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.

Featured

  • From Surveillance to Intelligence

    Years ago, it would have been significantly more expensive to run an analytic like that — requiring a custom-built solution with burdensome infrastructure demands — but modern edge devices have made it accessible to everyone. It also saves time, which is a critical factor if a missing child is involved. Video compression technology has played a critical role as well. Over the years, significant advancements have been made in video coding standards — including H.263, MPEG formats, and H.264—alongside compression optimization technologies developed by IP video manufacturers to improve efficiency without sacrificing quality. The open-source AV1 codec developed by the Alliance for Open Media—a consortium including Google, Netflix, Microsoft, Amazon and others — is already the preferred decoder for cloud-based applications, and is quickly becoming the standard for video compression of all types. Read Now

  • Cost: Reactive vs. Proactive Security

    Security breaches often happen despite the availability of tools to prevent them. To combat this problem, the industry is shifting from reactive correction to proactive protection. This article will examine why so many security leaders have realized they must “lead before the breach” – not after. Read Now

  • Achieving Clear Audio

    In today’s ever-changing world of security and risk management, effective communication via an intercom and door entry communication system is a critical communication tool to keep a facility’s staff, visitors and vendors safe. Read Now

  • Beyond Apps: Access Control for Today’s Residents

    The modern resident lives in an app-saturated world. From banking to grocery delivery, fitness tracking to ridesharing, nearly every service demands another download. But when it comes to accessing the place you live, most people do not want to clutter their phone with yet another app, especially if its only purpose is to open a door. Read Now

  • Survey: 48 Percent of Worshippers Feel Less Safe Attending In-Person Services

    Almost half (48%) of those who attend religious services say they feel less safe attending in-person due to rising acts of violence at places of worship. In fact, 39% report these safety concerns have led them to change how often they attend in-person services, according to new research from Verkada conducted online by The Harris Poll among 1,123 U.S. adults who attend a religious service or event at least once a month. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • AC Nio

    AC Nio

    Aiphone, a leading international manufacturer of intercom, access control, and emergency communication products, has introduced the AC Nio, its access control management software, an important addition to its new line of access control solutions.

  • A8V MIND

    A8V MIND

    Hexagon’s Geosystems presents a portable version of its Accur8vision detection system. A rugged all-in-one solution, the A8V MIND (Mobile Intrusion Detection) is designed to provide flexible protection of critical outdoor infrastructure and objects. Hexagon’s Accur8vision is a volumetric detection system that employs LiDAR technology to safeguard entire areas. Whenever it detects movement in a specified zone, it automatically differentiates a threat from a nonthreat, and immediately notifies security staff if necessary. Person detection is carried out within a radius of 80 meters from this device. Connected remotely via a portable computer device, it enables remote surveillance and does not depend on security staff patrolling the area.

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis.