AHRI files for Energy Department review of walk-in freezer standards
The AHRI is asking the government to take another look at its HVAC market efficiency rules for commercial refrigeration equipment.
The HVACR manufacturing association filed a petition today with the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals seeing review of the Energy Department’s June 3 final rule covering energy conservation standards for walk-in coolers and freezers. It sets what the AHRI calls an unrealistic annual walk-in energy factor for the equipment.
“We are hopeful that the petition for reconsideration will lead to corrections in the final rule, and that the petition for review will be unnecessary,” said AHRI President and CEO Stephen Yurek.
The Air-Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute says the efficiency levels are higher than what the government’s own researchers said was feasible. The association also says the DOE made substantial changes to the rules without allowing sufficient time for input and review by the industry.
“We have pointed out many times that our industry has a proud history of innovation, producing highly efficient, affordable HVACR and water heating equipment that increases the quality of life for all Americans,” Yurek said. “The equipment in question is no exception to that proud history, and we are disappointed that DOE chose to ignore the technical reality and declined to take the time to receive the input necessary to ensure the rule is based on accurate information and sound analysis. This has forced us to diverge from our preferred practice of collaboration and instead seek legal redress.”
The HVAC market association is asking the court to hold the review in abeyance petition until the DOE responds to AHRI’s request.
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