Source: https://regulations.justia.com/regulations/fedreg/2012/12/31/2012-31395.html
Timestamp: 2018-11-12 18:35:56
Document Index: 375709033

Matched Legal Cases: ['art 430', 'art 430', 'art 429', '§ 4', 'art 430', 'art 430', 'art 430', 'art\n430']

Notice of Petition for Waiver of BSH Corporation From the Department of Energy Residential Dishwasher Test Procedure, and Grant of Interim Waiver, 77064-77067 [2012-31395] :: Department Of Energy :: Regulation Tracker :: Justia
Justia Regulation Tracker Department Of Energy Notice of Petition for Waiver of BSH Corporation From the Department of Energy Residential Dishwasher Test Procedure, and Grant of Interim Waiver, 77064-77067 [2012-31395]
Notice of Petition for Waiver of BSH Corporation From the Department of Energy Residential Dishwasher Test Procedure, and Grant of Interim Waiver, 77064-77067 [2012-31395]
Download as PDF 77064 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 250 / Monday, December 31, 2012 / Notices published in the Federal Register, in text or Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF). To use PDF you must have Adobe Acrobat Reader, which is available free at the site. You may also access documents of the Department published in the Federal Register by using the article search feature at: www.federalregister.gov. Specifically, through the advanced search feature at this site, you can limit your search to documents published by the Department. Dated: December 26, 2012. Michael Yudin, Acting Assistant Secretary for Special Education and Rehabilitative Services. [FR Doc. 2012–31435 Filed 12–28–12; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4000–01–P DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy [Case No. DW–009] Notice of Petition for Waiver of BSH Corporation From the Department of Energy Residential Dishwasher Test Procedure, and Grant of Interim Waiver Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Department of Energy. ACTION: Notice of petition for waiver, notice of grant of interim waiver, and request for comments. AGENCY: This notice announces receipt of and publishes the BSH Corporation (BSH) petition for waiver from specified portions of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) test procedure for determining the energy consumption of dishwashers. Today’s notice also grants an interim waiver of the dishwasher test procedure. Through this notice, DOE also solicits comments with respect to the BSH petition. DATES: DOE will accept comments, data, and information with respect to the BSH petition until January 30, 2013. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments, identified by case number DW–009, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: http:// www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Email: AS_Waiver_Requests@ee.doe.gov. Include ‘‘Case No. DW–009’’ in the subject line of the message. • Mail: Ms. Brenda Edwards, U.S. Department of Energy, Building Technologies Program, Mailstop EE–2J, Petition for Waiver Case No. DW–009, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with SUMMARY: VerDate Mar<15>2010 21:28 Dec 28, 2012 Jkt 229001 Washington, DC 20585–0121. Telephone: (202) 586–2945. Please submit one signed original paper copy. • Hand Delivery/Courier: Ms. Brenda Edwards, U.S. Department of Energy, Building Technologies Program, 950 L’Enfant Plaza SW., Suite 600, Washington, DC 20024. Please submit one signed original paper copy. Docket: For access to the docket to review the background documents relevant to this matter, you may visit the U.S. Department of Energy, 950 L’Enfant Plaza SW., Washington, DC, 20024; (202) 586–2945, between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. Available documents include the following items: (1) This notice; (2) public comments received; (3) the petition for waiver and application for interim waiver; and (4) prior DOE waivers and rulemakings regarding similar dishwasher products. Please call Ms. Brenda Edwards at the above telephone number for additional information. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Bryan Berringer, U.S. Department of Energy, Building Technologies Program, Mail Stop EE–2J, Forrestal Building, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585–0121. Telephone: (202) 586–0371. Email: Bryan.Berringer@ee.doe.gov. Ms. Elizabeth Kohl, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the General Counsel, Mail Stop GC–71, Forrestal Building, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20585–0103. Telephone: (202) 586–7796. Email: Elizabeth.Kohl@hq.doe.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. Background and Authority Title III, Part B of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975 (EPCA), Public Law 94–163 (42 U.S.C. 6291– 6309, as codified) established the Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products Other Than Automobiles, a program covering most major household appliances, which includes dishwashers.1 Part B includes definitions, test procedures, labeling provisions, energy conservation standards, and the authority to require information and reports from manufacturers. Further, Part B authorizes the Secretary of Energy to prescribe test procedures that are reasonably designed to produce results which measure energy efficiency, energy use, or estimated operating costs, and that are not unduly burdensome to conduct. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(3)) The test 1 For editorial reasons, upon codification in the U.S. Code, Part B was re-designated Part A. PO 00000 Frm 00062 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 procedure for dishwashers is contained in 10 CFR part 430, subpart B, appendix C. The regulations set forth in 10 CFR 430.27 contain provisions that enable a person to seek a waiver from the test procedure requirements for covered consumer products. A waiver will be granted by the Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (the Assistant Secretary) if it is determined that the basic model for which the petition for waiver was submitted contains one or more design characteristics that prevents testing of the basic model according to the prescribed test procedures, or if the prescribed test procedures may evaluate the basic model in a manner so unrepresentative of its true energy consumption characteristics as to provide materially inaccurate comparative data. 10 CFR 430.27(l). Petitioners must include in their petition any alternate test procedures known to the petitioner to evaluate the basic model in a manner representative of its energy consumption. The Assistant Secretary may grant the waiver subject to conditions, including adherence to alternate test procedures. 10 CFR 430.27(l). Waivers remain in effect pursuant to the provisions of 10 CFR 430.27(m). The waiver process also allows the Assistant Secretary to grant an interim waiver from test procedure requirements to manufacturers that have petitioned DOE for a waiver of such prescribed test procedures. 10 CFR 430.27(a)(2) An interim waiver must be granted if it is determined that the applicant will experience economic hardship if the application for interim waiver is denied, if it appears likely that the petition for waiver will be granted, and/or the Assistant Secretary determines that it would be desirable for public policy reasons to grant immediate relief pending a determination of the petition for waiver. (10 CFR 430.27(g)) An interim waiver remains in effect for 180 days or until DOE issues its determination on the petition for waiver, whichever is sooner. DOE may extend an interim waiver for an additional 180 days. 10 CFR 430.27(h) II. Application for Interim Waiver and Petition for Waiver On November 30, 2012, BSH submitted the petition for waiver and interim waiver from the test procedure applicable to dishwashers set forth in 10 CFR part 430, subpart B, appendix C. In every respect except the introduction of new model numbers, the petition is identical to petitions submitted by BSH E:\FR\FM\31DEN1.SGM 31DEN1 mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 250 / Monday, December 31, 2012 / Notices on February 4, 2011, December 7, 2011 and March 27, 2012. DOE granted the February 4th petition on June 29, 2011 (76 FR 38144), and the December 7th and March 27th petitions on October 1, 2012 (77 FR 59916 and 77 FR 59918, respectively). BSH states that ‘‘hard’’ water can reduce customer satisfaction with dishwasher performance resulting in increased pre-rinsing and/or hand washing as well as increased detergent and rinse agent usage. According to BSH, a dishwasher equipped with a water softener will minimize pre-rinsing and rewashing, and consumers will have less reason to periodically run their dishwasher through a clean-up cycle. BSH also states that the amount of water consumed by the regeneration operation of a water softener in a dishwasher is very small, but that it varies significantly depending on the adjustment of the softener. The regeneration operation takes place infrequently, and the frequency is related to the level of water hardness. In its petition, BSH requests that constant values of 47.6 gallons per year for water consumption and 8.0 kWh per year for energy consumption be used to estimate the water and energy consumption resulting from water softener regeneration. BSH included calculations showing this water and energy use, which was derived using the same method as that used by Whirlpool in its petition for waiver, which was granted by DOE. (75 FR 62127, Oct. 7, 2010). DOE has determined that BSH’s application for interim waiver does not provide sufficient market, equipment price, shipments, and other manufacturer impact information to permit DOE to evaluate the economic hardship BSH might experience absent a favorable determination on its application for interim waiver. DOE has also determined, however, that it is likely BSH’s petition will be granted, and that it is desirable for public policy reasons to grant BSH relief pending a determination on the petition. Based on the information provided by BSH and Whirlpool, use of the DOE test procedure may provide materially inaccurate comparative data. In addition, the constant values submitted by BSH provide a reasonable estimate of the energy and water used during water softener regeneration for the basic model set forth in this petition and BSH’s previous petition. Based on these considerations, and the waivers granted to BSH and Whirlpool for similar models, it appears likely that the petition for waiver will be granted. DOE also believes that the VerDate Mar<15>2010 21:28 Dec 28, 2012 Jkt 229001 energy efficiency of similar products should be tested and rated in the same manner. As a result, DOE grants BSH’s application for interim waiver for the basic models of dishwashers specified in its petition for waiver, pursuant to 10 CFR 430.27(g). Therefore, it is ordered that: The application for interim waiver filed by BSH is hereby granted for the specified BSH dishwasher basic models, subject to the specifications and conditions below. BSH shall be required to test and rate the specified dishwasher products according to the alternate test procedure as set forth in section III, ‘‘Alternate Test Procedure.’’ The interim waiver applies to the following basic model groups: Bosch Brand • Basic Model—SHX7PT#### • Basic Model—SHP7PT#### • Basic Model—SHE7PT#### • Basic Model—SHV7PT#### • Basic Model—SHX8PT#### • Basic Model—SHE8PT#### • Basic Model—SHE9PT#### • Basic Model—SHX9PT#### • Basic Model—SHV9PT#### • Basic Model—SGV63E#### Gaggenau Brand • Basic Model—DF2417#### DOE makes decisions on waivers and interim waivers for only those models specifically set out in the petition, not future models that may be manufactured by the petitioner. BSH may submit a subsequent petition for waiver and request for grant of interim waiver, as appropriate, for additional models of clothes washers for which it seeks a waiver from the DOE test procedure. In addition, DOE notes that grant of an interim waiver or waiver does not release a petitioner from the certification requirements set forth at 10 CFR part 429. III. Alternate Test Procedure EPCA requires that manufacturers use DOE test procedures to make representations about the energy consumption and energy consumption costs of products covered by the statute. (42 U.S.C. 6293(c)) Consistent representations are important for manufacturers to use in making representations about the energy efficiency of their products and to demonstrate compliance with applicable DOE energy conservation standards. Pursuant to its regulations applicable to waivers and interim waivers from the relevant test procedures, set forth at 10 CFR 430.27, DOE will consider setting an alternate PO 00000 Frm 00063 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 77065 test procedure for BSH in a subsequent Decision and Order. During the period of the interim waiver granted in this notice, BSH shall test its dishwasher basic models according to the existing DOE test procedure at 10 CFR 430, subpart B, appendix C with the modification set forth below. Under appendix C, the water energy consumption, W or Wg, is calculated based on the water consumption as set forth in Sect. 4.3: § 4.3 Water consumption. Measure the water consumption, V, expressed as the number of gallons of water delivered to the machine during the entire test cycle, using a water meter as specified in section 3.3 of this Appendix. Where the regeneration of the water softener depends on demand and water hardness, and does not take place on every cycle, BSH shall measure the water consumption of dishwashers having water softeners without including the water consumed by the dishwasher during softener regeneration. If a regeneration operation takes place within the test, the water consumed by the regeneration operation shall be disregarded when declaring water and energy consumption. Constant values of 47.6 gallons/year of water and 8 kWh/year of energy shall be added to the values measured by appendix C. Please note that on October 31, 2012, DOE published a test procedure final rule (77 FR 65941) to include measures of energy and water consumption due to periodic water softener regeneration. The rule is effective on December 17, 2012 and requires compliance on or after May 13, 2013. Products tested on or after May 13, 2013, must be tested with the new DOE test procedure. IV. Summary and Request for Comments Through today’s notice, DOE announces receipt of BSH’s petition for waiver from certain parts of the test procedure that apply to dishwashers and grants an interim waiver. DOE is publishing BSH’s petition for waiver in its entirety. The petition contains no confidential information. The petition includes a suggested alternate test procedure, in which the reported energy and water consumption would include an estimate of the energy and water consumption of dishwashers with water softeners during softener regeneration. DOE solicits comments from interested parties on all aspects of the petition. Any person submitting written comments to DOE must also send a copy of such comments to the petitioner. The contact information for the petitioner is E:\FR\FM\31DEN1.SGM 31DEN1 77066 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 250 / Monday, December 31, 2012 / Notices Mike Edwards, Senior Engineer, Performance and Consumption, BSH Home Appliances Corporation (FNbG), 100 Bosch Blvd., Building 102, New Bern, NC 28562–6924. All submissions received must include the agency name and case number for this proceeding. Submit electronic comments in WordPerfect, Microsoft Word, Portable Document Format (PDF), or text (American Standard Code for Information Interchange (ASCII)) file format and avoid the use of special characters or any form of encryption. Wherever possible, include the electronic signature of the author. DOE does not accept telefacsimiles (faxes). Issued in Washington, DC, on December 21, 2012. Kathleen B. Hogan, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. November 30, 2012 Dr. David T. Danielson Assistant Secretary, Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy U.S. Department of Energy Mail Station EE–1 1000 Independence Avenue SW Washington, DC 20585 David.Danielson@ee.doe.gov Via email (David.Danielson@ee.doe.gov) and overnight mail Re: Petition for Waiver and Application for Interim Waiver concerning the measurement of water and energy used in the water softening regeneration process of Dishwasher having an Integrated Water Softener mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with Dear Assistant Secretary Danielson: BSH Home Appliance Corporation (‘‘BSH’’) hereby submits this Petition for Waiver and Application for Interim Waiver pursuant to 10 CFR 430.27, concerning the test procedure for measuring energy consumption of Dishwashers. BSH is the manufacturer of household appliances bearing the brand names of Bosch, Thermador, and Gaggenau. Its appliances include dishwashers, washing machines, clothes dryers, refrigerator-freezers, ovens, and microwave ovens, and are sold worldwide, including in the United States. BSH’s United States operations are headquartered in Irvine, California. 10 CFR 430.27(a)(1) provides that any interested person may submit a petition to waive for a particular basic model any requirement of Section 430.23, or of any appendix to this subpart, upon grounds that the basic model contains one or more design characteristics which either prevent testing of the basic VerDate Mar<15>2010 21:28 Dec 28, 2012 Jkt 229001 model according to the prescribed test procedures, or the prescribed test procedures may evaluate the basic model in a manner so unrepresentative of its true energy consumption characteristics, or water consumption characteristics as to provide materially inaccurate comparative data. Additionally, 10 CFR 430.27 (b)(2) allows any applicant of a Petition of Waiver to also request an Interim Waiver if it can be demonstrated the likely success of the Petition for Waiver, while addressing the economic hardship and/or competitive disadvantage that is likely to result absent a favorable determination on the Application for Interim Waiver. This request for Waiver is directed to Dishwashers containing a built-in or integrated water softener, specifically addressing the energy and water used in the regeneration process of the integrated water softener. This request is similar to several previously approved waivers (such as Waiver Case Number DW–005). Further, the water softening technology used in these models is identical to the models that were previously approved. Based on the reasoning indicated herein, BSH submits that the testing of Dishwashers equipped with a water softener under the current DOE test procedure may lead to information that could be considered misleading to consumers. 1. Identification of Basic Models. The Dishwasher models manufactured by BSH which contain an integrated water softener and were not included in previous Waiver applications is as follows: Bosch brand: • Basic Model—SHX7PT#### • Basic Model—SHP7PT#### • Basic Model—SHE7PT#### • Basic Model—SHV7PT#### • Basic Model—SHX8PT#### • Basic Model—SHE8PT#### • Basic Model—SHE9PT#### • Basic Model—SHX9PT#### • Basic Model—SHV9PT#### • Basic Model—SGV63E#### Gaggenau brand: • Basic Model—DF2417#### 2. Background The design characteristic that is unique among the above listed models is an integrated water softener. The primary function of a water softener is to reduce the high mineral content of ‘‘hard’’ water. Hard water reduces the effectiveness of detergents leading to additional detergent usage. Hard water also causes increased water spots on PO 00000 Frm 00064 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 dishware, resulting in the need to use more rinse aid to counterbalance this effect. ‘‘Hard’’ water can reduce customer satisfaction with Dishwasher performance resulting in increased prerinsing and/or hand washing as well as increased detergent and rinse agent usage. The water softening process requires water usage for both the regeneration process and to flush the system. For purposes of this Waiver request, the term ‘‘regeneration’’ will include the water and energy used in both the flushing and regeneration process of the water softener. The water used in the regeneration process is in addition to the water used in the dish washing process. The water used in the regeneration process does not occur with each use of the Dishwasher. The frequency of the regeneration process is dependent upon an adjustable water softener setting that is controlled by the end user, and based on the home water hardness. Regeneration frequency will vary greatly depending upon the customer setting of the water softener. Data from the U.S. Geological Survey shows considerable variation in the water hardness within the U.S. and for many locations the use of a water softener is not necessary. Water hardness varies throughout the U.S. with the mean hardness of 217 mg/liter or 12.6 grains/gallon (based on information provided by the U.S. Geological Survey located at http:// water.usgs.gov/owq/hardnessalkalinity.html). Calculations Water Use • Based on the DOE Energy Test for Dishwashers, the BSH Dishwashers listed in this waiver with an internal water softener use an average of approximately 9 liters of water per dish cleaning cycle. • Based on an average U.S. water hardness of 12.6 grains/gallon, the internal BSH Dishwasher water softener system would be set on ‘‘3’’. • Based on a BSH Dishwasher internal water softening system setting of ‘‘3’’ and the dishwasher using 9 liters of water per run, the water regeneration process would occur every 6th cycle. • When using the Dishwasher 215 times per year (per DOE test procedure), the regeneration process would occur 35.8 times (36). • The internal BSH water softening system uses approximately 5.0 per regeneration cycle. E:\FR\FM\31DEN1.SGM 31DEN1 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 250 / Monday, December 31, 2012 / Notices • Water usage calculation based on above data. Æ 36 × 5 = 180 liters per year (47.6 gallons) or .84 liters (.22 gallons) each time the dishwasher is used. Energy Used in kWh • Formula W = V × T × K Æ V = Weighted Average Water Usage per DOE Æ T = Nominal water heater temperature rise of 39° C Æ K = Specific heat of water 0.00115 • Calculated Energy use—180 × 39 × .00115 = 8.0 kWh/yr Summary • A Dishwasher built by BSH with an integrated water softener in a home with a 12.6 grain per gallon water hardness would be cycled through the water softening regeneration process approximately every 6 dish cleaning cycles. When the water used in the water softener regeneration process is apportioned evenly over all dishwasher runs, the amount of energy and water usage per cycle is very low. Based on the assumptions provided, BSH estimates the typical water used in the internal Dishwasher water softener regeneration process at .84 liters (.22 gallons) per use; furthermore, using about 8.0 kWh per year to heat this water in the home hot water heater. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with 3. Requirements sought to be waived Dishwashers are subjected to test methods outlined in 10 CFR Part 430, Subpart B, App. C, Section 4.3, which specifies the method for the water energy calculation. • BSH is requesting approval to estimate the water and energy used in the water softening process based on the design of the BSH Dishwasher and the calculations and assumptions outlined above. 4. Grounds for Waiver and Interim Waiver 10 CFR 430.27 (a)(1) provides that a Petition to waive a requirement of 430.23 may be submitted upon grounds that the basic model contains one or more design characteristics which either prevent testing of the basic model according to the prescribed test procedures, or the prescribed test procedures may evaluate the basic model in a manner so unrepresentative of its true energy consumption characteristics as to provide materially inaccurate comparative data. If a water softener regeneration process was to occur while running an energy test, the water usage would be overstated. In this case, the water energy VerDate Mar<15>2010 21:28 Dec 28, 2012 Jkt 229001 usage would be unrepresentative of the product providing inaccurate data resulting in a competitive disadvantage to BSH. Granting of an Interim Waiver in this case is justified since the prescribed test procedures would potentially evaluate the basic model in a manner so unrepresentative of its true energy consumption characteristics as to provide materially inaccurate comparative data. In addition, a similar Interim Waiver and Waiver have previously been granted to BSH. Fax (949) 809–6177 5. Manufacturers of Similar Products and Affected Manufacturers 77067 AGENCY: Web based research shows that at least two other manufacturers are currently selling dishwashers with an integrated water softener, Miele Inc. and Whirlpool Corporation (Waiver Granted). Manufacturers selling dishwashers in the United States include AGA Marvel, Arcelik A.S., ASKO Appliances, Inc., Electrolux North America, Inc., Fagor America, Inc., Fisher & Paykel Appliances, GE Appliances and Lighting, Haier America, Indesit Company Sa, Teka USA, Inc., LG Electronics USA, Miele, Inc., Samsung Electronics Co., Viking Range Corporation and Whirlpool Corporation. BSH will notify all companies listed above (as well as AHAM), as required by the Department’s rules, providing them with a copy of this Petition for Waiver and Interim Waiver. 6. Conclusion BSH Home Appliances Corporation hereby requests approval of the Waiver petition and Interim Waiver. By granting said Waivers the Department of Energy will further ensure that water energy is measured in the same way by all Dishwasher Manufacturer’s that have a integrated water softener. Further, BSH would request that these Waivers be in good standing until such time that the test procedure can be formally modified to account for integrated water softeners. BSH Home Appliances certifies that all manufacturers of domestic Dishwashers as listed above have been notified by letter. With Best Regards, Mike Edwards Senior Engineer, Performance and Consumption BSH Home Appliances Corporation (FNbG) 100 Bosch Blvd., Building 102 New Bern, NC 28562–6924 mike.edwards@bshg.com Phone (252) 672–9161 PO 00000 Frm 00065 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 [FR Doc. 2012–31395 Filed 12–28–12; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6450–01–P DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [Docket No. IC13–8–000] Commission Information Collection Activities (FERC Form No. 556); Comment Request; Extension Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, DOE. ACTION: Notice of information collection and request for comments. In compliance with the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, 44 USC 3506(c)(2)(A), the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (Commission or FERC) is soliciting public comment on the currently approved information collection, OMB No. 1902–0075, FERC Form No. 556, ‘‘Certification of Qualifying Facility (QF) Status for a Small Power Production or Cogeneration Facility’’ (Form No. 556). DATES: Comments on the collection of information are due March 1, 2013. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments (identified by Docket No. IC13–8–000) by either of the following methods: • eFiling at Commission’s Web Site: http://www.ferc.gov/docs-filing/ efiling.asp. • Mail/Hand Delivery/Courier: Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Secretary of the Commission, 888 First Street NE., Washington, DC 20426. Instructions: All submissions must be formatted and filed in accordance with submission guidelines at: http:// www.ferc.gov/help/submissionguide.asp. For user assistance contact FERC Online Support by email at ferconlinesupport@ferc.gov, or by phone at: (866) 208–3676 (toll-free), or (202) 502–8659 for TTY. Docket: Users interested in receiving automatic notification of activity in this docket or in viewing/downloading comments and issuances in this docket may do so at http://www.ferc.gov/docsfiling/docs-filing.asp. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: Ellen Brown may be reached by email at DataClearance@FERC.gov, telephone at (202) 502–8663, and fax at (202) 273– 0873. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Title: FERC Form No. 556, Certification of Qualifying Facility (QF) Status for a Small Power Production or Cogeneration Facility. SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\31DEN1.SGM 31DEN1
[Pages 77064-77067]
[FR Doc No: 2012-31395]
Notice of Petition for Waiver of BSH Corporation From the
Department of Energy Residential Dishwasher Test Procedure, and Grant
of Interim Waiver
ACTION: Notice of petition for waiver, notice of grant of interim
waiver, and request for comments.
SUMMARY: This notice announces receipt of and publishes the BSH
Corporation (BSH) petition for waiver from specified portions of the
U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) test procedure for determining the
energy consumption of dishwashers. Today's notice also grants an
interim waiver of the dishwasher test procedure. Through this notice,
DOE also solicits comments with respect to the BSH petition.
the BSH petition until January 30, 2013.
ADDRESSES: You may submit comments, identified by case number DW-009,
Email: AS_Waiver_Requests@ee.doe.gov. Include ``Case No.
DW-009'' in the subject line of the message.
Building Technologies Program, Mailstop EE-2J, Petition for Waiver Case
No. DW-009, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585-0121.
Telephone: (202) 586-2945. Please submit one signed original paper
950 L'Enfant Plaza SW., Washington, DC, 20024; (202) 586-2945, between
holidays. Available documents include the following items: (1) This
notice; (2) public comments received; (3) the petition for waiver and
application for interim waiver; and (4) prior DOE waivers and
rulemakings regarding similar dishwasher products. Please call Ms.
Brenda Edwards at the above telephone number for additional
of Energy, Building Technologies Program, Mail Stop EE-2J, Forrestal
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20585-0103. Telephone: (202) 586-7796. Email:
(EPCA), Public Law 94-163 (42 U.S.C. 6291-6309, as codified)
Than Automobiles, a program covering most major household appliances,
which includes dishwashers.\1\ Part B includes definitions, test
procedures, labeling provisions, energy conservation standards, and the
authority to require information and reports from manufacturers.
Further, Part B authorizes the Secretary of Energy to prescribe test
procedures that are reasonably designed to produce results which
measure energy efficiency, energy use, or estimated operating costs,
and that are not unduly burdensome to conduct. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(3))
The test procedure for dishwashers is contained in 10 CFR part 430,
subpart B, appendix C.
The regulations set forth in 10 CFR 430.27 contain provisions that
enable a person to seek a waiver from the test procedure requirements
for covered consumer products. A waiver will be granted by the
Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (the
Assistant Secretary) if it is determined that the basic model for which
the petition for waiver was submitted contains one or more design
characteristics that prevents testing of the basic model according to
the prescribed test procedures, or if the prescribed test procedures
may evaluate the basic model in a manner so unrepresentative of its
true energy consumption characteristics as to provide materially
inaccurate comparative data. 10 CFR 430.27(l). Petitioners must include
in their petition any alternate test procedures known to the petitioner
to evaluate the basic model in a manner representative of its energy
consumption. The Assistant Secretary may grant the waiver subject to
430.27(l). Waivers remain in effect pursuant to the provisions of 10
CFR 430.27(m).
have petitioned DOE for a waiver of such prescribed test procedures. 10
CFR 430.27(a)(2) An interim waiver must be granted if it is determined
that the applicant will experience economic hardship if the application
for interim waiver is denied, if it appears likely that the petition
for waiver will be granted, and/or the Assistant Secretary determines
that it would be desirable for public policy reasons to grant immediate
relief pending a determination of the petition for waiver. (10 CFR
430.27(g)) An interim waiver remains in effect for 180 days or until
DOE issues its determination on the petition for waiver, whichever is
sooner. DOE may extend an interim waiver for an additional 180 days. 10
CFR 430.27(h)
On November 30, 2012, BSH submitted the petition for waiver and
interim waiver from the test procedure applicable to dishwashers set
forth in 10 CFR part 430, subpart B, appendix C. In every respect
except the introduction of new model numbers, the petition is identical
to petitions submitted by BSH
[[Page 77065]]
on February 4, 2011, December 7, 2011 and March 27, 2012. DOE granted
the February 4th petition on June 29, 2011 (76 FR 38144), and the
December 7th and March 27th petitions on October 1, 2012 (77 FR 59916
and 77 FR 59918, respectively).
BSH states that ``hard'' water can reduce customer satisfaction
with dishwasher performance resulting in increased pre-rinsing and/or
hand washing as well as increased detergent and rinse agent usage.
According to BSH, a dishwasher equipped with a water softener will
minimize pre-rinsing and rewashing, and consumers will have less reason
to periodically run their dishwasher through a clean-up cycle. BSH also
states that the amount of water consumed by the regeneration operation
of a water softener in a dishwasher is very small, but that it varies
significantly depending on the adjustment of the softener. The
regeneration operation takes place infrequently, and the frequency is
related to the level of water hardness.
In its petition, BSH requests that constant values of 47.6 gallons
per year for water consumption and 8.0 kWh per year for energy
consumption be used to estimate the water and energy consumption
resulting from water softener regeneration. BSH included calculations
showing this water and energy use, which was derived using the same
method as that used by Whirlpool in its petition for waiver, which was
granted by DOE. (75 FR 62127, Oct. 7, 2010).
DOE has determined that BSH's application for interim waiver does
not provide sufficient market, equipment price, shipments, and other
manufacturer impact information to permit DOE to evaluate the economic
hardship BSH might experience absent a favorable determination on its
application for interim waiver. DOE has also determined, however, that
it is likely BSH's petition will be granted, and that it is desirable
for public policy reasons to grant BSH relief pending a determination
on the petition. Based on the information provided by BSH and
Whirlpool, use of the DOE test procedure may provide materially
inaccurate comparative data. In addition, the constant values submitted
by BSH provide a reasonable estimate of the energy and water used
during water softener regeneration for the basic model set forth in
this petition and BSH's previous petition.
Based on these considerations, and the waivers granted to BSH and
Whirlpool for similar models, it appears likely that the petition for
waiver will be granted. DOE also believes that the energy efficiency of
similar products should be tested and rated in the same manner. As a
result, DOE grants BSH's application for interim waiver for the basic
models of dishwashers specified in its petition for waiver, pursuant to
10 CFR 430.27(g). Therefore, it is ordered that:
The application for interim waiver filed by BSH is hereby granted
for the specified BSH dishwasher basic models, subject to the
specifications and conditions below.
BSH shall be required to test and rate the specified dishwasher
products according to the alternate test procedure as set forth in
section III, ``Alternate Test Procedure.''
Basic Model--SHX7PT
Basic Model--SHP7PT
Basic Model--SHE7PT
Basic Model--SHV7PT
Basic Model--SHX8PT
Basic Model--SHE8PT
Basic Model--SHE9PT
Basic Model--SHX9PT
Basic Model--SHV9PT
Basic Model--SGV63E
Basic Model--DF2417
models specifically set out in the petition, not future models that may
be manufactured by the petitioner. BSH may submit a subsequent petition
for waiver and request for grant of interim waiver, as appropriate, for
additional models of clothes washers for which it seeks a waiver from
the DOE test procedure. In addition, DOE notes that grant of an interim
waiver or waiver does not release a petitioner from the certification
EPCA requires that manufacturers use DOE test procedures to make
costs of products covered by the statute. (42 U.S.C. 6293(c))
Consistent representations are important for manufacturers to use in
making representations about the energy efficiency of their products
and to demonstrate compliance with applicable DOE energy conservation
standards. Pursuant to its regulations applicable to waivers and
interim waivers from the relevant test procedures, set forth at 10 CFR
430.27, DOE will consider setting an alternate test procedure for BSH
in a subsequent Decision and Order.
During the period of the interim waiver granted in this notice, BSH
shall test its dishwasher basic models according to the existing DOE
test procedure at 10 CFR 430, subpart B, appendix C with the
modification set forth below.
Under appendix C, the water energy consumption, W or Wg, is
calculated based on the water consumption as set forth in Sect. 4.3:
section 3.3 of this Appendix.
Where the regeneration of the water softener depends on demand and
water hardness, and does not take place on every cycle, BSH shall
measure the water consumption of dishwashers having water softeners
without including the water consumed by the dishwasher during softener
regeneration. If a regeneration operation takes place within the test,
the water consumed by the regeneration operation shall be disregarded
when declaring water and energy consumption. Constant values of 47.6
gallons/year of water and 8 kWh/year of energy shall be added to the
values measured by appendix C.
Please note that on October 31, 2012, DOE published a test
procedure final rule (77 FR 65941) to include measures of energy and
water consumption due to periodic water softener regeneration. The rule
is effective on December 17, 2012 and requires compliance on or after
May 13, 2013. Products tested on or after May 13, 2013, must be tested
with the new DOE test procedure.
Through today's notice, DOE announces receipt of BSH's petition for
waiver from certain parts of the test procedure that apply to
dishwashers and grants an interim waiver. DOE is publishing BSH's
petition for waiver in its entirety. The petition contains no
test procedure, in which the reported energy and water consumption
would include an estimate of the energy and water consumption of
dishwashers with water softeners during softener regeneration.
petition. Any person submitting written comments to DOE must also send
a copy of such comments to the petitioner. The contact information for
Mike Edwards, Senior Engineer, Performance and Consumption, BSH Home
Appliances Corporation (FNbG), 100 Bosch Blvd., Building 102, New Bern,
NC 28562-6924. All submissions received must include the agency name
and case number for this proceeding. Submit electronic comments in
Re: Petition for Waiver and Application for Interim Waiver concerning
the measurement of water and energy used in the water softening
regeneration process of Dishwasher having an Integrated Water Softener
BSH Home Appliance Corporation (``BSH'') hereby submits this
Petition for Waiver and Application for Interim Waiver pursuant to 10
CFR 430.27, concerning the test procedure for measuring energy
consumption of Dishwashers.
BSH is the manufacturer of household appliances bearing the brand
names of Bosch, Thermador, and Gaggenau. Its appliances include
dishwashers, washing machines, clothes dryers, refrigerator-freezers,
ovens, and microwave ovens, and are sold worldwide, including in the
United States. BSH's United States operations are headquartered in
10 CFR 430.27(a)(1) provides that any interested person may submit
a petition to waive for a particular basic model any requirement of
Section 430.23, or of any appendix to this subpart, upon grounds that
the basic model contains one or more design characteristics which
either prevent testing of the basic model according to the prescribed
test procedures, or the prescribed test procedures may evaluate the
consumption characteristics, or water consumption characteristics as to
provide materially inaccurate comparative data. Additionally, 10 CFR
430.27 (b)(2) allows any applicant of a Petition of Waiver to also
request an Interim Waiver if it can be demonstrated the likely success
of the Petition for Waiver, while addressing the economic hardship and/
or competitive disadvantage that is likely to result absent a favorable
determination on the Application for Interim Waiver.
This request for Waiver is directed to Dishwashers containing a
built-in or integrated water softener, specifically addressing the
energy and water used in the regeneration process of the integrated
water softener. This request is similar to several previously approved
waivers (such as Waiver Case Number DW-005). Further, the water
softening technology used in these models is identical to the models
that were previously approved.
Based on the reasoning indicated herein, BSH submits that the
testing of Dishwashers equipped with a water softener under the current
DOE test procedure may lead to information that could be considered
The Dishwasher models manufactured by BSH which contain an
integrated water softener and were not included in previous Waiver
applications is as follows:
The design characteristic that is unique among the above listed
models is an integrated water softener. The primary function of a water
softener is to reduce the high mineral content of ``hard'' water. Hard
water reduces the effectiveness of detergents leading to additional
detergent usage. Hard water also causes increased water spots on
dishware, resulting in the need to use more rinse aid to counterbalance
this effect. ``Hard'' water can reduce customer satisfaction with
Dishwasher performance resulting in increased pre-rinsing and/or hand
washing as well as increased detergent and rinse agent usage.
The water softening process requires water usage for both the
regeneration process and to flush the system. For purposes of this
Waiver request, the term ``regeneration'' will include the water and
energy used in both the flushing and regeneration process of the water
softener. The water used in the regeneration process is in addition to
the water used in the dish washing process. The water used in the
regeneration process does not occur with each use of the Dishwasher.
The frequency of the regeneration process is dependent upon an
adjustable water softener setting that is controlled by the end user,
and based on the home water hardness. Regeneration frequency will vary
greatly depending upon the customer setting of the water softener. Data
from the U.S. Geological Survey shows considerable variation in the
water hardness within the U.S. and for many locations the use of a
water softener is not necessary. Water hardness varies throughout the
U.S. with the mean hardness of 217 mg/liter or 12.6 grains/gallon
(based on information provided by the U.S. Geological Survey located at
http://water.usgs.gov/owq/hardness-alkalinity.html).
Based on the DOE Energy Test for Dishwashers, the BSH
Dishwashers listed in this waiver with an internal water softener use
an average of approximately 9 liters of water per dish cleaning cycle.
Based on an average U.S. water hardness of 12.6 grains/gallon,
the internal BSH Dishwasher water softener system would be set on
Based on a BSH Dishwasher internal water softening system
setting of ``3'' and the dishwasher using 9 liters of water per run,
the water regeneration process would occur every 6th cycle.
When using the Dishwasher 215 times per year (per DOE test
procedure), the regeneration process would occur 35.8 times (36).
The internal BSH water softening system uses approximately 5.0
per regeneration cycle.
[cir] 36 x 5 = 180 liters per year (47.6 gallons) or .84 liters
(.22 gallons) each time the dishwasher is used.
Formula W = V x T x K
[cir] V = Weighted Average Water Usage per DOE
[cir] T = Nominal water heater temperature rise of 39[deg] C
[cir] K = Specific heat of water 0.00115
Calculated Energy use--180 x 39 x .00115 = 8.0 kWh/yr
A Dishwasher built by BSH with an integrated water softener in
a home with a 12.6 grain per gallon water hardness would be cycled
through the water softening regeneration process approximately every 6
dish cleaning cycles. When the water used in the water softener
regeneration process is apportioned evenly over all dishwasher runs,
the amount of energy and water usage per cycle is very low. Based on
the assumptions provided, BSH estimates the typical water used in the
internal Dishwasher water softener regeneration process at .84 liters
(.22 gallons) per use; furthermore, using about 8.0 kWh per year to
heat this water in the home hot water heater.
Dishwashers are subjected to test methods outlined in 10 CFR Part
430, Subpart B, App. C, Section 4.3, which specifies the method for the
water energy calculation.
BSH is requesting approval to estimate the water and energy
used in the water softening process based on the design of the BSH
Dishwasher and the calculations and assumptions outlined above.
10 CFR 430.27 (a)(1) provides that a Petition to waive a
requirement of 430.23 may be submitted upon grounds that the basic
model contains one or more design characteristics which either prevent
testing of the basic model according to the prescribed test procedures,
or the prescribed test procedures may evaluate the basic model in a
If a water softener regeneration process was to occur while running
an energy test, the water usage would be overstated. In this case, the
water energy usage would be unrepresentative of the product providing
inaccurate data resulting in a competitive disadvantage to BSH.
Granting of an Interim Waiver in this case is justified since the
prescribed test procedures would potentially evaluate the basic model
in a manner so unrepresentative of its true energy consumption
In addition, a similar Interim Waiver and Waiver have previously been
granted to BSH.
Web based research shows that at least two other manufacturers are
currently selling dishwashers with an integrated water softener, Miele
Inc. and Whirlpool Corporation (Waiver Granted).
Manufacturers selling dishwashers in the United States include AGA
Marvel, Arcelik A.S., ASKO Appliances, Inc., Electrolux North America,
Inc., Fagor America, Inc., Fisher & Paykel Appliances, GE Appliances
and Lighting, Haier America, Indesit Company Sa, Teka USA, Inc., LG
Electronics USA, Miele, Inc., Samsung Electronics Co., Viking Range
Corporation and Whirlpool Corporation.
BSH will notify all companies listed above (as well as AHAM), as
required by the Department's rules, providing them with a copy of this
Petition for Waiver and Interim Waiver.
BSH Home Appliances Corporation hereby requests approval of the
Waiver petition and Interim Waiver. By granting said Waivers the
Department of Energy will further ensure that water energy is measured
in the same way by all Dishwasher Manufacturer's that have a integrated
water softener. Further, BSH would request that these Waivers be in
good standing until such time that the test procedure can be formally
modified to account for integrated water softeners.
BSH Home Appliances certifies that all manufacturers of domestic
Dishwashers as listed above have been notified by letter.