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The United States delays efficiency standards for household appliances

The delay of requirements includes air conditioners, with potential impact on market costs and energy efficiency efforts.

On February 14, the Trump administration announced a decision to delay the implementation of energy efficiency standards for a range of household appliances, including central air conditioners, washing machines, and gas water heaters. This suspension affects seven appliance categories that were set under the Biden administration’s agenda [1].

 

The Department of Energy (DOE) emphasised that this move aims to reduce costs for consumers and increase market competition. 

 

Sources

[1] https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/us-energy-department-postpone-seven-mandates-appliance-efficiency-standards-2025-02-14/

[2] https://energynews.pro/en/the-united-states-suspends-new-energy-efficiency-standards-for-key-household-appliances/#google_vignette

 

The decision has sparked mixed reactions [2]. Industry players in the gas and appliance sectors have supported the suspension, citing relief from high costs. Meanwhile, energy efficiency advocates, such as the Appliance Standards Awareness Project (ASAP), have criticised the move, arguing that it could hinder potential consumer savings and delay progress on climate goals.