed in 
section II.B.1 of this document. For newly analyzed product classes, 
DOE requests energy use data to develop a baseline relationship between 
energy use and adjusted volume.
2. Maximum Available and Maximum Technologically Feasible Levels
    As part of DOE's analysis, the maximum available efficiency level 
is the highest efficiency unit currently available on the market, or as 
in the case of battery chargers, the unit currently available on the 
market with the lowest energy consumption. For the June 2016 Final 
Rule, DOE analyzed all seven battery charger product classes. For each 
product class, DOE selected a representative unit on which it conducted 
its engineering analysis and developed a cost-efficiency curve. The 
representative unit is meant to be an idealized battery charger typical 
of those used with high-volume applications in its product class. 
Because results from the analysis of these representative units would 
later be extended or applied to other units in each respective product 
class, DOE selected high-volume and/or high-energy consumption 
applications that use batteries that are typically found across battery 
chargers in the given product class. The analysis of these battery 
chargers applies to all applications in the product class under the 
assumption that all battery chargers with the same battery voltage and 
energy provide similar utility to the user, regardless of the actual 
end-use product with which they work. See 81 FR 38266, 38286 and 
chapter 5 of the preliminary analysis technical support document 
(``TSD'') \5\ for that rulemaking. The maximum efficiencies currently 
available for these seven analyzed product classes are included in 
Table II.5 of this RFI.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \5\ The June 2016 Final Rule TSD is available at: https://www.regulations.gov/document?D=EERE-2008-BT-STD-0005-0257.

        Table II.5--Maximum Efficiency Levels Currently Available
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                         Best-in-market unit  energy
           Product class                    consumption  (kWh/yr)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.................................  3.04
2.................................  1.58
3.................................  0.74
4.................................  3.63
5.................................  21.39
6.................................  33.53
7.................................  131.44
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    DOE defines a ``max-tech'' efficiency level to represent the 
theoretical maximum possible efficiency if all available and compatible 
design options are incorporated in a model. In many cases, the max-tech 
efficiency level is not commercially available because it is not 
economically feasible. In the June 2016 Final Rule, DOE determined max-
tech efficiency levels using engineering analysis. DOE determined the 
maximum technologically feasible improvements in energy use for battery 
chargers by examining a variety of relevant sources of information, 
including the design parameters used by the least consumptive products 
available on the market, conducting interviews with manufacturers, 
vetting available manufacturer data with subject matter experts, and 
obtaining public feedback on DOE's analytical results. 81 FR 38266, 
38278. For additional discussion of the prior max-tech analysis see 
chapter 5 of the June 2016 Final Rule TSD.
    DOE is considering the likelihood of achieving ``significant energy 
savings'' from an amended standard by examining the projected energy 
savings that would result from amended standards. If DOE determines 
that a more stringent energy conservation standard would not result in 
an additional 0.3 quad of site energy savings or an additional 10-
percent reduction in site energy use over a 30-year period, DOE would 
propose to make a no-new-standards determination. DOE's most recent 
standards rulemaking resulted in standards that produced an estimated 
energy savings (based on the full fuel cycle) of 0.173 quad over a 30-
year period, compared against the estimated 0.703 quad in energy use 
reduction if the max-tech levels from that rulemaking had been adopted. 
DOE seeks comment on the potential energy savings that could be 
expected from more-stringent standards for battery chargers.

[[Page 57794]]

    Issue 14: DOE seeks data and information on the range of potential 
reductions in energy usage available for battery chargers including 
those alternatives analyzed in the last energy conservation standards 
rulemaking as well as those not directly analyzed, what alternative 
approaches for achieving potential reductions in energy usage should 
DOE consider when analyzing battery chargers and why? Relatedly, DOE 
seeks feedback on what design options (if any) are available to 
incorporate into a potential updated max-tech efficiency level and the 
related efficiencies of those individual options. As part of this 
request, DOE also seeks information as to whether there are limitations 
on the use of certain combinations of design options.
3. Intermediate Efficiency Levels
    DOE may also define intermediate efficiency levels in between the 
baseline and max-tech efficiency levels. Typically, DOE identifies 
intermediate efficiency levels, where appropriate, based on a variety 
of sources including, but not limited to: (1) clusters of models 
currently on the market at intermediate efficiency levels; (2) 
efficiency levels defined by programs such as ENERGY STAR; or (3) 
``gap-fill'' levels to bridge large divides between existing clusters 
in the market. From the June 2016 Final Rule, DOE established four 
trial standard levels (``TSLs'') containing some intermediate 
efficiency levels for each of the seven battery charger product 
classes, listed in Table II.6 of this RFI. 81 FR 38307.

                             Table II.6--Trial Standard Levels for Battery Chargers
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                          Trial standard level
     Product class     -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                TSL 1                  TSL 2                  TSL 3                 TSL 4
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.....................  EL 1.................  EL 2.................  EL 2................  EL 3
2.....................  EL 1.................  EL 1.................  EL 2................  EL 4
3.....................  EL 1.................  EL 1.................  EL 2................  EL 3
4.....................  EL 1.................  EL 1.................  EL 2................  EL 3
5.....................  EL 1.................  EL 2.................  EL 3................  EL 3
6.....................  EL 1.................  EL 2.................  EL 3................  EL 3
7.....................  EL 1.................  EL 1.................  EL 2................  EL 2
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    For battery charger PC 1 (low-energy, inductive), DOE examined 
trial standard levels corresponding to each of three ELs developed in 
the engineering analysis. TSL 1 is an intermediate level of performance 
above the baseline. TSLs 2 and 3 are equivalent to the best-in-market 
and corresponds to the maximum consumer net present value. TSL 4 is the 
max-tech level and corresponds to the greatest national energy savings 
(``NES'').
    For its second set of TSLs, which covers PCs 2 (low-energy, low-
voltage), 3 (low-energy, medium-voltage), and 4 (low-energy, high-
voltage), DOE examined four TSLs of different combinations of the 
various efficiency levels found for each product class in the 
engineering analysis. In this grouping, TSLs 1 and 2 are intermediate 
efficiency levels above the baseline for each product class and 
corresponds to the maximum consumer net present value (``NPV''). TSL 3 
corresponds to an incremental efficiency level below best-in-market for 
PC 2, and the best-in-market efficiency level for PCs 3 and 4. Finally, 
TSL 4 corresponds to the max-tech efficiency level for all product 
classes and therefore, the maximum NES. Note that for PC 2 only, EL 3 
(corresponding to a best-in-market efficiency level) was not analyzed 
in any given TSL due to the negative LCC savings results for this 
product class at EL 3 and the fact that only four TSLs were analyzed.
    DOE's third set of TSLs corresponds to the grouping of PCs 5 
(medium-energy, low-voltage) and 6 (medium-energy, high-voltage). For 
both product classes, TSL 1 is an intermediate efficiency level above 
the baseline. TSL 2 corresponds to the best-in-market efficiency level 
for both product classes and is the level with the highest consumer 
NPV. Finally, TSLs 3 and 4 correspond to the max-tech efficiency level 
for both product classes and the maximum NES.
    For PC 7 (high-energy), DOE examined only two ELs because of the 
paucity of products available on the market. TSLs 1 and 2 correspond to 
an efficiency level equivalent to the best-in-market and maximizes 
consumer NPV. TSLs 3 and 4 comprise the max-tech level corresponding to 
the level with the maximum NES.
4. Manufacturer Production Costs and Manufacturing Selling Price
    As described at the beginning of this section, the main outputs of 
the engineering analysis are cost-efficiency relationships that 
describe the estimated increases in manufacturer production costs 
associated with higher-efficiency products for the analyzed product 
classes. For the June 2016 Final Rule, DOE developed the cost-
efficiency relationships by estimating the efficiency improvements and 
costs associated with incorporating specific design options into the 
assumed baseline model for each analyzed product class. See chapter 5 
of the June 2016 Final Rule TSD for the cost-efficiency curves 
developed in that rulemaking.
    Issue 15: DOE requests feedback on how manufacturers would 
incorporate the technology options listed in Table II.2 and Table II.3 
of this document to reduce the energy consumption of battery chargers 
from the baseline while continuing to maintain the same utility of 
these products. This includes information on the order in which 
manufacturers would incorporate the different technologies to 
incrementally improve product efficiency. DOE also requests feedback on 
whether the increased energy efficiency would lead to other design 
changes that would not occur otherwise. DOE is also interested in 
information regarding any potential impact of design options on a 
manufacturer's ability to incorporate additional functions or 
attributes in response to consumer demand.
    Issue 16: DOE also seeks input on the increase in MPC associated 
with incorporating each particular design option. Specifically, DOE is 
interested in whether, and if so how, the costs estimated for the 
design options examined in the June 2016 Final Rule have changed since 
the time of that analysis. DOE also requests information on the 
investments necessary to incorporate specific design options, 
including, but not limited to, costs related to new or modified tooling 
(if any), materials, engineering and development efforts to implement 
each design option, and manufacturing/production impacts.

[[Page 57795]]

    Issue 17: DOE requests comment on whether certain design options 
apply to (or present compatibility issues with) specific product 
classes.
    As described in section II.D.2 of this document, DOE analyzed seven 
product classes in the June 2016 Final Rule. DOE developed cost-
efficiency curves for each of these product classes that were used as 
the input for the downstream analyses conducted in support of that 
rulemaking. See chapter 5 of the June 2016 Final Rule TSD for the cost-
efficiency curves developed in that rulemaking.
    Issue 18: DOE seeks feedback on whether the approach of analyzing 
representative units from each product class by selecting idealized 
battery chargers typical of those used with high-volume applications in 
their product classes is appropriate for a future battery charger 
energy conservation standards rulemaking. Additionally, DOE welcomes 
comment on whether the approach used to apply the analyzed 
representative unit results to the other products within its product 
class is appropriate--and if not, why not? For example, if it is 
necessary to individually analyze additional battery charger models 
other than the representative units used in the June 2016 Final Rule, 
please provide information on why aggregating certain products is not 
appropriate. If this approach is not appropriate, what alternative 
approaches should DOE consider using and why?
    To account for manufacturers' non-production costs and profit 
margin, DOE applies a non-production cost multiplier (the manufacturer 
markup) to the MPC. The resulting manufacturer selling price (``MSP'') 
is the price at which the manufacturer distributes a unit into 
commerce. For the June 2016 Final Rule, DOE developed a markup for each 
product class based on the shipment-weighted average of the markups for 
different end-use product categories. Detailed tables and derivations 
are published in chapter 5 of the June 2016 Final Rule TSD.
    Issue 19: DOE requests feedback on whether manufacturer markups 
used in the June 2016 Final Rule remain appropriate and applicable in 
evaluating whether to amend the current standards for battery chargers.

E. Markup Analysis

    In this early assessment review RFI, DOE seeks data and information 
with respect to markups for battery chargers that could enable the 
agency to determine whether to propose a ``no new standard'' 
determination because a more stringent standard: (1) Would not result 
in a significant savings of energy; (2) is not technologically 
feasible; (3) is not economically justified; or (4) any combination of 
the foregoing.
    To carry out the life-cycle cost (``LCC'') and payback period 
(``PBP'') calculations, DOE would need to determine the cost to the 
residential consumer of baseline products, and the cost of more-
efficient units the consumer would purchase under potential amended 
standards. By applying a multiplier called a ``markup'' to the MSP, DOE 
is able to estimate the residential consumer's price. In generating 
end-user price inputs, DOE must identify distribution channels (i.e., 
how the products are distributed from the manufacturer to the consumer) 
and estimate relative sales volumes through each channel. In the June 
2016 Final Rule, DOE determined that the dominant distribution channel 
for battery chargers typically involves an end-use product manufacturer 
(i.e., an OEM) and retailer.
    DOE typically determines an average manufacturer markup by 
examining the annual Securities and Exchange Commission (``SEC'') 10-K 
reports filed by publicly traded manufacturers of appliances whose 
product range includes battery chargers. DOE also typically determines 
an average retailer markup by analyzing both economic census data from 
the U.S. Census Bureau and the annual SEC 10-K reports filed by 
publicly traded retailers.
    In addition to developing manufacturer and retailer markups, DOE 
typically develops and includes sales taxes to calculate appliance 
retail prices. DOE uses an internet source, the Sales Tax 
Clearinghouse, to calculate applicable sales taxes.
    Issue 20: DOE requests information on the existence of any 
significant distribution channels other than the retail outlet and end-
use product manufacturer distribution channels that are used to 
distribute the products at issue into the market. DOE also requests 
data on whether the distribution channels identified in the June 2016 
Final Rule remain appropriate and applicable to the market.

F. Energy Use Analysis

    In this early assessment review RFI, DOE seeks data and information 
with respect to energy use of battery chargers that could enable the 
agency to determine whether to propose a ``no new standard'' 
determination because a more stringent standard: (1) Would not result 
in a significant savings of energy; (2) is not technologically 
feasible; (3) is not economically justified; or (4) any combination of 
the foregoing.
    As part of the rulemaking process, DOE conducts an energy use 
analysis to identify how products are used by consumers, and thereby 
determine the energy savings potential of energy efficiency 
improvements. DOE bases the energy consumption of battery chargers on 
the rated annual energy consumption as determined by the DOE test 
procedure. Along similar lines, the energy use analysis is meant to 
represent typical energy consumption in the field.
    Battery chargers work as power conversion devices that transform an 
input voltage to a suitable voltage for the batteries they are 
powering. A portion of the energy that flows into a battery charger 
flows out to a battery or end-use product and, thus, cannot be 
considered to be consumed by the battery charger. However, to provide 
the necessary output power, battery chargers consume energy due to 
internal losses as well as overhead circuitry. Therefore, the 
traditional method for calculating energy consumption by measuring the 
energy a product draws from mains while performing its intended 
function(s) is not appropriate for battery chargers because the method 
would not factor in the energy delivered by the battery charger to the 
battery, and would overestimate the energy consumption of the battery 
charger. Instead, energy consumption is the energy losses that occur 
while battery chargers convert and deliver power to end-use products or 
batteries. The energy and power requirements of the end-use products 
and batteries, once determined, are considered fixed, and DOE considers 
only how standards would affect the energy consumption of battery 
chargers themselves.
    The energy conservation standards for battery chargers rely on the 
UEC metric to represent an annualized amount of the non-useful energy 
consumed by a battery charger in all modes of operation. The UEC 
equation combines various performance parameters including 24-hour 
energy, measured battery energy, maintenance mode power, standby mode 
power, off mode power, charge test duration, and usage profiles. See 
Appendix Y, Section 3.3.13. Table 3.3.3 of Appendix Y defines usage 
profiles that represent time spent in each mode of operation, specific 
to each defined product class. DOE developed scaling relationships 
based on battery charger efficiency level and additional test results, 
and determined the maximum UEC allowed as a function of rated battery 
energy for each product class. The current energy conservation 
standards for each product

[[Page 57796]]

class are presented in Table II.7 of this RFI.

     Table II.7--Energy Conservation Standards for Battery Chargers
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                    Maximum UEC (kWh/yr)  (as a function
           Product class                  of  rated battery energy
                                                (``Ebatt''))
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.................................  3.04
2.................................  0.1440 * Ebatt + 2.95
3.................................  For Ebatt <10 Wh, 1.42 kWh/y Ebatt
                                     >=10 Wh, 0.0255 * Ebatt + 1.16
4.................................  0.11 * Ebatt + 3.18
5.................................  0.0257 * Ebatt + .815
6.................................  0.0778 * Ebatt + 2.4
7.................................  0.0502 * Ebatt + 4.53
------------------------------------------------------------------------

1. Active Mode and Maintenance Mode Energy Consumption
    ``Active mode'' or ``charge mode'' is the mode in which the battery 
charger system is connected to the main electricity supply (i.e., the 
electrical outlet), and the battery charger is delivering current, 
equalizing the cells, and performing other one-time or limited-time 
functions in order to bring the battery to a fully charged state. See 
Appendix Y, Section 2.1. Active mode energy consumption is measured as 
a part of 24-hour energy consumption, which is incorporated into the 
UEC calculation to assess the energy consumption of battery chargers. 
Twenty-four hour energy consumption also accounts for energy consumed 
by the battery charger in battery maintenance mode. ``Battery 
maintenance mode'' or ``maintenance mode'' is the mode when the battery 
charger is connected to the main electricity supply and the battery is 
fully charged, but is still connected to the charger. See Appendix Y, 
Section 2.8. In maintenance mode, the charger is performing functions 
intended to keep the battery fully charged while protecting it from 
overcharge. Active mode and maintenance mode energy consumption 
contribute to the majority of the inefficiencies (i.e. energy not 
transferred to the battery) that occur during all modes of operation. 
While DOE does not require specific efficiency performances for each 
mode of operation, DOE utilizes the UEC calculation to account for 
overall battery charger energy consumption, allowing the standard to be 
met by a configuration of modal energy use determined by the 
manufacturer.
    Issue 21: DOE requests feedback on whether the current active mode 
and maintenance mode energy measurements produce results that are 
representative of these modes during an average period of use. If not, 
DOE requests alternate approaches to these measurements along with 
supporting use data.
    Issue 22: DOE seeks information on whether any new (or revised) 
industry or voluntary standards for measuring battery charger active 
mode and maintenance mode energy consumption have been developed since 
the June 2016 Final Rule.
2. Standby Mode and Off Mode Energy Consumption
    ``Standby mode'' or ``no-battery mode'' is the mode in which the 
battery charger is connected to the main electricity supply; with no 
battery connected to the charger, and all the manual on-off switches 
turned on. See Appendix Y, Section 2.25. ``Off mode'' is the mode of 
operation similar to standby mode, but with all the manual on-off 
switches turned off. See Appendix Y, Section 2.20. The test procedure 
at Appendix Y incorporates by reference IEC 62301 standard to provide 
specific resolution and measurement tolerances for standby power 
measurements. See Appendix Y, Section 3.1.2. Appendix Y integrates the 
standby mode and off mode energy consumption combined with usage 
profiles specific to each product class to further refine the UEC 
calculation so that it accounts for all modes of battery charger 
operations. See Appendix Y, Table 3.3.3.
    Issue 23: DOE requests information on technology options for 
battery chargers that could reduce standby mode and off mode energy 
consumption and the costs associated with each option.

G. Life-Cycle Cost and Payback Analysis

    In this early assessment review RFI, DOE seeks data and information 
with respect to manufacturer impacts that could enable the agency to 
determine whether to propose a ``no new standard'' determination 
because a more stringent standard: (1) Would not result in a 
significant savings of energy; (2) is not technologically feasible; (3) 
is not economically justified; or (4) any combination of the foregoing.
    DOE conducts the LCC and PBP analysis to evaluate the economic 
effects of potential energy conservation standards for battery chargers 
on individual customers. The effects of more stringent energy 
conservation standards on a consumer of battery chargers include 
changes in operating expenses (usually decreased) and changes in 
purchase prices (usually increased). DOE would analyze data input 
variability and uncertainty by performing the LCC and PBP calculations 
on a representative sample of households from RECS or similar survey 
data for the considered product classes using Monte Carlo simulation 
and probability distributions. For any given efficiency level, DOE 
measures the PBP and the change in LCC relative to an estimated 
baseline level. The LCC is the total customer expense over the life of 
the equipment, consisting of purchase, installation, and operating 
costs (expenses for energy use, maintenance, and repair). Inputs to the 
calculation of total installed cost include the cost of the equipment--
which includes MSPs, distribution channel markups, and sales taxes--and 
installation costs. Inputs to the calculation of operating expenses 
include annual energy consumption, energy prices and price projections, 
repair and maintenance costs, product lifetimes, discount rates, and 
the year that compliance with new and amended standards is required. 
DOE assumes there is little to no maintenance and repair costs due to 
the nature of battery charger devices, and the life cycle cost would 
mainly consist of purchase and energy use costs.
    Issue 24: DOE requests information and data on the frequency of 
repair and repair costs by product class for the technology options 
listed in Table II.2 and Table II.3. While DOE is interested in 
information regarding each of the listed technology options, DOE is 
also interested in whether consumers simply replace the products when 
they fail as opposed to repairing them.

H. Shipments Analysis

    In this early assessment review RFI, DOE seeks data and information 
with respect to battery charger shipments that could enable the agency 
to determine whether to propose a ``no new standard'' determination 
because a more stringent standard: (1) Would not result in a 
significant savings of energy; (2) is not technologically feasible; (3) 
is not economically justified; or (4) any combination of the foregoing.
    DOE develops shipments forecasts of battery chargers to calculate 
the national impacts of potential amended energy conservation standards 
on energy consumption, net present value (``NPV''), and future 
manufacturer cash flows. DOE shipments projections are based on 
available historical data broken out by product class and battery 
characteristics. Current sales estimates allow for a more accurate 
model that captures recent trends in the market.
    In the June 2016 Final Rule, DOE relied on historical data for 
battery charges as shown in Table II.8 of this RFI.

[[Page 57797]]



                  Table II.8--Historic Shipments by Product Class From the June 2016 Final Rule
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      Special characteristic   Shipments in 2011
                Category                    Rated battery energy        or battery voltage      (thousand units)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Low-Energy.............................  <=5 Wh...................  Inductive Connection.....             15,100
Low-Energy, Low-Voltage................  <100 Wh..................  <4 V.....................            383,006
Low-Energy, Medium-Voltage.............  .........................  4-10 V...................             25,934
Low-Energy, High-Voltage...............  .........................  >10 V....................             76,731
Medium-Energy, Low-Voltage.............  100-3000 Wh..............  <20 V....................              4,517
Medium-Energy, High-Voltage............  .........................  >=20 V...................                640
High-Energy............................  >3000 Wh.................  .........................                229
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Issue 25: DOE requests available annual sales data (i.e., number of 
shipments) for the years 2012-2018 based on product class and 
application (i.e. rechargeable toothbrush chargers, smartphone 
chargers, etc.). If available, DOE also requests data on the fraction 
of shipments to residential and commercial sectors in each product 
class. If disaggregated fractions of annual sales are not available, 
DOE requests more aggregated fractions of annual sales at the product 
class level.

I. National Impact Analysis

    In this early assessment review RFI, DOE seeks data and information 
with respect to national impacts that could enable the agency to 
determine whether to propose a ``no new standard'' determination 
because a more stringent standard: (1) Would not result in a 
significant savings of energy; (2) is not technologically feasible; (3) 
is not economically justified; or (4) any combination of foregoing. DOE 
also seeks comment on any relevant national impacts information for its 
consideration of standards for a ``short cycle'' product class.
    The purpose of the national impact analysis (``NIA'') is to 
estimate aggregate impacts of potential efficiency standards at the 
national level. Impacts reported by DOE include the national energy 
savings (``NES'') from potential standards and the national NPV of the 
total consumer benefits. The NIA considers lifetime impacts of 
potential standards on battery chargers shipped in a 30-year period 
that begins with the expected compliance date for amended standards.
    Analyzing impacts of potential amended energy conservation 
standards for battery chargers requires a comparison of projected U.S. 
energy consumption with and without the amended standards. The 
forecasts contain projections of annual battery charger shipments 
(section II.H of this document), the annual energy consumption of new 
battery chargers (section II.F of this document), and the purchase 
price of new battery chargers (section II.E of this document).
    A key component of DOE's estimates of NES and NPV would be the 
battery charger efficiency forecasted over time for the no-standards 
case and each of the potential standards cases. For the projection made 
in the June 2016 Final Rule, DOE considered historical trends in 
efficiency and various forces that are likely to affect the mix of 
efficiencies over time. DOE compared the no-standards case with 
projections characterizing the market for each product class if DOE 
adopted new standards at specific energy efficiency levels (i.e., the 
TSLs or standards cases) for that class. For the standards cases, DOE 
considered how a given standard would likely affect the market shares 
of products with efficiencies greater than the standard.
    Issue 26: DOE seeks historical estimated annual energy consumption 
data since the June 2016 Final Rule for battery chargers by product 
class. DOE also seeks historical market share data showing the 
percentage of product shipments by efficiency level for each of the 
product classes to the extent possible.

J. Manufacturer Impact Analysis

    In this early assessment review RFI, DOE seeks data and information 
with respect to manufacturer impacts that could enable the agency to 
determine whether to propose a ``no new standard'' determination 
because a more stringent standard: (1) Would not result in a 
significant savings of energy; (2) is not technologically feasible; (3) 
is not economically justified; or (4) any combination of the foregoing.
    The purpose of the manufacturer impact analysis (``MIA'') is to 
estimate the financial impact of amended energy conservation standards 
on manufacturers of battery chargers, and to evaluate the potential 
impact of such standards on direct employment and manufacturing 
capacity. The MIA includes both quantitative and qualitative aspects. 
The quantitative part of the MIA primarily relies on the Government 
Regulatory Impact Model (``GRIM''), an industry cash-flow model adapted 
for each product in this analysis, with the key output of industry net 
present value (``INPV''). The qualitative part of the MIA addresses the 
potential impacts of energy conservation standards on manufacturing 
capacity and industry competition, as well as factors such as product 
characteristics, impacts on particular subgroups of firms, and 
important market and product trends.
    As part of the MIA, DOE intends to analyze impacts of amended 
energy conservation standards on subgroups of manufacturers of covered 
products, including small business manufacturers. DOE uses the Small 
Business Administration's (``SBA'') small business size standards to 
determine whether manufacturers qualify as small businesses, which are 
listed by the applicable North American Industry Classification System 
(``NAICS'') code.\6\ Manufacturing of consumer battery chargers is 
classified under NAICS 335999, ``All Other Miscellaneous Electrical 
Equipment and Component Manufacturing,'' and the SBA sets a threshold 
of 500 employees or less for a domestic entity to be considered as a 
small business. This employee threshold includes all employees in a 
business' parent company and any other subsidiaries.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \6\ Available online at https://www.sba.gov/document/support-table-size-standards.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    One aspect of assessing manufacturer burden involves examining the 
cumulative impact of multiple DOE standards and the product-specific 
regulatory actions of other Federal agencies that affect the 
manufacturers of a covered product or equipment. While any one 
regulation may not impose a significant burden on manufacturers, the 
combined effects of several existing or impending regulations may have 
serious consequences for some manufacturers, groups of manufacturers, 
or an entire industry. Assessing the impact of a single regulation may 
overlook this cumulative regulatory burden. In addition to energy

[[Page 57798]]

conservation standards, other regulations can significantly affect 
manufacturers' financial operations. Multiple regulations affecting the 
same manufacturer can strain profits and lead companies to abandon 
product lines or markets with lower expected future returns than 
competing products. For these reasons, DOE conducts an analysis of 
cumulative regulatory burden as part of its rulemakings pertaining to 
appliance efficiency.
    Issue 27: To the extent feasible, DOE seeks the names and contact 
information of any domestic or foreign-based manufacturers that 
distribute battery chargers in the United States.
    Issue 28: DOE identified small businesses as a subgroup of 
manufacturers that could be disproportionally impacted by amended 
energy conservation standards. DOE requests the names and contact 
information of small business manufacturers, as defined by the SBA's 
size threshold, of battery chargers that manufacture products in the 
United States. In addition, DOE requests comment on any other 
manufacturer subgroups that could be disproportionally impacted by 
amended energy conservation standards. DOE requests feedback on any 
potential approaches that could be considered to address impacts on 
manufacturers, including small businesses.
    Issue 29: DOE requests information regarding the cumulative 
regulatory burden impacts on manufacturers of battery chargers 
associated with (1) other DOE standards applying to different products 
that these manufacturers may also make and (2) product-specific 
regulatory actions of other Federal agencies. DOE also requests comment 
on its methodology for computing cumulative regulatory burden and 
whether there are any flexibilities it can consider that would reduce 
this burden while remaining consistent with the requirements of EPCA.

K. Other Energy Conservation Standards Topics

1. Market Failures
    In the field of economics, a market failure is a situation in which 
the market outcome does not maximize societal welfare. Such an outcome 
would result in unrealized potential welfare. DOE welcomes comment on 
any aspect of market failures, especially those in the context of 
amended energy conservation standards for battery chargers.
2. Network Mode/``Smart'' Technology
    DOE 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. As part of this early assessment 
review, DOE seeks comments, data and information on the issues 
presented in the RFI as they may be applicable to energy conservation 
standards for battery chargers.
3. Other Issues
    Additionally, DOE welcomes comments on other issues relevant to the 
conduct of this early assessment review 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 
energy conservation standards rulemakings, recordkeeping and reporting 
requirements, and compliance and certification requirements applicable 
to battery chargers while remaining consistent with the requirements of 
EPCA.

III. Submission of Comments

    DOE invites all interested parties to submit in writing by the date 
specified in the DATES section of this document, comments and 
information on matters addressed in this document and on other matters 
relevant to DOE's consideration of amended energy conservations 
standards for battery chargers. After the close of the comment period, 
DOE will review the public comments received and may begin collecting 
data and conducting the analyses discussed in this document.
    Submitting comments via http://www.regulations.gov. The http://www.regulations.gov web page requires you to provide your name and 
contact information. Your contact information will be viewable to DOE 
Building Technologies Office 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. If this instruction is followed, 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 
www.regulations.gov provides after you have successfully uploaded your 
comment.
    Submitting comments via email, hand delivery/courier, 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

[[Page 57799]]

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, in which case it is not necessary to submit printed copies. 
No 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. Pursuant 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/courier 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.
    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 energy conservation standards. DOE actively 
encourages the participation and interaction of the public during the 
comment period in this process. Interactions with and between members 
of the public provide a balanced discussion of the issues and assist 
DOE. Anyone who wishes to be added to the DOE mailing list to receive 
future notices and information about this process or would like to 
request a public meeting should contact Appliance and Equipment 
Standards Program staff at (202) 287-1445 or via email at 
[email protected].

Signing Authority

    This document of the Department of Energy was signed on August 21, 
2020, by Alexander N. Fitzsimmons, Deputy Assistant Secretary for 
Energy Efficiency, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, pursuant to 
delegated authority from the Secretary of Energy. That document with 
the original signature and date is maintained by DOE. For 
administrative purposes only, and in compliance with requirements of 
the Office of the Federal Register, the undersigned DOE Federal 
Register Liaison Officer has been authorized to sign and submit the 
document in electronic format for publication, as an official document 
of the Department of Energy. This administrative process in no way 
alters the legal effect of this document upon publication in the 
Federal Register.

    Signed in Washington, DC, on August 21, 2020.
Treena V. Garrett,
Federal Register Liaison Officer, U.S. Department of Energy.
[FR Doc. 2020-18748 Filed 9-15-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P