[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 3 (Tuesday, January 6, 2015)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 404-419]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2014-30827]


========================================================================
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. 80, No. 3 / Tuesday, January 6, 2015 / 
Proposed Rules

[[Page 404]]



DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

10 CFR Part 430

[Docket No. EERE-2009-BT-TP-0016-0017]
RIN 1904-AB99


Energy Conservation Program: Clarification for Energy 
Conservation Standards and Test Procedures for Fluorescent Lamp 
Ballasts

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

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking.

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

SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) proposes to clarify its 
energy conservation standards and test procedures for fluorescent lamp 
ballasts established under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act. DOE 
proposes to reorganize, reformat, correct, and clarify the scope of the 
energy conservation standards. In addition, DOE proposes to remove the 
outdated test procedure at Appendix Q and redesignate the current test 
procedure at Appendix Q1 as Appendix Q. DOE also proposes 
clarifications to supplement the test procedure setup at redesignated 
Appendix Q. Finally, DOE proposes to revise the laboratory 
accreditation language and provide clarification on the process for 
evaluating compliance with standards.

DATES: DOE will accept comments, data, and information regarding this 
notice of proposed rulemaking (NOPR) no later than March 9, 2015. See 
section V, ``Public Participation,'' for details.

ADDRESSES: Any comments submitted must identify the NOPR for 
Clarification for Energy Conservation Standards and Test Procedures for 
Fluorescent Lamp Ballasts, and provide docket number EE-2009-BT-TP-
0016-0017 and/or regulatory information number (RIN) number 1904-AB99. 
Comments may be submitted using any of the following methods:
    1. Federal eRulemaking Portal: www.regulations.gov. Follow the 
instructions for submitting comments.
    2. Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#2d6b616f001f1d1d1400797d001d1d1c1b6d484803494248034a425b"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="d1979d93fce3e1e1e8fc8581fce1e1e0e791b4b4ffb5beb4ffb6bea7">[email protected]</span></a>. Include the docket number 
and/or RIN in the subject line of the message.
    3. Mail: Ms. Brenda Edwards, U.S. Department of Energy, Building 
Technologies Program, Mailstop EE-2J, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., 
Washington, DC 20585-0121. If possible, please submit all items on a 
CD. It is not necessary to include printed copies.
    4. Hand Delivery/Courier: Ms. Brenda Edwards, U.S. Department of 
Energy, Building Technologies Program, 950 L'Enfant Plaza SW., Suite 
600, Washington, DC 20024. Telephone: (202) 586-2945. If possible, 
please submit all items on a CD. It is not necessary to include printed 
copies.
    For detailed instructions on submitting comments and additional 
information on the rulemaking process, see section V of this document 
(Public Participation).
    Docket: The docket, which includes Federal Register notices, 
comments, and other supporting documents/materials, is available for 
review at regulations.gov. All documents in the docket are listed in 
the regulations.gov index. However, some documents listed in the index, 
such as those containing information that is exempt from public 
disclosure, may not be publicly available.
    A link to the docket Web page can be found at: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_standards/product.aspx/productid/62. This Web page will contain a link to the docket for this 
notice on the regulations.gov site. The regulations.gov Web page will 
contain simple instructions on how to access all documents, including 
public comments, in the docket. See section V for information on how to 
submit comments through regulations.gov.
    For further information on how to submit a comment or review other 
public comments and the docket, contact Ms. Brenda Edwards at (202) 
586-2945 or by email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#f0b282959e9491deb5948791829483b09595de949f95de979f86"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="1b59697e757f7a355e7f6c7a697f685b7e7e357f747e357c746d">[email protected]</span></a>.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. Lucy deButts, U.S. Department of 
Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Building 
Technologies Program, EE-2J, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, 
DC 20585-0121. Telephone: (202) 287-1604. Email: 
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#5a3c362f35283f29393f342e05363b372a05383b36363b292e291a3f3f743e353f743d352c"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="03656f766c71667060666d775c6f626e735c61626f6f627077704366662d676c662d646c75">[email protected]</span></a>.
    Ms. Sarah Butler, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the General 
Counsel, GC-71, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585-
0121. Telephone: (202) 586-1777. Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#07546675666f294572736b6275476f762963686229606871"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="0e5d6f7c6f66204c7b7a626b7c4e667f206a616b20696178">[email protected]</span></a>.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Table of Contents

I. Authority and Background
II. Summary of the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
III. Discussion
    A. Energy Conservation Standards
    1. Changes to Organization
    2. Changes to Definitions and Terminology
    B. Test Procedure
    1. Lamp Pairing for Testing
    2. Testing at Full Output
    3. Measurement Clarification
    4. Changes to Definitions
    5. Rounding Ballast Luminous Efficiency
    6. Language Changes and Corrections to the Text
    C. Compliance and Certification
    1. Laboratory Accreditation
    2. Evaluating Compliance With Standards
    3. Compliance Date for This Proposed Rule
IV. Procedural Issues and Regulatory Review
    A. Review Under Executive Order 12866
    B. Review Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act
    C. Review Under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995
    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 Treasury and General Government Appropriations 
Act, 2001
    K. Review Under Executive Order 13211
    L. Review Under Section 32 of the Federal Energy Administration 
Act of 1974
V. Public Participation
    A. Submission of Comments
    B. Issues on Which DOE Seeks Comment
VI. Approval of the Office of the Secretary

I. Authority and Background

    Title III, Part B \1\ of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 
1975 (``EPCA'' or, ``the Act''), Pub. L. 94-163 (42 U.S.C. 6291-6309, 
as codified) sets forth a variety of provisions designed to improve 
energy efficiency and established the ``Energy Conservation Program for 
Consumer Products Other

[[Page 405]]

Than Automobiles.'' \2\ These include fluorescent lamp ballasts, the 
subject of today's notice. (42 U.S.C. 6292(a)(13))
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ For editorial reasons, upon codification in the U.S. Code, 
Part B was redesignated as Part A.
    \2\ All references to EPCA in this document refer to the statute 
as amended through the American Energy Manufacturing Technical 
Corrections Act (AEMTCA), Pub. L. 112-210 (Dec. 18, 2012).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Under EPCA, the energy conservation program consists essentially of 
four parts: (1) Testing, (2) labeling, (3) Federal energy conservation 
standards, and (4) certification and enforcement procedures. The 
testing requirements consist of test procedures that manufacturers of 
covered products must use as the basis for (1) certifying to the 
Department of Energy (DOE) that their products comply with the 
applicable energy conservation standards adopted under EPCA, and (2) 
making representations about the efficiency of those products. 
Similarly, DOE must use these test procedures to determine whether the 
products comply with any relevant standards promulgated under EPCA.
    DOE published test procedure final rules on April 24, 1991, October 
22, 2009, and May 4, 2011 (hereafter the ``May 2011 test procedure 
final rule''), establishing active mode test procedures, standby and 
off mode test procedures, and revised active mode test procedures 
respectively. 56 FR 18677, 74 FR 54445, and 76 FR 25211. The May 2011 
test procedure final rule established Appendix Q1 to subpart B of 10 
CFR part 430. DOE also published final rules establishing and amending 
energy conservation standards for fluorescent lamp ballasts on 
September 19, 2000, and November 14, 2011 (hereafter the ``November 
2011 standards final rule''), which completed the two energy 
conservation standard rulemakings required under 42 U.S.C. 6295(g)(7). 
65 FR 56740 and 76 FR 70547. The November 2011 standards final rule 
established the regulations located at 10 CFR 430.32(m)(8)-(10). This 
rulemaking clarifies the contents of the energy conservation standards 
and test procedures promulgated by DOE.

II. Summary of the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking

    In this notice of proposed rulemaking (NOPR), DOE discusses key 
aspects of the energy conservation standards and test procedures for 
fluorescent lamp ballasts and proposes to clarify the corresponding 
requirements and specifications in the CFR. DOE proposes modifications 
to the organization of 10 CFR 430.32(m) to clarify the applicability of 
the standards and exemptions. DOE also proposes to consolidate 10 CFR 
430.32(m) by deleting standards that are no longer applicable. In 
addition, DOE proposes to clarify definitions relating to ballast 
luminous efficiency (BLE) standards.
    DOE proposes to remove the outdated test procedure for ballast 
efficacy factor (BEF) at Appendix Q and redesignate the test procedure 
for BLE at Appendix Q1 as Appendix Q. In addition, DOE proposes to add 
testing clarifications to redesignated Appendix Q and proposes 
modifying redesignated Appendix Q to clarify the reference lamp 
pairings for testing. DOE also proposes clarifications to redesignated 
Appendix Q for test setup and measurement and provides rounding 
instructions for BLE. In addition, DOE proposes general changes to 
definitions, language, and corrections to the text.
    Finally, DOE proposes to revise the laboratory accreditation 
language at 10 CFR 430.25. This NOPR also discusses the process for 
evaluating compliance with standards by providing example calculations 
for evaluating compliance with BLE standards.
    Manufacturers would be required to comply with the clarifications 
included in this rulemaking within 180 days after the publication of 
the final rule.

III. Discussion

A. Energy Conservation Standards

    In the second rulemaking cycle required by 42 U.S.C. 6295(g)(7), 
DOE amended existing energy conservation standards and adopted 
standards for additional ballasts in a final rule published on November 
14, 2011 (hereafter ``2011 Ballast Rule''). The new and amended 
standards are based on BLE and apply to all products listed in Table 
III.1. DOE has required compliance with these BLE standards since 
November 14, 2014.

             Table III.1--Ballast Luminous Efficiency Standards Implemented by the 2011 Ballast Rule
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Fluorescent lamp ballasts shall have a ballast luminous efficiency no less than A/(1+B*total lamp arc power
                                  [caret]-C) where A, B, and C are as follows:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          Product class                                  A               B               C
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Instant start and rapid start ballasts (not classified as                  0.993            0.27            0.25
 residential) that are designed to operate......................
    4-foot medium bipin lamps
    2-foot U-shaped lamps
    8-foot slimline lamps
Programmed start ballasts (not classified as residential) that             0.993            0.51            0.37
 are designed to operate........................................
    4-foot medium bipin lamps
    2-foot U-shaped lamps
    4-foot miniature bipin standard output lamps
    4-foot miniature bipin high output lamps
Instant start and rapid start ballasts (not classified as sign             0.993            0.38            0.25
 ballasts) that are designed to operate.........................
    8-foot high output lamps
Programmed start ballasts (not classified as sign ballasts) that           0.973            0.70            0.37
 are designed to operate........................................
    8-foot high output lamps
Sign ballasts that operate......................................           0.993            0.47            0.25
    8-foot high output lamps
Instant start and rapid start residential ballasts that operate.           0.993            0.41            0.25
    4-foot medium bipin lamps
    2-foot U-shaped lamps
    8-foot slimline lamps
Programmed start residential ballasts that are designed to                 0.973            0.71            0.37
 operate........................................................
    4-foot medium bipin lamps
    2-foot U-shaped lamps
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 406]]

    Several ballasts are exempt from BLE and power factor standards 
established by the 2011 Ballast Rule. See 10 CFR 430.32(m)(9). These 
exemptions consist of:
    (1) Low frequency T8 ballasts that are designed, labeled, and 
marketed for use only in electromagnetic-interference-sensitive-
environments and shipped in packages of 10 or fewer;
    (2) Programmed start ballasts that operate 4-foot medium bipin 
(MBP) T8 lamps and deliver on average less than 140 milliamperes to 
each lamp; and
    (3) Dimming ballasts except for those specified in 10 CFR 
430.32(m)(10).

See 10 CFR 430.32(m)(9)
    Dimming ballasts designed for the operation of one F34T12, two 
F34T12, two F96T12/ES, and two F96T12HO/ES lamps and that meet the 
specifications found at 10 CFR 430.32(m)(10)(i) and (ii) are subject to 
BLE standards specified in 10 CFR 430.32(m)(10)(iii).
    DOE is proposing several changes to the energy conservation 
standards section of the CFR for ballasts (10 CFR 430.32(m)) to clarify 
the applicability of standards and exemptions and improve readability. 
These changes are described in detail in the following sections.
1. Changes to Organization
    DOE is proposing modifications to the organization of 10 CFR 
430.32(m) to clarify the applicability of standards and exemptions. DOE 
is proposing to consolidate 10 CFR 430.32(m) by deleting standards that 
are no longer applicable. 10 CFR 430.32(m) currently contains the 
standards established by NAECA 1988, the 2000 Ballast Rule, EPACT 2005, 
and the 2011 Ballast Rule. The standards established by each of these 
actions are accompanied by compliance dates and exemptions. DOE is 
proposing to remove the sections of 10 CFR 430.32(m) that no longer 
apply (i.e., existing sections 10 CFR 430.32(m)(1)-(m)(7)). DOE also 
proposes to reorganize the remaining sections of 10 CFR 430.32(m) to 
enhance readability. DOE will outline the key topics of standards, 
compliance dates, and exemptions.
    Additionally, DOE is proposing modifications to the standards table 
in 10 CFR 430.32(m). In many cases, several different types of ballasts 
are subject to the same BLE standards. However, due to a formatting 
error, the table in existing section 430.32(m)(8) added additional 
lines and borders between these ballast types subject to the same BLE 
standards. For example, instant start and rapid start ballasts (not 
classified as residential) that are designed to operate 4-foot MBP, 2-
foot U-shaped, and 8-foot slimline lamps are all subject to the same 
BLE standards. To clarify that certain groups of ballasts are subject 
to the same standards, DOE proposes to remove some lines and borders to 
accurately group the ballasts and standards. The chart will conform to 
what is shown in Table III.1.
2. Changes to Definitions and Terminology
    DOE is also proposing changes to the definitions and terminology 
used in 10 CFR 430.32(m) pertaining to BLE standards. DOE is proposing 
to remove descriptions of terminology at existing (m)(8)(iv)-(vi) and 
instead reference redesignated Appendix Q (see section III.B) for 
definitions of the terms average total lamp arc power, instant start, 
programmed start, rapid start, residential ballast, and sign ballast. 
In addition, DOE is proposing to use the phrase ``that are not 
residential ballasts'' in amended sections 10 CFR 430.32(m)(1)(ii)(A) 
and (m)(2)(ii)(A) to refer to any ballasts that do not meet the 
definition of residential ballast in redesignated Appendix Q. This 
change would improve clarity through consistent usage of a single 
phrase and reducing cross-references to other paragraphs.
    Finally, DOE is proposing to replace the phrase ``designed, 
labeled, and marketed'' with the phrase ``designed and marketed'' as 
defined at 10 CFR 430.2, in the description of a low frequency ballast 
at amended section 10 CFR 430.32(m)(3)(ii). The definition of 
``designed and marketed'' at 10 CFR 430.2 clarifies that a ballast is 
recognized as designed and marketed if the intended application of the 
lamp is stated in a publicly available document (e.g., product 
literature, catalogs, packaging labels, and labels on the product 
itself).\3\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \3\ The definition of ``designed and marketed'' was established 
in the general service fluorescent lamp and incandescent reflector 
lamp energy conservation standard rulemaking. See http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=EERE-2011-BT-STD-0006.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Similarly, DOE is proposing to replace the phrase ``for use in 
connection with'' with the phrase ``designed and marketed to operate'' 
at amended section 10 CFR 430.32(m)(2) and amended section 10 CFR 
430.32(m)(3)(i). DOE is also proposing to replace the phrase ``that 
operate'' with ``that are designed to operate'' at amended section 10 
CFR 430.32(m)(1)(ii)(B). These revisions eliminate potential confusion 
or ambiguity by clarifying the original intent of this language.

B. Test Procedure

    Manufacturers were previously required to use the test procedure 
for ballasts at 10 CFR part 430, subpart B, appendix Q to determine 
compliance with BEF standards. The May 2011 test procedure final rule 
established appendix Q1 to subpart B of 10 CFR part 430 to determine 
compliance with BLE standards. As stated in section III.A, compliance 
with BLE standards has been required since November 14, 2014. Because 
the BEF standards are no longer applicable, DOE is proposing to remove 
the test procedure for BEF at Appendix Q and redesignate the Appendix 
Q1 test procedure for BLE as Appendix Q. DOE is also proposing several 
changes to redesignated Appendix Q to clarify the test procedures for 
measuring BLE. These changes are described in detail in the following 
sections.
1. Lamp Pairing for Testing
    In the May 2011 test procedure final rule, DOE specified that 
ballasts are to be paired with the most common wattage lamp and 
provided a table (Table A of existing appendix Q1 of subpart B of part 
430) to indicate which lamp should be used with each ballast. 76 FR 
25211 (May 4, 2011) Table A lists the ballast description along with 
the lamp type intended for testing. Though ballasts can frequently 
operate lamps of the same diameter but different wattages, DOE requires 
testing with only one lamp wattage per ballast. To clarify this 
requirement, DOE is proposing to indicate in section 2.3.1.7 of 
redesignated Appendix Q that each ballast should be tested with only 
one lamp type corresponding to the lamp diameter and base type the 
ballast is designed and marketed to operate. For example, a ballast 
designed and marketed to operate both 32 watt (W) 4-foot MBP T8 lamps 
and 28 W 4-foot MBP T8 lamps should only be tested with the 32 W lamp. 
Additionally, stakeholders requested clarification on testing ballasts 
that are designed and marketed as operating both T8 and T12 lamps. 
Therefore, DOE is also proposing to indicate in section 2.3.1.5 of 
redesignated Appendix Q that a ballast designed and marketed to operate 
both T8 and T12 lamps must be tested with T8 lamps. DOE believes T8 
lamps will be the most common lamp type paired with these ballasts.
    In addition, DOE proposes to revise Table A of existing Appendix Q1 
to further clarify this requirement. DOE proposes to add borders to 
Table A in redesignated Appendix Q to emphasize that testing with only 
one lamp type per ballast is necessary. DOE also proposes

[[Page 407]]

to revise the column heading corresponding to the lamp description to 
read ``lamp type'' to provide a clear linkage to the direction that 
only one lamp type should be paired with each ballast for testing. 
Table III.2 and Table III.3 present an example from Table A, 
highlighting the existing and proposed versions, respectively.

                                      Table III.2--Existing Table A Excerpt
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                 Frequency adjustment factor
          Ballast type              Nominal lamp    Lamp diameter and base -------------------------------------
                                      wattage                                 Low-frequency      High-frequency
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ballasts that operate straight-                 32  T8 MBP................               0.94                1.0
 shaped lamps (commonly                         34  T12 MBP...............               0.93                1.0
 referred to as 4-foot medium
 bipin lamps) with medium bipin
 bases and a nominal overall
 length of 48 inches.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                               Table III.3--Proposed Revisions to Table A Excerpt
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                 Lamp type                       Frequency adjustment factor
                                --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Ballast type              Nominal lamp
                                      wattage       Lamp diameter and base    Low-frequency      High-frequency
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ballasts that operate straight-                 32  T8 MBP................               0.94                1.0
 shaped lamps (commonly
 referred to as 4-foot medium
 bipin lamps) with medium bipin
 bases and a nominal overall
 length of 48 inches.
                                                34  T12 MBP...............               0.93                1.0
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    For clarity, DOE also proposes to revise the ballast type 
description for sign ballasts in Table A to read ``Sign ballasts that 
operate rapid-start lamps (commonly referred to as 8-foot high output 
lamps) with recessed double contact bases and a nominal overall length 
of 96 inches.'' Additionally, DOE proposes to add a definition for 
``sign ballast'' in redesignated Appendix Q based on the existing 
description of sign ballast in 10 CFR 430.32(m). See section III.B.4 
for more information.
2. Testing at Full Output
    In section 2.5.1.2 of existing Appendix Q1, DOE specifies that the 
ballast should be operated at full output during the stabilization 
process, and measurements should be made after the stabilization 
condition is reached. DOE is proposing to revise this statement in 
redesignated Appendix Q to make clear that the ballast should remain at 
full output while the measurements are taken. This is consistent with 
DOE's intent that both dimming and fixed light output ballasts are 
tested at full light output.
3. Measurement Clarification
    DOE specifies in section 2.3.2.1 of existing Appendix Q1 that the 
power analyzer must have n+1 channels where n is the number of lamps a 
ballast operates. DOE notes that, for certain ballasts, it is possible 
for n+1 to be greater than the number of channels supplied by a single 
power analyzer. DOE is proposing to clarify in redesignated Appendix Q 
that the test lab use the minimum number of power analyzers possible 
during testing. A power analyzer commonly used in the lighting industry 
has six channels, but can be linked to a second power analyzer when 
additional channels are needed. If a test lab needed seven channels to 
test a ballast that operates six lamps, for example, they should use 
only two analyzers.
4. Changes to Definitions
    DOE is proposing changes to existing Appendix Q1 relating to 
definitions used in the test procedure. DOE proposes to modify the 
definition of ``residential ballast'' in the definitions section of 
existing Appendix Q1 to align with the existing description at 10 CFR 
430.32(m)(8)(vi) and the definition of ``designed and marketed'' at 10 
CFR 430.2 (see section III.A.2 for more information). DOE proposes to 
define residential ballast in redesignated Appendix Q as ``a 
fluorescent lamp ballast that meets FCC consumer limits as set forth in 
47 CFR part 18 and is designed and marketed for use only in residential 
applications.'' DOE also proposes to remove the definition of 
``commercial ballast'' that is in the existing Appendix Q1 and instead 
proposes to use the phrase ``that are not residential ballasts'' in 
redesignated Appendix Q when referring to any ballasts that do not meet 
the definition of residential ballast. This proposed change would align 
redesignated Appendix Q with the proposed terminology changes in the 
energy conservation standards at 430.32(m).
    In addition, DOE is proposing to add several terms to the 
definitions section of redesignated Appendix Q pertaining to BLE 
standards. First, DOE proposes to add a definition for average total 
lamp arc power to provide specific clarification on the calculation. 
Average total lamp arc power is referenced in the BLE standards 
equation (at 10 CFR 430.32(m)(8)) shown in Table III.1. To clarify how 
to calculate the applicable BLE standard, DOE proposes to add the 
definition of average total lamp arc power to the definitions section 
of redesignated Appendix Q. The proposed definition for average total 
lamp arc power is ``the average of the total lamp arc power (as defined 
and measured in section 2.6.1) of the ballast units tested.''
    DOE also proposes to add a definition for ``dimming ballast'' to 
redesignated Appendix Q. The proposed definition for a dimming ballast 
is ``a ballast that is designed to vary its output and that can achieve 
an output less than or equal to 50 percent of its maximum electrical 
output.'' This proposed definition aligns with and clarifies the 
dimming ballast exemptions currently specified in 10 CFR 430.32(m). 
Thus, DOE also proposes to remove the description of a dimming ballast 
currently at 10 CFR 430.32(m)(9)(i). As proposed, 10 CFR 430.32 would 
instead reference the new definition for ``dimming ballast'' in 
redesignated Appendix Q.
    In addition, DOE proposes to add a definition for ``sign ballast'' 
to the definitions section of redesignated Appendix Q. DOE proposes to 
define sign ballast based on the description currently at 10 CFR 
430.32(m)(8)(v) and the definition of ``designed and marketed'' at 10 
CFR 430.2 (see section III.A.2 for more information). DOE is proposing 
to define sign ballast as ``a

[[Page 408]]

ballast that has an Underwriters Laboratories Inc. Type 2 rating and is 
designed and marketed for use only in outdoor signs.'' Rather than 
listing a description of sign ballast, as does section 2.3.1.4 of 
existing Appendix Q1, DOE proposes that section 2.3.1.6 of redesignated 
Appendix Q reference the term in the definitions section of 
redesignated Appendix Q.
    Subsequently, DOE proposes new language in redesignated Appendix Q 
to reference the definitions section of redesignated Appendix Q. 
Specifically, in section 2.4.3, DOE proposes to reference definitions 
in redesignated Appendix Q and therefore replace the language ``For 
ballasts designed and labeled for residential applications'' with ``For 
residential ballasts.'' In addition, DOE proposes to replace the 
language ``For ballasts designed and labeled as cold-temperature 
outdoor sign ballasts'' with ``For sign ballasts.''
    Finally, DOE proposes redesignated Appendix Q without the terms 
``active mode'' and ``standby mode'' because these terms are already 
defined at 10 CFR 430.2. The definitions in existing Appendix Q1 are 
consistent with the definitions in 10 CFR 430.2 and are therefore 
redundant.
5. Rounding Ballast Luminous Efficiency
    Currently, rounding requirements are not provided for the reported 
value of BLE. When developing standards in the November 2011 standards 
final rule, DOE rounded BLE to the thousandths place when analyzing the 
costs and benefits of the adopted standard. For consistency with the 
intent of the 2011 standards final rule, DOE proposes to specify 
rounding the reported value of BLE to the nearest thousandths place. 
This requirement would appear at 10 CFR 430.23(q)(2).
6. Language Changes and Corrections to the Text
    DOE is also proposing new language at redesignated Appendix Q for 
some of the testing requirements. DOE is proposing to use the 
terminology ``designed and marketed for operation'' to clarify 
references to the intended ballast types. See section III.A.2 for more 
information on the definition of ``designed and marketed.'' Within 
sections 2.3.1.2, 2.3.1.4.1, 2.3.1.4.2, 2.3.1.4.3, and 2.4.3 of 
existing Appendix Q1, DOE proposes to change all instances of the 
following phrases to ``designed and marketed for operation'' in 
redesignated Appendix Q:
    (1) ``Designed to operate;''
    (2) ``That only operate;'' and
    (3) ``Capable of operating.''
    Additionally, DOE is proposing to modify the language of section 
2.1 to clarify the references to industry standards. DOE believes the 
sentence as currently written does not clearly explain that the 
industry standards incorporated by reference in the CFR must be used in 
place of those listed in the industry standard ANSI C82.2. DOE is 
proposing to add the word ``standards'' as noted in the following 
sentence: ``In addition when applying ANSI C82.2, the standards ANSI 
C78.81, ANSI C82.1, ANSI C82.11, and ANSI C82.13 (all incorporated by 
reference; see Sec.  430.3) must be used instead of the versions listed 
as normative references in ANSI C82.2.''
    DOE is also proposing a correction in redesignated Appendix Q 
relating to an error in existing Appendix Q1 that occurred during 
publication of the May 2011 test procedure final rule. In section 
2.3.1, the heading numbers skip from 2.3.1 to 2.3.1.1.1 (i.e., 2.3.1.1 
is omitted). DOE is proposing to correct this heading numbering error 
in redesignated Appendix Q.
    Finally, DOE proposes to revise a grammatical issue in redesignated 
Appendix Q that is in existing section 1.7 of Appendix Q1, which 
defines ``instant-start.'' In section 1.7 of redesignated Appendix Q, 
DOE proposes to insert the word ``in'' so that the definition of 
instant-start reads ``is the starting method used in instant-start 
systems as defined in American National Standards Institute (ANSI) 
C82.13 (incorporated by reference see 10 CFR 430.3).''

C. Compliance and Certification

1. Laboratory Accreditation
    DOE has received feedback that the language in 10 CFR 430.25 is 
causing confusion. Specifically, there has been confusion over the role 
of the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP), 
other accrediting bodies, Underwriter's Laboratories (UL), and Council 
of Canada. In order to reduce this confusion, DOE proposes to revise 
the text to read: ``testing must be conducted by test laboratories 
accredited by the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program 
(NVLAP) or by an accreditation body that has a mutual recognition 
agreement for which NVLAP is a signatory.'' DOE believes this revision 
will clarify that testing may take place at laboratories accredited by 
NVLAP or by an organization with an equivalent function as NVLAP.
    Additionally, DOE proposes to remove the statement at 10 CFR 430.25 
noting that testing for fluorescent lamp ballasts performed in 
accordance with the existing Appendix Q is not required to be conducted 
by test laboratories accredited by NVLAP or an accrediting organization 
recognized by NVLAP. Because DOE is proposing to remove the BEF test 
procedure at existing Appendix Q and replace it with the BLE test 
procedure from existing Appendix Q1, this statement is also no longer 
relevant.
    Finally, DOE proposes to remove statements indicating the relevant 
Appendix for testing specific lighting products. DOE proposes to remove 
these unnecessary statements so that 10 CFR 430.25 is focused solely on 
laboratory accreditation.
2. Evaluating Compliance With Standards
    Compliance with BLE standards should be evaluated according to 10 
CFR 429.26. As prescribed at 10 CFR 429.26(a)(2), for each basic model 
of fluorescent lamp ballast, a minimum of four units must be randomly 
selected and tested using redesignated Appendix Q. The manufacturer 
must then evaluate compliance with the standard by comparing the mean 
from testing and the lower 99 percent confidence limit (LCL) of the 
true mean divided by 0.99. The mean of the sample is computed using the 
equation at section 429.26(a)(2)(ii)(A), and the equation to evaluate 
the LCL is found at section 429.26(a)(2)(ii)(B). The following is an 
example calculation for evaluating compliance with BLE standards.
    Table III.4 presents example test data used to evaluate compliance 
with standards for a fluorescent lamp ballast designed and marketed for 
operation of a maximum of two F96T8 lamps.

[[Page 409]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP06JA15.032

    The ballast is a universal voltage, high frequency ballast designed 
to operate 8-foot slimline lamps and is intended for use in non-
residential applications. Four units of the basic model are tested 
using the test procedure at redesignated Appendix Q. Each unit is 
tested while operating two 59 W F96T8 lamps and the resulting 
measurements are shown in Table III.4. The required calculations are 
performed for each ballast and include computing the BLE and power 
factor. To calculate the BLE of unit 1, Equation 1 is utilized.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP06JA15.033

Where:

Total Test Ballast Lamp Arc Power = sum of the lamp arc powers for 
all lamps operated by the ballast (as determined by section 2.5.1.5 
of amended Appendix Q),
Ballast Input Power = measured input power to the ballast (as 
determined by section 2.5.1.6 of amended Appendix Q), and
[beta] = frequency adjustment factor (Table A of amended Appendix 
Q).

    Equation 2 shows the calculaton for BLE using the data from Table 
III.4 for unit 1.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP06JA15.034

    The power factor is also calculated for unit 1 using Equation 3.
    [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP06JA15.035
    
    Equation 4 shows the calculation for power factor using the data 
from Table III.4 for unit 1.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP06JA15.036

    The same process is repeated for each of the three remaining 
ballast units. The resulting BLE and power factor values are shown in 
Table III.4.
    To determine the minimum BLE that a basic model must meet or exceed 
to be compliant with standards,

[[Page 410]]

manufacturers must average the total lamp arc power of the units and 
input the average into the appropriate energy conservation standard 
efficiency level. The reported BLE for each basic model must meet or 
exceed the output of Equation 5. For instant start ballasts that are 
designed to operate 8-foot slimline lamps, A = 0.993; B = 0.27; and C = 
0.25.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP06JA15.037

Where:

power = average total lamp arc power.

    The total lamp arc power is calculated using the data from Table 
III.4 for each of the tested ballasts as shown in Equation 6. The 
average total lamp arc power of the sample is then calculated as shown 
in Equation 7. Equation 8 uses the resulting average total lamp arc 
power to calculate the BLE standard.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP06JA15.038

    Next, as stated previously, manufacturers must follow the 
provisions laid out in section 429.26 to certify for compliance. The 
mean BLE of the sample is calculated using Equation 9.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP06JA15.039

Where:

xx = sample mean,
n = number of samples, and
x<INF>i</INF> = i<SUP>th</SUP> sample.

    The mean BLE calculation using the data from Table III.4 is shown 
in Equation 10.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP06JA15.040

    The lower 99 percent confidence limit of the true mean is 
calculated using Equation 11.

[[Page 411]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP06JA15.041

Where:

xx = sample mean,
s = sample standard deviation,
n = number of samples, and
t<INF>0.99</INF> = t statistic for a 99% one-tailed confidence 
interval with n-1 degrees of freedom.

    Equation 12 and Equation 13 show calculations for LCL and LCL 
divided by 0.99, respectively, using the test data from Table III.4.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP06JA15.042

    Manufacturers may report that products perform within a range of 
values constrained by the standard and the statistical value based on 
test data. The standard serves as the minimum allowable BLE, and the 
lower of the mean BLE or LCL of the true mean divided by 0.99 serves as 
the maximum allowable BLE value reported for compliance. No additional 
tolerances are provided when determining BLE. Therefore, in this 
example, the minimum allowable BLE reported for compliance is the 
standard of 0.919 and the maximum BLE allowable to be reported is 
0.928.
3. Compliance Date for This Proposed Rule
    Compliance with existing standards has been required since the 
dates discussed in section III.A.1. The proposed amendments in this 
rulemaking would be effective 30 days following publication of a final 
rule. Consistent with 42 U.S.C. 6293(c), any representations of energy 
efficiency or energy use would be required to be based on any final 
amended test procedure no later than 180 days after the publication of 
the final rule in the Federal Register.

IV. Procedural Issues and Regulatory Review

A. Review Under Executive Order 12866

    The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has determined that test 
procedure rulemakings do not constitute ``significant regulatory 
actions'' under section 3(f) of Executive Order 12866, Regulatory 
Planning and Review, 58 FR 51735 (Oct. 4, 1993). Accordingly, this 
action was not subject to review under the Executive Order by the 
Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) in the Office of 
Management and Budget.

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 (IFRA) 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 Web site: http://energy.gov/gc/office-general-counsel.
    This rulemaking clarifies existing requirements for testing and 
compliance with standards and does not change the burden associated 
with fluorescent lamp ballast regulations on any entity large or small. 
Therefore, DOE concludes and certifies that this rulemaking would not 
have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small 
entities.
    Accordingly, DOE has not prepared a regulatory flexibility analysis 
for this rulemaking. DOE's certification and supporting statement of 
factual basis will be provided to the Chief Counsel for Advocacy of the 
SBA \4\ for review under 5 U.S.C. 605(b). DOE certifies that this rule 
would have no significant impact on a substantial number of small 
entities. DOE seeks comment regarding whether the proposed 
clarifications in this proposed rulemaking would have a significant 
economic impact on any small entities.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \4\ Small Business Administration.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

C. Review Under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995

    Manufacturers of fluorescent lamp ballasts 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 for fluorescent lamp 
ballasts, 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 fluorescent lamp ballasts. (76 FR 12422 (March 7, 
2011). The collection-of-

[[Page 412]]

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 30 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

    In this proposed rule, DOE proposes revisions to provide 
clarification for energy conservation standards and test procedures for 
fluorescent lamp ballasts. DOE has determined that this rule falls into 
a class of actions that are categorically excluded from review under 
the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) 
and DOE's implementing regulations at 10 CFR part 1021. Specifically, 
this proposed rule would clarify the existing energy conservation 
standards and test procedures without affecting the amount, quality or 
distribution of energy usage, and, therefore, would not result in any 
environmental impacts. Thus, this rulemaking is covered by Categorical 
Exclusion A5 under 10 CFR part 1021, subpart D, which applies to any 
rulemaking that interprets or amends an existing rule without changing 
the environmental effect of that rule. Accordingly, neither an 
environmental assessment nor an environmental impact statement is 
required.

E. Review Under Executive Order 13132

    Executive Order 13132, ``Federalism,'' 64 FR 43255 (August 4, 1999) 
imposes certain requirements on 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 
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 
products that are the subject of today's 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. 6297(d)) No further 
action is required by Executive Order 13132.

F. Review Under Executive Order 12988

    Regarding the review of existing regulations and the promulgation 
of new regulations, section 3(a) of Executive Order 12988, ``Civil 
Justice Reform,'' 61 FR 4729 (Feb. 7, 1996), 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. Section 3(b) of Executive Order 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 3(c) of Executive Order 12988 requires Executive 
agencies to review regulations in light of applicable standards in 
sections 3(a) and 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, 
the proposed rule meets the relevant standards of Executive Order 
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, sec. 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 small governments. On March 18, 1997, 
DOE published a statement of policy on its process for 
intergovernmental consultation under UMRA. 62 FR 12820; also available 
at http://energy.gov/gc/office-general-counsel. DOE examined today's 
proposed rule according to UMRA and its statement of policy and 
determined that the rule contains neither an intergovernmental mandate, 
nor a mandate that may result in the expenditure of $100 million or 
more in any year, so these requirements 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 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

    DOE has determined, under Executive Order 12630, ``Governmental 
Actions and Interference with Constitutionally Protected Property 
Rights'' 53 FR 8859

[[Page 413]]

(March 18, 1988), that this regulation would not result in any takings 
that might require compensation under the Fifth Amendment to the U.S. 
Constitution.

J. Review Under 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 agencies to review most 
disseminations of information to the public under 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). DOE has 
reviewed today's proposed rule 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

    Executive Order 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 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 promulgated 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.
    Today's regulatory action to clarify the energy conservation 
standards and test procedures for measuring the energy efficiency of 
fluorescent lamp ballasts is not a significant regulatory action under 
Executive Order 12866. Moreover, it would not have a significant 
adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use of energy, nor has 
it been designated as a significant energy action by the Administrator 
of OIRA. Therefore, it is not a significant energy action, and, 
accordingly, DOE has not prepared a Statement of Energy Effects.

L. Review Under Section 32 of the Federal Energy Administration Act of 
1974

    Under section 301 of the Department of Energy Organization Act 
(Pub. L. 95-91; 42 U.S.C. 7101), DOE must comply with section 32 of the 
Federal Energy Administration Act of 1974, as amended by the Federal 
Energy Administration Authorization Act of 1977. (15 U.S.C. 788; FEAA) 
Section 32 essentially provides in relevant part that, where a proposed 
rule authorizes or requires use of commercial standards, the notice of 
proposed rulemaking must inform the public of the use and background of 
such standards. In addition, section 32(c) requires DOE to consult with 
the Attorney General and the Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission 
(FTC) concerning the impact of the commercial or industry standards on 
competition.
    The proposed rule does not revise the existing incorporation of 
industry standards regarding fluorescent lamp ballasts. Therefore, the 
Department concludes that the requirements of section 32(b) of the 
FEAA, (i.e., that the standards were developed in a manner that fully 
provides for public participation, comment, and review) do not apply to 
this rulemaking.

V. Public Participation

A. Submission of Comments

    DOE will accept comments, data, and information regarding this 
proposed rule no later than the date provided in the DATES section at 
the beginning of this proposed rule. Interested parties may submit 
comments using any of the methods described in the ADDRESSES section at 
the beginning of this notice.
    Submitting comments via regulations.gov. The regulations.gov Web 
page will require you to provide your name and contact information. 
Your contact information will be viewable to DOE Building Technologies 
staff only. Your contact information will not be publicly viewable 
except for your first and last names, organization name (if any), and 
submitter representative name (if any). If your comment is not 
processed properly because of technical difficulties, DOE will use this 
information to contact you. If DOE cannot read your comment due to 
technical difficulties and cannot contact you for clarification, DOE 
may not be able to consider your comment.
    However, your contact information will be publicly viewable if you 
include it in the comment or in any documents attached to your comment. 
Any information that you do not want to be publicly viewable should not 
be included in your comment, nor in any document attached to your 
comment. Persons viewing comments will see only first and last names, 
organization names, correspondence containing comments, and any 
documents submitted with the comments.
    Do not submit to 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 regulations.gov cannot 
be claimed as CBI. Comments received through the Web site 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 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 regulations.gov 
provides after you have successfully uploaded your comment.
    Submitting comments via email, hand delivery, or mail. Comments and 
documents submitted via email, hand delivery, or mail also will be 
posted to regulations.gov. If you do not want your personal contact 
information to be publicly viewable, do not include it in your comment 
or any accompanying documents. Instead, provide your contact 
information on a cover letter. Include your first and last names, email 
address, telephone number, and optional mailing address. The cover 
letter will not be publicly viewable as long as it does not include any 
comments.
    Include contact information each time you submit comments, data, 
documents, and other information to DOE. If you submit via mail or hand 
delivery, please provide all items on a CD, if feasible. It is not 
necessary to submit printed copies. No facsimiles (faxes) will be 
accepted.
    Comments, data, and other information submitted to DOE 
electronically should be provided in PDF (preferred), Microsoft Word or 
Excel, WordPerfect, or text (ASCII) file format. Provide documents that 
are not secured, written in English and free of any defects or viruses. 
Documents should not contain special characters or any form of 
encryption and, if possible, they should carry the electronic signature 
of the author.

[[Page 414]]

    Campaign form letters. Please submit campaign form letters by the 
originating organization in batches of between 50 to 500 form letters 
per PDF or as one form letter with a list of supporters' names compiled 
into one or more PDFs. This reduces comment processing and posting 
time.
    Confidential Business Information. According to 10 CFR 1004.11, any 
person submitting information that he or she believes to be 
confidential and exempt by law from public disclosure should submit via 
email, postal mail, or hand delivery two well-marked copies: One copy 
of the document marked confidential including all the information 
believed to be confidential, and one copy of the document marked non-
confidential with the information believed to be confidential deleted. 
Submit these documents via email or on a CD, if feasible. DOE will make 
its own determination about the confidential status of the information 
and treat it according to its determination.
    Factors of interest to DOE when evaluating requests to treat 
submitted information as confidential include: (1) A description of the 
items; (2) whether and why such items are customarily treated as 
confidential within the industry; (3) whether the information is 
generally known by or available from other sources; (4) whether the 
information has previously been made available to others without 
obligation concerning its confidentiality; (5) an explanation of the 
competitive injury to the submitting person which would result from 
public disclosure; (6) when such information might lose its 
confidential character due to the passage of time; and (7) why 
disclosure of the information would be contrary to the public interest.
    It is DOE's policy that all comments may be included in the public 
docket, without change and as received, including any personal 
information provided in the comments (except information deemed to be 
exempt from public disclosure).

B. 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 proposed clarification regarding 
laboratory accreditation.

VI. Approval of the Office of the Secretary

    The Secretary of Energy has approved publication of this proposed 
rule.

List of Subjects in 10 CFR Part 430

    Administrative practice and procedure, Confidential business 
information, Energy conservation, Household appliances, Imports, 
Incorporation by reference, Intergovernmental relations, Small 
businesses.

    Issued in Washington, DC, on December 29, 2014.
Kathleen B. Hogan,
Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency, Energy Efficiency and 
Renewable Energy.
    For the reasons stated in the preamble, DOE is proposing to amend 
part 430 of Chapter II of Title 10, Code of Federal Regulations as set 
forth below:

PART 430--ENERGY CONSERVATION PROGRAM FOR CONSUMER PRODUCTS

0
1. The authority citation for part 430 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  42 U.S.C. 6291-6309; 28 U.S.C. 2461 note.

0
2. Section 430.23 is amended by revising paragraph (q)(2) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  430.23  Test procedures for the measurement of energy and water 
consumption.

* * * * *
    (q) * * *
    (2) Calculate ballast luminous efficiency (BLE) using section 2.6.1 
of Appendix Q1 to this subpart. Round BLE to the nearest thousandths 
place.
* * * * *
0
3. Section 430.25 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  430.25  Laboratory Accreditation Program.

    The testing for general service fluorescent lamps, general service 
incandescent lamps (with the exception of lifetime testing), 
incandescent reflector lamps, medium base compact fluorescent lamps, 
and fluorescent lamp ballasts (with the exception of the testing 
conducted pursuant to Appendix Q of this subpart as it appeared at 10 
CFR part 430, subpart B revised as of January 1, 2014) must be 
conducted by test laboratories accredited by the National Voluntary 
Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP) or by an accreditation body 
that has a mutual recognition agreement for which NVLAP is a signatory.

Appendix Q to Subpart B of Part 430 [Removed]

0
4. Appendix Q to subpart B of part 430 is removed.
0
5. Appendix Q1 to subpart B of part 430 is redesignated as appendix Q 
to subpart B of part 430 and revised to read as follows:

Appendix Q to Subpart B of Part 430--Uniform Test Method for Measuring 
the Energy Consumption of Fluorescent Lamp Ballasts

1. Definitions

    1.1. AC control signal means an alternating current (AC) signal 
that is supplied to the ballast using additional wiring for the 
purpose of controlling the ballast and putting the ballast in 
standby mode.
    1.2. Average total lamp arc power means the average of the total 
lamp arc power (as defined and measured in section 2.6.1) of the 
ballast units tested.
    1.3. Cathode heating refers to power delivered to the lamp by 
the ballast for the purpose of raising the temperature of the lamp 
electrode or filament.
    1.4. DC control signal means a direct current (DC) signal that 
is supplied to the ballast using additional wiring for the purpose 
of controlling the ballast and putting the ballast in standby mode.
    1.5. Dimming ballast means a ballast that is designed to vary 
its output and that can achieve an output less than or equal to 50 
percent of its maximum electrical output.
    1.6. High-frequency ballast is as defined in ANSI C82.13 
(incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3).
    1.7. Instant-start is the starting method used in instant-start 
systems as defined in ANSI C82.13 (incorporated by reference; see 
Sec.  430.3).
    1.8. Low-frequency ballast is a fluorescent lamp ballast that 
operates at a supply frequency of 50 to 60 Hz and operates the lamp 
at the same frequency as the supply.
    1.9. PLC control signal means a power line carrier (PLC) signal 
that is supplied to the ballast using the input ballast wiring for 
the purpose of controlling the ballast and putting the ballast in 
standby mode.
    1.10. Programmed-start is the starting method used in 
programmed-start systems as defined in ANSI C82.13 (incorporated by 
reference; see Sec.  430.3).
    1.11. Rapid-start is the starting method used in rapid-start 
type systems as defined in ANSI C82.13 (incorporated by reference; 
see Sec.  430.3).
    1.12. Reference lamp is a fluorescent lamp that meets certain 
operating conditions as defined by ANSI C82.13 (incorporated by 
reference; see Sec.  430.3).
    1.13. Residential ballast means a fluorescent lamp ballast that 
meets FCC consumer limits as set forth in 47 CFR part 18 and is 
designed and marketed for use only in residential applications.
    1.14. RMS is the root mean square of a varying quantity.
    1.15. Sign ballast means a ballast that has an Underwriters 
Laboratories Inc. Type 2 rating and is designed and marketed for use 
only in outdoor signs.
    1.16. Wireless control signal means a wireless signal that is 
radiated to and received by the ballast for the purpose of 
controlling the ballast and putting the ballast in standby mode.

[[Page 415]]

2. Active Mode Procedure

    2.1. Where ANSI C82.2 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  
430.3) references ANSI C82.1-1997, the operator must use ANSI C82.1 
(incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3) for testing low-
frequency ballasts and must use ANSI C82.11 (incorporated by 
reference; see Sec.  430.3) for testing high-frequency ballasts. In 
addition when applying ANSI C82.2, the standards ANSI C78.81 
(incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3), ANSI C82.1, ANSI 
C82.11, and ANSI C82.13 must be used instead of the versions listed 
as normative references in ANSI C82.2.
    2.2. Instruments
    2.2.1. All instruments must be as specified by ANSI C82.2 
(incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3).
    2.2.2. Power Analyzer. In addition to the specifications in ANSI 
C82.2 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3), the power 
analyzer must have a maximum 100 pF capacitance to ground and 
frequency response between 40 Hz and 1 MHz.
    2.2.3. Current Probe. In addition to the specifications in ANSI 
C82.2 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3), the current 
probe must be galvanically isolated and have frequency response 
between 40 Hz and 20 MHz.
    2.3. Test Setup
    2.3.1. The ballast must be connected to a main power source and 
to the fluorescent lamp load according to the manufacturer's wiring 
instructions and ANSI C82.1 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  
430.3) and ANSI C78.81 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3).
    2.3.1.1. Wire lengths between the ballast and fluorescent lamp 
must be the length provided by the ballast manufacturer. Wires must 
be kept loose and not shortened or bundled.
    2.3.1.2. If the wire lengths supplied with the ballast are of 
insufficient length to reach both ends of lamp, additional wire may 
be added. Add the minimum additional wire length necessary, and the 
additional wire must be the same wire gauge as the wire supplied 
with the ballast. If no wiring is provided with the ballast, 18 
gauge or thicker wire must be used. The wires must be separated from 
each other and ground to prevent parasitic capacitance for all wires 
used in the apparatus, including those wires from the ballast to the 
lamps and from the lamps to the measuring devices.
    2.3.1.3. The fluorescent lamp must meet the specifications of a 
reference lamp as defined by ANSI C82.13 (incorporated by reference; 
see Sec.  430.3) and be seasoned at least 12 hours.
    2.3.1.4. The ballast must be connected to the number of lamps 
equal to the maximum number of lamps the ballast is designed and 
marketed to operate.
    2.3.1.5. With the exception of sign ballasts (described in 
section 2.3.1.6 and its subsections), ballasts designed and marketed 
to operate both T8 and T12 lamps must be tested with T8 lamps.
    2.3.1.6. For sign ballasts (as defined in section 1.15):
    2.3.1.6.1. A T8 lamp in accordance with Table A of this section 
must be used for sign ballasts that are designed and marketed to 
only operate T8 lamps.
    2.3.1.6.2. A T12 lamp in accordance with Table A of this section 
must be used for sign ballasts that are designed and marketed to 
only operate T12 lamps.
    2.3.1.6.3. A T12 lamp in accordance with Table A of this section 
must be used for sign ballasts that are designed and marketed to 
operate both T8 and T12 lamps.
    2.3.1.7. Each ballast must be tested with only one lamp type 
corresponding to the lamp diameter the ballast is designed and 
marketed to operate in accordance with Table A of this section.

                       Table A--Lamp-and-Ballast Pairings and Frequency Adjustment Factors
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                     Lamp type                      Frequency adjustment factor
                                  -----------------------------------------------            ([beta])
           Ballast type                                                          -------------------------------
                                       Lamp diameter and base      Nominal lamp                        High-
                                                                      wattage     Low- frequency     frequency
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ballasts that operate straight-    T8 MBP.......................              32            0.94             1.0
 shaped lamps (commonly referred
 to as 4-foot medium bipin lamps)
 with medium bipin bases and a
 nominal overall length of 48
 inches.
                                   T12 MBP......................              34            0.93             1.0
Ballasts that operate U-shaped     T8 MBP.......................              32            0.94             1.0
 lamps (commonly referred to as 2-
 foot U-shaped lamps) with medium
 bipin bases and a nominal
 overall length between 22 and 25
 inches.
                                   T12 MBP......................              34            0.93             1.0
Ballasts that operate rapid-start  T8 HO RDC....................              86            0.92             1.0
 lamps (commonly referred to as 8-
 foot-high output lamps) with
 recessed double contact bases
 and a nominal overall length of
 96 inches.
                                   T12 HO RDC...................              95            0.94             1.0
Ballasts that operate instant-     T8 slimline SP...............              59            0.95             1.0
 start lamps (commonly referred
 to as 8-foot slimline lamps)
 with single pin bases and a
 nominal overall length of 96
 inches.
                                   T12 slimline SP..............              60            0.94             1.0
Ballasts that operate straight-    T5 SO Mini-BP................              28            0.95             1.0
 shaped lamps (commonly referred
 to as 4-foot miniature bipin
 standard output lamps) with
 miniature bipin bases and a
 nominal length between 45 and 48
 inches.
Ballasts that operate straight-    T5 HO Mini-BP................              54            0.95             1.0
 shaped lamps (commonly referred
 to as 4-foot miniature bipin
 high output lamps) with
 miniature bipin bases and a
 nominal length between 45 and 48
 inches.
Sign ballasts that operate rapid-  T8 HO RDC....................              86            0.92             1.0
 start lamps (commonly referred
 to as 8-foot high output lamps)
 with recessed double contact
 bases and a nominal overall
 length of 96 inches.
                                   T12 HO RDC...................             110            0.94             1.0
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MBP, Mini-BP, RDC, and SP represent medium bipin, miniature bipin, recessed double contact, and single pin,
 respectively.
A ballast must be tested with only one lamp type based on the ballast type description and lamp diameter it is
 designed and marketed to operate.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    2.3.2. Power Analyzer
    2.3.2.1. The power analyzer must have n+1 channels where n is 
the number of lamps a ballast operates. Use the minimum number of 
power analyzers possible during testing.
    2.3.2.2. Lamp Arc Voltage. Leads from the power analyzer should 
attach to each fluorescent lamp according to Figure 1 of this 
section for rapid- and programmed-start ballasts, Figure 2 of this 
section for instant-start ballasts operating single pin (SP) lamps,

[[Page 416]]

and Figure 3 of this section for instant-start ballasts operating 
medium bipin (MBP), miniature bipin (mini-BP), or recessed double 
contact (RDC) lamps. The programmed- and rapid-start ballast test 
setup includes two 1000 ohm resistors placed in parallel with the 
lamp pins to create a midpoint from which to measure lamp arc 
voltage.
    2.3.2.3. Lamp Arc Current. A current probe must be positioned on 
each fluorescent lamp according to Figure 1 for rapid- and 
programmed-start ballasts, Figure 2 of this section for instant-
start ballasts operating SP lamps, and Figure 3 of this section for 
instant-start ballasts operating MBP, mini-BP, and RDC lamps.
    2.3.2.3.1. For the lamp arc current measurement, the full 
transducer ratio must be set in the power analyzer to match the 
current probe to the power analyzer.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP06JA15.043

    Where: I<INF>in</INF> is the current through the current 
transducer, V<INF>out</INF> is the voltage out of the transducer, 
R<INF>in</INF> is the power analyzer impedance, and R<INF>s</INF> is 
the current probe output impedance.
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP06JA15.044


[[Page 417]]


BILLING CODE 6450-01-C
    2.4. Test Conditions
    2.4.1. The test conditions for testing fluorescent lamp ballasts 
must be done in accordance with ANSI C82.2 (incorporated by 
reference; see Sec.  430.3). DOE further specifies that the 
following revisions of the normative references indicated in ANSI 
C82.2 should be used in place of the references directly specified 
in ANSI C82.2: ANSI C78.81 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  
430.3), ANSI C82.1 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3), 
ANSI C82.3 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3), ANSI C82.11 
(incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3), and ANSI C82.13 
(incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3). All other normative 
references must be as specified in ANSI C82.2.
    2.4.2. Room Temperature and Air Circulation. The test facility 
must be held at 25 <plus-minus>2 [deg]C, with minimal air movement 
as defined in ANSI C78.375 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  
430.3).
    2.4.3. Input Voltage. Disregard the directions in ANSI C82.2 
(incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3) section 4.1, and use 
the following directions for input voltage instead. For ballasts 
that are not residential ballasts designed and marketed for 
operation at multiple voltages, test the ballast at 277V <plus-
minus>0.1%. For residential ballasts designed and marketed for 
operation at multiple voltages, test the ballast at 120V <plus-
minus>0.1%. For sign ballasts designed and marketed for operation at 
multiple voltages, test the ballast at 120V <plus-minus>0.1%. 
Ballasts designed and marketed for operation at only one input 
voltage must be tested at that specified voltage.
    2.5. Test Method
    2.5.1. Ballast Luminous Efficiency.
    2.5.1.1. The ballast must be connected to the appropriate 
fluorescent lamps and to measurement instrumentation as indicated by 
the Test Setup in section 2.3.
    2.5.1.2. The ballast must be operated at full output for at 
least 15 minutes but no longer than 1 hour until stable operating 
conditions are reached. Once this condition is reached and with the 
ballast continuing to operate at full output, measure each of the 
parameters described in sections 2.5.1.3 through 2.5.1.9 
concurrently.
    2.5.1.2.1. Stable operating conditions are determined by 
measuring lamp arc voltage, current, and power once per second in 
accordance with the setup described in section 2.3. Once the 
difference between the maximum and minimum values for lamp arc 
voltage, current, and power do not exceed one percent over a four 
minute moving window, the system is considered stable.
    2.5.1.3. Lamp Arc Voltage. Measure lamp arc voltage (volts) 
using the setup described in section 2.3.2.2.
    2.5.1.4. Lamp Arc Current. Measure lamp arc current (amps) using 
the setup described in section 2.3.2.3.
    2.5.1.5. Lamp Arc Power. The power analyzer must calculate 
output power by using the measurements described in sections 2.5.1.3 
and 2.5.1.4.
    2.5.1.6. Input Power. Measure the input power (watts) to the 
ballast in accordance with ANSI C82.2 (incorporated by reference; 
see Sec.  430.3), section 7.
    2.5.1.7. Input Voltage. Measure the input voltage (volts) (RMS) 
to the ballast in accordance with ANSI C82.2 (incorporated by 
reference; see Sec.  430.3), section 3.2.1 and section 4.
    2.5.1.8. Input Current. Measure the input current (amps) (RMS) 
to the ballast in accordance with ANSI C82.2 (incorporated by 
reference; see Sec.  430.3), section 3.2.1 and section 4.
    2.5.1.9. Lamp Operating Frequency. Measure the frequency of the 
waveform delivered from the ballast to any lamp in accordance with 
the setup in section 2.3.
    2.6. Calculations
    2.6.1. Calculate ballast luminous efficiency (BLE).
    [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP06JA15.045
    
    Where: Total Test Ballast Lamp Arc Power is the sum of the lamp 
arc powers for all lamps operated by the ballast as determined by 
section 2.5.1.5, Ballast Input Power is as determined by section 
2.5.1.6, and [beta] is equal to the frequency adjustment factor in 
Table A.
    2.6.2. Calculate Power Factor (PF).
    [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP06JA15.046
    
    Where: Ballast Input Power is determined in accordance with 
section 2.5.1.6, Input Voltage is determined in accordance with 
section 2.5.1.7, and Input Current is determined in accordance with 
section 2.5.1.8.

3. Standby Mode Procedure

    3.1. The measurement of standby mode power need not be performed 
to determine compliance with energy conservation standards for 
fluorescent lamp ballasts at this time. On or after [Date 180 Days 
after Publication of Final Rule in the Federal Register], if a 
manufacturer makes any representations with respect to the standby 
mode power use of fluorescent lamp ballasts, then testing must also 
include the provisions of this test procedure related to standby 
mode energy consumption.
    3.2. Test Conditions
    3.2.1. The test conditions for testing fluorescent lamp ballasts 
must be established in accordance with ANSI C82.2 (incorporated by 
reference; see Sec.  430.3). The test conditions for measuring 
standby power are described in sections 5, 7, and 8 of ANSI C82.2. 
Fluorescent lamp ballasts that are designed and marketed for 
connection to control devices must be tested with all commercially 
available compatible control devices connected in all possible 
configurations. For each configuration, a separate measurement of 
standby power must be made in accordance with section 3.3 of the 
test procedure.
    3.3. Test Method and Measurements
    3.3.1. The test for measuring standby mode energy consumption of 
fluorescent lamp ballasts must be done in accordance with ANSI C82.2 
(incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3).
    3.3.2. Send a signal to the ballast instructing it to have zero 
light output using the appropriate ballast communication protocol or 
system for the ballast being tested.
    3.3.3. Input Power. Measure the input power (watts) to the 
ballast in accordance with ANSI C82.2, section 13, (incorporated by 
reference; see Sec.  430.3).
    3.3.4. Control Signal Power. The power from the control signal 
path must be measured using all applicable methods described below.
    3.3.4.1. AC Control Signal. Measure the AC control signal power 
(watts), using a wattmeter (W), connected to the ballast in 
accordance with the circuit shown in Figure 4 of this section.

[[Page 418]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP06JA15.047

    3.3.4.2. DC Control Signal. Measure the DC control signal 
voltage, using a voltmeter (V), and current, using an ammeter (A), 
connected to the ballast in accordance with the circuit shown in 
Figure 5 of this section. The DC control signal power is calculated 
by multiplying the DC control signal voltage and the DC control 
signal current.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP06JA15.048

    3.3.4.3. Power Line Carrier (PLC) Control Signal. Measure the 
PLC control signal power (watts) using a wattmeter (W) connected to 
the ballast in accordance with the circuit shown in Figure 6 of this 
section. The wattmeter must have a frequency response that is at 
least 10 times higher than the PLC being measured in order to 
measure the PLC signal correctly. The wattmeter must also be high-
pass filtered to filter out power at 60 Hertz.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP06JA15.049

    3.3.4.4. Wireless Control Signal. The power supplied to a 
ballast using a wireless signal is not easily measured, but is 
estimated to be well below 1.0 watt. Therefore, the wireless control 
signal power is not measured as part of this test procedure.
0
5. Section 430.32 is amended by revising paragraph (m) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  430.32  Energy and water conservation standards and their 
compliance dates.

* * * * *
    (m) Fluorescent lamp ballasts. (1) Standards for fluorescent lamp 
ballasts (other than dimming ballasts as defined in appendix Q of 
subpart B of this part)
    Except as provided in paragraphs (m)(2) and (m)(3) of this section, 
each fluorescent lamp ballast manufactured on or after November 14, 
2014
    (i) Designed and marketed--
    (A) To operate at nominal input voltages at or between 120 and 277 
volts;
    (B) To operate with an input current frequency of 60 Hertz; and
    (C) For use in connection with fluorescent lamps (as defined in 
Sec.  430.2)
    (ii) Must have--
    (A) A power factor of:
    (1) 0.9 or greater for ballasts that are not residential ballasts; 
or
    (2) 0.5 or greater for residential ballasts.
    (B) A ballast luminous efficiency not less than the following:

[[Page 419]]



----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
          BLE = A/(1 + B x average total lamp arc power [caret] -C) Where A, B, and C are as follows:*
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                        Description                                 A                 B                 C
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Instant start and rapid start ballasts (not classified as              0.993              0.27              0.25
 residential ballasts) that are designed and marketed to
 operate..................................................
    4-foot medium bipin lamps;
    2-foot U-shaped lamps; or
    8-foot slimline lamps.
Programmed start ballasts (not classified as residential               0.993              0.51              0.37
 ballasts) that are designed and marketed to operate......
    4-foot medium bipin lamps;
    2-foot U-shaped lamps;
    4-foot miniature bipin standard output lamps; or
    4-foot miniature bipin high output lamps.
Instant start and rapid start ballasts (not classified as              0.993              0.38              0.25
 sign ballasts) that are designed and marketed to operate
 8-foot high output lamps.................................
Programmed start ballasts (not classified as sign                      0.973              0.70              0.37
 ballasts) that are designed and marketed to operate 8-
 foot high output lamps...................................
Sign ballasts that are designed and marketed to operate 8-             0.993              0.47              0.25
 foot high output lamps...................................
Instant start and rapid start residential ballasts that                0.993              0.41              0.25
 are designed and marketed to operate.....................
    4-foot medium bipin lamps;
    2-foot U-shaped lamps; or
    8-foot slimline lamps.
Programmed start residential ballasts that are designed                0.973              0.71              0.37
 and marketed to operate..................................
    4-foot medium bipin lamps or
    2-foot U-shaped lamps.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Average total lamp arc power, instant start, programmed start, rapid start, residential ballast, and sign
  ballast are as defined in appendix Q of subpart B of this part.

    (2) Standards for certain dimming ballasts (as defined in appendix 
Q of subpart B of this part).
    Except as provided in paragraph (m)(3) of this section, each 
dimming ballast manufactured on or after November 14, 2014; designed 
and marketed to operate one F34T12, two F34T12, two F96T12/ES, or two 
F96T12HO/ES lamps; and
    (i) Designed and marketed--
    (A) To operate at nominal input voltages at or between 120 and 277 
volts;
    (B) To operate with an input current frequency of 60 Hertz; and
    (C) For use in connection with fluorescent lamps (as defined in 
Sec.  430.2).
    (ii) Must have--
    (A) A power factor of:
    (1) 0.9 or greater for ballasts that are not residential ballasts; 
or
    (2) 0.5 or greater for residential ballasts.
    (B) A ballast luminous efficiency not less than the following:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                 Ballast luminous efficiency
 Designed and marketed for operation    Ballast input      Total nominal   -------------------------------------
           of a maximum of                 voltage           lamp watts       Low frequency      High frequency
                                                                                 ballasts           ballasts
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
One F34T12 lamp.....................            120/277                 34              0.777              0.778
Two F34T12 lamps....................            120/277                 68              0.804              0.805
Two F96T12/ES lamps.................            120/277                120              0.876              0.884
Two F96T12HO/ES lamps...............            120/277                190              0.711              0.713
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (3) Exemptions
    The power factor and ballast luminous efficiency standards 
described in paragraph (m)(1)(ii) and (m)(2)(ii) of this section do not 
apply to:
    (i) A dimming ballast (as defined in appendix Q of subpart B of 
this part) designed and marketed to operate exclusively lamp types 
other than one F34T12, two F34T12, two F96T12/ES, or two F96T12HO/ES 
lamps;
    (ii) A low frequency ballast (as defined in appendix Q of subpart B 
of this part) that is designed and marketed to operate T8 diameter 
lamps; is designed and marketed for use in electromagnetic-
interference-sensitive-environments only; and is shipped by the 
manufacturer in packages containing 10 or fewer ballasts; or
    (iii) A programmed start ballast that operates 4-foot medium bipin 
T8 lamps and delivers on average less than 140 milliamperes to each 
lamp.
* * * * *
[FR Doc. 2014-30827 Filed 1-5-15; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P


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