80 FR 31971 - Energy Conservation Program: Clarification for Energy Conservation Standards and Test Procedures for Fluorescent Lamp Ballasts

DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 108 (June 5, 2015)

Page Range31971-31988
FR Document2015-13783

On December 29, 2014, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NOPR) to clarify the test procedures for fluorescent lamp ballasts. That proposed rulemaking serves as the basis for the final rule. DOE is issuing a final rule to reorganize, reformat, correct, and clarify the scope of the energy conservation standards for fluorescent lamp ballasts. In addition, DOE is removing the outdated test procedure at Appendix Q and redesignating the current test procedure at Appendix Q1 as Appendix Q. DOE is also clarifying the test procedure setup at redesignated Appendix Q. Finally, DOE is revising the laboratory accreditation language and is providing clarification on the process for evaluating compliance with standards.

Federal Register, Volume 80 Issue 108 (Friday, June 5, 2015)
[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 108 (Friday, June 5, 2015)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 31971-31988]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2015-13783]


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DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

10 CFR Part 430

[Docket No. EERE-2009-BT-TP-0016]
RIN 1904-AB99


Energy Conservation Program: Clarification for Energy 
Conservation Standards and Test Procedures for Fluorescent Lamp 
Ballasts

AGENCY: Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Department of 
Energy.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: On December 29, 2014, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) 
issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NOPR) to clarify the test 
procedures for fluorescent lamp ballasts. That proposed rulemaking 
serves as the basis for the final rule. DOE is issuing a final rule to 
reorganize, reformat, correct, and clarify the scope of the energy 
conservation standards for fluorescent lamp ballasts. In addition, DOE 
is removing the outdated test procedure at Appendix Q and redesignating 
the current test procedure at Appendix Q1 as Appendix Q. DOE is also 
clarifying the test procedure setup at redesignated Appendix Q. 
Finally, DOE is revising the laboratory accreditation language and is 
providing clarification on the process for evaluating compliance with 
standards.

DATES: The effective date of this rule is July 6, 2015. Representations 
must be based on testing in accordance with the final rule starting 
December 2, 2015.
    The incorporation of reference of certain publications listed in 
this rule was approved by the Director of the Federal Register on March 
23, 2009.

ADDRESSES: The docket, which includes Federal Register notices, public 
meeting attendee lists and transcripts, comments, and other supporting 
documents/materials, is available for review at regulations.gov. All 
documents in the docket are listed in the regulations.gov index. 
However, some documents listed in the index, such as those containing 
information that is exempt from public disclosure, may not be publicly 
available.
    A link to the docket Web page can be found at: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_ standards/product.aspx/
productid/62. This Web page will contain a link to the docket for this 
notice on the regulations.gov site. The regulations.gov Web page will 
contain simple instructions on how to access all documents, including 
public comments, in the docket.
    For further information on how to review the docket, contact Ms. 
Brenda Edwards at (202) 586-2945 or by email: Brenda.Edwards@ 
ee.doe.gov.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 
Ms. Lucy deButts, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Energy 
Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Building Technologies Program, EE-2J, 
1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC, 20585-0121. Telephone: 
(202) 287-1604. Email: fluorescent_ lamp_ ballasts@ ee.doe.gov.
Ms. Sarah Butler, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the General 
Counsel, GC-33, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585-
0121. Telephone: (202) 586-1777. Email: Sarah.Butler@ hq.doe.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Table of Contents

I. Authority and Background
II. Synopsis of the Final Rule
III. Discussion
    A. Energy Conservation Standards
    1. Changes to Organization
    2. Changes to Definitions and Terminology
    B. Test Procedure
    1. Lamp Pairing for Testing
    2. Testing at Full Output
    3. Measurement Clarification
    4. Changes to Definitions
    5. Rounding Ballast Luminous Efficiency
    6. Language Changes and Corrections to the Text
    7. Standby Mode Test Procedure
    C. Compliance and Certification
    1. Laboratory Accreditation
    2. Evaluating Compliance with Standards
    3. Compliance Date for this Final Rule
    4. Compliance Certification Management System
IV. Procedural Issues and Regulatory Review
    A. Review Under Executive Order 12866
    B. Review under the Regulatory Flexibility Act
    C. Review Under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995
    D. Review Under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969

[[Page 31972]]

    E. Review Under Executive Order 13132
    F. Review Under Executive Order 12988
    G. Review Under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
    H. Review Under the Treasury and General Government 
Appropriations Act, 1999
    I. Review Under Executive Order 12630
    J. Review Under Treasury and General Government Appropriations 
Act, 2001
    K. Review Under Executive Order 13211
    L. Review Under Section 32 of the Federal Energy Administration 
Act of 1974
    M. Congressional Notification
    N. Approval of the Office of the Secretary

I. Authority and Background

    Title III, Part B \1\ of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 
1975 (42 U.S.C. 6291, et seq.; ``EPCA'' or, ``the Act'') sets forth a 
variety of provisions designed to improve energy efficiency and 
established the ``Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products 
Other Than Automobiles.'' \2\ These include fluorescent lamp ballasts, 
the subject of this final rule. (42 U.S.C. 6292(a)(13))
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    \1\ For editorial reasons Part B was redesignated as Part A upon 
incorporation into the U.S. Code (42 U.S.C. 6291-6309, as codified.
    \2\ All references to EPCA refer to the statute as amended 
through the American Energy Manufacturing Technical Corrections Act 
(AEMTCA), Public Law 112-210 (Dec. 18, 2012) Part B of title III. 
For editorial reasons was redesignated as Part A upon incorporation 
into the U.S. Code (42 U.S.C. 6291-6309, as codified.
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    Under EPCA, the energy conservation program consists essentially of 
four parts: (1) testing, (2) labeling, (3) Federal energy conservation 
standards, and (4) certification and enforcement procedures. The 
testing requirements consist of test procedures that manufacturers of 
covered products must use as the basis for (1) certifying to DOE that 
their products comply with the applicable energy conservation standards 
adopted under EPCA, and (2) making representations about the efficiency 
of those products. Similarly, DOE must use these test procedures to 
determine whether the products comply with any relevant standards 
promulgated under EPCA.
    DOE published test procedure final rules on April 24, 1991, October 
22, 2009, and May 4, 2011 (hereafter the ``May 2011 test procedure 
final rule''), establishing active mode test procedures, standby and 
off mode test procedures, and revised active mode test procedures, 
respectively. 56 FR 18677, 74 FR 54445, and 76 FR 25211. The May 2011 
test procedure final rule established Appendix Q1 to subpart B of 10 
CFR part 430. DOE also published final rules establishing and amending 
energy conservation standards for fluorescent lamp ballasts on 
September 19, 2000, and November 14, 2011 (hereafter the ``November 
2011 standards final rule''), which completed the two energy 
conservation standard rulemakings required under 42 U.S.C. 6295(g)(7). 
65 FR 56740 and 76 FR 70547. The November 2011 standards final rule 
established the regulations located at 10 CFR 430.32(m)(8) through(10).
    This final rule clarifies the contents of the energy conservation 
standards and test procedures promulgated by DOE. On January 6, 2015, 
DOE published a NOPR (hereafter the January 2015 NOPR) proposing 
clarifications to the test procedures for fluorescent lamp ballasts. 80 
FR 404. That notice of proposed rulemaking serves as the basis for this 
final rule.

II. Synopsis of the Final Rule

    In this final rule, DOE discusses key aspects of the energy 
conservation standards and test procedures for fluorescent lamp 
ballasts and clarifies the corresponding requirements and 
specifications in the CFR. DOE is modifying the organization of 10 CFR 
430.32(m) to clarify the applicability of the standards and exemptions. 
DOE is also consolidating 10 CFR 430.32(m) by deleting standards that 
are obsolete. In addition, DOE is clarifying definitions relating to 
ballast luminous efficiency (BLE) standards.
    DOE is removing the outdated test procedure for ballast efficacy 
factor (BEF) at Appendix Q and redesignating the test procedure for BLE 
at Appendix Q1 as Appendix Q. In addition, DOE is adding testing 
clarifications to redesignated Appendix Q and is modifying redesignated 
Appendix Q to clarify the reference lamp pairings for testing. DOE is 
also clarifying the redesignated Appendix Q for test setup and 
measurement. In addition, DOE is making general changes to definitions, 
language, and corrections to the text. Finally, DOE is revising the 
laboratory accreditation language at 10 CFR 430.25. This final rule 
also discusses the process for evaluating compliance with standards by 
providing example calculations for evaluating compliance with BLE 
standards.
    Representations of energy efficiency must be based on testing in 
accordance with this rulemaking within 180 days after the publication 
of the final rule.

III. Discussion

A. Energy Conservation Standards

    In the second rulemaking cycle required by 42 U.S.C. 6295(g)(7), 
DOE amended existing energy conservation standards and adopted 
standards for additional ballasts in a final rule published on November 
14, 2011 (hereafter ``2011 Ballast Rule''). 76 FR 70548. The standards 
adopted as a result of this rulemaking are based on BLE and apply to 
all products listed in Table III.1. DOE has required compliance with 
these BLE standards since November 14, 2014.

             Table III.1--Ballast Luminous Efficiency Standards Implemented by the 2011 Ballast Rule
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Fluorescent lamp ballasts shall have a ballast luminous efficiency no less than A/(1 + B * total lamp arc power
                                 [supcaret]-C) where A, B, and C are as follows:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          Product class                                  A               B               C
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Instant start and rapid start ballasts (not classified as
 residential) that are designed to operate:
    4-foot medium bipin lamps...................................           0.993            0.27            0.25
    2-foot U-shaped lamps
    8-foot slimline lamps
Programmed start ballasts (not classified as residential) that
 are designed to operate:
    4-foot medium bipin lamps...................................           0.993            0.51            0.37
    2-foot U-shaped lamps
    4-foot miniature bipin standard output lamps
    4-foot miniature bipin high output lamps
Instant start and rapid start ballasts (not classified as sign
 ballasts) that are designed to operate:
    8-foot high output lamps....................................           0.993            0.38            0.25

[[Page 31973]]

 
Programmed start ballasts (not classified as sign ballasts) that
 are designed to operate:
    8-foot high output lamps....................................           0.973            0.70            0.37
Sign ballasts that operate:
    8-foot high output lamps....................................           0.993            0.47            0.25
Instant start and rapid start residential ballasts that operate:
    4-foot medium bipin lamps...................................           0.993            0.41            0.25
    2-foot U-shaped lamps
    8-foot slimline lamps
Programmed start residential ballasts that are designed to
 operate:
    4-foot medium bipin lamps...................................           0.973            0.71            0.37
    2-foot U-shaped lamps
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Several ballasts are exempt from BLE and power factor standards 
established by the 2011 Ballast Rule. See 10 CFR 430.32(m)(9). These 
exemptions consist of:
    (1) Low frequency T8 ballasts that are designed, labeled, and 
marketed for use only in electromagnetic-interference-sensitive-
environments and shipped in packages of 10 or fewer;
    (2) Programmed start ballasts that operate 4-foot medium bipin 
(MBP) T8 lamps and deliver on average less than 140 milliamperes to 
each lamp; and
    (3) Dimming ballasts except for those specified in 10 CFR 
430.32(m)(10).
    See 10 CFR 430.32(m)(9).
    Dimming ballasts designed for the operation of one F34T12, two 
F34T12, two F96T12/ES, and two F96T12HO/ES lamps and that meet the 
specifications found at 10 CFR 430.32(m)(10)(i) and (ii) are subject to 
BLE standards specified in 10 CFR 430.32(m)(10)(iii).
    DOE is adopting several changes to the energy conservation 
standards section of the CFR for ballasts (10 CFR 430.32(m)) to clarify 
the applicability of standards and exemptions and improve readability. 
These changes are described in detail in the following sections.
1. Changes to Organization
    In the January 2015 NOPR, DOE proposed modifications to the 
organization of 10 CFR 430.32(m) to clarify the applicability of 
standards and exemptions. 80 FR at 417. DOE proposed to consolidate 10 
CFR 430.32(m) by deleting standards that are no longer applicable. 10 
CFR 430.32(m) currently contains the standards established by NAECA 
1988, the 2000 Ballast Rule, EPACT 2005, and the 2011 Ballast Rule. The 
standards established by each of these actions are accompanied by 
compliance dates and exemptions. DOE proposed to remove the sections of 
10 CFR 430.32(m) that have become obsolete (i.e., existing sections 10 
CFR 430.32(m)(1)-(m)(7)). DOE proposed to reorganize the remaining 
sections of 10 CFR 430.32(m) to enhance readability.
    Additionally, in the January 2015 NOPR, DOE proposed to modify the 
standards table in 10 CFR 430.32(m). 80 FR at 419. In many cases, 
several different types of ballasts are subject to the same BLE 
standards. However, due to a formatting error, the table in existing 
section 430.32(m)(8) added additional lines and borders between these 
ballast types subject to the same BLE standards. For example, instant 
start and rapid start ballasts (not classified as residential) that are 
designed to operate 4-foot MBP, 2-foot U-shaped, and 8-foot slimline 
lamps are all subject to the same BLE standards. To clarify that 
certain groups of ballasts are subject to the same standards, DOE 
proposed to remove some lines and borders to accurately group the 
ballasts and standards. The chart will conform to what is shown in 
Table III.1.
    DOE received no comment in response to the proposed organizational 
changes in the January 2015 NOPR. Based on the reasons presented in the 
January 2015 NOPR, DOE is adopting these changes in this final rule.
2. Changes to Definitions and Terminology
    In the January 2015 NOPR, DOE proposed changes to the definitions 
and terminology used in 10 CFR 430.32(m) pertaining to BLE standards. 
80 FR at 418-419. DOE proposed to remove descriptions of terminology at 
existing (m)(8)(iv) through (vi) and instead reference redesignated 
Appendix Q (see section III.B) for definitions of the terms average 
total lamp arc power, instant start, programmed start, rapid start, 
residential ballast, and sign ballast. In addition, DOE proposed to use 
the phrase ``that are not residential ballasts'' in amended sections 10 
CFR 430.32(m)(1)(ii)(A) and (m)(2)(ii)(A) to refer to any ballasts that 
do not meet the definition of residential ballast in redesignated 
Appendix Q. The NOPR reasoned that this change would improve clarity 
through consistent usage of a single phrase and reducing cross-
references to other paragraphs. 80 FR at 406.
    Finally, DOE proposed to replace the phrase ``designed, labeled, 
and marketed'' with the phrase ``designed and marketed'' as defined at 
10 CFR 430.2, in the description of a low frequency ballast at amended 
section 10 CFR 430.32(m)(3)(ii). 80 FR at 419. The definition of 
``designed and marketed'' at 10 CFR 430.2 clarifies that a ballast is 
recognized as designed and marketed if the intended application of the 
lamp is stated in a publicly available document (e.g., product 
literature, catalogs, packaging labels, and labels on the product 
itself).\3\
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    \3\ The definition of ``designed and marketed'' was established 
in the general service fluorescent lamp and incandescent reflector 
lamp energy conservation standard rulemaking. See http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=EERE-2011-BT-STD-0006.
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    Similarly, DOE proposed to replace the phrase ``for use in 
connection with'' with the phrase ``designed and marketed to operate'' 
at amended section 10 CFR 430.32(m)(2) and amended section 10 CFR 
430.32(m)(3)(i). 80 FR at 419. DOE also proposed to replace the phrase 
``that operate'' with ``that are designed to operate'' at amended 
section 10 CFR 430.32(m)(1)(ii)(B). These revisions eliminate potential 
confusion or ambiguity by clarifying the original intent of this 
language. 80 FR at 418.
    The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) agreed 
with the proposed revision regarding consistent use of the phrase 
``designed and marketed for operation.'' (NEMA, No. 30

[[Page 31974]]

at p. 3) \4\ DOE received no further comments in response to the 
proposed changes to definitions and terminology in the January 2015 
NOPR. Based on the reasons presented in the January 2015 NOPR, DOE is 
adopting these changes in this final rule. In this final rule, DOE is 
also changing the column heading at amended section 10 CFR 
430.32(m)(2)(ii)(B) from ``Ballast input voltage'' to ``Nominal input 
voltage'' to align with usage in section 430.32(m)(2)(i)(A) and 
eliminate potential confusion.
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    \4\ A notation in this form provides a reference for information 
that is in the docket of DOE's rulemaking to develop test procedures 
for fluorescent lamp ballasts (Docket No. EERE-2009-BT-TP-0016), 
which is maintained at www.regulations.gov. This notation indicates 
that the statement preceding the reference is document number 30 in 
the docket for the fluorescent lamp ballasts test procedure 
rulemaking, and appears at page 3 of that document.
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B. Test Procedure

    Manufacturers were previously required to use the test procedure 
for ballasts at 10 CFR part 430, subpart B, appendix Q to determine 
compliance with BEF standards. The May 2011 test procedure final rule 
established appendix Q1 to subpart B of 10 CFR part 430 to determine 
compliance with BLE standards. As stated in section III.A, compliance 
with BLE standards has been required since November 14, 2014. Because 
the BEF standards are no longer applicable, DOE is removing the test 
procedure for BEF at Appendix Q and redesignating the Appendix Q1 test 
procedure for BLE as Appendix Q. DOE is revising any references to 
Appendix Q1 in the CFR to reference redesignated Appendix Q. DOE is 
also making several changes to redesignated Appendix Q to clarify the 
test procedures for measuring BLE. These changes are described in 
detail in the following sections.
1. Lamp Pairing for Testing
    In the May 2011 test procedure final rule, DOE specified that 
ballasts are to be paired with the most common wattage lamp and 
provided a table (Table A of existing appendix Q1 of subpart B of part 
430) to indicate which lamp should be used with each ballast. 76 FR 
25211 (May 4, 2011). Table A lists the ballast description along with 
the lamp type intended for testing. Though ballasts can frequently 
operate lamps of the same diameter but different wattages, DOE requires 
testing with only one lamp wattage per ballast. To clarify this 
requirement, in the January 2015 NOPR, DOE proposed to indicate in 
section 2.3.1.7 of redesignated Appendix Q that each ballast should be 
tested with only one lamp type corresponding to the lamp diameter and 
base type the ballast is designed and marketed to operate. 80 FR at 
415. For example, a ballast designed and marketed to operate both 32 
watt (W) 4-foot MBP T8 lamps and 28 W 4-foot MBP T8 lamps should only 
be tested with the 32 W lamp. Additionally, stakeholders requested 
clarification on testing ballasts that are designed and marketed as 
operating both T8 and T12 lamps. Therefore, DOE also proposed to 
indicate in section 2.3.1.5 of redesignated Appendix Q that a ballast 
designed and marketed to operate both T8 and T12 lamps must be tested 
with T8 lamps. DOE explained in the NOPR that it believes T8 lamps will 
be the most common lamp type paired with these ballasts. 80 FR at 406.
    Regarding this proposal, NEMA commented that there may be some 
confusion with lamp pairings for the electronic sign ballasts in the 
proposed language because these ballasts can operate both T12 HO and T8 
HO lamps. NEMA recommended that DOE adopt the American National 
Standards Institute (ANSI) lamp abbreviations from ANSI C78.81.\5\ 
(NEMA, No. 30 at p. 2) DOE agrees that referencing the ANSI and 
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) lamp specifications may 
further clarify the lamp pairings used for testing. However, the lamp 
specifications for U-shaped and T5 lamps (i.e., ANSI_IEC C78.901-2005 
\6\ and IEC 60081[Amendment 4, Edition 5.0] \7\) are not currently 
incorporated by reference in the CFR for existing Appendix Q1. 
Therefore, DOE will address this lamp identification issue for all lamp 
types collectively in a separate rulemaking.
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    \5\ ``American National Standard for Electric Lamps: Double-
Capped Fluorescent Lamps--Dimensional and Electrical 
Characteristics'' (approved Jan. 14, 2010).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In this final rule, DOE is also specifying that ballasts designed 
and marketed to operate both 4-foot MBP lamps and 2-foot U-shaped lamps 
must be tested with 4-foot MBP lamps. DOE believes there could be 
confusion on testing these ballasts similar to the sign ballasts cited 
by NEMA which are also capable of operating multiple lamp types. This 
clarification supports DOE's requirement of testing with only one lamp 
type per ballast. DOE is adding the requirement to redesignated 
Appendix Q at section 2.3.1.5 and is renumbering the sections 
thereafter.
    DOE notes that 34 W MBP T12 U-shaped lamps (commonly referred to as 
2-foot U-shaped lamps) are not listed in ANSI_ANSLG C78.81-2010, 
ANSI_IEC C78.901-2005, or IEC 60081 (Amendment 4, Edition 5.0). This 
prevents identification of a 34W T12 2-foot U-shaped reference lamp to 
pair with a ballast for BLE testing. However, DOE could not identify 
ballasts that are capable of only operating 34W T12 2-foot U-shaped 
lamps. Instead, all ballasts capable of operating 34W T12 2-foot U-
shaped lamps could also operate 34W T12 MBP lamps.\8\ Because there is 
not a current market need, and because DOE does not anticipate a need 
in the future, DOE is not providing 34W T12 2-foot U-shaped lamp 
specifications.
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    \8\ DOE requires that ballasts designed and marketed to operate 
both 4-foot MBP lamps and 2-foot U-shaped lamps must be tested with 
4-foot MBP lamps.
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    In the January 2015 NOPR, DOE proposed to revise Table A of 
existing Appendix Q1 to further clarify the requirement of testing with 
only one lamp type per ballast. 80 FR at 415. DOE proposed to add 
borders to Table A in redesignated Appendix Q to emphasize that testing 
with only one lamp type per ballast is necessary. DOE also proposed to 
revise the column heading corresponding to the lamp description to read 
``Lamp Type'' to provide a clear linkage to the direction that only one 
lamp type should be paired with each ballast for testing. Table III.2 
and Table III.3 present an example from Table A, highlighting the 
existing and proposed versions, respectively.

                                      Table III.2--Existing Table A Excerpt
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                  Frequency adjustment factor
         Ballast type            Nominal lamp      Lamp diameter and base    -----------------------------------
                                    wattage                                     Low-frequency    High-frequency
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ballasts that operate straight-             32  T8 MBP......................              0.94               1.0
 shaped lamps (commonly                     34  T12 MBP.....................              0.93               1.0
 referred to as 4-foot medium
 bipin lamps) with medium
 bipin bases and a nominal
 overall length of 48 inches.

[[Page 31975]]

 
Ballasts that operate straight-             32  T8 MBP......................              0.94               1.0
 shaped lamps (commonly                     34  T8 MBP......................              0.94               1.0
 referred to as 4-foot medium
 bipin lamps) with medium
 bipin bases and a nominal
 overall length of 48 inches.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    For clarity, DOE also proposed in the January 2015 NOPR to revise 
the ballast type description for sign ballasts in Table A to read 
``Sign ballasts that operate rapid-start lamps (commonly referred to as 
8-foot high output lamps) with recessed double contact bases and a 
nominal overall length of 96 inches.'' 80 FR at 415. Additionally, DOE 
proposed to add a definition for ``sign ballast'' in redesignated 
Appendix Q based on the existing description of sign ballast in 10 CFR 
430.32(m). 80 FR at 414. See section III.B.4 for more information.
    DOE received no comment in response to the proposed changes to 
Table A in the January 2015 NOPR. Based on the reasons presented above, 
DOE is adopting these changes in this final rule.
2. Testing at Full Output
    In section 2.5.1.2 of existing Appendix Q1, DOE specifies that the 
ballast should be operated at full output during the stabilization 
process, and measurements should be made after the stabilization 
condition is reached. In the January 2015 NOPR, DOE proposed to revise 
this statement in redesignated Appendix Q to make clear that the 
ballast should remain at full output while the measurements are taken. 
80 FR at 417. This is consistent with DOE's intent that both dimming 
and fixed light output ballasts are tested at full light output. Id at 
407.
    NEMA agreed with the clarification that ballasts be tested at full 
output. (NEMA, No. 30 at p. 2) DOE received no further comments on this 
clarification. Thus, based on the reasons presented in the January 2015 
NOPR, DOE is adopting this clarification in this final rule.
3. Measurement Clarification
    DOE specifies in section 2.3.2.1 of existing Appendix Q1 that the 
power analyzer must have n+1 channels where n is the number of lamps a 
ballast operates. DOE notes that, for certain ballasts, it is possible 
for n+1 to be greater than the number of channels supplied by a single 
power analyzer. In the January 2015 NOPR, DOE proposed to clarify in 
redesignated Appendix Q that the test lab use the minimum number of 
power analyzers possible during testing. 80 FR at 415. DOE explained in 
the NOPR that a power analyzer commonly used in the lighting industry 
has six channels but can be linked to a second power analyzer when 
additional channels are needed. If a test lab needed seven channels to 
test a ballast that operates six lamps, for example, they should use 
only two analyzers. Id at 407.
    NEMA disagreed with the proposed clarification to the measurement, 
noting that it is possible for the ``connection'' between power 
analyzers to be achieved through the data acquisition computer and 
software. As written, NEMA commented the instruction at section 2.3.2.1 
of existing Appendix Q1 would limit instrumentation options 
unnecessarily. NEMA recommended that the language be stated as: ``The 
power analyzer test setup must have n+1 channels where n is the number 
of lamps a ballast operates. Use the minimum number of power analyzers 
possible during testing. A system may be used to synchronize the power 
analyzers, and the power analyzers must be synchronized in time.'' 
(NEMA, No. 30 at pp. 2-3)
    DOE reviewed NEMA's recommendation, including the insertion of the 
words ``test setup'' in the existing text, and the new sentence 
specifying how multiple power analyzers should be used. DOE agrees that 
insertion of the word ``test setup'' clarifies the intent of the 
sentence that the sum of the number of channels in all power analyzers 
used in the test setup must be at least the number of lamps plus one. 
DOE agrees that a data acquisition software system can be used to 
connect the power analyzers used in the test setup and also agrees that 
adding the third sentence recommended by NEMA may help clarify this 
requirement. While electrical measurements must be taken after the 
ballast has been stabilized, synchronization of multiple power 
analyzers in time is still the best practice, and most closely 
simulates the simultaneous measurements taken by a single power 
analyzer. Therefore DOE is amending section 2.3.2.1 of redesignated 
Appendix Q to read, ``The power analyzer test setup must have n+1 
channels where n is the number of lamps a ballast operates. Use the 
minimum number of power analyzers possible during testing. A system may 
be used to synchronize the power analyzers, and all power analyzers 
must be synchronized in time.''
4. Changes to Definitions
    In the January 2015 NOPR, DOE proposed changes to existing Appendix 
Q1 relating to definitions used in the test procedure. 80 FR at 414 
through 418. DOE proposed to modify the definition of ``residential 
ballast'' in the definitions section of existing Appendix Q1 to align 
with the existing description at 10 CFR 430.32(m)(8)(vi) and the 
definition of ``designed and marketed'' at 10 CFR 430.2 (see section 
III.A.2 for more information). DOE proposed to define residential 
ballast in redesignated Appendix Q as ``a fluorescent lamp ballast that 
meets FCC consumer limits as set forth in 47 CFR part 18 and is 
designed and marketed for use only in residential applications.'' DOE 
also proposed to remove the definition of ``commercial ballast'' that 
is in the existing Appendix Q1 and instead use the phrase ``that are 
not residential ballasts'' in redesignated Appendix Q when referring to 
any ballasts that do not meet the definition of residential ballast. In 
the NOPR, DOE explained that this proposed change would align 
redesignated Appendix Q with the proposed terminology changes in the 
energy conservation standards at 430.32(m). 80 FR at 407.
    In addition, DOE proposed in the January 2015 NOPR to add several 
terms to the definitions section of redesignated Appendix Q pertaining 
to BLE standards. 80 FR at 414. First, DOE proposed to add a definition 
for average total lamp arc power to clarify how to calculate the 
applicable BLE standard. Average total lamp arc power is referenced in 
the BLE standards equation (at 10 CFR 430.32(m)(8)) shown in Table 
III.1. The proposed definition for average total lamp arc power was 
``the average of the total lamp arc power (as defined and

[[Page 31976]]

measured in section 2.6.1) of the ballast units tested.'' 80 FR at 414.
    DOE also proposed in the January 2015 NOPR to add a definition for 
``dimming ballast'' to redesignated Appendix Q. 80 FR at 414. The 
proposed definition for a dimming ballast is ``a ballast that is 
designed to vary its output and that can achieve an output less than or 
equal to 50 percent of its maximum electrical output.'' This proposed 
definition aligned with and clarifies the dimming ballast exemptions 
currently specified in 10 CFR 430.32(m). Thus, DOE also proposed to 
remove the description of a dimming ballast currently at 10 CFR 
430.32(m)(9)(i). As proposed, 10 CFR 430.32 would instead reference the 
new definition for ``dimming ballast'' in redesignated Appendix Q. 80 
FR at 418, 419.
    In addition, in the January 2015 NOPR, DOE proposed to add a 
definition for ``sign ballast'' to the definitions section of 
redesignated Appendix Q. 80 FR at 414. DOE proposed to define sign 
ballast based on the description currently at 10 CFR 430.32(m)(8)(v) 
and the definition of ``designed and marketed'' at 10 CFR 430.2 (see 
section III.A.2 for more information). DOE proposed to define a sign 
ballast as ``a ballast that has an Underwriters Laboratories Inc. Type 
2 rating and is designed and marketed for use only in outdoor signs.'' 
Rather than listing a description of sign ballast, as does section 
2.3.1.4 of existing Appendix Q1, DOE proposed that section 2.3.1.6 of 
redesignated Appendix Q reference the term in the definitions section 
of that appendix. 80 FR at 415.
    DOE also proposed in the January 2015 NOPR to simplify the language 
in redesignated Appendix Q by relying on newly defined terms in the 
definitions within that appendix. 80 FR at 414 through 418. 
Specifically, in section 2.4.3, DOE proposed to replace the language 
``For ballasts designed and labeled for residential applications'' with 
``For residential ballasts.'' In addition, DOE proposed to replace the 
language ``For ballasts designed and labeled as cold-temperature 
outdoor sign ballasts'' with ``For sign ballasts.'' 80 FR at 417.
    Finally, DOE proposed in the January 2015 NOPR to remove the terms 
``active mode'' and ``standby mode'' from redesignated Appendix Q 
because these terms are already defined at 10 CFR 430.2. The NOPR 
explained that the definitions in existing Appendix Q1 are consistent 
with the definitions in 10 CFR 430.2 and are therefore redundant. 80 FR 
at 408.
    Regarding these proposed changes, NEMA commented in support of the 
changes to the definitions to ``residential ballast,'' ``average of the 
total lamp power,'' ``dimming ballast,'' and ``sign ballast.'' (NEMA, 
No. 30 at p. 3) DOE received no further comments regarding the proposed 
changes to the redesignated Appendix Q. Thus, based on the reasons 
presented in the January 2015 NOPR, DOE is adopting these changes in 
this final rule.
    In this final rule, DOE is also moving existing definitions of 
certain lamp types from existing Appendix Q to redesignated Appendix Q 
that were inadvertently omitted from the NOPR. These lamp types include 
F34T12, F96T12/ES, and F96T12HO/ES lamps. The omission of these 
definitions from the NOPR was a technical oversight as ballasts capable 
of operating these lamp types are subject to energy conservation 
standards under 10 CFR 430.32(m).
5. Rounding Ballast Luminous Efficiency
    Currently, rounding requirements are not provided for the reported 
value of BLE. When developing standards in the November 2011 standards 
final rule, DOE rounded BLE to the thousandths place when analyzing the 
costs and benefits of the adopted standard. For consistency with the 
intent of the 2011 standards final rule, DOE proposed to specify 
rounding the reported value of BLE to the nearest thousandths place in 
the January 2015 NOPR. 80 FR at 414.
    NEMA commented that rounding to the thousandths place is acceptable 
as long as significant figures are handled correctly. (NEMA, No. 30 at 
p. 3) DOE received no further comments on rounding BLE. However, DOE 
has since determined that rounding requirements would be more 
appropriately addressed in 10 CFR 429.26. Therefore, DOE will provide 
rounding requirements for BLE in a separate rulemaking.
6. Language Changes and Corrections to the Text
    In the January 2015 NOPR, DOE proposed to add new language at 
redesignated Appendix Q for some of the testing requirements. 80 FR at 
414-418. DOE proposed to use the terminology ``designed and marketed 
for operation'' to clarify references to the intended ballast types. 
See section III.A.2 for more information on the definition of 
``designed and marketed.'' Within sections 2.3.1.2, 2.3.1.4.1, 
2.3.1.4.2, 2.3.1.4.3, and 2.4.3 of existing Appendix Q1, DOE proposed 
to change all instances of the following phrases to ``designed and 
marketed for operation'' in redesignated Appendix Q:
    (1) ``Designed to operate;''
    (2) ``That only operate;'' and
    (3) ``Capable of operating.'' 80 FR at 414-418.
    The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) agreed 
with the proposed revision regarding consistent use of the phrase 
``designed and marketed for operation.'' Further, NEMA agreed with the 
redesignation of Appendix Q1 and clarification changes to redesignated 
Appendix Q. (NEMA, No. 30 at p. 3) DOE received no further comments in 
response to the proposed organizational changes in the January 2015 
NOPR. Based on the reasons presented in the January 2015 NOPR, DOE is 
adopting these changes in this final rule.
    Additionally, DOE proposed in the January 2015 NOPR to modify the 
language of section 2.1 of redesignated Appendix Q to clarify the 
references to industry standards. 80 FR at 415. DOE believes the 
sentence as currently written does not clearly explain that the 
industry standards incorporated by reference in the CFR must be used in 
place of those listed in the industry standard ANSI C82.2. DOE proposed 
to add the word ``standards'' as noted in the following sentence: ``In 
addition when applying ANSI C82.2, the standards ANSI C78.81, ANSI 
C82.1, ANSI C82.11, and ANSI C82.13 (all incorporated by reference; see 
Sec.  430.3) must be used instead of the versions listed as normative 
references in ANSI C82.2.'' 80 FR at 415.
    DOE also proposed in the January 2015 NOPR a correction in 
redesignated Appendix Q relating to an error in existing Appendix Q1 
that occurred during publication of the May 2011 test procedure final 
rule. In section 2.3.1, the heading numbers skip from 2.3.1 to 
2.3.1.1.1 (i.e., 2.3.1.1 is omitted). DOE proposed to correct this 
heading numbering error in redesignated Appendix Q. 80 FR at 415.
    Finally, in the January 2015 NOPR, DOE proposed to revise a 
grammatical issue in redesignated Appendix Q that is in existing 
section 1.7 of Appendix Q1, which defines ``instant-start.'' In section 
1.7 of redesignated Appendix Q, DOE proposed to insert the word ``in'' 
so that the definition of instant-start reads ``is the starting method 
used in instant-start systems as defined in ANSI C82.13 (incorporated 
by reference; see Sec.  430.3).'' 80 FR at 414.
    DOE did not receive any additional comments regarding the language 
changes and corrections to redesignated Appendix Q proposed in the 
January 2015 NOPR. Based on the reasons presented in the January 2015 
NOPR,

[[Page 31977]]

DOE is adopting these changes in this final rule.
7. Standby Mode Test Procedure
    DOE published a test procedure final rule addressing standby mode 
energy consumption for ballasts on October 22, 2009. 74 FR at 54445. 
However, DOE did not adopt standards for standby mode energy use 
because DOE could not find any ballasts subject to standards that were 
capable of operating in standby mode. 76 FR 70548, 70553-4 (Nov. 14, 
2011). DOE did not address standby mode testing in the January 2015 
NOPR. However, DOE received a comment from NEMA stating that ANSI 
C82.2-2002 \9\ does not list a test procedure for standby power. NEMA 
expressed concern that DOE does not appreciate the scale of control 
signal power when compared to the range of power supplied by the mains 
to dimming ballasts, and added that standby power measurement of 
electronic lighting is still a new field. Further, NEMA remarked that 
it is equally challenging to measure standby mode power consumption for 
some control interfaces, and that high-end power analyzer uncertainty 
will be higher than the targeted power. (NEMA, No. 30 at pp. 5-6)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \9\ ``American National Standards for Lamp Ballasts--High 
Frequency Lamp Ballasts--Supplements'' (approved January 17, 2002).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    DOE investigated the uncertainty associated with high-end power 
analyzers commonly used by industry to conduct testing in accordance 
with ANSI C82.2-2010. Uncertainty is a function of factors such as the 
magnitude of the current and voltage signal, frequency, and power 
factor. Power analyzer uncertainty is specified by the power analyzer 
manufacturer and is the ratio of the measured value (frequently 
referred to as ``the reading'') and the range over which the power 
analyzer is configured to measure (frequently referred to as ``the 
range''), reported as a percentage. DOE reviewed the calculation 
example provided by NEMA and agrees with the approach. However, DOE 
disagrees with the range selected for current measurements in the 
example. A power analyzer offers a discrete set of range options, and 
the range generally selected for a given measurement would be the 
smallest value that is greater than the expected reading.\10\ Had NEMA 
selected a range of 0.1 amps rather than two amps for the reading of 
0.0083 amps, the uncertainty in the power measurement would be much 
smaller (on the order of two percent of the reading rather than NEMA's 
calculated 30 percent).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \10\ The range typically provides some buffer in excess of the 
reading to account for non-sinusoidal signals and high instantaneous 
peak signal values.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Therefore, DOE finds no reason to amend the standby mode test 
procedure on the basis of power analyzer measurement uncertainty. While 
ANSI C82.2-2010 does not discuss standby mode power measurements 
specifically, DOE finds that in concert with instructions to place the 
ballast in standby mode, ANSI C82.2-2010 is an appropriate basis for 
measurement. DOE will retain incorporation by reference of ANSI C82.2-
2010 in its standby mode test procedure at redesignated Appendix Q to 
subpart B of 10 CFR part 430.

C. Compliance and Certification

1. Laboratory Accreditation
    DOE has received feedback that the language in 10 CFR 430.25 is 
causing confusion. Specifically, there has been confusion over the role 
of the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP), 
other accrediting bodies, Underwriter's Laboratories (UL), and Council 
of Canada. In the January 2015 NOPR, DOE proposed to revise the text to 
read that testing ``must be conducted by test laboratories accredited 
by the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP) or 
by an accreditation body that has a mutual recognition agreement for 
which NVLAP is a signatory.'' 80 FR at 414. DOE received several 
comments regarding this clarification.
    The American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA) agreed 
with the clarifications made in 10 CFR 430.25 regarding the revisions 
to the laboratory accreditation language. A2LA recommended further 
simplifying the requirement by stating that testing could be conducted 
by test laboratories accredited by an Accreditation Body that is a 
signatory member to the International Laboratory Accreditation 
Cooperation (ILAC) mutual recognition arrangement (MRA) and removing 
the specific references to NVLAP. A2LA added that if there is concern 
regarding the use of additional laboratories or MRA[hyphen]signatory 
Accreditation Bodies, that DOE use a vetting process similar to that 
used to recognize Accreditation Bodies for the Lighting Facts program. 
(A2LA, No. 28 at p. 1)
    DOE agrees with A2LA's recommendation to consolidate the 
accreditation requirement by stating testing could be conducted by test 
laboratories accredited by an Accreditation Body that is a signatory 
member to the ILAC MRA. The statement simplifies the accreditation 
requirements while also maintaining the change to allow for testing at 
laboratories accredited by NVLAP as well as laboratories accredited by 
other organizations with equivalent functions as NVLAP. Therefore, DOE 
is adopting the requirement that testing ``must be conducted by test 
laboratories accredited by an Accreditation Body that is a signatory 
member to the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) 
Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA).''
    CSA Group (CSA) expressed support for the clarification that 
testing ``must be conducted by test laboratories accredited by the 
National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP) or by an 
accreditation body that has a mutual recognition agreement for which 
NVLAP is a signatory'' provided the clarification does not preclude the 
use of a NVLAP accredited lab's Supervised Manufacturer's Testing 
Laboratory (SMTL) Program or Witnessed Manufacturer's Testing 
Laboratory (WMTL) Program. CSA added that SMTL/WMTL Programs are used 
by manufacturers for third-party compliance of Canadian Energy 
Efficiency Regulations, California Energy Commission Regulations, and 
U.S. EPA ENERGY STAR[supreg] Specifications. (CSA, No. 29 at p. 1)
    For fluorescent lamp ballast certification testing, DOE does not 
currently allow the practice of testing by first party laboratories 
through witness testing programs. DOE found that witness testing 
programs, such as SMTL and WMTL programs, vary depending on the 
regulatory body. Further, DOE determined that the program requirements 
were not well-defined. Because the program requirements varied among 
regulatory bodies and were not always clearly defined, DOE believes 
that allowing for witness testing may produce results that are not 
consistent or repeatable. Therefore, DOE declines to add a provision 
permitting use of a witnessed or supervised testing program. All 
testing must be conducted at a laboratory accredited by an 
Accreditation Body that is a signatory member to the ILAC MRA, 
including manufacturer laboratories. Additionally, DOE is maintaining 
the existing clarification that states a manufacturer's or importer's 
own laboratory, if accredited, may conduct the applicable testing.
    NEMA proposed that the changes to the existing 10 CFR 430.25 read 
``must be conducted by test laboratories accredited by the National 
Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP), or by an Nationally 
Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL), or by an accreditation body that 
has a mutual recognition agreement for which

[[Page 31978]]

NVLAP is a signatory.'' (NEMA, No. 30 at p. 4)
    DOE considered whether NRTLs should be added to the laboratory 
accreditation requirements and found that the DOE test procedure at 
Appendix Q1 and the industry standards incorporated by reference in 
Appendix Q1 are not included in the list of test standards determined 
to be appropriate for use under the Occupational Safety and Health 
Administration's (OSHA) NRTL program. Because the laboratory 
accreditation requirements specified at 10 CFR 430.25 only apply to the 
DOE test procedure, DOE does not find it necessary to add NRTLs to the 
list of acceptable test laboratories.
    Additionally, DOE proposed in the January 2015 NOPR to remove the 
statement at 10 CFR 430.25 noting that testing for fluorescent lamp 
ballasts performed in accordance with the existing Appendix Q is not 
required to be conducted by test laboratories accredited by NVLAP or an 
accrediting organization recognized by NVLAP. 80 FR at 414. The NOPR 
reasoned that, because DOE proposed to remove the BEF test procedure at 
existing Appendix Q and replace it with the BLE test procedure from 
existing Appendix Q1, this statement is also no longer relevant. 80 FR 
at 408. DOE received no comment in response to these additional 
proposed text changes to 10 CFR 430.25 in the January 2015 NOPR. Based 
on the reasons presented above, DOE is adopting these changes in this 
final rule.
    Finally, DOE proposed in the January 2015 NOPR to remove statements 
at 10 CFR 430.25 indicating the relevant Appendix for testing specific 
lighting products. 80 FR at 414. The NOPR explained that DOE proposed 
to remove these unnecessary statements so that 10 CFR 430.25 is focused 
solely on laboratory accreditation. 80 FR at 408.
    NEMA commented that these proposed changes are too far reaching, 
and suggested that DOE limit the change to passages pertaining only to 
fluorescent ballasts. (NEMA, No. 30 at p. 4) DOE is not certain what 
NEMA intended by its comment that the proposed changes are too far 
reaching, given that the other proposed changes to 430.25 were to 
remove obsolete and/or redundant provisions. Therefore, to provide 
clarity and simplify the text of 10 CFR 430.25, DOE is removing all 
statements indicating the relevant Appendix for testing specific 
lighting products, not just for fluorescent lamp ballasts.
2. Evaluating Compliance With Standards
    Manufacturers must evaluate compliance with BLE standards according 
to 10 CFR 429.26. As prescribed at 10 CFR 429.26(a)(2), for each basic 
model of fluorescent lamp ballast, a minimum of four units must be 
randomly selected and tested using redesignated Appendix Q. The 
manufacturer must then evaluate compliance with the standard by 
comparing the mean from testing and the lower 99 percent confidence 
limit (LCL) of the true mean divided by 0.99. The mean of the sample is 
computed using the equation at section 429.26(a)(2)(ii)(A), and the 
equation to evaluate the LCL is found at section 429.26(a)(2)(ii)(B). 
The following is an example calculation for evaluating compliance with 
BLE standards.
    Table III.4 presents example test data used to evaluate compliance 
with standards for a fluorescent lamp ballast designed and marketed for 
operation of a maximum of two F96T8 lamps.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05JN15.015

    The example ballast is a universal voltage, high frequency ballast 
designed to operate 8-foot slimline lamps and is intended for use in 
non-residential applications. Four units of the basic model are tested 
using the test procedure at redesignated Appendix Q. Each unit is 
tested while operating two 59 W F96T8 lamps, and the resulting 
measurements are shown in Table III.4. The required calculations are 
performed for each ballast and include computing the BLE and power 
factor. To calculate the BLE of unit 1, Equation 1 is utilized.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05JN15.016

Where:

Total Lamp Arc Power = sum of the lamp arc powers for all lamps 
operated by the ballast (as determined by section 2.5.1.5 of amended 
Appendix Q),

Input Power = measured input power to the ballast (as determined by 
section 2.5.1.6 of amended Appendix Q), and
[beta] = frequency adjustment factor (Table A of amended Appendix 
Q).

    Equation 2 shows the calculation for BLE using the data from Table 
III.4 for unit 1.

[[Page 31979]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05JN15.017

    The power factor is also calculated for unit 1 using Equation 3.
    [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05JN15.018
    
    Equation 4 shows the calculation for power factor using the data 
from Table III.4 for unit 1.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05JN15.019

    The same process is repeated for each of the three remaining 
ballast units. The resulting BLE and power factor values are shown in 
Table III.4.
    To determine the minimum BLE that a basic model must meet or exceed 
to be compliant with standards, manufacturers must average the total 
lamp arc power of the units and input the average into the appropriate 
energy conservation standard efficiency level. The reported BLE for 
each basic model must meet or exceed the output of Equation 5. For 
instant start ballasts that are designed to operate 8-foot slimline 
lamps, A = 0.993; B = 0.27; and C = 0.25.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05JN15.020

Where:

power = average total lamp arc power.

    The total lamp arc power is calculated using the data from Table 
III.4 for each of the tested ballasts as shown in Equation 6 for Unit 
1. The average total lamp arc power of the sample is then calculated as 
shown in Equation 7. Equation 8 uses the resulting average total lamp 
arc power to calculate the BLE standard.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05JN15.021

    Next, as stated previously, manufacturers must follow the 
provisions laid out in section 429.26 to certify for compliance. The 
mean BLE of the sample is calculated using Equation 9.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05JN15.022

Where:

x = sample mean,
n = number of samples, and
xi = ith sample.

    The mean BLE calculation using the data from Table III.4 is shown 
in Equation 10.

[[Page 31980]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05JN15.023

    The lower 99 percent confidence limit of the true mean is 
calculated using Equation 11.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05JN15.024

Where:

x = sample mean,
s = sample standard deviation,
n = number of samples, and
t0.99 = t statistic for a 99% one-tailed confidence 
interval with n-1 degrees of freedom.

    Equation 12 and Equation 13 show calculations for LCL and LCL 
divided by 0.99, respectively, using the test data from Table III.4.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05JN15.025

    Manufacturers may report that products perform within a range of 
values constrained by the standard and the statistical value based on 
test data. The standard serves as the minimum allowable BLE, and the 
lower of the mean BLE or LCL of the true mean divided by 0.99 serves as 
the maximum allowable BLE value reported for compliance. In this 
example, the mean is 0.928, and the LCL/0.99 is 0.936. Therefore, in 
this example, the minimum allowable BLE reported for compliance is the 
standard of 0.919, and the maximum BLE allowable to be reported is 
0.928. No additional tolerances are provided when determining BLE.
3. Compliance Date for This Final Rule
    Compliance with existing standards has been required since the 
dates discussed in section III.A. The amendments in this rulemaking 
will be effective 30 days following publication of this final rule. 
Consistent with 42 U.S.C. 6293(c), any representations of energy 
efficiency or energy use will be required to be based on the amended 
test procedure no later than 180 days after the publication of the 
final rule in the Federal Register.
4. Compliance Certification Management System
    DOE did not discuss the contents of the DOE's Compliance 
Certification Management System (CCMS) in the January 2015 NOPR. 
However, DOE received a comment from NEMA stating that the template for 
submitting products to the DOE's CCMS includes categories no longer in 
use now that compliance is required with the energy conservation 
standards adopted in the November 2011 standards final rule. NEMA 
commented that DOE should remove the outdated categories. (NEMA, No. 30 
at p. 6) DOE will remove the categories corresponding to outdated 
energy conservation standards in a future revision of the certification 
template.

IV. Procedural Issues and Regulatory Review

A. Review Under Executive Order 12866

    The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has determined that test 
procedure rulemakings do not constitute ``significant regulatory 
actions'' under section 3(f) of Executive Order 12866, Regulatory 
Planning and Review, 58 FR 51735 (Oct. 4, 1993). Accordingly, this 
action was not subject to review under the Executive Order by the 
Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) in the Office of 
Management and Budget.

B. Review Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.) requires 
preparation of an initial regulatory flexibility analysis (IFRA) for 
any rule that by law must be proposed for public comment, unless the 
agency certifies that the rule, if promulgated, will not have a 
significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. 
As required by Executive Order 13272, ``Proper Consideration of Small 
Entities in Agency Rulemaking,'' 67 FR 53461 (August 16, 2002), DOE 
published procedures and policies on February 19, 2003, to ensure that 
the potential impacts of its rules on small entities are properly 
considered during the DOE rulemaking process. 68 FR 7990. DOE has made 
its procedures and policies available on the Office of the General 
Counsel's Web site: http://energy.gov/gc/office-general-counsel.
    This rulemaking clarifies existing requirements for testing and 
compliance with standards and does not change the burden associated 
with fluorescent lamp ballast regulations on any entity large or small. 
Therefore, DOE concludes and certifies that this rulemaking does not 
have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small 
entities.

[[Page 31981]]

    Accordingly, DOE has not prepared a regulatory flexibility analysis 
for this rulemaking. DOE's certification and supporting statement of 
factual basis will be provided to the Chief Counsel for Advocacy of the 
SBA \11\ for review under 5 U.S.C. 605(b). DOE certifies that this rule 
has no significant impact on a substantial number of small entities.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \11\ Small Business Administration.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

C. Review Under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995

    Manufacturers of fluorescent lamp ballasts must certify to DOE that 
their products comply with any applicable energy conservation 
standards. In certifying compliance, manufacturers must test their 
products according to the DOE test procedures for fluorescent lamp 
ballasts, including any amendments adopted for those test procedures. 
DOE has established regulations for the certification and recordkeeping 
requirements for all covered consumer products and commercial 
equipment, including fluorescent lamp ballasts. 76 FR 12422 (March 7, 
2011). The collection-of-information requirement for the certification 
and recordkeeping is subject to review and approval by OMB under the 
Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA).
    DOE requested OMB approval of an extension of this information 
collection for three years, specifically including the collection of 
information proposed in the present rulemaking, and estimated that the 
annual number of burden hours under this extension is 30 hours per 
company. In response to DOE's request, OMB approved DOE's information 
collection requirements covered under OMB control number 1910-1400 
through November 30, 2017. 80 FR 5099 (January 30, 2015).
    Notwithstanding any other provision of the law, no person is 
required to respond to, nor shall any person be subject to a penalty 
for failure to comply with, a collection of information subject to the 
requirements of the PRA, unless that collection of information displays 
a currently valid OMB Control Number.

D. Review Under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969

    In this final rule, DOE amends its test procedures for fluorescent 
lamp ballasts. DOE has determined that this rule falls into a class of 
actions that are categorically excluded from review under the National 
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) and DOE's 
implementing regulations at 10 CFR part 1021. Specifically, this final 
rule would clarify the existing energy conservation standards and test 
procedures without affecting the amount, quality or distribution of 
energy usage, and, therefore, would not result in any environmental 
impacts. Thus, this rulemaking is covered by Categorical Exclusion A5 
under 10 CFR part 1021, subpart D, which applies to any rulemaking that 
interprets or amends an existing rule without changing the 
environmental effect of that rule. Accordingly, neither an 
environmental assessment nor an environmental impact statement is 
required.

E. Review Under Executive Order 13132

    Executive Order 13132, ``Federalism,'' 64 FR 43255 (August 4, 1999) 
imposes certain requirements on agencies formulating and implementing 
policies or regulations that preempt State law or that have Federalism 
implications. The Executive Order requires agencies to examine the 
constitutional and statutory authority supporting any action that would 
limit the policymaking discretion of the States and to carefully assess 
the necessity for such actions. The Executive Order also requires 
agencies to have an accountable process to ensure meaningful and timely 
input by State and local officials in the development of regulatory 
policies that have Federalism implications. On March 14, 2000, DOE 
published a statement of policy describing the intergovernmental 
consultation process it will follow in the development of such 
regulations. 65 FR 13735. DOE examined this final rule and determined 
that it would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on 
the relationship between the national government and the States, or on 
the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels 
of government. EPCA governs and prescribes Federal preemption of State 
regulations as to energy conservation for the products that are the 
subject of today's final rule. States can petition DOE for exemption 
from such preemption to the extent, and based on criteria, set forth in 
EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6297(d)) No further action is required by Executive 
Order 13132.

F. Review Under Executive Order 12988

    Regarding the review of existing regulations and the promulgation 
of new regulations, section 3(a) of Executive Order 12988, ``Civil 
Justice Reform,'' 61 FR 4729 (Feb. 7, 1996), imposes on Federal 
agencies the general duty to adhere to the following requirements: (1) 
Eliminate drafting errors and ambiguity; (2) write regulations to 
minimize litigation; (3) provide a clear legal standard for affected 
conduct rather than a general standard; and (4) promote simplification 
and burden reduction. Section 3(b) of Executive Order 12988 
specifically requires that Executive agencies make every reasonable 
effort to ensure that the regulation: (1) Clearly specifies the 
preemptive effect, if any; (2) clearly specifies any effect on existing 
Federal law or regulation; (3) provides a clear legal standard for 
affected conduct while promoting simplification and burden reduction; 
(4) specifies the retroactive effect, if any; (5) adequately defines 
key terms; and (6) addresses other important issues affecting clarity 
and general draftsmanship under any guidelines issued by the Attorney 
General. Section 3(c) of Executive Order 12988 requires Executive 
agencies to review regulations in light of applicable standards in 
sections 3(a) and 3(b) to determine whether they are met or it is 
unreasonable to meet one or more of them. DOE has completed the 
required review and determined that, to the extent permitted by law, 
the final rule meets the relevant standards of Executive Order 12988.

G. Review Under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995

    Title II of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (UMRA) 
requires each Federal agency to assess the effects of Federal 
regulatory actions on State, local, and Tribal governments and the 
private sector. Public Law 104-4, sec. 201 (codified at 2 U.S.C. 1531). 
For a proposed regulatory action likely to result in a rule that may 
cause the expenditure by State, local, and Tribal governments, in the 
aggregate, or by the private sector of $100 million or more in any one 
year (adjusted annually for inflation), section 202 of UMRA requires a 
Federal agency to publish a written statement that estimates the 
resulting costs, benefits, and other effects on the national economy. 
(2 U.S.C. 1532(a), (b)) The UMRA also requires a Federal agency to 
develop an effective process to permit timely input by elected officers 
of State, local, and Tribal governments on a proposed ``significant 
intergovernmental mandate,'' and requires an agency plan for giving 
notice and opportunity for timely input to potentially affected small 
governments before establishing any requirements that might 
significantly or uniquely affect small governments. On March 18, 1997, 
DOE published a statement of policy on its process for 
intergovernmental consultation under UMRA. 62 FR 12820; also available 
at http://energy.gov/gc/office-general-counsel. DOE examined this final 
rule

[[Page 31982]]

according to UMRA and its statement of policy and determined that the 
rule contains neither an intergovernmental mandate, nor a mandate that 
may result in the expenditure of $100 million or more in any year, so 
these requirements do not apply.

H. Review Under the Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act, 
1999

    Section 654 of the Treasury and General Government Appropriations 
Act, 1999 (Pub. L. 105-277) requires Federal agencies to issue a Family 
Policymaking Assessment for any rule that may affect family well-being. 
This rule would not have any impact on the autonomy or integrity of the 
family as an institution. Accordingly, DOE has concluded that it is not 
necessary to prepare a Family Policymaking Assessment.

I. Review Under Executive Order 12630

    DOE has determined, under Executive Order 12630, ``Governmental 
Actions and Interference with Constitutionally Protected Property 
Rights'' 53 FR 8859 (March 18, 1988), that this regulation would not 
result in any takings that might require compensation under the Fifth 
Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

J. Review Under Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act, 
2001

    Section 515 of the Treasury and General Government Appropriations 
Act, 2001 (44 U.S.C. 3516 note) provides for agencies to review most 
disseminations of information to the public under guidelines 
established by each agency pursuant to general guidelines issued by 
OMB. OMB's guidelines were published at 67 FR 8452 (Feb. 22, 2002), and 
DOE's guidelines were published at 67 FR 62446 (Oct. 7, 2002). DOE has 
reviewed this final rule under the OMB and DOE guidelines and has 
concluded that it is consistent with applicable policies in those 
guidelines.

K. Review Under Executive Order 13211

    Executive Order 13211, ``Actions Concerning Regulations That 
Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use,'' 66 FR 28355 
(May 22, 2001), requires Federal agencies to prepare and submit to OMB, 
a Statement of Energy Effects for any proposed significant energy 
action. A ``significant energy action'' is defined as any action by an 
agency that promulgated or is expected to lead to promulgation of a 
final rule, and that: (1) Is a significant regulatory action under 
Executive Order 12866, or any successor order; and (2) is likely to 
have a significant adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use 
of energy; or (3) is designated by the Administrator of OIRA as a 
significant energy action. For any significant energy action, the 
agency must give a detailed statement of any adverse effects on energy 
supply, distribution, or use if the regulation is implemented, and of 
reasonable alternatives to the action and their expected benefits on 
energy supply, distribution, and use.
    This regulatory action to clarify the energy conservation standards 
and test procedures for measuring the energy efficiency of fluorescent 
lamp ballasts is not a significant regulatory action under Executive 
Order 12866. Moreover, it would not have a significant adverse effect 
on the supply, distribution, or use of energy, nor has it been 
designated as a significant energy action by the Administrator of OIRA. 
Therefore, it is not a significant energy action, and, accordingly, DOE 
has not prepared a Statement of Energy Effects.

L. Review Under Section 32 of the Federal Energy Administration Act of 
1974

    Under section 301 of the Department of Energy Organization Act 
(Pub. L. 95-91; 42 U.S.C. 7101), DOE must comply with section 32 of the 
Federal Energy Administration Act of 1974, as amended by the Federal 
Energy Administration Authorization Act of 1977. (15 U.S.C. 788; FEAA) 
Section 32 essentially provides in relevant part that, where a proposed 
rule authorizes or requires use of commercial standards, the final rule 
must inform the public of the use and background of such standards. In 
addition, section 32(c) requires DOE to consult with the Attorney 
General and the Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) 
concerning the impact of the commercial or industry standards on 
competition. This final rule does not revise the existing incorporation 
of industry standards regarding fluorescent lamp ballasts. Therefore, 
DOE concludes that the requirements of section 32(b) of the FEAA, 
(i.e., that the standards were developed in a manner that fully 
provides for public participation, comment, and review) do not apply to 
this rulemaking.

M. Congressional Notification

    As required by 5 U.S.C. 801, DOE will report to Congress on the 
promulgation of this rule before its effective date. The report will 
state that it has been determined that the rule is not a ``major rule'' 
as defined by 5 U.S.C. 804(2).

V. Approval of the Office of the Secretary

    The Secretary of Energy has approved publication of this final 
rule.

List of Subjects in 10 CFR Part 430

    Administrative practice and procedure, Confidential business 
information, Energy conservation, Household appliances, Imports, 
Incorporation by reference, Intergovernmental relations, Small 
businesses.

    Issued in Washington, DC, on May 29, 2015.
Kathleen B. Hogan,
Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency, Energy Efficiency and 
Renewable Energy.

    For the reasons stated in the preamble, DOE is amending part 430 of 
Chapter II of Title 10, Code of Federal Regulations as set forth below:

PART 430--ENERGY CONSERVATION PROGRAM FOR CONSUMER PRODUCTS

0
1. The authority citation for part 430 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  42 U.S.C. 6291-6309; 28 U.S.C. 2461 note.


0
2. Section 430.2 is amended by revising the definition of ``ballast 
luminous efficiency'' to read as follows:


Sec.  430.2  Definitions.

* * * * *
    Ballast luminous efficiency means the total fluorescent lamp arc 
power divided by the fluorescent lamp ballast input power multiplied by 
the appropriate frequency adjustment factor, as defined in appendix Q 
of subpart B of this part.
* * * * *


Sec.  430.3  [Amended]

0
3. Section 430.3 is amended by:
0
a. Removing ``appendix Q1'' in paragraphs (d)(5), (6), and (13); and
0
b. Removing ``and appendix Q1'' in paragraphs (d)(11), (12), (14), and 
(15).


Sec.  430.23  [Amended]

0
4. Section 430.23 is amended by removing ``appendix Q1'' and adding in 
its place, ``appendix Q'' in paragraphs (q)(1)(i), (q)(2), and 
(q)(3)(iii).

0
5. Section 430.25 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  430.25  Laboratory Accreditation Program.

    The testing for general service fluorescent lamps, general service 
incandescent lamps (with the exception of lifetime testing), 
incandescent

[[Page 31983]]

reflector lamps, medium base compact fluorescent lamps, and fluorescent 
lamp ballasts must be conducted by test laboratories accredited by an 
Accreditation Body that is a signatory member to the International 
Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) Mutual Recognition 
Arrangement (MRA). A manufacturer's or importer's own laboratory, if 
accredited, may conduct the applicable testing.

Appendix Q to Subpart B of Part 430 [Removed]

0
6. Appendix Q to subpart B of part 430 is removed.

Appendix Q1 to Subpart B of Part 430 [Redesignated as Appendix Q to 
Subpart B of Part 430]

0
7. Appendix Q1 to subpart B of part 430 is redesignated as appendix Q 
to subpart B of part 430 and revised to read as follows:

Appendix Q to Subpart B of Part 430--Uniform Test Method for Measuring 
the Energy Consumption of Fluorescent Lamp Ballasts

1. Definitions

    1.1. AC control signal means an alternating current (AC) signal 
that is supplied to the ballast using additional wiring for the 
purpose of controlling the ballast and putting the ballast in 
standby mode.
    1.2. Average total lamp arc power means the average of the total 
lamp arc power (as defined and measured in section 2.6.1) of the 
ballast units tested.
    1.3. Cathode heating refers to power delivered to the lamp by 
the ballast for the purpose of raising the temperature of the lamp 
electrode or filament.
    1.4. DC control signal means a direct current (DC) signal that 
is supplied to the ballast using additional wiring for the purpose 
of controlling the ballast and putting the ballast in standby mode.
    1.5. Dimming ballast means a ballast that is designed to vary 
its output and that can achieve an output less than or equal to 50 
percent of its maximum electrical output.
    1.6. F34T12 lamp (also known as a ``F40T12/ES lamp'') means a 
nominal 34 watt tubular fluorescent lamp that is 48 inches in length 
and one and a half inches in diameter, and conforms to ANSI C78.81 
(Data Sheet 7881-ANSI-1006-1) (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  
430.3).
    1.7. F96T12/ES lamp means a nominal 60 watt tubular fluorescent 
lamp that is 96 inches in length and one and a half inches in 
diameter, and conforms to ANSI C78.81 (Data Sheet 7881-ANSI-3006-1) 
(incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3).
    1.8. F96T12HO/ES lamp means a nominal 95 watt tubular 
fluorescent lamp that is 96 inches in length and one and a half 
inches in diameter, and conforms to ANSI C78.81 (Data Sheet 7881-
ANSI-1017-1) (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3).
    1.9. High-frequency ballast is as defined in ANSI C82.13 
(incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3).
    1.10. Instant-start is the starting method used in instant-start 
systems as defined in ANSI C82.13 (incorporated by reference; see 
Sec.  430.3).
    1.11. Low-frequency ballast is a fluorescent lamp ballast that 
operates at a supply frequency of 50 to 60 Hz and operates the lamp 
at the same frequency as the supply.
    1.12. PLC control signal means a power line carrier (PLC) signal 
that is supplied to the ballast using the input ballast wiring for 
the purpose of controlling the ballast and putting the ballast in 
standby mode.
    1.13. Programmed-start is the starting method used in 
programmed-start systems as defined in ANSI C82.13 (incorporated by 
reference; see Sec.  430.3).
    1.14. Rapid-start is the starting method used in rapid-start 
type systems as defined in ANSI C82.13 (incorporated by reference; 
see Sec.  430.3).
    1.15. Reference lamp is a fluorescent lamp that meets certain 
operating conditions as defined by ANSI C82.13 (incorporated by 
reference; see Sec.  430.3).
    1.16. Residential ballast means a fluorescent lamp ballast that 
meets FCC consumer limits as set forth in 47 CFR part 18 and is 
designed and marketed for use only in residential applications.
    1.17. RMS is the root mean square of a varying quantity.
    1.18. Sign ballast means a ballast that has an Underwriters 
Laboratories Inc. Type 2 rating and is designed and marketed for use 
only in outdoor signs.
    1.19. Wireless control signal means a wireless signal that is 
radiated to and received by the ballast for the purpose of 
controlling the ballast and putting the ballast in standby mode.

2. Active Mode Procedure

    2.1. Where ANSI C82.2 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  
430.3) references ANSI C82.1-1997, the operator must use ANSI C82.1 
(incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3) for testing low-
frequency ballasts and must use ANSI C82.11 (incorporated by 
reference; see Sec.  430.3) for testing high-frequency ballasts. In 
addition when applying ANSI C82.2, the standards ANSI C78.81, ANSI 
C82.1, ANSI C82.11, and ANSI C82.13 must be used instead of the 
versions listed as normative references in ANSI C82.2.
    2.2. Instruments
    2.2.1. All instruments must be as specified by ANSI C82.2 
(incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3).
    2.2.2. Power Analyzer. In addition to the specifications in ANSI 
C82.2 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3), the power 
analyzer must have a maximum 100 pF capacitance to ground and 
frequency response between 40 Hz and 1 MHz.
    2.2.3. Current Probe. In addition to the specifications in ANSI 
C82.2 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3), the current 
probe must be galvanically isolated and have frequency response 
between 40 Hz and 20 MHz.

2.3. Test Setup

    2.3.1. The ballast must be connected to a main power source and 
to the fluorescent lamp load according to the manufacturer's wiring 
instructions and ANSI C82.1 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  
430.3) and ANSI C78.81 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3).
    2.3.1.1. Wire lengths between the ballast and fluorescent lamp 
must be the length provided by the ballast manufacturer. Wires must 
be kept loose and not shortened or bundled.
    2.3.1.2. If the wire lengths supplied with the ballast are of 
insufficient length to reach both ends of lamp, additional wire may 
be added. Add the minimum additional wire length necessary, and the 
additional wire must be the same wire gauge as the wire supplied 
with the ballast. If no wiring is provided with the ballast, 18 
gauge or thicker wire must be used. The wires must be separated from 
each other and grounded to prevent parasitic capacitance for all 
wires used in the apparatus, including those wires from the ballast 
to the lamps and from the lamps to the measuring devices.
    2.3.1.3. The fluorescent lamp must meet the specifications of a 
reference lamp as defined by ANSI C82.13 (incorporated by reference; 
see Sec.  430.3) and be seasoned at least 12 hours.
    2.3.1.4. The ballast must be connected to the number of lamps 
equal to the maximum number of lamps the ballast is designed and 
marketed to operate.
    2.3.1.5. Ballasts designed and marketed to operate both 4-foot 
medium bipin lamps and 2-foot U-shaped lamps must be tested with 4-
foot medium bipin lamps.
    2.3.1.6. With the exception of sign ballasts (described in 
section 2.3.1.7 and its subsections), ballasts designed and marketed 
to operate both T8 and T12 lamps must be tested with T8 lamps.
    2.3.1.7. For sign ballasts (as defined in section 1.18):
    2.3.1.7.1. Use a T8 lamp as specified in Table A of this section 
for sign ballasts that are designed and marketed to operate only T8 
lamps.
    2.3.1.7.2. Use a T12 lamp as specified in Table A of this 
section for sign ballasts that are designed and marketed to operate 
only T12 lamps.
    2.3.1.7.3. Use a T12 lamp as specified in Table A of this 
section for sign ballasts that are designed and marketed to operate 
both T8 and T12 lamps.
    2.3.1.8. Test each ballast with the lamp type specified in Table 
A of this section that corresponds to the lamp diameter the ballast 
is designed and marketed to operate. Test each ballast with only one 
lamp type.

[[Page 31984]]



                       Table A--Lamp-and-Ballast Pairings and Frequency Adjustment Factors
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                 Lamp type                        Frequency adjustment factor
                              -----------------------------------------------              ([beta])
         Ballast type                                         Nominal lamp   -----------------------------------
                                  Lamp diameter and base         wattage        Low frequency    High frequency
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ballasts that operate          T8 MBP.....................                32              0.94               1.0
 straight-shaped lamps         T12 MBP....................                34              0.93               1.0
 (commonly referred to as 4-
 foot medium bipin lamps)
 with medium bipin bases and
 a nominal overall length of
 48 inches.
Ballasts that operate U-       T8 MBP.....................                32              0.94               1.0
 shaped lamps (commonly        T12 MBP....................                34              0.93               1.0
 referred to as 2-foot U-
 shaped lamps) with medium
 bipin bases and a nominal
 overall length between 22
 and 25 inches.
Ballasts that operate rapid-   T8 HO RDC..................                86              0.92               1.0
 start lamps (commonly         T12 HO RDC.................                95              0.94               1.0
 referred to as 8-foot-high
 output lamps) with recessed
 double contact bases and a
 nominal overall length of 96
 inches.
Ballasts that operate instant- T8 slimline SP.............                59              0.95               1.0
 start lamps (commonly         T12 slimline SP............                60              0.94               1.0
 referred to as 8-foot
 slimline lamps) with single
 pin bases and a nominal
 overall length of 96 inches.
Ballasts that operate          T5 SO Mini-BP..............                28              0.95               1.0
 straight-shaped lamps
 (commonly referred to as 4-
 foot miniature bipin
 standard output lamps) with
 miniature bipin bases and a
 nominal length between 45
 and 48 inches.
Ballasts that operate          T5 HO Mini-BP..............                54              0.95               1.0
 straight-shaped lamps
 (commonly referred to as 4-
 foot miniature bipin high
 output lamps) with miniature
 bipin bases and a nominal
 length between 45 and 48
 inches.
Sign ballasts that operate     T8 HO RDC..................                86              0.92               1.0
 rapid-start lamps (commonly   T12 HO RDC.................             * 110              0.94               1.0
 referred to as 8-foot high
 output lamps) with recessed
 double contact bases and a
 nominal overall length of 96
 inches.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MBP, Mini-BP, RDC, and SP represent medium bipin, miniature bipin, recessed double contact, and single pin,
  respectively.
A ballast must be tested with only one lamp type based on the ballast type description and lamp diameter it is
  designed and marketed to operate.
* Lamp type is commonly marketed as 110 W, however ANSI C78.81 Data Sheet lists nominal wattage of 113 W.

2.3.2. Power Analyzer

    2.3.2.1. The power analyzer test setup must have n+1 channels 
where n is the number of lamps a ballast operates. Use the minimum 
number of power analyzers possible during testing. A system may be 
used to synchronize the power analyzers, and all power analyzers 
must be synchronized in time.
    2.3.2.2. Lamp Arc Voltage. Leads from the power analyzer should 
attach to each fluorescent lamp according to Figure 1 of this 
section for rapid- and programmed-start ballasts, Figure 2 of this 
section for instant-start ballasts operating single pin (SP) lamps, 
and Figure 3 of this section for instant-start ballasts operating 
medium bipin (MBP), miniature bipin (mini-BP), or recessed double 
contact (RDC) lamps. The programmed- and rapid-start ballast test 
setup includes two 1000 ohm resistors placed in parallel with the 
lamp pins to create a midpoint from which to measure lamp arc 
voltage.
    2.3.2.3. Lamp Arc Current. A current probe must be positioned on 
each fluorescent lamp according to Figure 1 for rapid- and 
programmed-start ballasts, Figure 2 of this section for instant-
start ballasts operating SP lamps, and Figure 3 of this section for 
instant-start ballasts operating MBP, mini-BP, and RDC lamps.
    2.3.2.3.1. For the lamp arc current measurement, the full 
transducer ratio must be set in the power analyzer to match the 
current probe to the power analyzer.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05JN15.026

Where: Iin is the current through the current transducer, 
Vout is the voltage out of the transducer, Rin 
is the power analyzer impedance, and Rs is the current 
probe output impedance.

BILLING CODE 6450-01-P

[[Page 31985]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05JN15.027

BILLING CODE 6450-01-C

2.4. Test Conditions

    2.4.1. The test conditions for testing fluorescent lamp ballasts 
must be done in accordance with ANSI C82.2 (incorporated by 
reference; see Sec.  430.3). DOE further specifies that the 
following revisions of the normative references indicated in ANSI 
C82.2 should be used in place of the references directly specified 
in ANSI C82.2: ANSI C78.81 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  
430.3), ANSI C82.1 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3), 
ANSI C82.3 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3), ANSI C82.11 
(incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3), and ANSI C82.13 
(incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3). All other normative 
references must be as specified in ANSI C82.2.
    2.4.2. Room Temperature and Air Circulation. The test facility 
must be held at 25 2 [deg]C, with minimal air movement 
as defined in ANSI C78.375 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  
430.3).
    2.4.3. Input Voltage. Disregard the directions in ANSI C82.2 
(incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3) section 4.1, and use 
the following directions for input voltage instead. For ballasts 
designed and marketed for operation at multiple voltages that are 
not residential ballasts, test the ballast at 277V 0.1%. 
For residential ballasts designed and marketed for operation at 
multiple voltages, test the ballast at 120V 0.1%. For 
sign ballasts designed and marketed for operation at multiple 
voltages, test the ballast at 120V 0.1%. Ballasts 
designed and marketed for operation at only one input voltage must 
be tested at that specified voltage.

2.5. Test Method

    2.5.1. Ballast Luminous Efficiency.
    2.5.1.1. The ballast must be connected to the appropriate 
fluorescent lamps and to measurement instrumentation as indicated by 
the Test Setup in section 2.3.
    2.5.1.2. The ballast must be operated at full output for at 
least 15 minutes but no longer than 1 hour until stable operating 
conditions are reached. Once this condition is reached, and with the 
ballast continuing to operate at full output, measure each of the 
parameters described in sections 2.5.1.3 through 2.5.1.9 
concurrently.
    2.5.1.2.1. Stable operating conditions are determined by 
measuring lamp arc voltage, current, and power once per second in

[[Page 31986]]

accordance with the setup described in section 2.3. Once the 
difference between the maximum and minimum values for lamp arc 
voltage, current, and power do not exceed one percent over a four 
minute moving window, the system is considered stable.
    2.5.1.3. Lamp Arc Voltage. Measure lamp arc voltage (volts) 
using the setup described in section 2.3.2.2.
    2.5.1.4. Lamp Arc Current. Measure lamp arc current (amps) using 
the setup described in section 2.3.2.3.
    2.5.1.5. Lamp Arc Power. The power analyzer must calculate 
output power by using the measurements described in sections 2.5.1.3 
and 2.5.1.4.
    2.5.1.6. Input Power. Measure the input power (watts) to the 
ballast in accordance with ANSI C82.2 (incorporated by reference; 
see Sec.  430.3), section 7.
    2.5.1.7. Input Voltage. Measure the input voltage (volts) (RMS) 
to the ballast in accordance with ANSI C82.2 (incorporated by 
reference; see Sec.  430.3), section 3.2.1 and section 4.
    2.5.1.8. Input Current. Measure the input current (amps) (RMS) 
to the ballast in accordance with ANSI C82.2 (incorporated by 
reference; see Sec.  430.3), section 3.2.1 and section 4.
    2.5.1.9. Lamp Operating Frequency. Measure the frequency of the 
waveform delivered from the ballast to any lamp in accordance with 
the setup in section 2.3.

2.6. Calculations

    2.6.1. Calculate ballast luminous efficiency (BLE).
    [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05JN15.028
    
Where: Total Lamp Arc Power is the sum of the lamp arc powers for 
all lamps operated by the ballast as determined by section 2.5.1.5, 
Input Power is as determined by section 2.5.1.6, and [beta] is equal 
to the frequency adjustment factor in Table A.

    2.6.2. Calculate Power Factor (PF).
    [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05JN15.029
    
Where: Input Power is determined in accordance with section 2.5.1.6, 
Input Voltage is determined in accordance with section 2.5.1.7, and 
Input Current is determined in accordance with section 2.5.1.8.

3. Standby Mode Procedure

    3.1. The measurement of standby mode power need not be performed 
to determine compliance with energy conservation standards for 
fluorescent lamp ballasts at this time. On or after December 2, 
2015, if a manufacturer makes any representations with respect to 
the standby mode power use of fluorescent lamp ballasts, then 
testing must also include the provisions of this test procedure 
related to standby mode energy consumption.

3.2. Test Conditions

    3.2.1. The test conditions for testing fluorescent lamp ballasts 
must be established in accordance with ANSI C82.2 (incorporated by 
reference; see Sec.  430.3). The test conditions for measuring 
standby power are described in sections 5, 7, and 8 of ANSI C82.2. 
Fluorescent lamp ballasts that are designed and marketed for 
connection to control devices must be tested with all commercially 
available compatible control devices connected in all possible 
configurations. For each configuration, a separate measurement of 
standby power must be made in accordance with section 3.3 of the 
test procedure.

3.3. Test Method and Measurements

    3.3.1. The test for measuring standby mode energy consumption of 
fluorescent lamp ballasts must be done in accordance with ANSI C82.2 
(incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3).
    3.3.2. Send a signal to the ballast instructing it to have zero 
light output using the appropriate ballast communication protocol or 
system for the ballast being tested.
    3.3.3. Input Power. Measure the input power (watts) to the 
ballast in accordance with ANSI C82.2, section 13, (incorporated by 
reference; see Sec.  430.3).
    3.3.4. Control Signal Power. The power from the control signal 
path must be measured using all applicable methods described below.
    3.3.4.1. AC Control Signal. Measure the AC control signal power 
(watts), using a wattmeter (W), connected to the ballast in 
accordance with the circuit shown in Figure 4 of this section.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05JN15.030

    3.3.4.2. DC Control Signal. Measure the DC control signal 
voltage, using a voltmeter (V), and current, using an ammeter (A), 
connected to the ballast in accordance with the circuit shown in 
Figure 5 of this section. The DC control signal power is calculated 
by multiplying the DC control signal voltage and the DC control 
signal current.

[[Page 31987]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05JN15.031

    3.3.4.3. Power Line Carrier (PLC) Control Signal. Measure the 
PLC control signal power (watts) using a wattmeter (W) connected to 
the ballast in accordance with the circuit shown in Figure 6 of this 
section. The wattmeter must have a frequency response that is at 
least 10 times higher than the PLC being measured in order to 
measure the PLC signal correctly. The wattmeter must also be high-
pass filtered to filter out power at 60 Hertz.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05JN15.032

    3.3.4.4. Wireless Control Signal. The power supplied to a 
ballast using a wireless signal is not easily measured but is 
estimated to be well below 1.0 watt. Therefore, the wireless control 
signal power is not measured as part of this test procedure.


0
8. Section 430.32 is amended by revising paragraph (m) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  430.32  Energy and water conservation standards and their 
compliance dates.

* * * * *
    (m) Fluorescent lamp ballasts--(1) Standards for fluorescent lamp 
ballasts (other than dimming ballasts). Except as provided in 
paragraphs (m)(2) and (3) of this section, each fluorescent lamp 
ballast manufactured on or after November 14, 2014,
    (i) Designed and marketed--
    (A) To operate at nominal input voltages at or between 120 and 277 
volts;
    (B) To operate with an input current frequency of 60 Hertz; and
    (C) For use in connection with fluorescent lamps (as defined in 
Sec.  430.2)
    (ii) Must have--
    (A) A power factor of:
    (1) 0.9 or greater for ballasts that are not residential ballasts; 
or
    (2) 0.5 or greater for residential ballasts; and
    (B) A ballast luminous efficiency not less than the following:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
         BLE = A/(1 + B x average total lamp arc power [supcaret] -C) Where A, B, and C are as follows:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                           Description                                   A               B               C
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Instant start and rapid start ballasts (not classified as
 residential ballasts) that are designed and marketed to
 operate:
    4-foot medium bipin lamps;..................................           0.993            0.27            0.25
    2-foot U-shaped lamps; or
    8-foot slimline lamps.
Programmed start ballasts (not classified as residential
 ballasts) that are designed and marketed to operate:
    4-foot medium bipin lamps;..................................           0.993            0.51            0.37
    2-foot U-shaped lamps;
    4-foot miniature bipin standard output lamps; or
    4-foot miniature bipin high output lamps.
Instant start and rapid start ballasts (not classified as sign             0.993            0.38            0.25
 ballasts) that are designed and marketed to operate 8-foot high
 output lamps...................................................
Programmed start ballasts (not classified as sign ballasts) that           0.973            0.70            0.37
 are designed and marketed to operate 8-foot high output lamps..
Sign ballasts that are designed and marketed to operate 8-foot             0.993            0.47            0.25
 high output lamps..............................................
Instant start and rapid start residential ballasts that are
 designed and marketed to operate:
    4-foot medium bipin lamps;..................................           0.993            0.41            0.25
    2-foot U-shaped lamps; or
    8-foot slimline lamps.

[[Page 31988]]

 
Programmed start residential ballasts that are designed and
 marketed to operate:
    4-foot medium bipin lamps or................................           0.973            0.71            0.37
    2-foot U-shaped lamps.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (2) Standards for certain dimming ballasts. Except as provided in 
paragraph (m)(3) of this section, each dimming ballast manufactured on 
or after November 14, 2014; designed and marketed to operate one 
F34T12, two F34T12, two F96T12/ES, or two F96T12HO/ES lamps; and
    (i) Designed and marketed--
    (A) To operate at nominal input voltages at or between 120 and 277 
volts;
    (B) To operate with an input current frequency of 60 Hertz; and
    (C) For use in connection with fluorescent lamps (as defined in 
Sec.  430.2)
    (ii) Must have--
    (A) A power factor of:
    (1) 0.9 or greater for ballasts that are not residential ballasts; 
or
    (2) 0.5 or greater for residential ballasts; and
    (B) A ballast luminous efficiency not less than the following:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                 Ballast luminous efficiency
 Designed and marketed for operation    Nominal input      Total nominal   -------------------------------------
           of a maximum of                 voltage           lamp watts       Low frequency      High frequency
                                                                                 ballasts           ballasts
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
One F34T12 lamp.....................            120/277                 34              0.777              0.778
Two F34T12 lamps....................            120/277                 68              0.804              0.805
Two F96T12/ES lamps.................            120/277                120              0.876              0.884
Two F96T12HO/ES lamps...............            120/277                190              0.711              0.713
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (3) Exemptions. The power factor and ballast luminous efficiency 
standards described in paragraph (m)(1)(ii) and (m)(2)(ii) of this 
section do not apply to:
    (i) A dimming ballast designed and marketed to operate exclusively 
lamp types other than one F34T12, two F34T12, two F96T12/ES, or two 
F96T12HO/ES lamps;
    (ii) A low frequency ballast that is designed and marketed to 
operate T8 diameter lamps; is designed and marketed for use in 
electromagnetic-interference-sensitive-environments only; and is 
shipped by the manufacturer in packages containing 10 or fewer 
ballasts; or
    (iii) A programmed start ballast that operates 4-foot medium bipin 
T8 lamps and delivers on average less than 140 milliamperes to each 
lamp.
    (4) For the purposes of this paragraph (m), the definitions found 
in appendix Q of subpart B of this part apply.
* * * * *
[FR Doc. 2015-13783 Filed 6-4-15; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P


Current View
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionRules and Regulations
ActionFinal rule.
DatesThe effective date of this rule is July 6, 2015. Representations must be based on testing in accordance with the final rule starting December 2, 2015.
ContactMs. Lucy deButts, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Building Technologies Program, EE-2J, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC, 20585-0121. Telephone: (202) 287-1604. Email: fluorescent_ lamp_ [email protected] ee.doe.gov. Ms. Sarah Butler, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the General Counsel, GC-33, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585- 0121. Telephone: (202) 586-1777. Email: [email protected] hq.doe.gov.
FR Citation80 FR 31971 
RIN Number1904-AB99
CFR AssociatedAdministrative Practice and Procedure; Confidential Business Information; Energy Conservation; Household Appliances; Imports; Incorporation by Reference; Intergovernmental Relations and Small Businesses

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