Shannon Van Hoesen, shannon.vanhoesen@sierraclub.org
Washington, DC - Today, the Republican-led House of Representatives passed on a Congressional Review Act resolution to undermine the recently finalized, strong energy efficiency standard for water heaters, which is supported by manufacturers.
The energy efficiency standard phases out energy-wasting water heaters, lowering residential energy bills and shifting the market away from inefficient technologies. At the time it was finalized, the Department of Energy estimated the updated standard will reduce water and energy bills by $7.6 billion per year.
A companion resolution to undo the standard to save energy and protect consumers has also been introduced in the Senate.
In reaction, Sierra Club Deputy Legislative Director for Clean Energy and Electrification Xavier Boatright released the following statement:
“This is yet another example of Republicans being more concerned with protecting fossil fuel interests than protecting the health and financial well-being of average Americans. Water heaters are some of the most energy-intensive appliances in a household, so it makes sense to ensure the products available to consumers meet a minimum technology standard to lower utility bills and help keep the grid reliable. Manufacturers are ready and willing to meet this standard. This CRA would only sow market uncertainty and lock Americans into outdated technologies. The Senate should reject this and any other attempt to rollback efficiency standards that protect consumers and save energy.”
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About the Sierra Club
The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with millions of members and supporters. In addition to protecting every person's right to get outdoors and access the healing power of nature, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit www.sierraclub.org.