82 FR 26469 - Notice of Petition for Waiver From Acuity Brands From the Department of Energy Illuminated Exit Signs Test Procedure
DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 108 (June 7, 2017)
Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 108 (June 7, 2017)
| Page Range | 26469-26473 | |
| FR Document | 2017-11790 |
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 108 (Wednesday, June 7, 2017)] [Notices] [Pages 26469-26473] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2017-11790] ======================================================================= ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy [Case No. IES-001] Notice of Petition for Waiver From Acuity Brands From the Department of Energy Illuminated Exit Signs Test Procedure AGENCY: Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Department of Energy. ACTION: Notice of petition for waiver and request for public comments. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: This notice announces receipt of a petition from Acuity Brands (Acuity) seeking a waiver from specific portions of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) test procedure for determining the energy consumption of illuminated exit signs. Acuity seeks to use an alternate test procedure to address issues involved in testing certain basic models of illuminated exit signs identified in its petition. Acuity contends that its combination illuminated exit signs cannot be accurately tested using the currently applicable DOE test procedure. Although Acuity has proposed an alternate test procedure, DOE is proposing a different alternate test procedure to test and rate specified Acuity basic models in this notice. DOE solicits comments, data, and information concerning Acuity's petition and DOE's proposed alternate test procedure. DATES: DOE will accept comments, data, and information with respect to the petition received until July 7, 2017. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments, identified by case number IES-001, by any of the following methods:Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. Email: [email protected] Include the case number [Case No. IES-001] in the subject line of the message. Mail: Mr. Bryan Berringer, U.S. Department of Energy, Building Technologies Office, Mailstop EE-2B/1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585-0121. Telephone: (202) 586-0371. Please submit one signed original paper copy. Hand Delivery/Courier: Mr. Bryan Berringer, U.S. Department of Energy, Building Technologies Program, 950 L'Enfant Plaza SW., Room 6055, Washington, DC 20024. Please submit one signed original paper copy. Docket: For access to the docket to review the background documents relevant to this matter, you may visit http://www.regulations.gov. All documents in the docket are listed in the www.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. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Bryan Berringer, U.S. Department of Energy, Building Technologies Program, Mail Stop EE-5B, Forrestal Building, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585-0121. Telephone: (202) 586-0371. Email: [email protected]. Ms. Jennifer Tiedeman, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the General Counsel, Mail Stop GC-33, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585-0121. Telephone: (202) 287-6111. Email: [email protected]. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: In an updated petition received on March 22, 2016 (initially submitted on April 17, 2013) and in an email received on May 1, 2017, Acuity requested that DOE grant a test procedure waiver for specified models of illuminated exit signs that cannot be tested under the existing DOE test procedure. The basic models of illuminated exit signs at issue are models typically known as combination illuminated exit signs. These basic models include components such as egress lighting or alarms that typically require a larger battery to power the auxiliary features, which causes the test procedure to provide inaccurate comparative data. I. Background and Authority Title III, Part B \1\ of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975 (``EPCA''), Public Law 94-163 (42 U.S.C. 6291-6309, as codified) established the Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products Other Than Automobiles, a program that includes illuminated exit signs.\2\ Part B includes definitions, test procedures, labeling provisions, energy conservation standards, and the authority to require information and reports from manufacturers. Further, Part B authorizes the Secretary of Energy to prescribe test procedures that are reasonably designed to produce results that measure energy efficiency, energy use, or estimated operating costs during a representative average-use cycle, and that are not unduly burdensome to conduct. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(3)) The test procedure for illuminated exit signs is contained in 10 CFR part 431, subpart L.\3\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \1\ For editorial reasons Part B of title III was redesignated as Part A upon incorporation into the U.S. Code. \2\ All references to EPCA refer to the statute as amended through the Energy Efficiency Improvement Act of 2015, Public Law 114-11 (April 30, 2015). \3\ Although illuminated exit signs are covered products pursuant to EPCA, as a matter of administrative convenience and to minimize confusion among interested parties, DOE adopted illuminated exit sign provisions into subpart L of 10 CFR part 431 (the portion of DOE's regulations dealing with commercial and industrial equipment) because typically businesses, rather than individuals, purchase them. 70 FR 60407, 60409 (Oct. 18, 2005). DOE refers to illuminated exit signs as either ``products'' or ``equipment.'' --------------------------------------------------------------------------- The regulations set forth in 10 CFR 431.401 contain provisions that allow a person to seek a waiver from the test procedure requirements for a particular basic model of a type of covered product when the petitioner's basic model for which the petition for waiver was submitted contains one or more design characteristics that: (1) Prevent testing according to the prescribed test procedure, or (2) cause the prescribed test procedures to evaluate the basic model in a manner so unrepresentative of its true energy consumption characteristics as to provide materially inaccurate comparative data. 10 CFR 431.401(a)(1) A petitioner must include in its petition any alternate test procedures known to the petitioner to evaluate the basic model in a manner representative of its energy consumption. 10 CFR 431.401(b)(1)(iii) [[Page 26470]] DOE may grant a waiver subject to conditions, including adherence to alternate test procedures. 10 CFR 431.401(f)(2) As soon as practicable after the granting of any waiver, DOE will publish in the Federal Register a notice of proposed rulemaking to amend its regulations so as to eliminate any need for the continuation of such waiver. As soon thereafter as practicable, DOE will publish in the Federal Register a final rule. 10 CFR 431.401(l). DOE discusses the petition and alternate test procedures in the following sections. II. Petition for Waiver of Test Procedure On March 22, 2016, Acuity filed an updated petition for a waiver (the initial petition was submitted on April 17, 2013) for certain basic models of illuminated exit signs that are required to be tested according to test procedures detailed in 10 CFR 431.204. (Acuity, No. 0002 at pp. 1-3) \4\ Acuity supplemented its filing with an email submitted to DOE on May 1, 2017, that further clarified the specific basic models for which the waiver is being requested.\5\ Acuity has requested a waiver for basic models that provide the dual function of exit signage and lighting for emergency egress (combination illuminated exit signs), stating that the battery used in combination illuminated exit signs requires a substantially larger capacity to provide a minimum of 90 minutes of egress lighting, as required by safety codes. Acuity has further stated that it is not feasible to separate the power measurement associated with the exit signage and the egress lighting because a single battery and charging circuit supplies power for both functions. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \4\ A notation in this form provides a reference for information that is in the docket for this test procedure waiver (Docket No. EERE-2017-BT-WAV-0033) (available at https://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-2017-BT-WAV-0033). This notation indicates that the statement preceding the reference is document number 2 in the docket and appears at pages 1-3 of that document. \5\ The following are the basic models of combination LED exit signs for which Acuity seeks a test procedure waiver: ECG 1F, ECG 1F HO, ECG 2F, ECG 2F HO, ECR 1F, ECR 1F HO, ECR 2F, ECR 2F HO, ECG LED 1F HO, ECG LED 2F HO, ECR LED 1F HO, ECR LED 2F HO, ECG LED 1F, ECG LED 2F, ECR LED 1F, ECR LED 2F, ECBG LED 1F, ECBG LED 2F, ECBR LED 1F, ECBR LED 2F, LHD2D18G, LHD2D18R, LHD2D36G, LHD2D36R, LHD2D72G, LHD2D72R, LHD2S18G, LHD2S18R, LHD2S36G, LHD2S36R, LHD2S72G, LHD2S72R, LHQM LED 1F HO GREEN, LHQM LED 1F HO RED, LHQM LED 2F HO GREEN, LHQM LED 2F HO RED, LHQM LED 1F GREEN, LHQM LED 1F RED, LHQM LED 2F GREEN, LHQM LED 2F RED, LHXNY W 1 R, LHXC W 1 RW, LHXC W 2 RW, LHZ618 GREEN, LHZ618 RED, LHZ636 GREEN, LHZ636 RED, LHZ672 GREEN, LHZ672 RED, QM LED 1F GREEN, QM LED 1F HO GREEN, QM LED 1F RED, QM LED 1F HO RED, QM LED 2F GREEN, QM LED 2F HO GREEN, QM LED 2F RED, QM LED 2F HO RED, NXPCL 1F, and NXPCL 2F. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- As an alternative to the test procedure currently in place at 10 CFR part 431, subpart L, Acuity has recommended that, for combination illuminated exit signs, the power should be determined using the following procedure: (1) Measure input power, which is the total power supplied to the combination illuminated exit sign including the charging circuit and light source(s) for the exit sign face(s). Note: The egress lights will not be operational in this mode because they are designed to only operate under a condition when the unit is not receiving power. (2) Determine the total battery power, with the battery circuit connected and fully charged before any measurements are made. total battery power = input power-rated wattage of light source(s) for exit sign (3) Determine the battery proration factor. battery proration factor = (rated wattage of light source(s) for exit sign)/(rated wattage of light sources(s) for egress lighting + rated wattage of light source(s) for exit sign) (4) Calculate the combination illuminated exit sign power. combination illuminated exit sign power = (battery proration factor x total battery power) + rated wattage of light source(s) for exit sign Acuity seeks a test procedure waiver for specified basic models (see footnote and Table III.1). Acuity also requested that any new products introduced by the company into commerce that provide the dual function of exit signage and emergency egress lighting be covered by the waiver. DOE regulations at 10 CFR 430.27(f)(2) provide that DOE may grant a waiver, including adherence to alternate test procedures, only for ``the basic model(s) for which the waiver was requested.'' Acuity may request to extend the scope of a waiver to additional basic models pursuant to 10 CFR 431.401(g) by identifying the particular basic models for which a waiver is requested, but the present waiver, if granted, would extend to only those basic models identified in the updated waiver petition currently under consideration. III. Alternate Test Procedure Upon review of the alternate test procedure submitted by Acuity in its petition for wavier, DOE found that ``rated wattage of light source(s)'' associated with the face and egress light source(s), respectively, is not always well documented in Acuity's product literature for the basic models under consideration. A lack of data in the manufacturer data sheet with respect to the wattage of the light source(s) prevents the accurate and repeatable calculation of the combination illuminated exit sign input power demand in Acuity's proposed test procedure. Therefore, DOE is proposing alternate test procedures that provide methods to test and rate the basic models at issue without the rated wattage of the light source(s). DOE investigated various approaches to isolate the input power used to illuminate only the exit sign portion of a combination exit sign: Including disconnecting the battery; scaling or prorating the portion of the input power demand associated with the battery; and measuring alternative power quantities as a proxy for input power demand. DOE tentatively concluded that these methods would require isolating the battery power used to illuminate the faces of the exit sign from the battery power used to operate auxiliary features. Based on DOE's review of combination exit signs, DOE has tentatively determined that it is either not possible to measure the required quantities or that doing so would require cutting of wires and modifying the circuitry of the combination exit sign. DOE reviewed the basic models submitted in Acuity's petition for waiver and updated basic model list provided in Acuity's email submitted to DOE on May 1, 2017, and determined that the basic models in the waiver are comprised of two sub-varieties: (A) Combination illuminated exit signs with equivalent non-combination versions \6\ and (B) Combination illuminated exit signs without equivalent non- combination versions. Table III.1 provides a review of the combination illuminated exit sign basic models submitted by Acuity for waivers, and notes DOE's proposed alternate test method, described in detail below. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \6\ DOE uses the term ``equivalent non-combination illuminated exit sign'' in this notice to mean an illuminated exit sign that consists of electric consuming components and a battery identical to those of the combination illuminated exit sign at issue, but that does not have any auxiliary features. The equivalent non-combination illuminated exit sign must also have the same manufacturer and number of faces as the combination exit sign whose input power demand is being determined. [[Page 26471]] Table III.1--Review of Combination Illuminated Exit Sign Basic Models Submitted by Acuity ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Equivalent non-combination DOE's proposed alternate test Acuity basic model * illuminated exit sign * method ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lithonia Lighting brand models: ECG 1F, No................................ Method B. ECG 1F HO, ECG 2F, ECG 2F HO, ECR 1F, ECR 1F HO, ECR 2F, ECR 2F HO. Lithonia Lighting brand models: ECG LED No................................ Method B. 1F HO, ECG LED 2F HO, ECR LED 1F HO, ECR LED 2F HO. Lithonia Lighting brand models: ECG LED Yes............................... Method A. 1F, ECG LED 2F, ECR LED 1F, ECR LED 2F. Lithonia Lighting brand models: ECBG LED No................................ Method B. 1F, ECBG LED 2F, ECBR LED 1F, ECBR LED 2F. Holophane brand models: LHD2D18G, No................................ Method B. LHD2D18R, LHD2D36G, LHD2D36R, LHD2D72G, LHD2D72R, LHD2S18G, LHD2S18R, LHD2S36G, LHD2S36R, LHD2S72G, LHD2S72R. Lithonia Lighting brand models: LHQM LED Yes............................... Method A. 1F HO GREEN, LHQM LED 1F HO RED, LHQM LED 2F HO GREEN, LHQM LED 2F HO RED. Lithonia Lighting brand models: LHQM LED No................................ Method B. 1F GREEN, LHQM LED 1F RED, LHQM LED 2F GREEN, LHQM LED 2F RED. Lithonia Lighting brand model: LHXNY W 1 No................................ Method B. R. Lithonia Lighting brand models: LHXC W 1 No................................ Method B. RW, LHXC W 2 RW. Lithonia Lighting brand models: LHZ618 Yes............................... Method A. GREEN, LHZ618 RED, LHZ636 GREEN, LHZ636 RED, LHZ672 GREEN, LHZ672 RED. Holophane brand models: QM LED 1F GREEN, Yes............................... Method A. QM LED 1F HO GREEN, QM LED 1F RED, QM LED 1F HO RED, QM LED 2F GREEN, QM LED 2F HO GREEN, QM LED 2F RED, QM LED 2F HO RED. Navilite brand models: NXPCL 1F, NXPCL Yes............................... Method A. 2F. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- * All Acuity basic models listed in the table above are illuminated exit signs manufacturered exclusively with LEDs. For these two sub-varieties, DOE presents the two alternate test methods, test method A and test method B, in the following sections. A. Test Method for Combination Illuminated Exit Sign Basic Models With Equivalent Non-Combination Illuminated Exit Signs (Method A) DOE has determined that for Acuity combination illuminated exit sign basic models ECG LED 1F, ECG LED 2F, ECR LED 1F, ECR LED 2F, LHQM LED 1F HO GREEN, LHQM LED 1F HO RED, LHQM LED 2F HO GREEN, LHQM LED 2F HO RED, LHZ618 GREEN, LHZ618 RED, LHZ636 GREEN, LHZ636 RED, LHZ672 GREEN, LHZ672 RED, QM LED 1F GREEN, QM LED 1F HO GREEN, QM LED 1F RED, QM LED 1F HO RED, QM LED 2F GREEN, QM LED 2F HO GREEN, QM LED 2F RED, QM LED 2F HO RED, NXPCL 1F, and NXPCL 2F it is not possible to keep the face(s) illuminated while disconnecting the battery and all auxiliary features in a manner that permits reinstallation using only the original parts in order to allow for the measurement of only the input power required to illuminate the face(s). However, DOE has determined that these models have equivalent non-combination illuminated exit sign models. For these basic models, DOE is considering the following alternate test method (method A): (1) Identify a non-combination illuminated exit sign equivalent to the combination illuminated exit sign under test. A unit is an equivalent non-combination substitute only if it consists entirely of components identical to all of those of the unit whose input power demand is being determined, but does not include any auxiliary features, and contains an electrically connected battery. The equivalent unit must also have the same manufacturer and number of faces as the unit whose input power demand is being determined. (2) Assign the input power demand of the combination illuminated exit sign under test as the input power demand of the equivalent non- combination illuminated exit sign. B. Test Method for Combination Illuminated Exit Sign Basic Models Without Equivalent Non-Combination Illuminated Exit Signs (Method B) DOE has determined that for Acuity combination illuminated exit sign basic models ECG 1F, ECG 1F HO, ECG 2F, ECG 2F HO, ECR 1F, ECR 1F HO, ECR 2F, ECR 2F HO, ECG LED 1F HO, ECG LED 2F HO, ECR LED 1F HO, ECR LED 2F HO, ECBG LED 1F, ECBG LED 2F, ECBR LED 1F, ECBR LED 2F, LHD2D18G, LHD2D18R, LHD2D36G, LHD2D36R, LHD2D72G, LHD2D72R, LHD2S18G, LHD2S18R, LHD2S36G, LHD2S36R, LHD2S72G, LHD2S72R, LHQM LED 1F GREEN, LHQM LED 1F RED, LHQM LED 2F GREEN, LHQM LED 2F RED, LHXNY W 1 R, LHXC W 1 RW, and LHXC W 2 RW it is not possible to keep the face(s) illuminated while disconnecting the battery and all auxiliary features in a manner that permits reinstallation using only the original parts to allow for the measurement of only the input power required to illuminate the face(s). DOE has also determined that these models do not have equivalent non-combination illuminated exit sign models, rendering method A inapplicable. For these basic models, DOE is considering the following alternate test method (method B): If the combination illuminated exit sign under test uses only LEDs to illuminate all face(s) of the unit, assign an input power demand according to the following formula: input power demand = 5 watts x number of faces \7\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \7\ This method requires determination of the number of faces for each basic model. Face count is the number of faces (no fewer than one) with which an illuminated exit sign basic model can be configured by an end user when all electric light sources are connected and energized. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- IV. Summary and Request for Comments Through this notice, DOE is publishing Acuity's petition for waiver pursuant to 10 CFR 431.401(b)(1)(iv). The petition contains no confidential information. The petition includes a description of why DOE's test procedure produces inaccurate results for certain models of combination illuminated exit signs and a recommended alternate test procedure, applicable to the measurement of energy efficiency of the models of combination illuminated exit signs specified by Acuity in its petition for waiver. In this notice, DOE proposes a different test method for determining the energy efficiency of the combination [[Page 26472]] illuminated exit signs included in Acuity's waiver. DOE solicits comments from interested parties on all aspects of the petition, the test method recommended by Acuity, DOE's stated concerns regarding that test method, and DOE's proposed test procedure. Pursuant to 10 CFR 431.401(d), any person submitting written comments to DOE must also send a copy of such comments to the petitioner. The contact information for the petitioner is: Cheryl English, VP, Government & Industry Relations, Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc., One Lithonia Way, Conyers, GA 30012. All submissions received must include the case number for this proceeding. Submit electronic comments in WordPerfect, Microsoft Word, Portable Document Format (PDF), or text (American Standard Code for Information Interchange (ASCII)) file format and avoid the use of special characters or any form of encryption. Wherever possible, include the electronic signature of the author. DOE does not accept telefacsimiles (faxes). According to 10 CFR 1004.11, any person submitting information that he or she believes to be confidential and exempt by law from public disclosure should submit two copies: One copy of the document including all the information believed to be confidential, and one copy of the document with the information believed to be confidential deleted. DOE will make its own determination about the confidential status of the information and treat it according to its determination. Issued in Washington, DC, on May 26, 2017. Kathleen B. Hogan, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. Date: 3/22/2016 Subject: Acuity Brands Updated Petition for Test Procedure Waiver for Illuminated Exit Signs Upon request by DOE, Acuity Brands is updating the petition request submitted on 4/17/2013 for test procedure waiver for Illuminated Exit Signs pursuant to 10 CFR 431.401 to clarify that the petition is for a final test procedure waiver for certain models of illuminated exit signs. The petition is on the grounds that the basic models contain design characteristics which prevent testing of the basic models according to the prescribed test procedures and that the prescribed test procedures evaluate the basic models in a manner unrepresentative of their true energy consumption characteristics and provide materially inaccurate comparative data. Background Illuminated Exit Signs are covered under the Energy Policy & Conservation Act (EPCA) as amended by Section 135 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPAct 2005). This product category was included in EPA's Energy Star program and the intent of the EPAct 2005 amendment was to make the Energy Star program's product regulated by EPCA. The test procedures adopted by Congress for this product category is the Energy Star program (v. 2.0) test procedures, and the energy conservation standards are the performance requirements for the Energy Star program (v. 2.0). See 42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(9) and 6295(w). When Illuminated Exit Signs were included in EPAct 2005, the industry interpretation was based on a scope consistent with the Energy Star program covering products that provided only the functional characteristics defined in the regulation to illuminate the signage itself, with no expressed intent to also regulate energy used for emergency egress lighting. The statutory definition of illuminated exit sign (10 CFR 431.202) includes the phrase ``consists of electrically powered integral light source that--(i) illuminates the legend `EXIT' and any directional indica- tors . . .'' Certain basic models of illuminated exit signs provide the dual function of exit signage and lighting for emergency egress (combo unit). However, the battery used in a combo unit requires a substantially larger capacity to provide a minimum of 90 minutes of egress lighting as required by life safety code, as well as illuminating the EXIT legend and directional indicators. Because of this, the test procedures when applied to a combo unit do not accurately represent the energy consumption associated with illuminating the exit sign legend. See the following Web site for figures of the ``Standard Illuminated Exit Sign'' and ``Combo unit'' Illuminated Exit Sign and Egress Light'': http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=EERE-2017- BT-WAV-0033 Basic Models Requested for Test Procedure Waiver The following Acuity Brands basic models are submitted under the conditions of this waiver: EC, ECB, LHD2, LHQM, LHX, LHXC, LHZ, QM, NNYXSC, NX (NavLite combo) (covering all lettering colors, housing material, source type or other options for each basic model) Furthermore, Acuity Brands petitions that any new products introduced by Acuity Brands into commerce that provide the dual function of exit signage and emergency egress lighting will also be covered by the waiver. Test Procedure Issues A combo unit utilizes a higher capacity battery to power both the exit sign face(s) as well as emergency egress lighting during a power outage. While Sec. 431.202 indicates that the input power demand shall be measured with batteries at full charge, the higher capacity dual function battery for a combo unit results in a higher power than a smaller battery utilized in a unit that provides only the exit signage functionality. The performance specification for the input power described in the Energy Star specifications limits the power to illuminate the face of the exit sign with no reference to power associated with the emergency egress lighting. The test procedure for Energy Star 2.0 requires the measurement of power including the internal battery, but the power limits were not established using a baseline for units that provide the dual function associated with a combo unit. For a combo unit, it is not feasible to separate the power measurement associated with the exit signage and the egress lighting since a single battery and charging circuit supplies power for both functions. Alternate Test Procedure for Combo Units There are no nationally recognized test procedures to measure the power for a combo unit that describes the power associated only with illuminating the face(s) of the exit sign. Therefore Acuity Brands is submitting the following alternate test procedure to accurately represent the power of a combo unit used to illuminating the legend `EXIT', directional indicators and proportional battery power for the face(s) of the exit sign. For combination exit and egress lighting units (combo units), the power shall be determined by the following procedure: 1. Measure input power, the total power supplied to the combo unit including the charging circuit and light source(s) for the exit sign face(s). Note: The egress lights will not be operational in this mode since they are designed to only operate under a condition when the unit is not receiving power. [[Page 26473]] 2. Determine the total battery power, with the battery circuit connected and fully charged before any measurements are made. total battery power = input power-rated wattage of light source(s) for exit sign 3. Determine the battery proration factor: Battery proration factor = rated wattage of light source(s) for exit sign (rated wattage of light sources(s) for egress lighting + rated wattage of light source(s) for exit sign) 4. Calculate the combo unit power: Combo unit power = (Battery proration factor x total battery power) + rated wattage of light source(s) for exit sign Conclusion Acuity Brands is submitting this request for a test procedure waiver for combo units that provide the dual function of exit signage and emergency egress lighting. The waiver request has outlined that: 1. The prescribed test procedures are based on power intended only to illuminate the face of the exit sign and will evaluate the basic models of combo units in a manner unrepresentative of their true energy consumption characteristics 2. the prescribed test procedures will evaluate the basic models of combo units in a manner that results in materially inaccurate comparative data, and 3. there are no existing industry standards that define test procedures to measure the energy consumption characteristics for a combo unit that is associated with only the exit sign face(s), and 4. the alternate test procedure proposed by Acuity Brands for combo units will accurately describe the power to illuminate the face of the exit and the proportion of battery charging circuit power used to illuminate the face(s) of the exit during a power outage. Based on DOE general counsel guidance on waivers issued December 23, 2010, it is our understanding that DOE has made a commitment to (1) act promptly on waiver requests and to update its test procedures to address granted waivers going forward and (2) prevent the administrative waiver process from delaying or deterring the introduction of novel, innovative products into the marketplace and as a matter of enforcement policy will refrain from enforcement actions related to pending waiver requests. Thank you in advance for your prompt consideration of this waiver request. Cheryl English VP, Government & Industry Relations Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc., One Lithonia Way, Conyers, GA 30012, 770- 860-2660, [email protected]. [FR Doc. 2017-11790 Filed 6-6-17; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6450-01-P
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Administrative Regulations (EDGAR), petition and DOE’s proposed alternate typically require a larger battery to
34 CFR 75.253. EDGAR states that test procedure. power the auxiliary features, which
recipients of multi-year discretionary DATES: DOE will accept comments, data, causes the test procedure to provide
grants must submit an APR and information with respect to the inaccurate comparative data.
demonstrating that substantial progress petition received until July 7, 2017. I. Background and Authority
has been made towards meeting the ADDRESSES: You may submit comments,
approved objectives of the project. In identified by case number IES–001, by Title III, Part B 1 of the Energy Policy
addition, EDGAR requires discretionary any of the following methods: and Conservation Act of 1975 (‘‘EPCA’’),
grantees to report on their progress • Federal eRulemaking Portal: http:// Public Law 94–163 (42 U.S.C. 6291–
toward meeting the performance www.regulations.gov. Follow the 6309, as codified) established the
measures established for the ED grant instructions for submitting comments. Energy Conservation Program for
program. This data collection is a • Email: AS_Waiver_Requests@ Consumer Products Other Than
customized APR that goes beyond the ee.doe.gov Include the case number Automobiles, a program that includes
generic 524B APR to facilitate the [Case No. IES–001] in the subject line of illuminated exit signs.2 Part B includes
collection of more standardized and the message. definitions, test procedures, labeling
comprehensive data to inform GPRA, to • Mail: Mr. Bryan Berringer, U.S. provisions, energy conservation
improve the overall quality of data Department of Energy, Building standards, and the authority to require
collected, and to increase the quality of Technologies Office, Mailstop EE–2B/ information and reports from
data that can be used for evaluation and 1000 Independence Avenue SW., manufacturers. Further, Part B
to inform policy decisions. Washington, DC 20585–0121. authorizes the Secretary of Energy to
Dated: June 2, 2017. Telephone: (202) 586–0371. Please prescribe test procedures that are
Tomakie Washington,
submit one signed original paper copy. reasonably designed to produce results
• Hand Delivery/Courier: Mr. Bryan that measure energy efficiency, energy
Acting Director, Information Collection
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Officer, Office of Management. Building Technologies Program, 950 a representative average-use cycle, and
L’Enfant Plaza SW., Room 6055, that are not unduly burdensome to
[FR Doc. 2017–11801 Filed 6–6–17; 8:45 am]
Washington, DC 20024. Please submit conduct. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(3)) The test
BILLING CODE 4000–01–P
one signed original paper copy. procedure for illuminated exit signs is
Docket: For access to the docket to contained in 10 CFR part 431, subpart
review the background documents L.3
DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY relevant to this matter, you may visit
The regulations set forth in 10 CFR
http://www.regulations.gov. All
Office of Energy Efficiency and 431.401 contain provisions that allow a
documents in the docket are listed in
Renewable Energy person to seek a waiver from the test
the www.regulations.gov index.
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basic model of a type of covered product
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FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. according to the prescribed test
AGENCY: Office of Energy Efficiency and Bryan Berringer, U.S. Department of procedure, or (2) cause the prescribed
Renewable Energy, Department of Energy, Building Technologies Program, test procedures to evaluate the basic
Energy. Mail Stop EE–5B, Forrestal Building, model in a manner so unrepresentative
ACTION: Notice of petition for waiver and 1000 Independence Avenue SW., of its true energy consumption
request for public comments. Washington, DC 20585–0121. characteristics as to provide materially
Telephone: (202) 586–0371. Email: AS_ inaccurate comparative data. 10 CFR
SUMMARY: This notice announces receipt Waiver_Requests@ee.doe.gov. 431.401(a)(1) A petitioner must include
of a petition from Acuity Brands Ms. Jennifer Tiedeman, U.S. in its petition any alternate test
(Acuity) seeking a waiver from specific Department of Energy, Office of the procedures known to the petitioner to
portions of the U.S. Department of General Counsel, Mail Stop GC–33, evaluate the basic model in a manner
Energy (DOE) test procedure for 1000 Independence Avenue SW., representative of its energy
determining the energy consumption of Washington, DC 20585–0121. consumption. 10 CFR 431.401(b)(1)(iii)
illuminated exit signs. Acuity seeks to Telephone: (202) 287–6111. Email:
use an alternate test procedure to Jennifer.Tiedeman@hq.doe.gov. 1 For editorial reasons Part B of title III was
address issues involved in testing SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: In an redesignated as Part A upon incorporation into the
certain basic models of illuminated exit updated petition received on March 22, U.S. Code.
2 All references to EPCA refer to the statute as
signs identified in its petition. Acuity 2016 (initially submitted on April 17,
amended through the Energy Efficiency
contends that its combination 2013) and in an email received on May Improvement Act of 2015, Public Law 114–11
illuminated exit signs cannot be 1, 2017, Acuity requested that DOE (April 30, 2015).
accurately tested using the currently grant a test procedure waiver for 3 Although illuminated exit signs are covered
applicable DOE test procedure. specified models of illuminated exit products pursuant to EPCA, as a matter of
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with NOTICES
administrative convenience and to minimize
Although Acuity has proposed an signs that cannot be tested under the confusion among interested parties, DOE adopted
alternate test procedure, DOE is existing DOE test procedure. The basic illuminated exit sign provisions into subpart L of
proposing a different alternate test models of illuminated exit signs at issue 10 CFR part 431 (the portion of DOE’s regulations
procedure to test and rate specified are models typically known as dealing with commercial and industrial equipment)
because typically businesses, rather than
Acuity basic models in this notice. DOE combination illuminated exit signs. individuals, purchase them. 70 FR 60407, 60409
solicits comments, data, and These basic models include components (Oct. 18, 2005). DOE refers to illuminated exit signs
information concerning Acuity’s such as egress lighting or alarms that as either ‘‘products’’ or ‘‘equipment.’’
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![Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 108 / Wednesday, June 7, 2017 / Notices 26473
2. Determine the total battery power, Thank you in advance for your project would have an annual
with the battery circuit connected and prompt consideration of this waiver generation of 139,369 megawatt-hours.
fully charged before any measurements request. Applicant Contact: Adam Rousselle,
are made. Cheryl English Merchant Hydro Developers, LLC, 5710
total battery power = input VP, Government & Industry Relations Oak Crest Drive, Doylestown, PA 18902;
power¥rated wattage of light Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc., One phone: 267–254–6107.
source(s) for exit sign Lithonia Way, Conyers, GA 30012, FERC Contact: Monir Chowdhury;
770–860–2660, Cheryl.English@ phone: (202) 502–6736.
3. Determine the battery proration Deadline for filing comments, motions
factor: AcuityBrands.com.
to intervene, competing applications
[FR Doc. 2017–11790 Filed 6–6–17; 8:45 am]
Battery proration factor = rated wattage (without notices of intent), or notices of
of light source(s) for exit sign (rated BILLING CODE 6450–01–P intent to file competing applications: 60
wattage of light sources(s) for egress days from the issuance of this notice.
lighting + rated wattage of light Competing applications and notices of
source(s) for exit sign) DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
intent must meet the requirements of 18
4. Calculate the combo unit power: Federal Energy Regulatory CFR 4.36.
Commission The Commission strongly encourages
Combo unit power = (Battery proration electronic filing. Please file comments,
factor × total battery power) + rated [Project No. 14828–000] motions to intervene, notices of intent,
wattage of light source(s) for exit and competing applications using the
sign Merchant Hydro Developers, LLC; Commission’s eFiling system at http://
Notice of Preliminary Permit www.ferc.gov/docs-filing/efiling.asp.
Conclusion
Application Accepted for Filing and Commenters can submit brief comments
Acuity Brands is submitting this Soliciting Comments, Motions To up to 6,000 characters, without prior
request for a test procedure waiver for Intervene, and Competing Applications registration, using the eComment system
combo units that provide the dual at http://www.ferc.gov/docs-filing/
function of exit signage and emergency On January 18, 2017, Merchant Hydro
Developers, LLC, filed an application for ecomment.asp. You must include your
egress lighting. The waiver request has name and contact information at the end
outlined that: a preliminary permit, pursuant to
section 4(f) of the Federal Power Act of your comments. For assistance,
1. The prescribed test procedures are please contact FERC Online Support at
(FPA), proposing to study the feasibility
based on power intended only to FERCOnlineSupport@ferc.gov, (866)
of the Meyersdale Pumped Storage
illuminate the face of the exit sign and 208–3676 (toll free), or (202) 502–8659
Hydroelectric Project to be located in
will evaluate the basic models of combo (TTY). In lieu of electronic filing, please
Somerset County, Pennsylvania. The
units in a manner unrepresentative of send a paper copy to: Secretary, Federal
sole purpose of a preliminary permit, if
their true energy consumption Energy Regulatory Commission, 888
issued, is to grant the permit holder
characteristics First Street NE., Washington, DC 20426.
priority to file a license application
2. the prescribed test procedures will during the permit term. A preliminary The first page of any filing should
evaluate the basic models of combo permit does not authorize the permit include docket number P–14828–000.
units in a manner that results in holder to perform any land-disturbing More information about this project,
materially inaccurate comparative data, activities or otherwise enter upon lands including a copy of the application, can
and or waters owned by others without the be viewed or printed on the ‘‘eLibrary’’
3. there are no existing industry owners’ express permission. link of the Commission’s Web site at
standards that define test procedures to The proposed project would consist of http://www.ferc.gov/docs-filing/
measure the energy consumption the following: (1) A new upper reservoir elibrary.asp. Enter the docket number
characteristics for a combo unit that is with a surface area of 45 acres and a (P–14828) in the docket number field to
associated with only the exit sign storage capacity of 675 acre-feet at a access the document. For assistance,
face(s), and surface elevation of approximately 2,790 contact FERC Online Support.
4. the alternate test procedure feet above mean sea level (msl) created Dated: June 1, 2017.
proposed by Acuity Brands for combo through construction of a new roller- Kimberly D. Bose,
units will accurately describe the power compacted concrete or rock-filled dam Secretary.
to illuminate the face of the exit and the and/or dike; (2) excavating a new lower [FR Doc. 2017–11766 Filed 6–6–17; 8:45 am]
proportion of battery charging circuit reservoir with a surface area of 30 acres
BILLING CODE 6717–01–P
power used to illuminate the face(s) of and a total storage capacity of 810 acre-
the exit during a power outage. feet at a surface elevation of 2,100 feet
Based on DOE general counsel msl; (3) a new 5,500-foot-long, 48-inch- DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
guidance on waivers issued December diameter penstock connecting the upper
23, 2010, it is our understanding that and lower reservoirs; (4) a new 150-foot- Federal Energy Regulatory
DOE has made a commitment to (1) act long, 50-foot-wide powerhouse Commission
promptly on waiver requests and to containing two turbine-generator units
update its test procedures to address with a total rated capacity of 38 [Docket No. ER17–1723–000]
granted waivers going forward and (2) megawatts; (5) a new transmission line
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with NOTICES
Green Power Solutions of Georgia,
prevent the administrative waiver connecting the powerhouse to a nearby LLC; Supplemental Notice That Initial
process from delaying or deterring the electric grid interconnection point at the Market-Based Rate Filing Includes
introduction of novel, innovative Meyersdale Wind Farm; and (6) Request for Blanket Section 204
products into the marketplace and as a appurtenant facilities. Possible initial Authorization
matter of enforcement policy will fill water and make-up water would
refrain from enforcement actions related come from the nearby Casselman River, This is a supplemental notice in the
to pending waiver requests. including groundwater. The proposed above-referenced proceeding of Green
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Document Created: 2017-06-07 02:00:29
Document Modified: 2017-06-07 02:00:29
| Category | Regulatory Information | |
| Collection | Federal Register | |
| sudoc Class | AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106: | |
| Publisher | Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration | |
| Section | Notices | |
| Action | Notice of petition for waiver and request for public comments. | |
| Dates | DOE will accept comments, data, and information with respect to the petition received until July 7, 2017. | |
| Contact | Mr. Bryan Berringer, U.S. Department of Energy, Building Technologies Program, Mail Stop EE-5B, Forrestal Building, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585-0121. Telephone: (202) 586-0371. Email: [email protected] | |
| FR Citation | 82 FR 26469 |
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