SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5883

BYSenators Williams, Kreidler, Benitz and Halsan

Adopting appliance energy efficiency standards.

Senate Committee on Energy & Utilities

Senate Hearing Date(s):March 3, 1987

Senate Staff:Glenn Blackmon (786-7455)

AS OF MARCH 2, 1987

BACKGROUND:

In 1986 Congress passed the National Appliance Energy Conservation Act, which set energy efficiency standards for many home appliances.  Greater efficiency reduces the cost and energy use of operating the appliance.  The national bill was supported by a coalition of appliance manufacturers and environmental groups.  The bill failed because of a pocket veto by the President.

SUMMARY:

The appliance standards that would have been established by the federal bill in 1986 are adopted for appliances sold in Washington beginning in 1990.  Standards are set for refrigerators, freezers, room air conditioners, central air conditioners and heat pumps, pool heaters, furnaces, dish washers, clothes washers, and kitchen ranges and ovens.

Fiscal Note:      available