Pursuant to the Energy Policy and Conservation Act, as amended, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is proposing test procedures for measuring the energy consumption of walk-in coolers and walk-in freezers (collectively “walk-in equipment” or “walk-in(s)”), definitions to delineate the products covered by the test procedures, and provisions (including a sampling plan) for manufacturers to implement the test procedures. The notice also addresses enforcement issues as they relate to walk-in equipment. Concurrently, DOE is undertaking an energy conservation standards rulemaking for this equipment. Any data gathered through the use of the test procedure adopted by DOE will be used in evaluating any potential standards for this equipment. Once these standards are promulgated, the adopted test procedures will be used to determine equipment efficiency and compliance with the standards.

Protection of environment