Jeff Bingaman: “getting to a more efficient air- conditioning standard is an important part of a national energy strategy. This past…”

“getting to a more efficient air- conditioning standard is an important part of a national energy strategy. This past summer, a nationwide heat wave in August led to brownouts and blackouts as our electricity system was stretched to its limits. While the new standard would take effect gradually over the long term, it would help reduce the peak demand for electricity on very hot days, and it would give consumers a break. I have been informed that thousands of public comments have been filed with the Department of Energy favorable to the 13 SEER standard, demonstrating broad public support for sticking with that standard. Previously, I indicated my belief that we should include a legislative provision mandating a 13 SEER standard in any energy legislation that we pass. It should be clear to all that this is a matter where there is broad public support for the better standard, and I believe the administration should try to be in line with that public sentiment. I hope the Department of Energy decides to go back to the earlier established standard, and they can certainly do that administratively without Congress having to act. But if DOE continues to push for watering down the standard, then I hope the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs in the Office of Management and Budget will exercise its watchdog role to ensure that good technical and economic analysis carries the day on this issue.…”