Rulemaking for Set-top Boxes Energy Conservation Standards and Test Procedure

DOE published notices withdrawing the notice of proposed rulemaking for a test procedure for set-top boxes [78 FR 79637 (December 31, 2013)] and the proposed coverage determination for set-top boxes and network equipment [78 FR 79649 (December 31, 2013)].

There is no public meeting scheduled at this time.

The comment period is closed.

The set-top box docket EERE–2012–BT–TP-0046 contains all notices, public comments, public meeting transcripts, and supporting documents. For the latest information on the planned timing of future DOE regulatory milestones, see the current Office of Management and Budget Unified Agenda of Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions. All planned dates are preliminary and subject to change.

DOE published a proposed determination that set-top boxes and network equipment qualify as a covered product under EPCA. 76 FR 34914 (June 15, 2011). DOE later published a notice withdrawing the notice of proposed coverage determination for set-top boxes and network equipment. 78 FR 79649 (December 31, 2013).

EPCA sets forth various provisions designed to improve energy efficiency. Part A of Title III of EPCA (42 U.S.C. 6291–6309) established the "Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products Other Than Automobiles," which covers consumer products and certain commercial products (hereafter referred to as "covered products").

In addition to specifying a list of covered residential and commercial products, EPCA contains provisions that enable the Secretary of Energy to classify additional types of consumer products as covered products.

For the Secretary to prescribe an energy conservation standard pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 6295(o) and (p) for covered products added pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 6292(b)(1), he must also determine that the products meeting certain additional criteria.

DOE would determine if set-top boxes satisfy the provisions of 42 U.S.C. 6295(l)(1) during the course of the energy conservation standards rulemaking.