Enforcement Policy on the Application of Waivers and on the Waiver Process

In response to questions from manufacturers, on November 30, 2010, the Department of Energy sought views on the implementation of recently granted waivers establishing an alternative test procedure for large-capacity clothes washers. After reviewing the comments, relevant provisions of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA), as amended, and applicable regulations, the Department has decided to issue this guidance both to resolve the questions posed and to explain how it will exercise its enforcement authority in the future.