[Federal Register Volume 87, Number 61 (Wednesday, March 30, 2022)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 18290-18312]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2022-06450]


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Proposed Rules
                                                Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________

This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of 
the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these 
notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in 
the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules.

========================================================================


Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 61 / Wednesday, March 30, 2022 / 
Proposed Rules

[[Page 18290]]



DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

10 CFR Part 431

[EERE-2022-BT-STD-0008]
RIN 1904-AF32


Energy Conservation Program: Energy Conservation Standards for 
Air Cooled, Three-Phase, Small Commercial Air Conditioners and Heat 
Pumps With a Cooling Capacity of Less Than 65,000 Btu/h and Air-Cooled, 
Three-Phase, Variable Refrigerant Flow Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps 
With a Cooling Capacity of Less Than 65,000 Btu/h

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

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking and request for comment.

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SUMMARY: The Energy Policy and Conservation Act, as amended (``EPCA''), 
prescribes energy conservation standards for various consumer products 
and certain commercial and industrial equipment, including small, 
large, and very large commercial package air conditioning and heating 
equipment, of which air cooled, three-phase, small commercial air 
conditioners and heat pumps with a cooling capacity of less than 65,000 
Btu/h and air-cooled, three-phase, variable refrigerant flow air 
conditioners and heat pumps with a cooling capacity of less than 65,000 
Btu/h are categories. EPCA requires the U.S. Department of Energy 
(``DOE'' or ``the Department'') to consider the need for amended 
standards each time the relevant industry standard is amended with 
respect to the standard levels or design requirements applicable to 
that equipment, or periodically under a six-year-lookback review 
provision. For the three-phase equipment that is the subject of this 
notice of proposed rulemaking (``NOPR''), DOE is proposing amended 
energy conservation standards that rely on new efficiency metrics and 
align with amended efficiency levels in the industry standard. DOE has 
preliminarily determined that it lacks clear and convincing evidence 
required by the statute to adopt standards more stringent than the 
levels specified in the industry standard. This NOPR also announces a 
webinar to receive comment on these proposed standards and associated 
analyses and results.

DATES: Meeting: DOE will hold a public meeting via webinar on Monday, 
May 16, 2022, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., in Washington, DC. See 
section VII, ``Public Participation'' for webinar registration 
information, participant instructions, and information about the 
capabilities available to webinar participants.
    Comments: DOE will accept comments, data, and information regarding 
this NOPR no later than May 31, 2022.
    Comments regarding the likely competitive impact of the proposed 
standard should be sent to the Department of Justice contact listed in 
the ADDRESSES section on or before April 29, 2022.

ADDRESSES: Interested persons are encouraged to submit comments using 
the Federal eRulemaking Portal at www.regulations.gov. Follow the 
instructions for submitting comments. Alternatively, interested persons 
may submit comments, identified by docket number EERE-2022-BT-STD-0008, 
by any of the following methods:
    1. Federal eRulemaking Portal: www.regulations.gov. Follow the 
instructions for submitting comments.
    2. Email: to <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#14557d66577b7b78717055575c44262426264740502424242c5471713a707b713a737b62"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="c081a9b283afafaca5a481838890f2f0f2f2939484f0f0f0f880a5a5eea4afa5eea7afb6">[email protected]</span></a>. Include docket 
number EERE-2022-BT-STD-0008 in the subject line of the message.
    No telefacsimiles (``faxes'') will be accepted. For detailed 
instructions on submitting comments and additional information on this 
process, see section VII of this document.
    Although DOE has routinely accepted public comment submissions 
through a variety of mechanisms, including postal mail and hand 
delivery/courier, the Department has found it necessary to make 
temporary modifications to the comment submission process in light of 
the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. DOE is currently suspending receipt of 
public comments via postal mail and hand delivery/courier. If a 
commenter finds that this change poses an undue hardship, please 
contact Appliance Standards Program staff at (202) 586-1445 to discuss 
the need for alternative arrangements. Once the COVID-19 pandemic 
health emergency is resolved, DOE anticipates resuming all of its 
regular options for public comment submission, including postal mail 
and hand delivery/courier.
    Docket: The docket for this activity, which includes Federal 
Register notices, comments, and other supporting documents/materials, 
is available for review at www.regulations.gov. All documents in the 
docket are listed in the www.regulations.gov index. However, not all 
documents listed in the index may be publicly available, such as 
information that is exempt from public disclosure.
    The docket web page can be found at www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=EERE-2022-BT-STD-0008. The docket web page contains 
instructions on how to access all documents, including public comments, 
in the docket. See section VII for information on how to submit 
comments through www.regulations.gov.
    Written comments regarding the burden-hour estimates or other 
aspects of the collection-of-information requirements contained in this 
proposed rule may be submitted to Office of Energy Efficiency and 
Renewable Energy following the instructions at www.RegInfo.gov.
    EPCA requires the U.S. Attorney General to provide DOE a written 
determination of whether the proposed standard is likely to lessen 
competition. The U.S. Department of Justice Antitrust Division invites 
input from market participants and other interested persons with views 
on the likely competitive impact of the proposed standard. Interested 
persons may contact the Antitrust Division at 
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#1f7a717a6d7866316c6b7e717b7e6d7b6c5f6a6c7b707531787069"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="91f4fff4e3f6e8bfe2e5f0fff5f0e3f5e2d1e4e2f5fefbbff6fee7">[email protected]</span></a> on or before the date specified in the DATES 
section. Please indicate in the ``Subject'' line of your email the 
title and Docket Number of this proposed rulemaking.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 
    Ms. Catherine Rivest, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Energy 
Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Building Technologies Office, EE-5B, 
1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington,

[[Page 18291]]

DC 20585-0121. Telephone: (202) 586-7335. Email: 
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#f5b48585999c949b9690a681949b9194879186a4809086819c9a9b86b59090db919a90db929a83"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="420332322e2b232c21271136232c262330263113372731362b2d2c310227276c262d276c252d34">[email protected]</span></a>.
    Ms. Kristin Koernig, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the 
General Counsel, GC-33, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20585-0121. Telephone: (202) 586-3593. Email: 
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#6e051c071d1a07004005010b1c0007092e061f400a010b40090118"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="2348514a50574a4d0d484c46514d4a44634b520d474c460d444c55">[email protected]</span></a>.
    For further information on how to submit a comment, review other 
public comments and the docket, or participate in the public meeting, 
contact the Appliance and Equipment Standards Program staff at (202) 
287-1445 or by email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#8ecffefee2e7efe0edebddfaefe0eaeffceafddffbebfdfae7e1e0fdceebeba0eae1eba0e9e1f8"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="460736362a2f2728252315322728222734223517332335322f2928350623236822292368212930">[email protected]</span></a>.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Table of Contents

I. Synopsis of the Proposed Rule
II. Introduction
    A. Authority
    B. Background
    1. Current Standards
    2. ASHRAE 90.1-2019
    3. September 2020 NODA/RFI
III. Discussion of Crosswalk Analysis
    A. Crosswalk Background
    B. Crosswalk Methodology
    1. Crosswalk for Three-Phase, Less Than 65,000 Btu/h, Single-
Package and Split-System ACUACs and ACUHPs
    2. Crosswalk for Three-Phase, Less Than 65,000 Btu/h, Space-
Constrained and Small-Duct, High-Velocity ACUACs and ACUHPs
    a. Space-Constrained Equipment
    b. Small-Duct, High-Velocity Equipment
    3. Crosswalk for Three-Phase, Less Than 65,000 Btu/h VRF
    C. Crosswalk Results
IV. Estimates of Potential Energy Savings
V. Conclusions
    A. Consideration of More Stringent Efficiency Levels for Split 
Systems
    B. Review Under Six Year Lookback
    1. Proposed Addendum to ASHRAE 90.1-2019
    C. Definitions for Space-Constrained and Small-Duct, High-
Velocity Equipment
    D. Proposed Energy Conservation Standards
    1. Standard Levels
    2. Compliance Date
VI. Procedural Issues and Regulatory Review
    A. Review Under Executive Orders 12866 and 13563
    B. Review Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act
    1. Description of Reasons Why Action Is Being Considered
    2. Objectives of, and Legal Basis for, Rule
    3. Description on Estimated Number of Small Entities Regulated
    4. Description and Estimate of Compliance Requirements Including 
Differences in Cost, if Any, for Different Groups of Small Entities
    5. Duplication, Overlap, and Conflict With Other Rules and 
Regulations
    6. Significant Alternatives to the Rule
    C. Review Under the Paperwork Reduction Act
    D. Review Under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969
    E. Review Under Executive Order 13132
    F. Review Under Executive Order 12988
    G. Review Under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
    H. Review Under the Treasury and General Government 
Appropriations Act, 1999
    I. Review Under Executive Order 12630
    J. Review Under the Treasury and General Government 
Appropriations Act, 2001
    K. Review Under Executive Order 13211
    L. Information Quality
VII. Public Participation
    A. Participation in the Webinar
    B. Procedure for Submitting Prepared General Statements for 
Distribution
    C. Conduct of the Webinar
    D. Submission of Comments
    E. Issues on Which DOE Seeks Comment
VIII. Approval of the Office of the Secretary

I. Synopsis of the Proposed Rule

    Title III, Part C \1\ of EPCA \2\ established the Energy 
Conservation Program for Certain Industrial Equipment. (42 U.S.C. 6311-
6317) Such equipment includes air cooled, three-phase, small commercial 
air conditioners and heat pumps (``ACUACs and ACUHPS'') with a cooling 
capacity of less than 65,000 Btu/h (``three-phase, less than 65,000 
Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs'') and air-cooled, three-phase, variable 
refrigerant flow (``VRF'') air conditioners and heat pumps with a 
cooling capacity of less than 65,000 Btu/h (``three-phase, less than 
65,000 Btu/h VRF''), the subject of this proposed rulemaking.
    Pursuant to EPCA, DOE is required to consider amending the energy 
efficiency standards for certain types of covered commercial and 
industrial equipment, including the equipment at issue in this 
document, whenever the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and 
Air-Conditioning Engineers (``ASHRAE'') amends the standard levels or 
design requirements prescribed in ASHRAE 90.1, ``Energy Standard for 
Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings,'' (``ASHRAE 90.1''), 
and at a minimum, every 6 years (42 U.S.C. 6313(a)(6)(A)-(C)). For each 
type of equipment, EPCA directs that if ASHRAE 90.1 is amended, DOE 
must adopt amended energy conservation standards at the new efficiency 
level in ASHRAE 90.1, unless clear and convincing evidence supports a 
determination that adoption of a more-stringent efficiency level would 
produce significant additional energy savings and be technologically 
feasible and economically justified (42 U.S.C. 6313(a)(6)(A)(ii) 
(referred to as the ``ASHRAE trigger'')). If DOE adopts an amended 
uniform national standard at the efficiency level specified in the 
amended ASHRAE 90.1, DOE must establish such standard no later than 18 
months after publication of the amended industry standard. (42 U.S.C. 
6313(a)(6)(A)(ii)(I)) If DOE determines that a more-stringent standard 
is appropriate under the statutory criteria, DOE must establish such a 
more-stringent standard no later than 30 months after publication of 
the revised ASHRAE 90.1. (42 U.S.C. 6313(a)(6)(B)(i))
    Under EPCA, DOE must also review its energy conservation standards 
for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUAC, ACUHP, and VRF equipment 
every six years and either: (1) Issue a notice of determination that 
the standards do not need to be amended, as adoption of a more-
stringent level under the relevant statutory criteria is not supported 
by clear and convincing evidence; or (2) issue a notice of proposed 
rulemaking including new proposed standards based on certain criteria 
and procedures in subparagraph (B).\1\ (42 U.S.C. 6313(a)(6)(C)(i))
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    \1\ In relevant part, subparagraph (B) specifies that: (1) In 
making a determination of economic justification, DOE must consider, 
to the maximum extent practicable, the benefits and burdens of an 
amended standard based on the seven criteria described in EPCA; (2) 
DOE may not prescribe any standard that increases the energy use or 
decreases the energy efficiency of a covered equipment; and (3) DOE 
may not prescribe an amended standard that interested persons have 
established by a preponderance of evidence is likely to result in 
the unavailability in the United States of any product type (or 
class) of performance characteristics (including reliability, 
features, sizes, capacities, and volumes) that are substantially the 
same as those generally available in the United States. (42 U.S.C. 
6313(a)(6)(B)(ii)-(iii))
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    ASHRAE officially released the 2019 version of Standard 90.1 
(``ASHRAE 90.1-2019'') on October 25, 2019, thereby triggering DOE's 
previously referenced obligations, pursuant to EPCA, to determine for 
certain classes of three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUAC, ACUHP, 
and VRF systems whether: (1) The amended industry standard should be 
adopted; or (2) clear and convincing evidence exists to justify more-
stringent standard levels. For any classes where DOE was not triggered 
by ASHRAE 90.1-2019, the Department routinely considers those classes 
under EPCA's six-year-lookback provision at the same time to address 
the subject equipment in a comprehensive fashion.
    The current Federal energy conservation standards for three-phase, 
less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs and three-phase, less than 
65,000 Btu/h VRF are codified in DOE's regulations at 10 CFR 431.97. 
These standards for both equipment types are specified in terms of 
seasonal energy

[[Page 18292]]

efficiency ratio (``SEER'') for cooling mode and heating seasonal 
performance factor (``HSPF'') for heating mode. The current Federal 
test procedure at 10 CFR 431.96 for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h 
ACUACs and ACUHPs references American National Standards Institute 
(``ANSI'')/Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute 
(``AHRI'') Standard 210/240-2008, ``Performance Rating of Unitary Air-
Conditioning & Air-Source Heat Pump Equipment,'' approved by ANSI on 
October 27, 2011, and updated by Addendum 1 in June 2011 and Addendum 2 
in March 2012 (``AHRI 210/240-2008''). The current Federal test 
procedure at 10 CFR 431.96 for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF 
references ANSI/AHRI 1230-2010, ``2010 Standard for Performance Rating 
of Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Multi-Split Air-Conditioning and 
Heat Pump Equipment,'' approved August 2, 2010 and updated by Addendum 
1 in March 2011 (``ANSI/AHRI 1230-2010'').
    As set forth in ASHRAE 90.1-2019, the efficiency levels for three-
phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs are specified in terms 
of seasonal energy efficiency ratio-2 (``SEER2'') for cooling mode and 
heating seasonal performance factor-2 (``HSPF2'') for heating mode. 
These efficiency levels are measured per ANSI/AHRI 210/240, ``2023 
Standard for Performance Rating of Unitary Air-conditioning & Air-
source Heat Pump Equipment'' (``AHRI 210/240-2023''). Furthermore, 
ASHRAE 90.1-2019 and AHRI 210/240-2023 align the test procedures for 
three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h equipment with those of their 
single-phase counterparts (i.e., measuring performance in terms of 
SEER2 and HSPF2), which, aside from the three-phase power supply, are 
otherwise identical.\2\
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    \2\ See, e.g., 80 FR 42614, 42622 (July 17, 2015), 83 FR 49501, 
49504 (Oct. 2, 2018), and 86 FR 70316, 70322 (Dec. 9, 2021).
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    DOE is also proposing definitions for space-constrained (``S-C'') 
commercial package air conditioning and heating equipment (``S-C ACUACs 
and ACUHPs'') and for small-duct, high-velocity (``SDHV'') commercial 
package air conditioning and heating equipment (``SDHV ACUACs and 
ACUHPs'') as described in section V.C. Additionally, DOE is proposing 
to separate equipment classes and corresponding energy conservation 
standards for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUAC and ACUHP that 
are (1) S-C split-system ACUACs; (2) S-C split-system ACUHPs; (3) S-C 
single-package ACUACs; (4) S-C single-package ACUHPs; (5) SDHV ACUACs; 
and (6) SDHV ACUHPs. These additional equipment classes are included in 
ASHRAE 90.1-2019 for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and 
ACUHPs.
    As described in detail in section III of this document, DOE 
conducted a crosswalk analysis to translate the current SEER and HSPF 
standards (measured per the current DOE test procedure) to SEER2 and 
HSPF2 levels, respectively (measured per the latest version of AHRI 
Standard AHRI 210/240 (i.e., AHRI 210/240-2023)). DOE then compared 
these crosswalked metrics to those presented in ASHRAE 90.1-2019 to 
determine which equipment classes are triggered by the increased 
stringency in ASHRAE 90.1-2019.
    In this document, DOE proposes to update the minimum energy 
conservation standard levels found at Tables 3, 4, and 13 of 10 CFR 
431.97. The proposed standards for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h 
ACUACs and ACUHPs and for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF 
systems, which are expressed in SEER2 and HSPF2, are presented in Table 
I-1 and Table I-2.\3\ If adopted, the standards in Table I-1 are 
proposed for all three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs 
manufactured in or imported into the United States starting January 1, 
2025. If adopted, the standards in Table I-2 would apply to all three-
phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF manufactured in or imported into the 
United States starting January 1, 2025.
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    \3\ Energy conservations standards for air-cooled, three-phase, 
small, commercial packaged air conditioners and heat pumps with a 
cooling capacity of greater than 65,000 Btu/h and air-cooled, VRF, 
multi-split systems with a cooling capacity of greater than 65,000 
Btu/h are not addressed in this NOPR. Instead this equipment will be 
addressed in separate energy conservation standards rulemakings.
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    As described in section V of this document, DOE has tentatively 
determined that insufficient data are available to determine, based on 
clear and convincing evidence, that more-stringent standards would 
result in significant additional energy savings and be technologically 
feasible and economically justified. The clear and convincing threshold 
is a heightened standard, and would only be met where the Secretary has 
an abiding conviction, based on available facts, data, and DOE's own 
analyses, that it is highly probable an amended standard would result 
in a significant additional amount of energy savings, and is 
technologically feasible and economically justified. See American 
Public Gas Association v. U.S. Dep't of Energy, No. 20-1068, 2022 WL 
151923, at *4 (D.C. Cir. January 18, 2022) (citing Colorado v. New 
Mexico, 467 U.S. 310, 316, 104 S.Ct. 2433, 81 L.Ed.2d 247 (1984)).
    DOE normally performs multiple in-depth analyses to determine 
whether there is clear and convincing evidence to support more 
stringent energy conservation standards (i.e., whether more stringent 
standards would produce significant additional conservation of energy 
and be technologically feasible and economically justified). However, 
as discussed in the section V of this NOPR, due to the lack of 
available market and performance data, DOE is unable to conduct the 
analysis necessary to evaluate the potential energy savings or evaluate 
whether more stringent standards would be technologically feasible or 
economically justifiable, with sufficient certainty. As such, DOE is 
not proposing standards at levels more stringent than those specified 
in ASHRAE Standard 90.1. Rather, DOE is proposing to adopt the levels 
specified in ASHRAE 90.1-2019 for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h 
ACUACs and ACUHPs, as required by EPCA, except for S-C ACUACs and 
ACUHPs, SDHV ACUACs and ACUHPs, and three-phase less than 65,000 Btu/h 
VRF equipment, for which DOE is proposing crosswalked levels that 
maintain equivalent stringency to the currently applicable Federal 
standards but do not align with the levels in ASHRAE 90.1-2019.
    For S-C ACUACs and ACUHPs and SDHV ACUACs and ACUHPs, DOE has 
tentatively concluded that the levels specified in ASHRAE 90.1-2019 are 
less stringent than the applicable current Federal standards. 
Therefore, to avoid backsliding (as required by EPCA),\4\ DOE is 
proposing standards for S-C ACUACs and ACUHPs and SDHV ACUACs and 
ACUHPs in terms of SEER2 and HSPF2 that maintain equivalent stringency 
to the applicable current Federal standards (in terms of SEER and 
HSPF).
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    \4\ EPCA's anti-backsliding provision prevents the Secretary 
from prescribing any amended standard that either increases the 
maximum allowable energy use or decreases the minimum required 
energy efficiency of a covered product. (42 U.S.C. 
6313(a)(6)(B)(iii)(I))
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    For three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF equipment, ASHRAE 90.1-
2019 did not update the efficiency metrics to be in terms of SEER2 and 
HSPF2 and instead left the metrics in terms of SEER and HSPF with no 
change to efficiency levels. In this document, DOE is proposing 
translated standard levels in terms of SEER2 and HSPF2 that are of 
equivalent stringency to the current SEER and HSPF Federal standards.

[[Page 18293]]



   Table I-1--Proposed Energy Conservation Standards for Air-Cooled, Three-Phase, Small Commercial Package Air
                  Conditioners and Heat Pumps With a Cooling Capacity of Less Than 65,000 Btu/h
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
           Equipment type             Size category (cooling)        Subcategory           Minimum efficiency
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air Conditioners....................  <65,000 Btu/h..........  Split System...........  13.4 SEER2
                                                               Single-Package.........  13.4 SEER2
Heat Pumps..........................  <65,000 Btu/h..........  Split System...........  14.3 SEER2
                                                                                        7.5 HSPF2
                                                               Single-Package.........  13.4 SEER2
                                                                                        6.7 HSPF2
Space-Constrained Air Conditioners..  <=30,000 Btu/h.........  Split System...........  13.9 SEER2
                                                               Single-Package.........  13.9 SEER2
Space-Constrained Heat Pumps........  <=30,000 Btu/h.........  Split System...........  13.9 SEER2
                                                                                        7.0 HSPF2
                                                               Single-Package.........  13.9 SEER2
                                                                                        6.7 HSPF2
Small-Duct, High-Velocity Air         <65,000 Btu/h..........  Split System...........  13.0 SEER2
 Conditioners.
Small-Duct, High-Velocity Heat Pumps  <65,000 Btu/h..........  Split System...........  14.0 SEER2
                                                                                        6.9 HSPF2
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


 Table I-2--Proposed Energy Conservation Standards for Air-Cooled, Three-Phase, VRF Multi-Split Air Conditioners
                        and Heat Pumps With a Cooling Capacity of Less Than 65,000 Btu/h
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
           Equipment type             Size category (cooling)        Subcategory           Minimum efficiency
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
VRF Air Conditioners................  <65,000 Btu/h..........  Split System...........  12.9 SEER2
VRF Heat Pumps......................  <65,000 Btu/h..........  Split System...........  12.9 SEER2
                                                                                        6.5 HSPF2
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

II. Introduction

    The following section briefly discusses the statutory authority 
underlying this proposed rule, as well as some of the relevant 
historical background related to the establishment of standards for 
three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs and three-phase, 
less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF.

A. Authority

    EPCA authorizes DOE to regulate the energy efficiency of a number 
of consumer products and certain industrial equipment. Title III, Part 
C of EPCA, added by Public Law 95-619, Title IV, section 441(a) (42 
U.S.C. 6311-6317, as codified), established the Energy Conservation 
Program for Certain Industrial Equipment, which sets forth a variety of 
provisions designed to improve energy efficiency for covered equipment. 
This covered equipment includes small, large, and very large commercial 
package air conditioning and heating equipment, including three-phase, 
less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs and three-phase, less than 
65,000 Btu/h VRF, the subject of this document. (42 U.S.C. 6311(1)(B)-
(D)) Additionally, DOE must consider amending the energy efficiency 
standards for certain types of commercial and industrial equipment, 
including the equipment at issue in this document, whenever ASHRAE 
amends the standard levels or design requirements prescribed in ASHRAE/
IES Standard 90.1, and, at a minimum, every 6 years. (42 U.S.C. 
6313(a)(6)(A)-(C))
    The energy conservation program under EPCA consists essentially of 
four parts: (1) Testing, (2) labeling, (3) the establishment of Federal 
energy conservation standards, and (4) certification and enforcement 
procedures. Relevant provisions of EPCA include definitions (42 U.S.C. 
6311), test procedures (42 U.S.C. 6314), labeling provisions (42 U.S.C. 
6315), energy conservation standards (42 U.S.C. 6313), and the 
authority to require information and reports from manufacturers (42 
U.S.C. 6316; 42 U.S.C. 6296).
    Federal energy efficiency requirements for covered equipment 
established under EPCA generally supersede State laws and regulations 
concerning energy conservation testing, labeling, and standards. (See 
42 U.S.C. 6316(a)-(b); 42 U.S.C. 6297) DOE may, however, grant waivers 
of Federal preemption for particular State laws or regulations, in 
accordance with the procedures and other provisions set forth under 
EPCA. (See 42 U.S.C. 6316(b)(2)(D))
    Subject to certain criteria and conditions, DOE is required to 
develop test procedures to measure the energy efficiency, energy use, 
or estimated annual operating cost of each covered product. (42 U.S.C. 
6314) Manufacturers of covered equipment must use the Federal test 
procedures as the basis for: (1) Certifying to DOE that their equipment 
complies with the applicable energy conservation standards adopted 
pursuant to EPCA (42 U.S.C. 6316(b); 42 U.S.C. 6296), and (2) making 
representations about the efficiency of that equipment (42 U.S.C. 
6314(d)). Similarly, DOE uses these test procedures to determine 
whether the equipment complies with relevant standards promulgated 
under EPCA. The DOE test procedures for three-phase, less than 65,000 
Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs and for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF 
appear at 10 CFR 431, subpart F, appendix A.
    ASHRAE 90.1 sets industry energy efficiency levels for small, 
large, and very large commercial package air-conditioning and heating 
equipment, packaged terminal air conditioners, packaged terminal heat 
pumps, warm air furnaces, packaged boilers, storage water heaters, 
instantaneous water heaters, and unfired hot water storage tanks 
(collectively ``ASHRAE equipment''). For each type of listed ASHRAE 
equipment, EPCA directs that if ASHRAE amends Standard 90.1, DOE must 
adopt amended standards at the new ASHRAE efficiency level, unless DOE 
determines, supported by clear and

[[Page 18294]]

convincing evidence, that adoption of a more stringent level would 
produce significant additional conservation of energy and would be 
technologically feasible and economically justified. (42 U.S.C. 
6313(a)(6)(A)(ii))
    Under EPCA, DOE must also review energy efficiency standards for 
three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs and three-phase, 
less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF every six years and either: (1) Issue a 
notice of determination that the standards do not need to be amended as 
adoption of a more stringent level is not supported by clear and 
convincing evidence; or (2) issue a notice of proposed rulemaking 
including new proposed standards based on certain criteria and 
procedures in subparagraph (B). (42 U.S.C. 6313(a)(6)(C))
    In deciding whether a more-stringent standard is economically 
justified, under either the provisions of 42 U.S.C. 6313(a)(6)(A) or 42 
U.S.C. 6313(a)(6)(C), DOE must determine whether the benefits of the 
standard exceed its burdens. DOE must make this determination after 
receiving comments on the proposed standard and by considering, to the 
maximum extent practicable, the following seven factors:
    (1) The economic impact of the standard on manufacturers and 
consumers of products subject to the standard;
    (2) The savings in operating costs throughout the estimated average 
life of the covered products in the type (or class) compared to any 
increase in the price, initial charges, or maintenance expenses for the 
covered equipment that are likely to result from the standard;
    (3) The total projected amount of energy savings likely to result 
directly from the standard;
    (4) Any lessening of the utility or the performance of the covered 
product 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 conservation; and
    (7) Other factors the Secretary of Energy considers relevant.

    (42 U.S.C. 6313(a)(6)(B)(ii)(I)-(VII))
As discussed previously, EPCA also contains what is known as an ``anti-
backsliding'' provision, which prevents the Secretary from prescribing 
any amended standard that either increases the maximum allowable energy 
use or decreases the minimum required energy efficiency of a covered 
product. (42 U.S.C. 6313(a)(6)(B)(iii)(I)) Also, the Secretary may not 
prescribe an amended or new standard if interested persons have 
established by a preponderance of the evidence that the standard is 
likely to result in the unavailability in the United States in any 
covered product type (or class) of performance characteristics 
(including reliability, features, sizes, capacities, and volumes) that 
are substantially the same as those generally available in the United 
States. (42 U.S.C. 6313(a)(6)(B)(iii)(II)(aa))

B. Background

1. Current Standards
    EPCA defines ``commercial package air conditioning and heating 
equipment'' as air-cooled, water-cooled, evaporatively-cooled, or 
water-source (not including ground water source) electrically operated, 
unitary central air conditioners and central air conditioning heat 
pumps for commercial application. (42 U.S.C. 6311(8)(A); 10 CFR 431.92) 
EPCA further classifies ``commercial package air conditioning and 
heating equipment'' into categories based on cooling capacity (i.e., 
small, large, and very large categories). (42 U.S.C. 6311(8)(B)-(D); 10 
CFR 431.92) ``Small commercial package air conditioning and heating 
equipment'' means equipment rated below 135,000 Btu per hour (cooling 
capacity). (42 U.S.C. 6311(8)(B); 10 CFR 431.92) ``Large commercial 
package air conditioning and heating equipment'' means equipment rated: 
(i) At or above 135,000 Btu per hour; and (ii) below 240,000 Btu per 
hour (cooling capacity). (42 U.S.C. 6311(8)(C); 10 CFR 431.92) ``Very 
large commercial package air conditioning and heating equipment'' means 
equipment rated: (i) At or above 240,000 Btu per hour; and (ii) below 
760,000 Btu per hour (cooling capacity). (42 U.S.C. 6311(8)(D); 10 CFR 
431.92)
    The energy conservation standards for three-phase, less than 65,000 
Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs were most recently amended through a final rule 
for energy conservation standards and test procedures for certain 
commercial HVAC and water heating equipment published in the Federal 
Register on July 17, 2015 (July 2015 final rule). 80 FR 42614. For 
three of the four equipment classes of three-phase, less than 65,000 
Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs (packaged air conditioners, packaged heat 
pumps, and split-system heat pumps), the July 2015 final rule adopted 
energy conservation standards that correspond to the levels in the 2013 
revision of ASHRAE Standard 90.1. For the remaining equipment class 
(split-system air conditioners), the July 2015 final rule did not amend 
the energy conservation standards.
    DOE's current energy conservation standards for three-phase, less 
than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs are codified at Tables 1 and 2 of 
10 CFR 431.97. The current equipment classes are differentiated by 
configuration (split system or single package) and by heating 
capability (air conditioner or heat pump) and repeated in Table II-1 of 
this document.
    Pursuant to its authority under EPCA (42 U.S.C. 6313(a)(6)(A)) and 
in response to updates to ASHRAE Standard 90.1, DOE has established the 
category of VRF multi-split systems, which meets the EPCA definition of 
``commercial package air conditioning and heating equipment,'' but 
which EPCA did not expressly identify. See 10 CFR 431.92; 10 CFR 
431.97.
    DOE defines ``variable refrigerant flow air conditioner'' as a unit 
of commercial package air-conditioning and heating equipment that is 
configured as a split system air conditioner incorporating a single 
refrigerant circuit, with one or more outdoor units, at least one 
variable-speed compressor or an alternate compressor combination for 
varying the capacity of the system by three or more steps, and multiple 
indoor fan coil units, each of which is individually metered and 
individually controlled by an integral control device and common 
communications network and which can operate independently in response 
to multiple indoor thermostats. Variable refrigerant flow implies three 
or more steps of capacity control on common, inter-connecting piping. 
10 CFR 431.92.
    DOE defines ``variable refrigerant flow multi-split heat pump'' as 
a unit of commercial package air-conditioning and heating equipment 
that is configured as a split system heat pump that uses reverse cycle 
refrigeration as its primary heating source and which may include 
secondary supplemental heating by means of electrical resistance, 
steam, hot water, or gas. The equipment incorporates a single 
refrigerant circuit, with one or more outdoor units, at least one 
variable-speed compressor or an alternate compressor combination for 
varying the capacity of the system by three or more steps, and multiple 
indoor fan coil units, each of which is individually metered and 
individually controlled by a control device and common communications 
network and which can operate independently in response to multiple 
indoor thermostats. Variable refrigerant flow implies three or more 
steps of capacity control on common, inter-connecting piping. 10 CFR 
431.92.

[[Page 18295]]

    DOE adopted energy conservation standards for VRF multi-split 
systems in a final rule published on May 16, 2012 (May 2012 Final 
Rule). 77 FR 28928. When determining the appropriate standard levels, 
DOE considered updates to the 2010 edition of ASHRAE Standard 90.1 
(``ASHRAE 90.1-2010''), which designated separate equipment classes for 
VRF multi-split systems for the first time. Id. at 77 FR 28934. For 
three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF, DOE maintained the standards 
from the equipment class under which the corresponding VRF multi-split 
system equipment class was previously regulated (i.e., three-phase, 
less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF had previously been covered as three-phase, 
less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs). Id. at 77 FR 28938.
    DOE's current equipment classes for three-phase, less than 65,000 
Btu/h VRF are differentiated only by refrigeration cycle (air 
conditioners or heat pumps). DOE's current standards for VRF multi-
split systems are set forth at Table 13 to 10 CFR 431.97 and repeated 
in Table II-2 of this document.

 Table II-1--Current Federal Energy Conservation Standards for Air-Cooled, Three-Phase, Small Commercial Package Air Conditioners and Heating Equipment
                                                          With a Cooling Capacity of Less Than
                                                                      65,000 Btu/h
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Equipment type              Cooling  capacity         Subcategory          Heating type        Efficiency level          Compliance date
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Small Commercial Package Air        <65,000 Btu/h........  AC..................  All.................  13 SEER.............  June 16, 2008.
 Conditioner and Heating Equipment                         HP..................  All.................  14 SEER.............  January 1, 2017.
 (Air-Cooled, 3-Phase, Split-                                                                          8.2 HSPF............
 System).
Small Commercial Package Air        <65,000 Btu/h........  AC..................  All.................  14 SEER.............  January 1, 2017.
 Conditioning and Heating                                  HP..................  All.................  14 SEER.............  January 1, 2017.
 Equipment (Air-Cooled, 3-Phase,                                                                       8.0 HSPF............
 Single-Package).
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Table II-2--Current Federal Energy Conservation Standards for Air-Cooled, Three-Phase, Variable Refrigerant Flow
                Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps With a Cooling Capacity of Less Than 65,000 Btu/h
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
        Equipment type           Cooling capacity     Heating type     Efficiency level      Compliance date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
VRF Multi-Split Air             <65,000 Btu/h....  All..............  13 SEER..........  June 16, 2008.
 Conditioners (Air-Cooled).
VRF Multi-Split Heat Pumps      <65,000 Btu/h....  All..............  13 SEER..........  June 16, 2008.
 (Air-Cooled).                                                        7.7 HSPF.........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2. ASHRAE 90.1-2019
    As previously discussed, ASHRAE released ASHRAE 90.1-2019 on 
October 25, 2019, which updated the test procedure references for 
three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs and for three-
phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF. ASHRAE 90.1-2019 also updated the 
efficiency metrics for less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs from 
SEER and HSPF to SEER2 and HSPF2 and updated the efficiency levels for 
all classes to reflect the new metrics. ASHRAE 90.1-2019 did not update 
the efficiency metrics or efficiency levels for three-phase, less than 
65,000 Btu/h VRF.
    For three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs, the 
current DOE test procedure references the industry test procedure ANSI/
AHRI Standard 210/240-2008 with Addenda 1 and 2, Performance Rating of 
Unitary Air-Conditioning and Air-Source Heat Pump Equipment (``AHRI 
210/240-2008'') and measures performance in terms of SEER and HSPF. 
ASHRAE 90.1-2019 references the updated industry test procedure ANSI/
AHRI Standard 210/240-2023, 2023 Performance Rating of Unitary Air-
conditioning & Air-source Heat Pump Equipment, (``AHRI 210/240-2023'') 
beginning on January 1, 2023, which measures performance in terms of 
SEER2 and HSPF2. As discussed in section III.A.2 of this document, DOE 
conducted a preliminary crosswalk analysis to determine whether the new 
metrics and efficiency levels in ASHRAE 90.1-2019 represent at least 
equivalent stringency as compared to the existing DOE standards in 
terms of SEER and HSPF. As discussed in section I.A.1 of this document, 
DOE's preliminary crosswalk analysis determined that ASHRAE 90.1-2019 
increased the stringency of cooling and heating mode efficiency levels 
for the two DOE equipment classes of three-phase, split-system, less 
than 65,000 Btu/h ACUAC and ACUHP equipment while leaving unchanged the 
stringency of single-packaged, three-phase equipment.
    Regarding three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF, ASHRAE 90.1-2019 
also updates the relevant industry test procedure. The current DOE test 
procedure references AHRI Standard 1230-2010 with Addendum 1, 
Performance Rating of Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Multi-split Air-
conditioning and Heat Pump Equipment (``AHRI 1230-2010''). ASHRAE 90.1-
2019 updates this reference to the more recent version of this 
standard: AHRI Standard 1230-2014 with Addendum 1. As discussed in a 
separate rulemaking for commercial VRF multi-split systems with rated 
cooling capacity of greater than 65,000 Btu/h, DOE determined that the 
test procedure changes between AHRI 1230-2010 and AHRI 1230-2014 do not 
have a significant impact on the measured heating or cooling efficiency 
of VRF multi-split systems, therefore a crosswalk analysis was not 
required. 86 FR 70644, 70650 (Dec. 10, 2021). ASHRAE 90.1-2019 did not 
update the efficiency metrics or standards levels for three-phase, less 
than 65,000 Btu/h VRF--which are still specified in terms of SEER and 
HSPF.
3. September 2020 NODA/RFI
    DOE published a notice of data availability and request for 
information (``NODA/RFI'') in response to the amendments to ASHRAE 
90.1-2019 in the Federal Register on September 25, 2020 (``September 
2020 NODA/RFI''). 85 FR 60642. In the September 2020 NODA/RFI, DOE 
compared the current Federal standards for three-phase, less than 
65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs (in terms of SEER and HSPF) to the 
levels in ASHRAE 90.1-2019 (in terms of SEER2 and HSPF2) and

[[Page 18296]]

requested comment on its preliminary findings. Id. at 85 FR 60662-
60666. The September 2020 NODA/RFI did not address standards for three-
phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF. DOE received comments in response to 
the September 2020 NODA/RFI from interested parties listed in Table II-
2.

Table II.2--List of Commenters With Written Submissions to the September
                              2020 NODA/RFI
------------------------------------------------------------------------
           Commenter(s)               Abbreviation       Commenter type
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air-Conditioning, Heating and      AHRI..............  Manufacturer
 Refrigeration Institute.                               Trade Group.
Carrier Corporation..............  Carrier...........  Manufacturer.
Goodman Manufacturing Company,     Goodman...........  Manufacturer.
 L.P.
Rheem Manufacturing Company......  Rheem.............  Manufacturer.
California Investor-Owned          CA IOUs...........  Utility.
 Utilities.
Northwest Energy Alliance,         Joint Advocates...  Advocacy Group.
 Appliance Standards Awareness
 Project, Natural Resources
 Defense Council.
Trane Technologies...............  Trane.............  Manufacturer.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

III. Discussion of Crosswalk Analysis

A. Crosswalk Background

    The energy conservation standards proposed in this document were 
developed in response to updates to the relevant industry test standard 
(i.e., AHRI 210/240-2023), as well as updates to the minimum efficiency 
levels specified in ASHRAE 90.1-2019. As stated in section II.A, DOE 
must consider amending the energy efficiency standards for certain 
types of commercial and industrial equipment, including the equipment 
at issue in this document, whenever ASHRAE amends the standard levels 
or design requirements prescribed in ASHRAE Standard 90.1, and at a 
minimum, every 6 years. (42 U.S.C. 6313(a)(6)(A)-(C)) EPCA also 
prohibits DOE from prescribing any amended standard that either 
increases the maximum allowable energy use or decreases the minimum 
required energy efficiency of a covered product. (42 U.S.C. 
6313(a)(6)(B)(iii)(I)); commonly referred to as EPCA's ``anti-
backsliding provision'') DOE conducted separate crosswalk analyses for 
each equipment class to ensure that EPCA's anti-backsliding provision 
would not be violated if DOE were to adopt the standards proposed in 
this NOPR.
    As described in the following sections, DOE presented a preliminary 
crosswalk in the September 2020 NODA/RFI for three-phase, less than 
65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs that qualitatively evaluated whether the 
levels presented in ASHRAE 90.1-2019 were of higher, lower, or 
equivalent stringency to the existing Federal standard levels. 85 FR 
60642, 60662-60663 (Sept. 25, 2020). The September 2020 NODA/RFI did 
not consider standards for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF and 
therefore did not conduct a crosswalk translation for such equipment. 
In the September 2020 NODA/RFI, DOE accounted for the changes in the 
updated industry test standard AHRI 210/240-2023. Id. at 85 FR 60663. 
Specifically, DOE evaluated the impact to measured efficiency resulting 
from increased external static pressure requirements and changes to the 
heating load line in AHRI 210/240-2023. Id. at 85 FR 60662. In AHRI 
210/240-2023, most equipment classes have increased external static 
pressure testing requirements for ducted systems as compared to the 
current Federal test procedures. As a result, most classes of three-
phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h equipment consume more power under the 
updated test procedure and thus have lower numerical values of SEER2 
and HSPF2 when translated from a given SEER or HSPF rating, 
respectively. Id. AHRI 210/240-2023 also includes changes to the 
heating load line calculations. Specifically, AHRI 210/240-2023 
includes different slope factors for the heating load line, which 
results in higher calculated heating demand for most systems. The 
increased heating demand has an overall impact of decreased numerical 
values for HSPF2 as compared to HSPF. Id.
    On January 6, 2017, DOE published a direct final rule concerning 
energy conservation standards for residential central air conditioners 
and heat pumps (``CACs and HPs'') (``January 2017 CAC/HP ECS DFR''). 82 
FR 1786. The January 2017 CAC/HP ECS DFR established crosswalk 
translations for CACs and HPs from SEER and HSPF (measured per 10 CFR 
part 430, subpart B, appendix M (``Appendix M'')) to SEER2 and HSPF2 
(measured per 10 CFR part 430, subpart B, appendix M1 (``Appendix 
M1'')). Specifically, in the January 2017 CAC/HP ECS DFR DOE 
established multiple SEER-to-SEER2 translations that were unique to the 
test conditions for each product class. Id. at 82 FR 1849. In the 
January 2017 CAC/HP ECS DFR, DOE also established an HSPF-to-HSPF2 
translation and concluded that the 15 percent reduction from HSPF to 
HSPF2 that was observed in an earlier rule for split-system and single-
package heat pumps was appropriate also for S-C and SDHV heat pumps. 
Id. at 82 FR 1850.
    As described in the September 2020 NODA/RFI, AHRI 210/240-2023 
aligns test methods and ratings to be consistent with DOE's test 
procedure for single-phase central air conditioners at appendix M1. 85 
FR 60642, 60647 (Sept. 25, 2020). Given that three-phase equipment are 
generally identical to their single-phase counterparts, aside for 
three-phase power input, DOE presented a preliminary metric translation 
for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs based on the 
metric translation used for single-phase CAC/HPs presented in the 
January 2017 CAC/HP ECS DFR in the September 2020 NODA/RFI. Id. at 85 
FR 60662. For three-phase equipment classes with Federal standards 
matching SEER and HPSF standards in Table V-29 of the January 2017 CAC/
HP ECS DFR, DOE used the corresponding SEER2 and HSPF2 value from Table 
V-30 of the January 2017 CAC/HP ECS DFR. For three-phase equipment 
classes that did not having matching SEER and/or HSPF values in Table 
V-29 of the January 2017 CAC/HP ECS DFR, DOE evaluated the stringency 
of the ASHRAE 90.1-2019 SEER2 and HSPF2 levels relative to the Federal 
SEER and HSPF standards by qualitatively assessing how the testing 
method changes made for single phase switching from SEER/HSPF to SEER2/
HSPF2 would impact three-phase equipment. See id. at 85 FR 60662-60663.
    DOE received multiple comments in response to this preliminary 
crosswalk analysis in the September 2020 NODA/RFI. AHRI, Carrier, 
Goodman, and the Joint Advocates all commented in support of DOE's 
crosswalk methodology. (AHRI, No. 2 at p. 5; Carrier, No. 3 at p. 2; 
Goodman, No. 7 at p. 2; Joint Advocates, No. 6 at p. 2)

[[Page 18297]]

Goodman commented further that all efficiency levels in ASHRAE 90.1-
2019, effective January 1, 2023, are greater than or equal to the 
current Federal standards. (Goodman, No. 7 at p. 2) In response to 
comments received from stakeholders, DOE is evaluating its preliminary 
crosswalk analysis and is proposing an additional crosswalk analysis 
for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF in this document.

B. Crosswalk Methodology

1. Three-Phase, Less Than 65,000 Btu/h, Single-Package and Split-System 
ACUACs and ACUHPs
    Because three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h single-package air 
conditioners and heat pumps have directly comparable single-phase 
product classes, DOE was able to utilize the same crosswalk as 
described in the January 2017 CAC/HP ECS DFR when evaluating the 
relative stringency of ASHRAE 90.1-2019 levels. See 82 FR 1786, 1848-
1851 (Jan. 6, 2017). In the September 2020 NODA/RFI, DOE determined 
that the ASHRAE 90.1-2019 efficiency standards are equivalent to the 
translated Federal efficiency standards for single-package ACUACs and 
ACUHPs. 85 FR 60642, 60662-60663 (Sept. 25, 2020). However, for three-
phase, split-system, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs, DOE's 
preliminary crosswalk analysis determined that the levels in ASHRAE 
90.1-2019 are more stringent than current Federal standards, which 
triggered DOE's review of the standard levels for three-phase, split-
system equipment. Id.
    In response to the proposed crosswalk in the September 2020 NODA/
RFI, Goodman requested that DOE provide specific crosswalk values for 
the equipment classes where DOE determined that the post-2023 levels in 
ASHRAE 90.1-2019 are more stringent than the current Federal standards 
(i.e., the two classes of three-phase, split-system, less than 65,000 
Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs). (Goodman, No. 7 at p. 2) Specifically, 
Goodman requested that DOE provide specific crosswalked values for the 
translation from 13 SEER to SEER2 and from 8.2 HSPF to HSPF2. (Id.) 
Goodman asserted that these values would be useful to help eliminate 
potential market confusion in the years 2023-2024, where some products 
on the market may be rated to SEER/HSPF (in compliance with current 
Federal standards) while other products would simultaneously be rated 
early to SEER2/HSPF2. (Id.)
    As discussed, DOE conducted the crosswalk to evaluate the relative 
stringency of ASHRAE 90.1-2019 levels as compared to the existing 
Federal standards to ensure that backsliding would not result were the 
ASHRAE 90.1 levels adopted. Based on the crosswalk, DOE finds that it 
is unnecessary to provide specific crosswalk values for the two 
equipment classes of three-phase, split-system, less than 65,000 Btu/h 
ACUACs and ACUHPs for which ASHRAE 90.1-2019 increased stringency as 
compared to the current Federal standards.
2. Three-Phase, Less Than 65,000 Btu/h, Space-Constrained and Small-
Duct, High-Velocity ACUACs and ACUHPs
    In its preliminary crosswalk analysis in the September 2020 NODA/
RFI, DOE determined that the post-2023 standards levels for S-C and 
SDHV equipment found in ASHRAE 90.1-2019 are less stringent than the 
current Federal standards for the following six equipment classes: (1) 
S-C, split-system ACUAC; (2) S-C, split-system ACUHP; (3) S-C, single-
package ACUAC; (4) S-C, single-package ACUHP; (5) SDHV split-system 
ACUAC; and (6) SDHV split-system ACUHP. DOE's preliminary crosswalk 
showed that the crosswalked Federal standard levels for these equipment 
classes are qualitatively higher than the SEER2 and/or HSPF2 levels 
found in ASHRAE 90.1-2019, however DOE did not determine specific 
values for an appropriate crosswalk. In the September 2020 NODA/RFI, 
DOE noted that although the post-2023 values for S-C and SDHV equipment 
are less stringent than current Federal standards, it still intended to 
consider these ASHRAE classes separately in this rulemaking as part of 
the six-year-lookback review. 85 FR 60642, 60663 (Sept. 25, 2020).
    In response to the September 2020 NODA/RFI, AHRI commented that it 
disagreed with DOE's preliminary determination that it could not adopt 
the ASHRAE 90.1-2019 standard levels for S-C ACUACs and ACUHPs and SDHV 
ACUACs and ACUHPs that are aligned with their single-phase 
counterparts. AHRI contended that these products could not meet the 
general levels established for three-phase equipment and urged DOE to 
set levels for three-phase S-C and SDHV equipment at the levels 
prescribed by ASHRAE 90.1-2019, which are harmonized with the single-
phase equivalents for those products. AHRI further stated that it is 
not aware of any three-phase S-C or SDHV products on the market and 
speculated that S-C products are unlikely to exist because the 
equipment class is limited to products having capacity less than 30,000 
Btu/h. (AHRI, No. 2 at p. 5)
    In a NOPR published on January 8, 2015, which covered energy 
conservation standards for commercial HVAC equipment, including three-
phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h air conditioners and heat pumps 
(``January 2015 ASHRAE 90.1 NOPR''), DOE stated that EPCA does not 
separate these six additional equipment classes from other types of 
small commercial package air conditioning and heating equipment in its 
definitions, and, therefore, EPCA's definition of ``small commercial 
package air conditioning and heating equipment'' includes SDHV and S-C 
air conditioners and heat pumps. 80 FR 1172, 1184. DOE reiterated this 
position in the September 2020 NODA/RFI. 85 FR 60642, 60662 (Sept. 25, 
2020). EPCA generally directs DOE to establish amended uniform national 
standards for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs at 
the minimum levels specified in ASHRAE Standard 90.1. (43 U.S.C. 
6313(a)(6)(A)(ii)(I)) As DOE has previously stated, when considering 
the ASHRAE trigger, DOE evaluates ASHRAE amendments at the class level. 
Because the six equipment classes of three-phase S-C and SDHV equipment 
prescribed in ASHRAE 90.1-2019 are covered as small commercial package 
air conditioning and heating equipment, DOE cannot propose standard 
levels that are any lower than the current Federal standards. However, 
to distinguish S-C and SDHV equipment from the three-phase, split-
system, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs equipment for which 
DOE was triggered by more stringent levels in ASHRAE 90.1-2019, DOE 
proposes to establish six separate equipment classes of three-phase S-C 
and SDHV equipment with separate standard levels. Consistent with EPCA, 
the levels that DOE is proposing for these S-C and SDHV equipment 
classes maintain equivalent stringency to the current applicable 
Federal standards, and are therefore more stringent than the 
corresponding levels set forth in ASHRAE 90.1-2019.
    In this document, DOE proposes to extend its preliminary crosswalk 
analysis for these types of equipment (the September 2020 NODA/RFI 
presented a qualitative discussion of relative stringency) and propose 
specific efficiency levels in terms of SEER2 and HSPF2 that are 
crosswalked from the existing Federal standards for small commercial 
package air conditioning and heating equipment. DOE developed a 
crosswalk for S-C, split-system, and single-package ACUACs and ACUHPs 
and SDHV ACUACs and ACUHPs by

[[Page 18298]]

applying similar translations as observed in the January 2017 CAC/HP 
ECS DFR for single-phase S-C and SDHV equipment to the existing Federal 
standards for small commercial package air conditioners and heat pumps.
a. Space-Constrained Equipment
    Single-phase S-C air conditioners, which are not further separated 
into split-systems and single-package systems, have a DOE minimum SEER 
of 12 that was translated to 11.7 SEER2. 82 FR 1786, 1848-1849 (Jan. 6, 
2017). Single-phase S-C heat pumps also have a minimum SEER of 12, but 
the January 2017 CAC/HP ECS DFR established a different translated 
SEER2 of 11.9. Id. This difference in the SEER2 requirement between S-C 
air conditioners and S-C heat pumps is due to differences in the 
requirements for determination of represented values codified at Table 
1 to paragraph (a)(1) of 10 CFR 429.16. In a December 9, 2021, NOPR to 
amend the test procedure for three-phase ACUACs and ACUHPs with cooling 
capacity of less than 65,000 Btu/h and three-phase VRF with cooling 
capacity of less than 65,000 Btu/h (``December 2021 Three-Phase TP 
NOPR''), DOE proposed to align the representation requirements for 
three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h equipment with the representation 
requirements for single-phase CACs and HPs. 86 FR 70316, 70326-70327. 
Accordingly, DOE is proposing in this document to utilize the same 
cooling-metric translations for three-phase, space-constrained 
equipment as the translations present for single-phase, space-
constrained equipment (i.e., applying a 0.3 point SEER2 decrement for 
space-constrained air conditioners and a 0.1 point SEER2 decrement for 
space-constrained heat pumps). DOE notes that split-system S-C ACUACs 
are currently covered under the Federal standard of 13.0 SEER for 
three-phase, split-system, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs, whereas S-C 
split-system ACUHPs and S-C single-packaged ACUACs and ACUHPs are each 
covered under corresponding DOE equipment classes with a standard of 14 
SEER.\5\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \5\ See table in paragraph (c)(1) of 10 CFR 430.32 for current 
standards.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    With regards to the translation from HSPF to HSPF2 for S-C ACUACs 
and ACUHPs, DOE is proposing to use the same 15 percent reduction from 
the January 2017 CAC/HP ECS DFR when translating from HSPF to HSPF2 at 
an equivalent stringency. Because the changes to the heating load line 
between AHRI 210/240-2008 and AHRI 210/240-2023 are equivalent to the 
changes in the heating load line between appendix M and appendix M1, 
DOE has tentatively concluded that utilizing the same HSPF2 translation 
from single-phase CACs and HPs is appropriate for S-C ACUACs and 
ACUHPs.
b. Small-Duct, High-Velocity Equipment
    For single-phase SDHV CACs and HPs, there is no increase in 
external static pressure requirements in appendix M1 as compared to 
appendix M. Consequently, in the January 2017 CAC/HP ECS DFR, there was 
no decrease in numerical value when translating standards from SEER to 
SEER2. 82 FR 1786, 1848-1849 (Jan. 6, 2017). Given that the test 
procedures for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs 
are aligned with the test procedures for single-phase CACs and HPs, 
there are also no increases in external static pressure requirements 
for SDHV ACUACs and ACUHPs in AHRI 210/240-2023. Therefore, DOE is 
proposing no decrement when translating from SEER to SEER2 for SDHV 
ACUACs and ACUHPs.
    For the heating mode for SDHV ACUHPs, DOE is proposing to use the 
same 15 percent reduction from the January 2017 CAC/HP ECS DFR when 
translating from HSPF to HSPF2. Id. at 82 FR 1850. Because the changes 
to the heating load line between AHRI 210/240-2008 and AHRI 210/240-
2023 are equivalent to the changes in the heating load line between 
appendix M and appendix M1, DOE has tentatively concluded that 
utilizing the same HSPF2 translation from single-phase CACs and HPs is 
appropriate for SDHV ACUACs and ACUHPs.
3. Three-Phase, Less Than 65,000 Btu/h VRF
    The current DOE test procedure for VRF multi-split systems 
(including three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF) references AHRI 
1230-2010 with addendum 1. For three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF, 
AHRI 1230-2010 is used to calculate cooling and heating efficiency in 
terms of the SEER and HSPF metrics, respectively. In May 2021, AHRI 
published AHRI 1230-2021, which excludes from its scope three-phase, 
less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF. Accordingly, in the December 2021 Three-
Phase TP NOPR, DOE proposed to remove its reference to AHRI 1230-2010 
and instead to reference AHRI 210/240-2023 in the test procedure for 
three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF. 86 FR 70316, 70321-70322 (Dec. 
9, 2021). In that proposed rule, DOE noted that AHRI 210/240-2023 
includes in its scope three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF systems 
and harmonizes with the updated Federal test method for single-phase 
central air conditioners and central air conditioning heat pumps with 
rated cooling capacities of less than 65,000 Btu/h (i.e., appendix M1, 
effective January 1, 2023), which includes single-phase, air-cooled, 
VRF systems with a cooling capacity of less than 65,000 Btu/h. Id. at 
85 FR 70322. Like appendix M1, AHRI 210/240-2023 is used to calculate 
cooling and heating efficiency in terms of updated metrics, SEER2 and 
HSPF2, respectively. As discussed in section II.B.2, ASHRAE 90.1-2019 
established SEER2 and HSPF2 levels for three-phase, less than 65,000 
Btu/h CUACs and CUHPs (some with increased stringency over current DOE 
levels) but did not consider new metrics or an increase in stringency 
for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF. Accordingly, DOE is 
proposing in this document to update its efficiency metrics for three-
phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF from SEER and HSPF measured per AHRI 
1230-2010 to SEER2 and HSPF2 measured per AHRI 210/240-2023.
    To translate the existing SEER and HSPF levels to SEER2 and HSPF2 
levels with equivalent stringency, DOE conducted a crosswalk analysis. 
As described in section III.B, there are several classes of three-
phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h CUACs and CUHPs for which DOE was able to 
apply identical crosswalk methodologies as were used for corresponding 
product classes of single-phase residential CACs and HPs in the January 
2017 CAC/HP ECS DFR. However, there are not separate product classes 
for single-phase, residential, multi-split CACs and HPs (the consumer 
products that correspond to three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF). 
Therefore, DOE could not rely on existing analysis specific to multi-
split systems from the January 2017 CAC/HP ECS DFR and instead 
conducted an analytical crosswalk by evaluating changes in the test 
procedure between AHRI 1230-2010 and AHRI 210/240-2023. Additionally, 
DOE is not aware of any models of three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h 
VRF currently on the market.
    When deciding how to translate SEER to SEER2 for three-phase, less 
than 65,000 Btu/h VRF, DOE considered the external static pressure 
testing requirements in AHRI 1230-2010 and AHRI 210/240-2023. While DOE 
is not aware of the existence of any models of three-phase, less than 
65,000 Btu/h VRF, the Department expects that, should they exist, the 
most common configuration would likely be non-ducted indoor units, 
similar to other categories of VRF systems (e.g., single-

[[Page 18299]]

phase, residential, multi-split CACs and HPs). Because both AHRI 1230-
2010 and AHRI 210/240-2023 require testing at zero external static 
pressure (``ESP'') for non-ducted indoor units, there would be no 
change in the numerical value translating from SEER to SEER2 for 
systems comprising of non-ducted indoor units. For systems rated with 
ducted indoor units, AHRI 1230-2010 specifies ESP requirements that 
vary with indoor unit cooling capacity (varying between 0.1 to 0.2 in 
H<INF>2</INF>O), while AHRI 210/240-2023 specifies ESP requirements of 
0.1 in H<INF>2</INF>O for low-static indoor units and 0.3 in 
H<INF>2</INF>O for mid-static indoor units. Therefore, the ESP 
requirements would only result in different ratings for certain 
combinations of ducted indoor units. For example, DOE expects a typical 
configuration would be low-static indoor units with per-indoor-unit 
cooling capacity less than 28,800 Btu/h (given an overall system 
capacity less than 65,000 Btu/h)--in which case both test procedures 
require testing at 0.1 in H<INF>2</INF>O. Consequently, DOE has 
tentatively determined that for a significant majority of three-phase, 
less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF systems (should they exist in the future), 
there would be no change in the required external static pressure when 
testing to the updated industry test procedure AHRI 210/240-2023. 
Therefore, DOE is not proposing a change in the numerical value of 
SEER2 standards crosswalked from existing SEER standards.
    With regards to the translation from HSPF to HSPF2 for three-phase, 
less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF, DOE is proposing to use the same 15 percent 
reduction from the January 2017 CAC/HP ECS DFR when translating from 
HSPF to HSPF2 at an equivalent stringency. Because the changes to the 
heating load line between AHRI 1230-2010 and AHRI 210/240-2023 are 
equivalent to the changes in the heating load line between appendix M 
and appendix M1, DOE has tentatively concluded that utilizing the same 
HSPF2 translation from single-phase CACs and HPs is appropriate for 
three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF.

C. Crosswalk Results

    DOE conducted the crosswalk discussed in section III.B of this 
document to translate the current Federal standards to the SEER2 and 
HSPF2 metrics and determine whether the levels specified in ASHRAE 
90.1-2019 represent more, less, or equivalent stringency as compared to 
the current Federal standards. DOE's crosswalk results for three-phase, 
less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs and for three-phase, less than 
65,000 Btu/h VRF are presented in Table III-1

                   Table III--1 Crosswalk Results for Air-Cooled, Three-Phase, Less Than 65,000 Btu/h ACUAC, ACUHP, and VRF Equipment
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                 Federal energy                               Energy efficiency    Comparison of  ASHRAE
  ASHRAE 90.1-2019 equipment class       Current federal          conservation        Crosswalk of current  levels in ASHRAE 90.1-      90.1-2019 to
                                         equipment class           standard(s)        federal standard(s)            2019              crosswalk \1\
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air-cooled Air Conditioner, Three-   Air-cooled Air          14.0 SEER.............  13.4 SEER2...........  14.0 SEER before 1/1/  Equivalent.
 Phase, Single-Package, <65,000 Btu/  Conditioner, Three-                                                    2023.
 h.                                   Phase, Single-                                                        13.4 SEER2 on and
                                      Package, <65,000 Btu/                                                  after 1/1/2023.
                                      h.
Air-cooled Air Conditioner, Three-   Air-cooled Air          13.0 SEER.............  <13.0 SEER2 \2\......  13.0 SEER before 1/1/  More Stringent.
 Phase, Split-System, <65,000 Btu/h.  Conditioner, Three-                                                    2023.
                                      Phase, Split-System,                                                  13.4 SEER2 on and
                                      <65,000 Btu/h.                                                         after 1/1/2023.
Air-cooled Heat Pump, Three-Phase,   Air-cooled Heat Pump,   14.0 SEER.............  13.4 SEER2...........  14.0 SEER/8.0 HSPF     Equivalent.
 Single-Package, <65,000 Btu/h.       Three-Phase, Single-   8.0 HSPF..............  6.7 HSPF2............   before 1/1/2023.
                                      Package, <65,000 Btu/                                                 13.4 SEER2/6.7 HSPF
                                      h.                                                                     on and after 1/1/
                                                                                                             2023.
Air-cooled Heat Pump, Three-Phase,   Air-cooled Heat Pump,   14.0 SEER.............  13.4 SEER2...........  14.0 SEER/8.2 HSPF     More Stringent.
 Split-System, <65,000 Btu/h.         Three-Phase, Split-    8.2 HSPF..............  <7.5 HSPF2 \3\.......   before 1/1/2023.
                                      System, <65,000 Btu/h.                                                14.3 SEER2/7.5 HSPF2
                                                                                                             on and after 1/1/
                                                                                                             2023.
Space-Constrained, Air-cooled Air    Air-cooled Air          14.0 SEER.............  13.9 SEER2...........  12.0 SEER before 1/1/  Less Stringent.\3\
 Conditioner, Three-Phase, Single-    Conditioner, Three-                                                    2023.
 Package, <=30,000 Btu/h.             Phase, Single-                                                        11.7 SEER2 on and
                                      Package, <65,000 Btu/                                                  after 1/1/2023.
                                      h.
Space-Constrained, Air-cooled Air    Air-cooled Air          13.0 SEER.............  12.7 SEER2...........  12.0 SEER before 1/1/  Less Stringent.\3\
 Conditioner, Three-Phase, Split-     Conditioner, Three-                                                    2023.
 System, <=30,000 Btu/h.              Phase, Split-System,                                                  11.7 SEER2 on and
                                      <65,000 Btu/h.                                                         after 1/1/2023.
Space-Constrained, Air-Cooled Heat   Air-cooled Heat Pump,   14.0 SEER.............  13.9 SEER2...........  12.0 SEER/7.4 HSPF     Less Stringent.\3\
 Pump, Three-Phase, Single-Package,   Three-Phase, Single-   8.0 HSPF..............  6.7 HSPF2............   before 1/1/2023.
 <=30,000 Btu/h.                      Package, <65,000 Btu/                                                 11.7 SEER2/6.3 HSPF2
                                      h.                                                                     on and after 1/1/
                                                                                                             2023.
Space-Constrained, Air-cooled Heat   Air-cooled Heat Pump,   14.0 SEER.............  13.9 SEER2...........  12.0 SEER/7.4 HSPF     Less Stringent.\3\
 Pump, Three-Phase, Split-System,     three-phase, Split-    8.2 HSPF..............  7.0 HSPF2............   before 1/1/2023.
 <=30,000 Btu/h.                      System, <65,000 Btu/h.                                                11.7 SEER2/6.3 HSPF2
                                                                                                             on and after 1/1/
                                                                                                             2023.
Small Duct High Velocity, Air-       Air-cooled Air          13.0 SEER.............  13.0 SEER2...........  12.0 SEER before 1/1/  Less Stringent.\3\
 cooled Air Conditioner, Three-       Conditioner, Three-                                                    2023.
 Phase, Split-System, <65,000 Btu/h.  Phase, Split-System,                                                  12.0 SEER2 on and
                                      <65,000 Btu/h.                                                         after 1/1/2023.
Small Duct, High Velocity, Air-      Air-cooled Heat Pump,   14.0 SEER.............  14.0 SEER2...........  12.0 SEER/7.2 HSPF     Less Stringent.\3\
 cooled Heat Pump, Three-Phase,       Three-Phase, Split-    8.2 HSPF..............  6.9 HSPF2............   before 1/1/2023.
 Split-System, <65,000 Btu/h.         Package, <65,000 Btu/                                                 12.0 SEER2/6.1 HSPF2
                                      h.                                                                     on and after 1/1/
                                                                                                             2023.
VRF, Air-Cooled, Air Conditioner...  Air-cooled VRF Multi-   13.0 SEER.............  12.9 SEER2...........  13.0 SEER............  Equivalent.\4\
                                      Split Air
                                      Conditioners, <
                                      65,000 Btu/h.
VRF, Air-Cooled, Heat Pump.........  Air-cooled VRF Multi-   13.0 SEER.............  12.9 SEER2...........  13.0 SEER............  Equivalent.\4\
                                      Split Heat Pumps, <    7.7 HSPF..............  6.5 HSPF2............  7.7 HSPF.............
                                      65,000 Btu/h.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Column indicates whether the ASHRAE 90.1-2019 levels, beginning on January 1, 2023, are less stringent, equivalent to, or more stringent than the
  crosswalked Federal standards.
\2\ The Federal SEER standard is lower than the ASHRAE 90.1-2019 SEER2 level indicating that the crosswalked Federal SEER2 standard will also be lower
  than the ASHRAE 90.1-2019 SEER2 level.
\3\ For S-C and SDHV equipment, the ASHRAE 90.1 levels are less stringent than the crosswalked Federal efficiency levels because these classes are split
  off from split-system and single-package, respectively.

[[Page 18300]]

 
\4\ As discussed in section III.B.3, ASHRAE 90.1-2019 did not establish SEER2/HSPF2 levels for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF equipment. DOE's
  crosswalk values represent an equivalent-stringency translation.

    Issue 1: DOE requests comment on the crosswalk methodology 
described in section III.B of this proposed rule and the crosswalk 
results in Table III-1 for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs 
and ACUHPs and three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF.

IV. Estimates of Potential Energy Savings

    As required under 42 U.S.C. 6313(a)(6)(A)(i), for three-phase, less 
than 65,000 Btu/h CUAC equipment classes for which ASHRAE 90.1-2019 set 
more stringent levels than the current Federal standards, DOE performed 
an assessment to determine the energy-savings potential of amending 
Federal standard levels to reflect the efficiency levels specified in 
ASHRAE 90.1-2019. The two equipment classes analyzed in the September 
2020 NODA/RFI were air-cooled, three-phase, split-system, less than 
65,000 Btu/h air conditioners and air-cooled, three-phase, split-
system, less than 65,000 Btu/h heat pumps. In the September 2020 NODA/
RFI, DOE presented the methodology to determine energy savings along 
with the findings of the energy savings potential for the two equipment 
classes and sought comment on the analysis. 85 FR 60642, 60666-60673 
(Sep. 25, 2020).
    In response to the September 2020 NODA/RFI, AHRI and Carrier 
supported DOE's approach to develop unit energy consumption, shipments, 
and the no-new standards efficiency distributions that were used to 
estimate the energy savings potential of air-cooled, three-phase, 
split-system air conditioners and heat pumps less than 65,000 Btu/h. 
(AHRI, No. 2, at pp. 5-6; Carrier, No. 3 at pp. 2-3) However, AHRI, 
Carrier, and Goodman all disagreed with DOE's approach to equipment 
lifetime. (AHRI, No. 2, at p. 6; Carrier, No. 3 at p. 3; Goodman, No. 7 
at p. 2) AHRI stated that DOE should use the average lifetime of 18.4 
years for central air conditioners and 15.2 years for heat pumps stated 
in the January 2016 Final Rule for small, large, and very large 
commercial package air conditioning and heating equipment. (AHRI, No. 2 
at p. 6) Carrier stated that the lifetime is overestimated and 
suggested a range of 10 to 15 years (Carrier, No. 3 at p. 3) Goodman 
suggested using a lifetime that is lower than the single-phase 
lifetime, such as 15 years, because three-phase products are typically 
installed in commercial applications and thus operate more hours per 
year and at more extreme conditions, resulting in a shorter lifetime. 
(Goodman, No. 7 at p. 2)
    In its analysis for this NOPR, DOE did not make any changes to the 
inputs into the energy savings analysis that was presented in the 
September 2020 NODA/RFI, including the average lifetimes of 19 years 
for air conditioners and 16.2 years for heat pumps. First, DOE notes 
that the average lifetimes cited by AHRI are from the September 30, 
2014 NOPR and not the January 15, 2016 final rule. See 79 FR 58948, 
58981 (Sept. 30, 2014). In the January 15, 2016 final rule, DOE updated 
the lifetimes based on new shipment data. The average lifetimes for 
small commercial package air conditioning equipment used in the January 
15, 2016 final rule was 21.1 years. 81 FR 2479, 2481 (January 15, 
2016). As the commenters provided a range of lifetimes, DOE chose to 
maintain the average lifetimes used in the September 2020 NODA/RFI. DOE 
estimated the potential site, primary, and full-fuel-cycle (FFC) energy 
savings in quads (i.e., 10\15\ Btu) for adopting ASHRAE 90.1-2019 for 
the two equipment classes analyzed. The potential energy savings of 
adopting ASHRAE 90.1-2019 levels are measured relative to the current 
Federal standards. Table IV-1 displays the energy savings at the ASHRAE 
level for air-cooled, three-phase, split-system air conditioners less 
than 65,000 Btu/h and air-cooled, three-phase, split-system heat pumps 
less than 65,000 Btu/h. The values in the table below are identical to 
the values presented in the September 2020 NODA/RFI. 85 FR 60642, 60673 
(Sept. 25, 2020)

   Table IV-1--Potential Energy Savings for Air-Cooled, Three-Phase, Split-System, Less Than 65,000 Btu/h Air
                                           Conditioners and Heat Pumps
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                        Split-system, air conditioner             Split system, heat pump
                                   -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                      ASHRAE efficiency                      ASHRAE efficiency
                                            level               quads              level               quads
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                          Site Energy Savings Estimate
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Level 0--ASHRAE...................  13.4 SEER2...........          0.0007  14.3 SEER2...........          0.0017
                                                                           7.5 HSPF2............
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                         Primary Energy Savings Estimate
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Level 0--ASHRAE...................  13.4 SEER2...........          0.0017  14.3 SEER2...........          0.0044
                                                                           7.5 HSPF2............
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                           FFC Energy Savings Estimate
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Level 0--ASHRAE...................  13.4 SEER2...........          0.0018  14.3 SEER2...........          0.0047
                                                                           7.5 HSPF2............
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The significance of energy savings offered by a new or amended 
energy conservation standard cannot be determined without knowledge of 
the specific circumstances surrounding a given rulemaking. 86 FR 70892, 
70901 (Dec. 13, 2021) For example, the United States rejoined the Paris 
Agreement on February 19, 2021. As part of that agreement, the United 
States has committed to reducing GHG emissions in order to limit the 
rise in mean global temperature. As such, energy savings that reduce 
GHG emissions have taken on greater importance. Additionally, some 
covered products and equipment have most of their energy consumption 
occur during periods of peak energy demand. The impacts of these 
products on the energy infrastructure can be more pronounced than 
products with

[[Page 18301]]

relatively constant demand. In evaluating the significance of energy 
savings, DOE considers differences in primary energy and FFC effects 
for different covered products and equipment when determining whether 
energy savings are significant. Primary energy and FFC effects include 
the energy consumed in electricity production (depending on load 
shape), in distribution and transmission, and in extracting, 
processing, and transporting primary fuels (i.e., coal, natural gas, 
petroleum fuels), and thus present a more complete picture of the 
impacts of energy conservation standards.
    DOE conducted an analysis of the emissions reductions at the ASHRAE 
efficiency level for air-cooled, three-phase, split-system, less than 
65,000 Btu/h air conditioners and air-cooled, three-phase, split-
system, less than 65,000 Btu/h heat pumps. This emissions analysis 
consists of two components. The first component estimates the effect of 
potential energy conservation standards on power sector combustion 
emissions of CO<INF>2</INF>, NO<INF>X</INF>, SO<INF>2</INF>, and Hg. 
The second component estimates the impacts of potential standards on 
emissions of two additional greenhouse gases, CH<INF>4</INF> and 
N<INF>2</INF>O, as well as the reductions to emissions of other gases 
due to ``upstream'' activities in the fuel production chain. These 
upstream activities comprise extraction, processing, and transporting 
fuels to the site of combustion. Table IV-2 displays the emissions 
reductions estimates for the power sector, the upstream sector, and the 
full-fuel-cycle.

  Table IV-2--Potential Emissions Savings for Air-Cooled, Three-Phase,
                         Split-System, Less Than
              65,000 Btu/h Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                   Split system, air  Split system, heat
                                      conditioner            pump
                                 ---------------------------------------
                                   ASHRAE efficiency   ASHRAE efficiency
                                         level               level
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Power Sector Emissions:
    CO2 (million metric tons)...                 0.1                 0.2
    CH4 (thousand tons).........                 0.0                 0.0
    N2O (thousand tons).........                 0.0                 0.0
    SO2 (thousand tons).........                 0.0                 0.1
    NOX (thousand tons).........                 0.0                 0.1
    Hg (tons)...................                 0.0                 0.0
Upstream Emissions:
    CO2 (million metric tons)...                 0.0                 0.0
    CH4 (thousand tons).........                 0.5                 1.2
    N2O (thousand tons).........                 0.0                 0.0
    SO2 (thousand tons).........                 0.0                 0.0
    NOX (thousand tons).........                 0.1                 0.2
    Hg (tons)...................                 0.0                 0.0
Total FFC Emissions:
    CO2 (million metric tons)...                 0.1                 0.2
    CH4 (thousand tons).........                 0.5                 1.2
    N2O (thousand tons).........                 0.0                 0.0
    SO2 (thousand tons).........                 0.0                 0.1
    NOX (thousand tons).........                 0.1                 0.3
    Hg (tons)...................                 0.0                 0.0
------------------------------------------------------------------------

V. Conclusions

A. Consideration of More Stringent Efficiency Levels for Split Systems

    As discussed, ASHRAE 90.1-2019 includes efficiency levels more 
stringent than the current Federal standards for three-phase, split-
system, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs. When triggered by an 
update to ASHRAE Standard 90.1, EPCA requires DOE to establish an 
amended uniform national standard for equipment classes at the minimum 
level specified in the amended ASHRAE Standard 90.1 unless DOE 
determines, by rule published in the Federal Register, and supported by 
clear and convincing evidence, that adoption of a uniform national 
standard more stringent than the amended ASHRAE Standard 90.1 for the 
equipment class would result in significant additional conservation of 
energy and is technologically feasible and economically justified. (42 
U.S.C. 6313(a)(6)(A)(ii)(I)-(II)). As noted previously, clear and 
convincing evidence is a heightened standard, and would only be met 
where the Secretary has an abiding conviction, based on available 
facts, data, and DOE's own analyses, that it is highly probable an 
amended standard would result in a significant additional amount of 
energy savings, and is technologically feasible and economically 
justified. See American Public Gas Association v. U.S. Dep't of Energy, 
No. 20-1068, 2022 WL 151923, at *4 (D.C. Cir. January 18, 2022) (citing 
Colorado v. New Mexico, 467 U.S. 310, 316, 104 S.Ct. 2433, 81 L.Ed.2d 
247 (1984)).
    In the September 2020 NODA/RFI, DOE did not consider more stringent 
efficiency levels, as this would require DOE to crosswalk the entire 
market for this equipment. 85 FR 60642, 60674 (Sept. 25, 2020) The 
amended levels in ASHRAE 90.1-2019 rely on updated metrics (SEER2 and 
HSPF2), which are not applicable until 2023. Furthermore, the single-
phase market, which is nearly identical to three-phase equipment, will 
not begin to use SEER2 and HSPF2 until 2023. Single-phase and three-
phase models generally are manufactured on the same production lines 
and are physically identical to their corresponding single-phase 
central air conditioner and central air conditioning heat pump models 
except the former have three-phase electrical systems and use 
components, primarily motors and compressors, that are designed for 
three-phase power input. 86 FR 70316, 70322 (Dec. 9, 2021). The amended 
levels for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs in 
ASHRAE 90.1-2019 are the same efficiency levels that will be required 
for single-phase air conditioners and heat pumps in 2023 (See 10 CFR 
430.32(c)(5)). Given that the

[[Page 18302]]

amended levels for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and 
ACUHPs and for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF, or those for 
single-phase air conditioners and heat pumps, will not be effective 
until January 1, 2023 at the earliest, manufacturers have not yet made 
representations using the updated metrics. 85 FR 60642, 60674 (Sept. 
25, 2020). As a result, there are currently no public databases with 
ratings in terms of the updated metrics.
    EPCA states that in order for DOE to adopt a standard more 
stringent than an amended ASHRAE 90.1 standard, DOE must support its 
decision with clear and convincing evidence. In the September 2020 
NODA/RFI, DOE tentatively determined that the lack of market data for 
the amended efficiency metric creates substantial doubt in any analysis 
of energy savings that would result from efficiency levels more 
stringent than those in ASHRAE 90.1-2019 given the 2023 compliance 
date. 85 FR 60642, 60674 (Sept. 25, 2020) Therefore, DOE did not 
conduct any analysis of energy savings from more stringent standards 
for the two triggered classes of three-phase, split-system, less than 
65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs. DOE requested data and information that 
would enable it to determine whether more stringent standards would 
result in significant energy savings for the two triggered equipment 
classes in the September 2020 NODA/RFI. Id..
    In response to the September 2020 NODA/RFI, AHRI and Rheem 
commented in support of generally adopting the amended ASHRAE 90.1-2019 
standard levels for all classes of three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h 
ACUACs and ACUHPs as the national standards (AHRI, No. 2 at p. 1; 
Rheem, No. 4 at p. 1) However, AHRI stated that it did not have any 
data that it could provide to DOE to develop more stringent efficiency 
levels and supported harmonization with the ASHRAE 90.1-2019 levels. 
(AHRI, No. 2 at p. 6)
    Similarly, Carrier commented that it had no data that would suggest 
that efficiency levels more stringent than ASHRAE 90.1-2019 would 
result in additional energy savings for classes where DOE is triggered. 
(Carrier, No. 3 at p. 3)
    Conversely, Joint Advocates and CA IOUs encouraged DOE to evaluate 
more-stringent standards than the ASHRAE 90.1-2019 levels and said that 
they disagreed with DOE's preliminary conclusion in the September 2020 
NODA/RFI that the test metric change created uncertainty that would 
prevent an adequate evaluation of more stringent standards. (Joint 
Advocates, No. 6 at pp. 2, 3-4; CA IOUs, No. 5 at p. 2) These 
commenters asserted that only when economic analyses are complete can 
the determination be made as to whether the statutory ``clear and 
convincing evidence'' requirement has been met. Id. Further, CA IOUs 
encouraged DOE to evaluate on a case-by-case basis whether the standard 
of ``clear and convincing evidence'' of energy savings has been met for 
increasing stringency of standards when there is a metric change. (CA 
IOUs, No 5 at 2) CA IOUs presented the concern that if DOE were to 
generalize the position taken in the September 2020 NODA/RFI to other 
product categories, some members of the ASHRAE 90.1 committee will be 
less likely to support updates to the test procedure if they believe 
that DOE will use the update as a reason to decline to conduct further 
analysis. (Id.)
    CA IOUs requested that DOE complete an analysis using information 
from the Compliance and Certification Management System (``CCMS'') 
database, noting that the maximum SEER rating in the database has 
increased since the previous final rule (Id. at pp. 2-3) CA IOUs also 
noted that DOE successfully used a crosswalk to compare SEER and SEER2 
as well as HSPF and HSPF2 metrics for single-phase products in the 
January 2017 CAC/HP ECS DFR. (Id. at p. 3)
    Likewise, the Joint Advocates stated that it is not unprecedented 
for DOE to adopt amended standards at levels higher than the ASHRAE 
Standard 90.1 levels based on a revised metric, referencing a prior 
standards rulemaking for ACUACs in which DOE adopted integrated energy 
efficiency ratio (``IEER'') standards at levels that were more 
stringent than the corresponding ASHRAE 90.1 levels in a 2016 direct 
final rule (81 FR 2420 (Jan. 15, 2016)). (Joint Advocates, No. 6 at p. 
4)
    In response to the comments from Joint Advocates and CA IOUs, DOE 
notes that it makes determinations pursuant to the ASHRAE trigger (and 
the six-year look back review) by evaluating the information and data 
available specific to the equipment under review. In this NOPR, DOE is 
not making a general determination on whether the clear and convincing 
threshold can be met in instances in which there is a metric change. 
The preliminary position taken in the September 2020 NODA/RFI and in 
this NOPR on whether the clear and convincing evidence requirement for 
showing that more stringent standards would result in significant 
additional energy savings is specific to three-phase, less than 65,000 
Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs. As suggested by CA IOUs, DOE makes this 
determination on a case-by-case basis. As to the concern that the 
preliminary determination put forward in this NOPR may cause some 
members of the ASHRAE Standard 90.1 committee to be less likely to 
support updates to industry test procedures, DOE notes that EPCA 
requires DOE to review periodically the test procedures for covered 
equipment and make amendments to the extent justified. (42 U.S.C. 
6314(a)(1))
    As discussed in the September 2020 NODA/RFI, an estimation of 
energy savings potentials of energy efficiency levels more stringent 
than the amended ASHRAE 90.1 levels would require developing efficiency 
data for the entire three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and 
ACUHPs market in terms of the SEER2 and HSPF2 metrics. 85 FR 60642, 
60674 (Sept 25, 2020). Because there are minimal market efficiency data 
currently available in terms of SEER2 and HSPF2, this would require a 
crosswalk analysis much broader than the analysis used to evaluate 
ASHRAE 90.1-2019 levels. Id. The crosswalk analysis of ASHRAE 90.1-2019 
levels presented in this NOPR required only that DOE translate the 
efficiency levels between the metrics at the baseline levels, and not 
that DOE translate all efficiency levels currently represented in the 
market (i.e., high efficiency levels). To obtain SEER2 and HSPF2 market 
data for purposes of analysis of standard levels more stringent than 
ASHRAE 90.1-2019, DOE would be required to translate the individual 
SEER and HSPF ratings to SEER2 and HSPF2 ratings for all three-phase, 
split-system, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs models certified 
in DOE's CCMS Database. As noted in the September 2020 NODA/RFI, there 
is the added issue of the new metrics not being applicable until 2023, 
which compounds the problem of a lack of market data. Id. The change in 
metrics and the future compliance date create uncertainty in the 
development of more stringent efficiency levels as well as the market 
distribution by efficiency. Id.
    Because of the lack of market data and the test metric change, DOE 
has tentatively determined that it lacks clear and convincing evidence 
that a more stringent standard level would result in significant 
additional conservation of energy and is technologically feasible and 
economically justified. Therefore, DOE has tentatively decided not to 
conduct further analysis for this particular rulemaking because DOE 
lacks the data necessary to assess potential energy conservation. 
Although

[[Page 18303]]

DOE has not conducted an analysis of manufacturer impacts resulting 
from more stringent standards, DOE would expect that standards for 
three-phase equipment more stringent than the ASHRAE 90.1-2019 levels 
could impose burden to manufacturers by potentially requiring them to 
develop and manufacture new models of three-phase equipment that are 
not otherwise identical to models of single-phase products for sale.
    In this specific instance, DOE disagrees with comments from CA IOUs 
and Joint Advocates that the statutory clear and convincing evidence 
criterion can only be assessed after full economic analyses have been 
conducted. EPCA requires that DOE determine, supported by clear and 
convincing evidence, that adoption of a uniform national standard more 
stringent than the amended ASHRAE 90.1 for three-phase, split-system, 
less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs would result in significant 
additional conservation of energy and is technologically feasible and 
economically justified. (42 U.S.C. 6313(a)(6)(A)(ii)(II); emphasis 
added) The inability to make a determination, supported by clear and 
convincing evidence, with regard to any one of the statutory criteria 
prohibits DOE from adopting more stringent standards regardless of 
determinations as to the other criteria. As a result, DOE has 
tentatively determined that at this time there is insufficient data 
specific to three-phase, split-system, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs 
and ACUHPs (including but not limited to market efficiency data in 
terms of the new efficiency metric) to provide clear and convincing 
evidence of significant additional energy savings from three-phase, 
split-system, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs efficiency 
levels more stringent than ASHRAE 90.1-2019 levels.
    The CA IOUs cited as precedent the crosswalk in the January 2017 
CAC/HP ECS DFR, but that crosswalk was not analogous to the present 
NOPR for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs. 
Specifically, for single-phase CACs and HPs, DOE conducted its analysis 
in terms of the metrics at the time, SEER and HSPF. After selecting 
amended efficiency levels, DOE then crosswalked the selected levels to 
SEER2 and HSPF2 using a methodology consistent with the recommendations 
of the CAC/HP Working Group. 82 FR 1786, 1849 (Jan. 6, 2017). DOE did 
not crosswalk the entire market for single-phase CACs and HPs--the 
crosswalk addressed only single-phase CAC and HPs with rated efficiency 
at the selected levels. Because ASHRAE 90.1-2019 included efficiency 
levels for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs based 
on SEER2 and HSPF2, DOE is unable to conduct an analysis based on SEER 
and HSPF metrics as it did for single-phase CACs and HPs.
    Likewise, the past ACUAC rulemaking cited by the Joint Advocates as 
precedent was not analogous to the present situation for three-phase, 
split-system, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs, because at the 
time that ACUAC rulemaking began, the IEER metric was already in use by 
the ACUAC industry. See 81 FR 2419, 2441 (Jan. 15, 2014).\6\ 
Specifically, the vast majority of ACUAC models on the market were 
already rated for IEER (in addition to Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER), 
which was the federally regulated metric at the time), and these IEER 
market data for ACUACs were available in the AHRI Directory at the 
time.\7\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \6\ DOE noted that AHRI Standard 340/360-2007 already included 
methods and procedures for testing and rating equipment with the 
IEER metric. ASHRAE, through its Standard 90.1, includes 
requirements based on the part-load performance metric, IEER. These 
IEER requirements were first established in Addenda to the 2008 
Supplement to Standard 90.1-2007, and were required for compliance 
with ASHRAE Standard 90.1 on January 1, 2010. 81 FR 2419, 2441 (Jan. 
15, 2014).
    \7\ As part of a NODA/RFI for energy conservation standards for 
ACUACs published on February 1, 2013 (78 FR 7296), DOE made 
available a document that provides the methodology and results of an 
investigation of EER and IEER market data for ACUACs. See Docket No. 
EERE-2013-BT-STD-0007-0001.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In contrast, during the development of this NOPR, there was no 
available SEER2 and HSPF2 market data. Specifically, the CCMS database 
and the AHRI directory do not currently rate any units with SEER2 or 
HSPF2 as the compliance date for these metrics is not until 2023.
    After considering the stakeholder comments and the lack of 
sufficient SEER2 and HSPF2 market data available following the 
September 2020 NODA/RFI, DOE maintains its preliminary decision not to 
conduct additional analysis of more stringent standards for this 
rulemaking. The lack of market and performance data in terms of the new 
metric limits the analysis of energy savings that would result from 
efficiency levels more stringent than the amended ASHRAE 90.1-2019 
levels for this equipment. Given the limits of any energy use analysis 
resulting from this lack of data, DOE has tentatively concluded that it 
lacks clear and convincing evidence that more stringent standards would 
result in a significant additional amount of energy savings as required 
for DOE to establish more-stringent standards.
    As a result, DOE has tentatively determined that, due to the lack 
of market and performance data for the market as a whole in terms of 
SEER2 and HSPF2, it is unable to estimate potential energy savings from 
more stringent standards that meets the clear and convincing evidence 
threshold required by statute to justify standards more stringent than 
the amended ASHRAE 90.1 efficiency levels for three-phase, split-
system, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs.

B. Review Under Six Year Lookback

    As discussed, DOE is required to conduct an evaluation of each 
class of covered equipment in ASHRAE Standard 90.1 every six years. (42 
U.S.C. 6313(a)(6)(C)(i)) Accordingly, in this document, DOE is 
evaluating also the three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h equipment for 
which ASHRAE 90.1-2019 did not increase the stringency of the 
standards: (1) Three-phase, single package, less than 65,000 Btu/h 
ACUACs and ACUHPs; (2) S-C, three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs 
and ACUHPs; (3) SDHV, three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and 
ACUHPs; and (4) three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF.
    As discussed in section III of this NOPR, DOE has tentatively 
concluded that there are no models on the market in the equipment 
classes of: (1) S-C, three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and 
ACUHPs; (2) SDHV, three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and 
ACUHPs; and (3) three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF. Therefore, 
there would be no potential energy savings associated with more 
stringent standards for these classes, and DOE did not conduct further 
analyses of more stringent standards for these classes.
    For three-phase, single package, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and 
ACUHPs, similar to the triggered classes discussed in section V.A of 
this document (i.e., three-phase, split-system, less than 65,000 Btu/h 
ACUACs and ACUHPs), there are limited SEER2 and HSPF2 data for models 
of varying efficiencies, and there is not a comparable industry 
analysis (i.e., translating ratings to the updated metric for these 
models on the market) for comparison. The market-wide analysis 
necessary to evaluate whether amended standards would result in 
significant energy savings and be technologically feasible and 
economically justified under the clear and convincing threshold would 
require more than baseline data.
    Therefore, in line with the same initial reasoning presented in 
DOE's evaluation of more stringent standards

[[Page 18304]]

for those classes of three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and 
ACUHPs for which ASHRAE updated the industry standards (i.e., split 
systems), DOE tentatively determines that the ``clear and convincing'' 
threshold is not met for three-phase, single-package, less than 65,000 
Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs. As such, DOE did not conduct an energy savings 
analysis of standard levels more stringent than the current Federal 
standard levels for three-phase, single package, less than 65,000 Btu/h 
ACUACs and ACUHPs not triggered by ASHRAE 90.1-2019.
1. Proposed Addendum to ASHRAE 90.1-2019
    On November 8, 2021, ASHRAE published the First Public Review Draft 
of Addendum `ay' to ASHRAE 90.1-2019 (``the first public review 
draft''). The first public review draft proposes to update the 
efficiency metrics for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF to be in 
terms of SEER2 and HSPF2 starting January 1, 2023. The first public 
review draft also proposes to update the test procedure for three-
phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF to specify AHRI 1230-2014 with 
addendum 1 prior to Jan 1, 2023, and then AHRI 210/240-2023 starting 
Jan 1, 2023.
    While the proposed Addendum ay to ASHRAE 90.1-2019 includes SEER2 
and HSPF2 levels for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF, those 
levels are not yet formally incorporated into an approved version of 
ASHRAE 90.1. As a result, DOE is not triggered by the EPCA requirement 
to consider adopting amended standards at the new ASHRAE efficiency 
level. (42 U.S.C. 6313(a)(6)(A)(ii)) Because there are no models of 
three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF currently on the market, DOE 
tentatively finds that there would be no potential energy savings 
associated with adopting the levels in the first public review draft, 
and thus no energy savings analysis would be required. Therefore, if 
ASHRAE finalizes a future version of ASHRAE 90.1 that (1) publishes 
prior to DOE publishing a final rule for amended energy conservation 
standards for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF and (2) includes 
SEER2/HSPF2 levels for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF that are 
more stringent than the existing federal standards, DOE proposes that 
it would adopt those levels in a final rule.
    Issue 2: DOE requests comment on its proposal to adopt the more 
stringent SEER2/HSPF2 efficiency levels for three-phase, less than 
65,000 Btu/h VRF in the first public review draft of Addendum `ay' to 
ASHRAE 90.1-2019, should such levels be incorporated into an updated 
version of ASHRAE Standard 90.1 that publishes prior to DOE publishing 
a final rule for amended energy conservation standards for three-phase, 
less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF.

C. Definitions for Space-Constrained and Small-Duct, High-Velocity 
Equipment

    ASHRAE 90.1-2019 includes S-C and SDHV equipment classes for three-
phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs. Because DOE is 
proposing to adopt separate standards for S-C, split-system, and 
single-package ACUACs and ACUHPs and SDHV ACUACs and ACUHPs, DOE is 
proposing the following definitions for ``small-duct, high-velocity 
commercial package air conditioning and heating equipment'' and 
``space-constrained commercial package and heating equipment'' at 10 
CFR 431.92. These two definitions align with the definitions specified 
in 10 CFR 430.2 for single-phase CACs and HPs, which, as discussed in 
section V.A, are identical to three-phase products except for the power 
input.
    <bullet> Small-duct, High-velocity Commercial Package Air 
Conditioning and Heating Equipment means a basic model of commercial 
package, split-system air conditioning and heating equipment that: has 
a rated cooling capacity no greater than 65,000 Btu/h; is air-cooled; 
and is paired with an indoor unit that (1) includes an indoor blower 
housed with the coil; (2) is designed for, and produces, at least 1.2 
inches of external static pressure when operated at the certified air 
volume rate of 220-350 CFM per rated ton cooling in the highest default 
cooling airflow-controls setting; and (3) when applied in the field, 
uses high velocity room outlets generally greater than 1,000 fpm that 
have less than 6.0 square inches of free area.
    <bullet> Space-constrained Commercial Package Air Conditioning and 
Heating Equipment means a basic model of commercial package air 
conditioning and heating equipment (packaged or split) that: (1) Is 
air-cooled; (2) has a rated cooling capacity no greater than 30,000 
Btu/h; (3) has an outdoor or indoor unit having at least two overall 
exterior dimensions or an overall displacement that: (i) Is 
substantially smaller than those of other units that are: (A) Currently 
usually installed in site-built single-family homes; and (B) of a 
similar cooling, and, if a heat pump, heating capacity; and (ii) if 
increased, would certainly result in a considerable increase in the 
usual cost of installation or would certainly result in a significant 
loss in the utility of the product to the consumer; and (3) of a 
product type that was available for purchase in the United States as of 
December 1, 2000.

D. Proposed Energy Conservation Standards

1. Standard Levels
    In this proposed rule, DOE is proposing amended energy conservation 
standards for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs and 
for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF. The proposed amended 
energy conservation standards are in terms of SEER2 and HSPF2, which 
would align with the efficiency metrics specified in ASHRAE 90.1-2019 
for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs \8\ and with 
the updated industry test procedure AHRI 210/240-2023.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \8\ While ASHRAE 90.1-2019 does not specify updated standards in 
terms of SEER2 and HSPF2 for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h 
VRF, the proposed levels for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF 
are consistent with the updated industry test procedure for this 
equipment. Specifically, as discussed in section III.B.3 of this 
document, the updated industry test procedure applicable to three-
phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF is AHRI 210/240-2023, which 
measures performance in terms of the SEER2 and HSPF2 metrics. 
Further, as discussed in section V.B.1 of this document, industry 
has shown intent to adopt efficiency levels in terms of SEER2 and 
HSPF2 for this equipment in ASHRAE Standard 90.1 in the first public 
review draft of Addendum ay to ASHRAE 90.1-2019.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    DOE is proposing amended energy conservation standards in terms of 
SEER2 and HSPF2 that generally align with the standard levels in ASHRAE 
90.1-2019 for three-phase equipment with some exceptions. For three-
phase, split-system, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs, DOE is 
proposing standards that align with the more stringent levels in ASHRAE 
90.1-2019. For three-phase, single-package, less than 65,000 Btu/h 
ACUACs and ACUHPs, DOE is proposing standards that align with the 
levels in ASHRAE 90.1-2019, which maintain equivalent stringency to the 
current Federal standards. For S-C split-system and single-package 
ACUACs and ACUHPs, SDHV ACUACs and ACUHPs, and for three-phase, less 
than 65,000 Btu/h VRF, DOE is proposing standards that differ from the 
values specified in ASHRAE 90.1-2019. These standards are equivalent 
stringency to the current Federal standards but are translated to the 
new metrics SEER2 and HSPF2. The proposed standards are presented in 
Table I.1 and Table I.2 of this document.
2. Compliance Date
    In the September 2020 NODA/RFI, DOE discussed the potential 
compliance dates for amended standards for three-

[[Page 18305]]

phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs. 85 FR 60642, 60671 
(Sept. 25, 2020). In that September 2020 NODA/RFI, DOE determined that 
for the two equipment classes where DOE was triggered by an increase in 
stringency in ASHRAE 90.1-2019 (three-phase, split-system, less than 
65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs) the earliest compliance date for 
amended Federal standards would be two years after the ASHRAE 90.1-2019 
compliance date (January 1, 2023), resulting in a compliance date of 
January 1, 2025. Id. DOE also discussed that EPCA specifies similar 
considerations on compliance date if DOE were to adopt amended 
standards more stringent than the ASHRAE 90.1 levels \9\ for the two 
equipment classes for which DOE is evaluating standards under its 6-
year lookback authority (three-phase, single-package, less than 65,000 
Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs). Id. Ultimately, DOE determined that it did 
not have clear and convincing evidence to justify adopting standards 
more stringent than the ASHRAE 90.1-2019 levels, and, therefore, the 
three-year and/or six-year delay period would not apply. DOE presented 
an approximate compliance date of January 1, 2025 for all four 
equipment classes of three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and 
ACUHPs. Id.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \9\ EPCA states that any such standard shall apply to equipment 
manufactured after a date that is the latter of the date three years 
after publication of the final rule establishing such standard or 
six years after the effective date for the current standard (42 
U.S.C. 6313(a)(6)(C)(iv).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In response to the September 2020 NODA/RFI, Rheem agreed that the 
compliance date for amended Federal standards should be January 1, 2025 
for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs, based on the 
statutory provision by EPCA for a six-year lookback to amend uniform 
national standards. (Rheem, No. 4 at p. 1) Carrier, Goodman, and Trane 
requested that DOE align the compliance date of amended standards in 
terms of SEER2 and HSPF2 for three-phase equipment with the 
corresponding compliance date for single-phase products of January 1, 
2023, arguing that discrepancy in compliance dates between single-phase 
products and three-phase equipment would be undesirable and confusing 
for consumers and manufacturers. (Carrier, No. 3 at p. 2; Goodman, No. 
7 at p. 2; Trane, No. 8 at p. 2)
    In response to the comments from Carrier, Goodman, and Trane, DOE 
notes that while there may be benefits to aligning the compliance dates 
for SEER2 and HSPF2 standards between single-phase products and three-
phase equipment, DOE cannot prescribe a compliance date for amended 
standards that would violate its obligations under EPCA. As discussed, 
EPCA requires that DOE specify a compliance date no earlier than 2 
years after the compliance date specified in ASHRAE Standard 90.1 for 
triggered classes of three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and 
ACUHPs. As a result, to provide a consistent compliance date for 
standards in terms of SEER2 and HSPF2 for all three-phase, less than 
65,000 Btu/h equipment, DOE proposes that the amended standards 
proposed in this NOPR would apply for all three-phase, less than 65,000 
Btu/h equipment that is manufactured on or after January 1, 2025.

VI. Procedural Issues and Regulatory Review

A. Review Under Executive Orders 12866 and 13563

    Executive Order (``E.O.'') 12866, ``Regulatory Planning and 
Review,'' as supplemented and reaffirmed by E.O. 13563, ``Improving 
Regulation and Regulatory Review, 76 FR 3821 (Jan. 21, 2011), requires 
agencies, to the extent permitted by law, to (1) propose or adopt a 
regulation only upon a reasoned determination that its benefits justify 
its costs (recognizing that some benefits and costs are difficult to 
quantify); (2) tailor regulations to impose the least burden on 
society, consistent with obtaining regulatory objectives, taking into 
account, among other things, and to the extent practicable, the costs 
of cumulative regulations; (3) select, in choosing among alternative 
regulatory approaches, those approaches that maximize net benefits 
(including potential economic, environmental, public health and safety, 
and other advantages; distributive impacts; and equity); (4) to the 
extent feasible, specify performance objectives, rather than specifying 
the behavior or manner of compliance that regulated entities must 
adopt; and (5) identify and assess available alternatives to direct 
regulation, including providing economic incentives to encourage the 
desired behavior, such as user fees or marketable permits, or providing 
information upon which choices can be made by the public. DOE 
emphasizes as well that E.O. 13563 requires agencies to use the best 
available techniques to quantify anticipated present and future 
benefits and costs as accurately as possible. In its guidance, the 
Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (``OIRA'') in the Office 
of Management and Budget (``OMB'') has emphasized that such techniques 
may include identifying changing future compliance costs that might 
result from technological innovation or anticipated behavioral changes. 
For the reasons stated in the preamble, this proposed regulatory action 
is consistent with these principles.
    Section 6(a) of E.O. 12866 also requires agencies to submit 
``significant regulatory actions'' to OIRA for review. OIRA has 
determined that this proposed regulatory action does not constitute a 
``significant regulatory action'' under section 3(f) of E.O. 12866. 
Accordingly, this action was not submitted to OIRA for review under 
E.O. 12866.

B. Review Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.) requires 
preparation of an initial regulatory flexibility analysis (``IRFA'') 
for any rule that by law must be proposed for public comment, unless 
the agency certifies that the rule, if promulgated, will not have a 
significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. 
As required by Executive Order 13272, ``Proper Consideration of Small 
Entities in Agency Rulemaking,'' 67 FR 53461 (August 16, 2002), DOE 
published procedures and policies on February 19, 2003, to ensure that 
the potential impacts of its rules on small entities are properly 
considered during the DOE rulemaking process. 68 FR 7990. DOE has made 
its procedures and policies available on the Office of the General 
Counsel's website: www.energy.gov/gc/office-general-counsel. DOE 
reviewed this proposed rule under the provisions of the Regulatory 
Flexibility Act and the procedures and policies published on February 
19, 2003.
    The following sections detail DOE's IRFA for this energy 
conservation standards proposed rulemaking.
1. Description of Reasons Why Action Is Being Considered
    DOE is proposing to amend the existing DOE energy conservation 
standards for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs and 
three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF. EPCA requires DOE to consider 
amending the existing Federal energy conservation standard for certain 
types of listed commercial and industrial equipment (generally, 
commercial water heaters, commercial packaged boilers, commercial air 
conditioning and heating equipment, and packaged terminal air 
conditioners and heat pumps) each time ASHRAE Standard 90.1 is amended 
with respect to such equipment. (42 U.S.C. 6313(a)(6)(A)) For each type 
of equipment, EPCA directs

[[Page 18306]]

that if ASHRAE Standard 90.1 is amended, DOE must adopt amended energy 
conservation standards at the new efficiency level in ASHRAE Standard 
90.1, unless clear and convincing evidence supports a determination 
that adoption of a more stringent efficiency level as a national 
standard would produce significant additional energy savings and be 
technologically feasible and economically justified. (42 U.S.C. 
6313(a)(6)(A)(ii)) This is referred to as ``the ASHRAE trigger.'' DOE 
must also review and determine whether to amend standards of each class 
of covered equipment in ASHRAE Standard 90.1 every 6 years. (42 U.S.C. 
6313(a)(6)(C)(i)).
2. Objectives of, and Legal Basis for, Rule
    EPCA requires DOE to consider amending the existing Federal energy 
conservation standard each time ASHRAE Standard 90.1 is amended with 
respect to such equipment. (42 U.S.C. 6313(a)(6)(A)) ASHRAE officially 
released ASHRAE 90.1-2019 on October 25, 2019, thereby triggering DOE's 
previously referenced obligations to determine, for certain classes of 
three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUAC, ACUHP, and VRF systems, 
whether: (1) The amended industry standard levels should be adopted; or 
(2) clear and convincing evidence exists to justify more-stringent 
standard levels. For any class where DOE was not triggered, the 
Department routinely considers those classes under EPCA's 6-year-
lookback provision at the same time, to address the subject equipment 
in a comprehensive fashion.
3. Description on Estimated Number of Small Entities Regulated
    For manufacturers of three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and 
ACUHPs and three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF, the Small Business 
Administration (``SBA'') has set a size threshold. DOE used the SBA's 
small business size standards to determine whether any small entities 
would be subject to the requirements of the proposed rule. See 13 CFR 
part 121. The equipment covered by this proposed rule is classified 
under North American Industry Classification System (``NAICS'') code 
333415,\10\ ``Air-Conditioning and Warm Air Heating Equipment and 
Commercial and Industrial Refrigeration Equipment Manufacturing.'' In 
13 CFR 121.201, the SBA sets a threshold of 1,250 employees or fewer 
for an entity to be considered as a small business for this category.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \10\ The size standards are listed by NAICS code and industry 
description and are available at: www.sba.gov/document/support--table-size-standards (Last accessed on February 24, 2022).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    DOE reviewed the energy conservation standards proposed in this 
NOPR under the provisions of the Regulatory Flexibility Act and the 
procedures and policies published on February 19, 2003. DOE relied on 
the Compliance Certification Database \11\ in identifying 
manufacturers. For three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and 
ACUHPs, DOE identified 17 original equipment manufacturers (``OEM''). 
Of those 17 OEMs, DOE screened out companies that do not meet the 
definition of a ``small business'' or are foreign-owned and operated. 
DOE used subscription-based business information tools to determine 
headcount and revenue of the small businesses. DOE identified 4 small, 
domestic OEMs for consideration. DOE did not identify any manufacturers 
of three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \11\ DOE's Compliance Certification Database is available at: 
www.regulations.doe.gov/ccms.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Issue 3: DOE seeks comment on the number of small manufacturers 
producing three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs and 
three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF.
4. Description and Estimate of Compliance Requirements Including 
Differences in Cost, if Any, for Different Groups of Small Entities
    In this NOPR, DOE proposes to:
    <bullet> Adopt amended energy conservations standards for three-
phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs corresponding to the 
minimum efficiency levels in ASHRAE 90.1-2019. The levels are in terms 
of new metrics seasonal energy efficiency ratio-2 (SEER2) and heating 
seasonal performance factor-2 (HSPF2);
    <bullet> Separate energy conservation standards for three-phase, 
less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUAC and ACUHP further into: (1) Three-phase, 
S-C, commercial split-system air conditioners (``S-C ACUACs''); (2) 
three-phase, S-C, commercial split-system heat pumps (``S-C ACUHPs''); 
(3) S-C single-package ACUACs; (4) S-C single-package ACUHPs; (5) 
three-phase, SDHV commercial air conditioners (``SDHV ACUACs''); and 
(6) three-phase, SDHV commercial heat pumps (``SDHV ACUHPs''). These 
additional equipment classes are included in ASHRAE 90.1-2019 for 
three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs; and
    <bullet> Adopt amended energy conservation standards for three-
phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF. Because the levels for this 
equipment were not updated in ASHRAE 90.1-2019, the proposed standards 
are translated from the existing Federal regulatory metrics (SEER and 
HSPF) to the updated metrics (SEER2 and HSPF2)--as measured per the 
updated industry test procedure AHRI 210/240-2023.
    For S-C ACUACs and ACUHPs and SDHV ACUACs and ACUHPs, the current 
applicable Federal standards are more stringent than the ASHRAE 90.1-
2019 levels. To avoid backsliding (as required by EPCA), DOE cannot 
adopt the ASHRAE 90.1-2019 levels for these classes and is therefore 
proposing standards for S-C ACUACs and ACUHPs and SDHV ACUACs and 
ACUHPs equipment in terms of SEER2 and HSPF2 that maintain equivalent 
stringency to the applicable current Federal standards (in terms of 
SEER and HSPF). Of note, DOE has tentatively concluded that there are 
no models of S-C ACUACs and ACUHPs and SDHV ACUACs and ACUHPs on the 
market.
    For three-phase, single-package, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and 
ACUHPs as well as three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF, the ASHRAE 
90.1-2019 levels are of equivalent stringency to the current Federal 
standards. Therefore, DOE's proposal to adopt standards in terms of the 
new metrics SEER2 and HSPF2 that are crosswalked from the current 
Federal standards would not increase the stringency of standards.
    ASHRAE 90.1-2019 includes minimum efficiency levels for three-
phase, split-system, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs that are 
more stringent than the current Federal standards. DOE must adopt 
amended standards at the amended ASHRAE efficiency levels unless DOE 
determines, supported by clear and convincing evidence, that adoption 
of a more stringent standard would produce significant additional 
conservation of energy and would be technologically feasible and 
economically justified. (42 U.S.C. 6313(a)(6)(A)(ii). Because DOE 
proposes no such determination, this NOPR proposes to adopt amended 
standards at the amended ASHRAE efficiency levels for three-phase, 
split-system, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs.
    In estimating the impact to small manufacturers, DOE recognizes 
that manufacturers may incur conversion costs as a result of the 
proposed standards for three-phase, split-system, less than 65,000 Btu/
h ACUACs and ACUHPs. In reviewing all commercially

[[Page 18307]]

available models of three-phase, split-system. less than 65,000 Btu/h 
ACUACs and ACUHPs in DOE's Compliance Certification Database, the 4 
small manufacturers account for 30 percent of model offerings. For each 
of the 4 small manufacturers, approximately 58 percent of the 
companies' current models would meet the proposed levels. For the 
current models that do not meet the proposed levels, the small 
manufacturers would need to either discontinue or redesign non-
compliant models. However, adoption of standards at least as stringent 
as the ASHRAE levels is required under EPCA; furthermore, adopting 
standards above ASHRAE levels (DOE's only other option under 42 U.S.C. 
6313(a)(6)(A)(ii)) would lead to an even greater portion of small 
manufacturer models requiring redesign. Therefore, DOE has tentatively 
determined that the proposed efficiency level provides the least cost 
option for small manufacturers.
    Issue 4: DOE requests comment on its understanding of the current 
market accounted for by small manufacturers. DOE also requests comment 
on its understanding of the efficiency of the equipment offered by such 
manufacturers.
5. Duplication, Overlap, and Conflict With Other Rules and Regulations
    DOE is not aware of any rules or regulations that duplicate, 
overlap, or conflict with this rule.
6. Significant Alternatives to the Rule
    As EPCA requires DOE to either adopt the ASHRAE levels or to 
propose higher standards, DOE is limited in options to mitigate impacts 
to small businesses from the more stringent ASHRAE Standard 90.1 
levels. DOE's proposal to adopt the more stringent levels in ASHRAE 
90.1-2019 for three-phase, split-system, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs 
and ACUHPs is the least cost option to industry.
    Manufacturers subject to DOE's energy efficiency standards may 
apply to DOE's Office of Hearings and Appeals for exception relief 
under certain circumstances. Manufacturers should refer to 10 CFR part 
1003 for additional details.

C. Review Under the Paperwork Reduction Act

    Manufacturers of three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and 
ACUHPs and three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF must certify to DOE 
that their products comply with any applicable energy conservation 
standards. In certifying compliance, manufacturers must test their 
products according to the DOE test procedures, including any amendments 
adopted for those test procedures. DOE has established regulations for 
the certification and recordkeeping requirements for all covered 
consumer products and commercial equipment, including three-phase, less 
than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs and for three-phase, less than 
65,000 Btu/h VRF. 76 FR 12422 (Mar. 7, 2011); 80 FR 5099 (Jan. 30, 
2015). The collection-of-information requirement for the certification 
and recordkeeping is subject to review and approval by OMB under the 
Paperwork Reduction Act (``PRA''). This requirement has been approved 
by OMB under OMB control number 1910-1400. Public reporting burden for 
the certification is estimated to average 35 hours per response, 
including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data 
sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and 
reviewing the collection of information.
    Notwithstanding any other provision of the law, no person is 
required to respond to, nor shall any person be subject to a penalty 
for failure to comply with, a collection of information subject to the 
requirements of the PRA, unless that collection of information displays 
a currently valid OMB Control Number.

D. Review Under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969

    DOE is analyzing this proposed regulation in accordance with the 
National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (``NEPA'') and DOE's NEPA 
implementing regulations (10 CFR part 1021). DOE's regulations include 
a categorical exclusion for rulemakings that establish energy 
conservation standards for consumer products or industrial equipment. 
10 CFR part 1021, subpart D, appendix B5.1. DOE anticipates that this 
rulemaking qualifies for categorical exclusion B5.1(b) because it is a 
proposed rulemaking that establishes energy conservation standards for 
consumer products or industrial equipment, none of the exceptions 
identified in categorical exclusion B5.1(b) apply, no extraordinary 
circumstances exist that require further environmental analysis, and it 
otherwise meets the requirements for application of a categorical 
exclusion. See 10 CFR 1021.410. DOE will complete its NEPA review 
before issuing the final rule.

E. Review Under Executive Order 13132

    E.O. 13132, ``Federalism,'' 64 FR 43255 (Aug. 10, 1999), imposes 
certain requirements on Federal agencies formulating and implementing 
policies or regulations that preempt State law or that have federalism 
implications. The Executive order requires agencies to examine the 
constitutional and statutory authority supporting any action that would 
limit the policymaking discretion of the States and to carefully assess 
the necessity for such actions. The Executive order also requires 
agencies to have an accountable process to ensure meaningful and timely 
input by State and local officials in the development of regulatory 
policies that have federalism implications. On March 14, 2000, DOE 
published a statement of policy describing the intergovernmental 
consultation process it will follow in the development of such 
regulations. 65 FR 13735. DOE has examined this proposed rule and has 
tentatively determined that it would not have a substantial direct 
effect on the States, on the relationship between the national 
government and the States, or on the distribution of power and 
responsibilities among the various levels of government. EPCA governs 
and prescribes Federal preemption of State regulations as to energy 
conservation for the equipment that are the subject of this proposed 
rule. States can petition DOE for exemption from such preemption to the 
extent, and based on criteria, set forth in EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6316(a) 
and (b); 42 U.S.C. 6297) Therefore, no further action is required by 
Executive Order 13132.

F. Review Under Executive Order 12988

    With respect to the review of existing regulations and the 
promulgation of new regulations, section 3(a) of E.O. 12988, ``Civil 
Justice Reform,'' imposes on Federal agencies the general duty to 
adhere to the following requirements: (1) Eliminate drafting errors and 
ambiguity, (2) write regulations to minimize litigation, (3) provide a 
clear legal standard for affected conduct rather than a general 
standard, and (4) promote simplification and burden reduction. 61 FR 
4729 (Feb. 7, 1996). Regarding the review required by section 3(a), 
section 3(b) of E.O. 12988 specifically requires that executive 
agencies make every reasonable effort to ensure that the regulation: 
(1) Clearly specifies the preemptive effect, if any, (2) clearly 
specifies any effect on existing Federal law or regulation, (3) 
provides a clear legal standard for affected conduct while promoting 
simplification and burden reduction, (4) specifies the retroactive 
effect, if any, (5) adequately defines key terms, and (6) addresses 
other important issues affecting clarity and general draftsmanship 
under any guidelines issued by the Attorney General. Section

[[Page 18308]]

3(c) of Executive Order 12988 requires Executive agencies to review 
regulations in light of applicable standards in section 3(a) and 
section 3(b) to determine whether they are met or it is unreasonable to 
meet one or more of them. DOE has completed the required review and 
determined that, to the extent permitted by law, this proposed rule 
meets the relevant standards of E.O. 12988.

G. Review Under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995

    Title II of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (``UMRA'') 
requires each Federal agency to assess the effects of Federal 
regulatory actions on State, local, and Tribal governments and the 
private sector. Public Law 104-4, section 201 (codified at 2 U.S.C. 
1531). For a proposed regulatory action likely to result in a rule that 
may cause the expenditure by State, local, and Tribal governments, in 
the aggregate, or by the private sector of $100 million or more in any 
one year (adjusted annually for inflation), section 202 of UMRA 
requires a Federal agency to publish a written statement that estimates 
the resulting costs, benefits, and other effects on the national 
economy. (2 U.S.C. 1532(a), (b)) The UMRA also requires a Federal 
agency to develop an effective process to permit timely input by 
elected officers of State, local, and Tribal governments on a proposed 
``significant intergovernmental mandate,'' and requires an agency plan 
for giving notice and opportunity for timely input to potentially 
affected small governments before establishing any requirements that 
might significantly or uniquely affect them. On March 18, 1997, DOE 
published a statement of policy on its process for intergovernmental 
consultation under UMRA. 62 FR 12820. DOE's policy statement is also 
available at www.energy.gov/sites/prod/files/gcprod/documents/umra_97.pdf.
    This proposed rule does not contain a Federal intergovernmental 
mandate, nor is it expected to require expenditures of $100 million or 
more in any one year by the private sector. As a result, the analytical 
requirements of UMRA do not apply.

H. Review Under the Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act, 
1999

    Section 654 of the Treasury and General Government Appropriations 
Act, 1999 (Pub. L. 105-277) requires Federal agencies to issue a Family 
Policymaking Assessment for any rule that may affect family well-being. 
This proposed rule would not have any impact on the autonomy or 
integrity of the family as an institution. Accordingly, DOE has 
concluded that it is not necessary to prepare a Family Policymaking 
Assessment.

I. Review Under Executive Order 12630

    Pursuant to E.O. 12630, ``Governmental Actions and Interference 
with Constitutionally Protected Property Rights,'' 53 FR 8859 (Mar. 15, 
1988), DOE has determined that this proposed rule would not result in 
any takings that might require compensation under the Fifth Amendment 
to the U.S. Constitution.

J. Review Under the Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act, 
2001

    Section 515 of the Treasury and General Government Appropriations 
Act, 2001 (44 U.S.C. 3516 note) provides for Federal agencies to review 
most disseminations of information to the public under information 
quality guidelines established by each agency pursuant to general 
guidelines issued by OMB. OMB's guidelines were published at 67 FR 8452 
(Feb. 22, 2002), and DOE's guidelines were published at 67 FR 62446 
(Oct. 7, 2002). Pursuant to OMB Memorandum M-19-15, Improving 
Implementation of the Information Quality Act (April 24, 2019), DOE 
published updated guidelines which are available at www.energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2019/12/f70/DOE%20Final%20Updated%20IQA%20Guidelines%20Dec%202019.pdf. DOE has 
reviewed this NOPR under the OMB and DOE guidelines and has concluded 
that it is consistent with applicable policies in those guidelines.

K. Review Under Executive Order 13211

    E.O. 13211, ``Actions Concerning Regulations That Significantly 
Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use,'' 66 FR 28355 (May 22, 
2001), requires Federal agencies to prepare and submit to OIRA at OMB, 
a Statement of Energy Effects for any proposed significant energy 
action. A ``significant energy action'' is defined as any action by an 
agency that promulgates or is expected to lead to promulgation of a 
final rule, and that (1) is a significant regulatory action under 
Executive Order 12866, or any successor order; and (2) is likely to 
have a significant adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use 
of energy, or (3) is designated by the Administrator of OIRA as a 
significant energy action. For any proposed significant energy action, 
the agency must give a detailed statement of any adverse effects on 
energy supply, distribution, or use should the proposal be implemented, 
and of reasonable alternatives to the action and their expected 
benefits on energy supply, distribution, and use.
    DOE has tentatively concluded that this proposed rule, which 
proposes amended energy conservation standards for three-phase, less 
than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs and three-phase, less than 65,000 
Btu/h VRF, is not a significant energy action because the proposed 
standards are not likely to have a significant adverse effect on the 
supply, distribution, or use of energy, nor has it been designated as 
such by the Administrator at OIRA. Accordingly, DOE has not prepared a 
Statement of Energy Effects on this proposed rule.

L. Information Quality

    On December 16, 2004, OMB, in consultation with the Office of 
Science and Technology Policy (``OSTP''), issued its Final Information 
Quality Bulletin for Peer Review (``the Bulletin''). 70 FR 2664 (Jan. 
14, 2005). The Bulletin establishes that certain scientific information 
shall be peer reviewed by qualified specialists before it is 
disseminated by the Federal Government, including influential 
scientific information related to agency regulatory actions. The 
purpose of the bulletin is to enhance the quality and credibility of 
the Government's scientific information. Under the Bulletin, the energy 
conservation standards rulemaking analyses are ``influential scientific 
information,'' which the Bulletin defines as ``scientific information 
the agency reasonably can determine will have, or does have, a clear 
and substantial impact on important public policies or private sector 
decisions.'' 70 FR 2664, 2667.
    In response to OMB's Bulletin, DOE conducted formal peer reviews of 
the energy conservation standards development process and the analyses 
that are typically used and has prepared a report describing that peer 
review.\12\ Generation of this report involved a rigorous, formal, and 
documented evaluation using objective criteria and qualified and 
independent reviewers to make a judgment as to the technical/
scientific/business merit, the actual or anticipated results, and the 
productivity and management effectiveness of programs and/or projects. 
Because available data, models, and technological understanding have 
changed since 2007, DOE has engaged with the National Academy of 
Sciences to review DOE's analytical

[[Page 18309]]

methodologies to ascertain whether modifications are needed to improve 
the Department's analyses. DOE is in the process of evaluating the 
resulting report.\13\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \12\ The 2007 ``Energy Conservation Standards Rulemaking Peer 
Review Report'' is available at: www.energy.gov/eere/buildings/downloads/energy-conservation-standards-rulemaking-peer-review-report-0 (last accessed December 10, 2021).
    \13\ The report is available at www.nationalacademies.org/our-work/review-of-methods-for-setting-building-and-equipment-performance-standards.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

VII. Public Participation

A. Participation in the Webinar

    The time and date for the webinar meeting are listed in the DATES 
section at the beginning of this document. Webinar registration 
information, participant instructions, and information about the 
capabilities available to webinar participants will be published on 
DOE's website:www.energy.gov/eere/buildings/public-meetings-and-comment-deadlines. Participants are responsible for ensuring their 
systems are compatible with the webinar software.

B. Procedure for Submitting Prepared General Statements for 
Distribution

    Any person who has an interest in the topics addressed in this 
document, or who is representative of a group or class of persons that 
has an interest in these issues, may request an opportunity to make an 
oral presentation at the webinar. Such persons may submit to 
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#5b1a2b2b37323a35383e082f3a353f3a293f280a2e3e282f323435281b3e3e753f343e753c342d"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="a8e9d8d8c4c1c9c6cbcdfbdcc9c6ccc9daccdbf9ddcddbdcc1c7c6dbe8cdcd86ccc7cd86cfc7de">[email protected]</span></a>. Persons who wish to speak 
should include with their request a computer file in WordPerfect, 
Microsoft Word, PDF, or text (ASCII) file format that briefly describes 
the nature of their interest in this rulemaking and the topics they 
wish to discuss. Such persons should also provide a daytime telephone 
number where they can be reached.
    Persons requesting to speak should briefly describe the nature of 
their interest in this rulemaking and provide a telephone number for 
contact. DOE requests persons selected to make an oral presentation to 
submit an advance copy of their statements at least two weeks before 
the webinar. At its discretion, DOE may permit persons who cannot 
supply an advance copy of their statement to participate, if those 
persons have made advance alternative arrangements with the Building 
Technologies Office. As necessary, requests to give an oral 
presentation should ask for such alternative arrangements.

C. Conduct of the Webinar

    DOE will designate a DOE official to preside at the webinar and may 
also use a professional facilitator to aid discussion. The meeting will 
not be a judicial or evidentiary-type public hearing, but DOE will 
conduct it in accordance with section 336 of EPCA (42 U.S.C. 6306). A 
court reporter will be present to record the proceedings and prepare a 
transcript. DOE reserves the right to schedule the order of 
presentations and to establish the procedures governing the conduct of 
the webinar/public meeting. There shall not be discussion of 
proprietary information, costs or prices, market share, or other 
commercial matters regulated by U.S. anti-trust laws. After the 
webinar/public meeting and until the end of the comment period, 
interested parties may submit further comments on the proceedings and 
any aspect of the rulemaking.
    The webinar will be conducted in an informal, conference style. DOE 
will present a summary of the proposals, allow time for prepared 
general statements by participants, and encourage all interested 
parties to share their views on issues affecting this rulemaking. Each 
participant will be allowed to make a general statement (within time 
limits determined by DOE), before the discussion of specific topics. 
DOE will permit, as time permits, other participants to comment briefly 
on any general statements.
    At the end of all prepared statements on a topic, DOE will permit 
participants to clarify their statements briefly. Participants should 
be prepared to answer questions by DOE and by other participants 
concerning these issues. DOE representatives may also ask questions of 
participants concerning other matters relevant to this proposed 
rulemaking. The official conducting the webinar will accept additional 
comments or questions from those attending, as time permits. The 
presiding official will announce any further procedural rules or 
modification of the above procedures that may be needed for the proper 
conduct of the webinar.
    A transcript of the webinar will be included in the docket, which 
can be viewed as described in the Docket section at the beginning of 
this document. In addition, any person may buy a copy of the transcript 
from the transcribing reporter.

D. Submission of Comments

    DOE will accept comments, data, and information regarding this 
proposed rule before or after the public meeting, but no later than the 
date provided in the DATES section at the beginning of this proposed 
rule. Interested parties may submit comments, data, and other 
information using any of the methods described in the ADDRESSES section 
at the beginning of this document.
    Submitting comments via www.regulations.gov. The 
www.regulations.gov web page will require you to provide your name and 
contact information. Your contact information will be viewable to DOE 
Building Technologies staff only. Your contact information will not be 
publicly viewable except for your first and last names, organization 
name (if any), and submitter representative name (if any). If your 
comment is not processed properly because of technical difficulties, 
DOE will use this information to contact you. If DOE cannot read your 
comment due to technical difficulties and cannot contact you for 
clarification, DOE may not be able to consider your comment.
    However, your contact information will be publicly viewable if you 
include it in the comment itself 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. Otherwise, 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 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 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 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. Comments and documents submitted via 
email also will be posted to 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

[[Page 18310]]

contact information in a cover letter. Include your first and last 
names, email address, telephone number, and optional mailing address. 
The cover letter will not be publicly viewable as long as it does not 
include any comments.
    Include contact information each time you submit comments, data, 
documents, and other information to DOE. No telefacsimiles (``faxes'') 
will be accepted.
    Comments, data, and other information submitted to DOE 
electronically should be provided in PDF (preferred), Microsoft Word or 
Excel, or text (ASCII) file format. Provide documents that are not 
secured, that are written in English, and that are 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 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. 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).

E. Issues on Which DOE Seeks Comment

    Although DOE welcomes comments on any aspect of this proposal, DOE 
is particularly interested in receiving comments and views of 
interested parties concerning the following issues:

    Issue 1: DOE requests comment on the crosswalk methodology 
described in section III.B of this document and the crosswalk 
results in Table III-1 for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h 
ACUACs and ACUHPs and three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF.
    Issue 2: DOE requests comment on its proposal to adopt the more 
stringent SEER2/HSPF2 efficiency levels for three-phase, less than 
65,000 Btu/h VRF in the first public review draft of Addendum `ay' 
to ASHRAE 90.1-2019, should such levels be incorporated into an 
updated version of ASHRAE Standard 90.1 that publishes prior to DOE 
publishing a final rule for amended energy conservation standards 
for three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF.
    Issue 3: DOE seeks comment on the number of small manufacturers 
producing three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h ACUACs and ACUHPs and 
three-phase, less than 65,000 Btu/h VRF.
    Issue 4: DOE requests comment on its understanding of the 
current market accounted for by small manufacturers. DOE also 
requests comment on its understanding of the efficiency of the 
equipment offered by such manufacturers.

    Additionally, DOE welcomes comments on other issues relevant to the 
conduct of this proposed rulemaking that may not specifically be 
identified in this document.

VIII. Approval of the Office of the Secretary

    The Secretary of Energy has approved publication of this notice of 
proposed rulemaking and request for comment.

List of Subjects in 10 CFR Part 431

    Administrative practice and procedure, Confidential business 
information, Energy conservation test procedures, and Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements.

Signing Authority

    This document of the Department of Energy was signed on March 23, 
2022, by Kelly J. Speakes-Backman, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary 
for 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 March 23, 2022.
Treena V. Garrett,
Federal Register Liaison Officer, U.S. Department of Energy.

    For the reasons set forth in the preamble, DOE proposes to amend 
part 431 of chapter II, subchapter D, of title 10 of the Code of 
Federal Regulations, as set forth below:

PART 431--ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAM FOR CERTAIN COMMERCIAL AND 
INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT

0
1. The authority citation for part 431 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  42 U.S.C 6291-6317; 28 U.S.C 2461 note.

0
2. Section 431.92 is amended by adding, in alphabetical order, 
definitions for ``Small-duct, High-velocity Commercial Package Air 
Conditioning and Heating Equipment'' and ``Space-constrained Commercial 
Package Air Conditioning and Heating Equipment'' to read as follows:


Sec.  431.92   Definitions concerning commercial air conditioners and 
heat pumps.

* * * * *
    Small-duct, High-velocity Commercial Package Air Conditioning and 
Heating Equipment means a basic model of commercial package, split-
system air conditioning and heating equipment that:
    (1) Has a rated cooling capacity no greater than 65,000 Btu/h;
    (2) Is air-cooled; and
    (3) Is paired with an indoor unit that
    (i) Includes an indoor blower housed with the coil;
    (ii) Is designed for, and produces, at least 1.2 inches of external 
static pressure when operated at the certified air volume rate of 220-
350 CFM per rated ton cooling in the highest default cooling airflow-
controls setting; and
    (iii) When applied in the field, uses high velocity room outlets 
generally greater than 1,000 fpm that have less than 6.0 square inches 
of free area.
    Space-constrained Commercial Package Air Conditioning and Heating 
Equipment means a basic model of commercial package air conditioning 
and heating equipment (packaged or split) that:
    (1) Is air-cooled;
    (2) Has a rated cooling capacity no greater than 30,000 Btu/h;
    (3) Has an outdoor or indoor unit having at least two overall 
exterior dimensions or an overall displacement that:
    (i) Is substantially smaller than those of other units that are:
    (A) Currently usually installed in site-built single-family homes; 
and
    (B) Of a similar cooling, and, if a heat pump, heating capacity;
    and
    (ii) If increased, would certainly result in a considerable 
increase in the usual

[[Page 18311]]

cost of installation or would certainly result in a significant loss in 
the utility of the product to the consumer;
    and
    (4) Of a product type that was available for purchase in the United 
States as of December 1, 2000.
* * * * *
0
3. Section 431.97 is amended by:
0
a. Removing the rows of Table 1 to paragraph (b), under the column 
heading, ``Equipment Type'' for: ``Small Commercial Package Air 
Conditioning and Heating Equipment (Air-Cooled, 3-Phase, Split-
System)'' and ``Small Commercial Package Air Conditioning and Heating 
Equipment (Air-Cooled, 3-Phase, Single-Package)'';
0
b. Removing each instance in Table 1 to paragraph (b), ``\2\'' and 
``\3\'' and adding in their place ``\1\'' and ``\2\'';
0
c. Removing footnote 1 in Table 1 to paragraph (b) and redesignating 
footnotes ``2'' and ``3'' as footnotes ``1'' and ``2'', respectively;
0
d. Removing ``June 16, 2008.'' and adding in its place ``June 16, 
2008.\2\'', in row 13, ``Small Commercial Package Air-Conditioning and 
Heating Equipment (Air-Cooled, 3-Phase, Split-System)'', in Table 3 to 
paragraph (b) under the column heading, ``Compliance date: Equipment 
manufactured starting on . . .'';
0
e. Removing ``January 1, 2017.'' and adding in its place ``January 1, 
2017.\2\'', in row 14, ``Small Commercial Package Air-Conditioning and 
Heating Equipment (Air-Cooled, 3-Phase, Split-System)'', in Table 3 to 
paragraph (b) under the column heading, ``Compliance date: Equipment 
manufactured starting on . . .'';
0
f. Removing ``January 1, 2017.'' and adding in its place ``January 1, 
2017.\2\'', in row 15, ``Small Commercial Package Air-Conditioning and 
Heating Equipment (Air-Cooled, 3-Phase, Single-Package)'', in Table 3 
to paragraph (b) under the column heading, ``Compliance date: Equipment 
manufactured starting on . . .'';
0
g. Removing ``January 1, 2017.'' and adding in its place ``January 1, 
2017.2'', in row 16, ``Small Commercial Package Air-Conditioning and 
Heating Equipment (Air-Cooled, 3-Phase, Single-Package)'', in Table 3 
to paragraph (b) under the column heading, ``Compliance date: Equipment 
manufactured starting on . . .'';
0
h. Adding, immediately following footnote 1 below Table 3 to paragraph 
(b), ``\2\ And manufactured before January 1, 2025. For equipment 
manufactured on or after January 1, 2025, see Table 14 to paragraph (g) 
of this section for updated efficiency standards.'';
0
i. Removing ``January 1, 2017.'' and adding in its place ``January 1, 
2017.3'', in row 1, ``Small Commercial Package Air Conditioning and 
Heating Equipment (Air-Cooled, 3-Phase, Split-System)'', in Table 4 to 
paragraph (b) under the column heading, ``Compliance date: Equipment 
manufactured starting on . . .'';
0
j. Removing the words ``January 1, 2017.'' and adding in its place 
``January 1, 2017.\3\'', in row 2, ``Small Commercial Package Air 
Conditioning and Heating Equipment (Air-Cooled, 3-Phase, Single 
Package)'', in Table 4 to paragraph (b) under the column heading, 
``Compliance date: Equipment manufactured starting on . . .'';
0
k. Adding, immediately following footnote 2 below Table 4 to paragraph 
(b), ``\3\ And manufactured before January 1, 2025. For equipment 
manufactured on or after January 1, 2025, see Table 14 to paragraph (g) 
of this section for updated efficiency standards.'';
0
l. Removing ``June 16, 2008.'' and adding in its place ``June 16, 
2008.\2\'', in rows 1, VRF Multi-Split Air Conditioners (Air-Cooled)'', 
and 7, ``VRF Multi-Split Heat Pumps (Air-Cooled)'', of Table 13 to 
paragraph (f) under the column heading: ``Compliance date: Products 
manufactured on and after . . .'';
0
m. Adding, immediately following footnote 1 below Table 13 to paragraph 
(f), ``\2\ And manufactured before January 1, 2025. For equipment 
manufactured on or after January 1, 2025, see Table 14 to paragraph (g) 
of this section for updated efficiency standards.''; and
0
n. Adding a new paragraph (g) and Table 14 to read as follows:


Sec.  431.97   Energy efficiency standards and their compliance dates.

* * * * *
    (g) Each air-cooled, three-phase, small commercial package air 
conditioning and heating equipment with a cooling capacity of less than 
65,000 Btu/h and air-cooled, three-phase variable refrigerant flow 
multi-split air conditioning and heating equipment with a cooling 
capacity of less than 65,000 Btu/h manufactured on or after January 1, 
2025, or if certifying to SEER2/HSPF2, must meet the applicable minimum 
energy efficiency standard level(s) set forth in Table 14 of this 
section.

  Table 14 to Sec.   431.97--Updated Minimum Efficiency Standards for Air-Cooled, Three-Phase, Small Commercial
               Package Air Conditioning and Heating Equipment With a Cooling Capacity of Less Than
     65,000 Btu/h and Air-Cooled, Three-Phase, Small Variable Refrigerant Flow Multi-Split Air Conditioning
                     and Heating Equipment With a Cooling Capacity of Less Than 65,000 Btu/h
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
           Equipment type             Size category (cooling)        Subcategory           Minimum efficiency
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air Conditioners....................  <65,000 Btu/h..........  Split-System...........  13.4 SEER2.
                                                               Single-Package.........  13.4 SEER2.
Heat Pumps..........................  <65,000 Btu/h..........  Split-System...........  14.3 SEER2.
                                                                                        7.5 HSPF2.
                                                               Single-Package.........  13.4 SEER2.
                                                                                        6.7 HSPF2.
Space-Constrained Air Conditioners..  <=30,000 Btu/h.........  Split-System...........  12.7 SEER2.
                                                               Single-Package.........  13.9 SEER2.
Space-Constrained Heat Pumps........  <=30,000 Btu/h.........  Split-System...........  13.9 SEER2.
                                                                                        7.0 HSPF2.
                                                               Single-Package.........  13.9 SEER2.
                                                                                        6.7 HSPF2.
Small-Duct, High-Velocity Air         <65,000 Btu/h..........  Split-System...........  13.0 SEER2.
 Conditioners.
Small-Duct, High-Velocity Heat Pumps  <65,000 Btu/h..........  Split-System...........  14.0 SEER2.
                                                                                        6.9 HSPF2.
VRF Air Conditioners................  <65,000 Btu/h..........  .......................  13.0 SEER2.

[[Page 18312]]

 
VRF Heat Pumps......................  <65,000 Btu/h..........  .......................  13.0 SEER2.
                                                                                        6.5 HSPF2.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[FR Doc. 2022-06450 Filed 3-29-22; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P


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