SIA Files Comments With DOE on Energy Efficency Rule

  • Jun 04, 2012

The Security Industry Association has submitted comments in support of a proposed Department of Energy (DOE) rule that will codify one of the organization’s legislative victories.

In January 2011, President Obama signed into law a bill that exempts external power supplies (EPSs) for security and life safety products from federal energy efficiency standards that apply to devices in no-load mode. A SIA-led coalition that included both industry and environmental groups argued that, since security and life safety equipment must always be in active mode, an efficiency standard for no-load mode would make no sense, and lawmakers agreed.

The DOE in March proposed a rule on energy efficiency standards that notes Congress’ actions to “exempt certain EPSs used in security and life safety alarms and surveillance systems from the no-load mode power requirements.” In its comments, SIA supported the inclusion of this reference.

“We appreciate DOE’s recognition that Congress amended the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to exempt certain external power supplies (EPSs) used in security and life safety alarm and surveillance systems from the no-load mode power requirements that apply generally to Class A EPSs,” SIA wrote. “We urge that the final rule explicitly state that external power supplies for security and life safety products, in accordance with the above noted law, are exempt from the no-load mode efficiency requirements.”

SIA also offered to work with DOE and the Environmental Protection Agency to design a “distinguishing mark” that DOE is considering requiring on EPSs that qualify for the no-load mode exemption.

“We strongly suggest that any such mark be clear in design to avoid confusion in the marketplace, build on the current marking system and minimize design and other associated costs to safety and security businesses,” SIA wrote.

Tuesday was the deadline for the submission of public comments. DOE will now review the comments in preparation for drafting a final rule.

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