SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6489
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of January 28, 2010
Title: An act relating to the energy efficiency code.
Brief Description: Adding products to the energy efficiency code.
Sponsors: Senators Oemig, Hobbs, Rockefeller, Fairley, Fraser, Brown, Shin and Kline.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Environment, Water & Energy: 1/29/10.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT, WATER & ENERGY |
Staff: Sam Thompson (786-7413)
Background: States may establish minimum energy efficiency standards for electrical products if state standards are not preempted by federal law. Washington has enacted minimum efficiency standards for several electrical products. Legislation enacted in 2009 set standards for a variety of products, including certain wine chillers and water heaters, by copying California energy efficiency standards for some products and adopting certain California regulations by reference.
In November 2009 the California Energy Commission promulgated energy efficiency standards for televisions with screens of 1,400 square inches or smaller (approximately 58 inches in a diagonal measurement). The standards, which have not yet been formally adopted under California procedural requirements, would apply to televisions sold in California beginning in 2011. A first standard (Tier 1), which would take effect in 2011, is intended to reduce television energy consumption by an average of 33 percent. A second standard (Tier 2), which would take effect in 2013, is intended to reduce television energy consumption (in conjunction with Tier 1 standards) by an average of 49 percent.
Summary of Bill: Energy efficiency standards are established for televisions with screens of 1,400 square inches or smaller. Televisions manufactured beginning in 2011 must meet energy efficiency standards in California regulations promulgated by the California Energy Commission in effect as of the effective date of the act. Televisions manufactured beginning in 2011 may not be sold, offered for sale, or installed for compensation in Washington unless they meet or exceed the standards.
A provision concerning efficiency standards enacted in 2009 for certain products is revised to clarify that the products may not be sold or offered for sale in Washington unless they meet or exceed the standards.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.