82 FR 34294 - Notice of Petition for Waiver of Apple, Inc., Microsoft Corporation, Poin2 Lab, and Hefei Bitland Information Technology Co., Ltd. From the Department of Energy External Power Supplies Test Procedure and Grant of Interim Waiver
DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 140 (July 24, 2017)
Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 140 (July 24, 2017)
| Page Range | 34294-34305 | |
| FR Document | 2017-15134 |
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 140 (Monday, July 24, 2017)] [Notices] [Pages 34294-34305] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2017-15134] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy [Case Numbers EPS-001, EPS-002, EPS-003 and EPS-004] Notice of Petition for Waiver of Apple, Inc., Microsoft Corporation, Poin2 Lab, and Hefei Bitland Information Technology Co., Ltd. From the Department of Energy External Power Supplies Test Procedure and Grant of Interim Waiver AGENCY: Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Department of Energy. ACTION: Notice of petitions for waiver, granting of interim waiver, and request for public comment. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: This notice announces receipt of and publishes petitions for waivers from Apple, Inc. (``Apple''), Microsoft Corporation (``Microsoft''), Poin2 Lab (``Poin2''), and Hefei Bitland Information Technology Co., Ltd. (``Bitland'') (collectively, ``the petitioners'') seeking an exemption from specific portions of the U.S. Department of Energy's (``DOE's'') test procedure for determining external power supply (``EPS'') energy efficiency. The waiver requests pertain to adaptive EPSs that support a particular International Electrotechnical Commission standard. Under the existing DOE test procedure, the average active mode efficiency of an adaptive EPS must be tested at both its lowest and highest achievable output voltages. The petitioners contend that since their products operate above 2 amps current at the lowest achievable output voltages under rare conditions and for only brief periods of time, the suggested alternative testing approach detailed in their waiver petition requests is needed to measure the active mode efficiency of their products in a representative manner. DOE is granting the petitioners with an interim waiver from the DOE EPS test procedure for the specified basic models of EPSs, subject to use of the alternative test procedure as set forth in this document and is soliciting comments, data, and information concerning the petitions and the suggested alternate test procedure. DATES: DOE will accept comments, data, and information with regard to the petition until August 23, 2017. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments, identified by Docket No. EERE-2017- BT-WAV-0043, by any of the following methods:Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. E-mail: [email protected] Include the Docket No. EERE-2017-BT-WAV-0043 in the subject line of the message. Submit electronic comments in WordPerfect, Microsoft Word, PDF, or ASCII file format, and avoid the use of special characters or any form of encryption. Postal Mail: Mr. Bryan Berringer, U.S. Department of Energy, Building Technologies Office, Mailstop EE-5B, Petition for Waiver Docket No. EERE-2017-BT-WAV-0043, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585-0121. Telephone: (202) 586-0371. If possible, please submit all items on a compact disc (CD), in which case it is not necessary to include printed copies. Hand Delivery/Courier: Appliance and Equipment Standards Program, U.S. Department of Energy, Building Technologies Office, 950 L'Enfant Plaza SW., 6th Floor, Washington, DC, 20024. Telephone: (202) 586-6636. If possible, please submit all items on a CD, in which case it is not necessary to include printed copies. Docket: The docket, which includes Federal Register notices, comments, and other supporting documents/materials, is available for review at 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. Jeremy Dommu, U.S. Department of Energy, Building Technologies Office, Mailstop EE-5B, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585-0121. Telephone: (202) 586-9870. Email: [email protected]. Michael Kido, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the General Counsel, Mail Stop GC-33, Forrestal Building, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585-0103. Telephone: (202) 586-8145. Email: [email protected]. [[Page 34295]] SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 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 the external power supplies (``EPSs''), which are the focus of this notice.\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 EPSs is contained in Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations (``CFR'') part 430, subpart B, Appendix Z, Uniform Test Method for Measuring the Energy Consumption of External Power Supplies. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \1\ For editorial reasons, upon codification in the U.S. Code, Part B was redesignated as Part A. \2\ All references to EPCA in this document refer to the statute as amended through the Energy Efficiency Improvement Act of 2015 (``EEIA''), Public Law 114-11 (April 30, 2015). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- DOE's regulations set forth at 10 CFR 430.27 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 consumer product when: (1) The petitioner's basic model for which the petition for waiver was submitted contains one or more design characteristics that prevent testing according to the prescribed test procedure, or (2) the prescribed test procedures may evaluate the basic model in a manner so unrepresentative of its true energy consumption characteristics as to provide materially inaccurate comparative data. 10 CFR 430.27(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 430.27(b)(1)(iii). DOE may grant a waiver subject to conditions, including adherence to alternate test procedures. 10 CFR 430.27(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 430.27(l). The waiver process also allows DOE to grant an interim waiver from test procedure requirements to manufacturers that have petitioned DOE for a waiver of such prescribed test procedures if it appears likely that the petition for waiver will be granted and/or if DOE determines that it would be desirable for public policy reasons to grant immediate relief pending a determination on the petition for waiver. 10 CFR 430.27(e)(2). Within one year of issuance of an interim waiver, DOE will either: (i) Publish in the Federal Register a determination on the petition for waiver; or (ii) publish in the Federal Register a new or amended test procedure that addresses the issues presented in the waiver. 10 CFR 430.27(h)(1). When DOE amends the test procedure to address the issues presented in a waiver, the waiver will automatically terminate on the date on which use of that test procedure is required to demonstrate compliance. 10 CFR 430.27(h)(2). II. Petition for Waiver of Test Procedure and Application for Interim Waiver On June 8, 2017 and June 22, 2017, the Information Technology Industry Council (``ITI''), on behalf of the petitioners, filed petitions for waivers from the DOE test procedure for EPSs under 10 CFR 430.27 for several basic models of adaptive EPSs that meet the provisions of the International Electrotechnical Commission's ``Universal serial bus interfaces for data and power--Part 1-2: Common components--USB Power Delivery'' (``IEC 62680-1-2:2017'') specification.\3\ All four waiver petitions were nearly identical in that they focused on each company's respective basic models of adaptive EPSs that utilize the IEC 62680-1-2:2017 specification and provided the same rationale for why the waiver and the suggested alternative test method detailed in each petition is necessary. The IEC specification describes the particular architecture, protocols, power supply behavior, connectors, and cabling necessary for managing power delivery over a universal serial bus (``USB'') connection at power levels of up to 100 watts (``W''). The purpose behind this specification is to help provide a standardized approach for power supply and peripheral developers to ensure backward compatibility while retaining product design and marketing flexibility. See generally, IEC 62680-1-2:2017 (Abstract) (describing the standard's general provisions and purpose). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \3\ International Electrotechnical Commission Universal serial bus interfaces for data and power--Part 1-2: Common components--USB Power Delivery specification, https://webstore.iec.ch/publication/26174/. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- In the view of the petitioners, applying the DOE test procedure to the adaptive EPSs specified in their petitions would yield results that would be unrepresentative of the active-mode efficiency of those products. The DOE test procedure requires that the average active-mode efficiency for adaptive EPSs be measured by testing the unit twice-- once at the highest achievable output voltage (``V'') and once at the lowest. The test procedure requires that active-mode efficiency be measured at four loading conditions relative to the nameplate output current of the EPS, See 10 CFR 430.23(bb) and 10 CFR part 430, subpart B, Appendix Z. The lowest achievable output voltage supported by the IEC 62680-1-2:2017 specification is 5V and the nameplate current at this voltage output is 3 amps (``A''), resulting in a power output of 15 W. The petitioners contend that while the IEC 62680-1-2:2017 specification requires the tested EPS to support this power output, the 15W at 5V condition will be rarely used and only for brief periods of time. Accordingly, the petitioners assert that the DOE test procedure's measurement of efficiency at this power level is unrepresentative of the true energy consumption of these EPSs. Consequently, they seek a waiver from DOE to permit them to use an alternative test procedure to measure the energy efficiency of the specified adaptive EPSs that support the IEC 62680-1-2:2017 specification by testing these devices at the lowest voltage, 5V, and at an output power at 10W instead of 15W. In light of the similarities among these petitions, DOE is responding to them simultaneously in a single response. Under the current test procedure, when testing an adaptive EPS at the lowest achievable output voltage, the measured average active mode efficiency is equal to the average efficiency when testing the EPS at 100%, 75%, 50%, and 25% of the nameplate output current of the EPS at that voltage. See 10 CFR 430 Appendix Z, sections 1.f and 4(a)(i)(E), and Table 1). Thus, for an adaptive EPS with a lowest output voltage of 5V and a nameplate output current of 3A (resulting in a 15W output at 100% of the nameplate output current), the average active mode efficiency at the lowest output voltage would be equal to the average of the efficiencies when testing at 15W, 11.25W, 7.5W, and [[Page 34296]] 3.75W. The petitioners suggested that these requirements be modified for their products when calculating the average active mode efficiency--namely, by using the average of four loading conditions representing the same respective percentages of an output current of 2A. Doing so would mean that the average active mode efficiency would equal the average of the efficiencies when testing at 10W, 7.5W, 5W, and 2.5W. The petitioners suggested taking the results from this alternative approach and comparing them against the DOE efficiency requirements at 10W. In their view, this approach is consistent with the current energy conservation standards for EPS, which scale based on the power output for which the EPS is tested. The following table lists the basic model numbers for which each petitioner requests a waiver and interim waiver. Table 1--Basic Model Numbers Submitted by Each Petitioner for a Waiver and Interim Waiver ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Company Basic model No. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Apple..................................... A1718, A1719, A1540. Microsoft................................. AC-100. Poin2..................................... A16-045N1A. Bitland................................... A045R053L. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The petitioners assert that the test procedure for the lowest voltage level does not reflect actual use in the field. The IEC 62680- 1-2:2017 specification requires USB-compliant products to support 15W at 5V. However, according to the petitioners, adaptive EPSs operating at 5 volts do not exceed 10W for almost all usage conditions. In their view, when charging a product that is sold or intended to be used with the EPS, the EPS charges at 5 volts only with a dead battery or fully charged battery (and then at 0.5A or less). At other times when more power is needed, the EPS will use a higher voltage rail (greater than 5V). (A ``voltage rail'' refers to a single voltage provided by the relevant power supply unit through a dedicated circuit/wire used for that voltage.) The same holds true for other end-use products manufactured by the respective manufacturers. The petitioners further state and provide data demonstrating that when using an adaptive EPS that supports the IEC 62680-1-2:2017 specification to charge an end-use product of a manufacturer different from the one who manufactured the EPS, it is likely that the product would charge at less than 10W at 5V, or may even be capable of exploiting the ability of an adaptive EPS to provide higher voltages for faster charging. Accordingly, the petitioners argue that the current DOE test procedure, which requires that efficiency be measured above 10W at the lowest voltage condition, results in a measurement that is grossly unrepresentative of the actual energy consumption characteristics of the adaptive EPS being tested. The petitioners also request an interim waiver from the existing DOE test procedure for immediate relief. As previously noted, an interim waiver may be granted if it appears likely that the petition for waiver will be granted, and/or if DOE determines that it would be desirable for public policy reasons to grant immediate relief pending a determination of the petition for waiver. See 10 CFR 430.27(e)(2). DOE understands that absent an interim waiver, the basic models identified by the petitioners cannot be tested and rated for energy consumption on a basis representative of their true energy consumption characteristics. DOE has reviewed the suggested alternate procedure and concludes that it will allow for the accurate measurement of the energy use of these products, while alleviating the testing problems associated with petitioner's implementation of EPS testing for their adaptive EPSs that support the IEC 62680-1-2:2017 specification. Consequently, DOE has determined that the petition for waiver will likely be granted and has decided that it is desirable for public policy reasons to grant the petitioners immediate relief pending a determination on the petition for waiver. III. Summary of Grant of Interim Waiver For the reasons stated above, DOE has informed the petitioners that it is granting the petitions for interim waiver from testing for the specified EPS basic models through separate correspondence to each petitioner, which includes an Order granting the petitions, subject to the certain specifications and conditions. The substance of the Interim Waiver Order is summarized below: After careful consideration of all the material submitted by the petitioners in this matter, DOE grants an interim waiver regarding the specified basic models. Accordingly, it is ORDERED that: (1) The petitioners must test and rate the EPSs of the following basic models as set forth in paragraph (2) below: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Company Basic model No. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Apple..................................... A1718, A1719, A1540. Microsoft................................. AC-100. Poin2..................................... A16-045N1A. Bitland................................... A045R053L. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ (2) The applicable method of test for the basic models listed in paragraph (1) is the test procedure for EPSs prescribed by DOE at 10 CFR part 430, subpart B, Appendix Z, except that under section 4(a)(i)(E) and Table 1 of Appendix Z, adaptive EPSs that meet the IEC 62680-1-2:2017 specification must be tested such that the 100% nameplate loading condition when testing at the lowest achievable output voltage is 2A (which corresponds to an output power of 10 watts). The 75%, 50%, and 25% loading conditions shall be scaled accordingly and the nameplate output power of such an EPS, at the lowest output voltage, shall be equal to 10 watts. (3) Representations. The petitioners are permitted to make representations about the energy use of the respective adaptive EPS for compliance, marketing, or other purposes only to the extent that such products have been tested in accordance with the provisions set forth above and such representations fairly disclose the results of such testing in accordance with 10 CFR 429.37. (4) This interim waiver shall remain in effect consistent with the provisions of 10 CFR 430.27(h) and (l). (5) This interim waiver is issued on the condition that the statements, representations, and documentary materials provided by the petitioner are valid. DOE may revoke or modify this waiver at any time if it determines the factual basis underlying the petition for waiver is incorrect, or the results from the alternate test procedure are unrepresentative of the basic model's true energy consumption characteristics. (6) Granting of this interim waiver does not release the petitioners from the certification requirements set forth at 10 CFR part 429. IV. Alternate Test Procedure EPCA requires that manufacturers use DOE test procedures when making representations about the energy consumption and energy consumption costs of products and equipment covered by the statute. (42 U.S.C. 6293(c); 6314(d)) Consistent representations about the energy efficiency of covered products and equipment are important for consumers evaluating products when making purchasing decisions and for manufacturers to demonstrate compliance with applicable DOE energy [[Page 34297]] conservation standards. Pursuant to its regulations applicable to waivers and interim waivers from applicable test procedures at 10 CFR 430.27 and after considering public comments on the petition, DOE will announce its decision as to an alternate test procedure for the petitioners in a subsequent Decision and Order. During the period of the interim waiver granted in this notice, the petitioners must test the basic models listed in Table 1 according to the test procedure for EPS prescribed by DOE at 10 CFR part 430, subpart B, Appendix Z, except that the 100% nameplate loading condition when testing at the lowest achievable output voltage must be 2A (which corresponds to an output power of 10W), and the 75%, 50%, and 25% loading conditions shall scale accordingly (i.e. 1.5A, 1A, and 0.5A, respectively). The nameplate output power of the EPS at the lowest output voltage shall be equal to 10W. V. Summary and Request for Comments This document announces DOE's receipt of the petitioners' petitions for waiver from the DOE test procedure for EPSs and announces DOE's decision to grant the petitioners with an interim waiver from the test procedure for the adaptive EPSs listed in Table 1 of this document. DOE is publishing the petitions from Apple, Microsoft, Poin2, and Bitland for waiver in their entirety, pursuant to 10 CFR 430.27(b)(1)(iv). The petitions contain no confidential information. The petitions include a suggested alternate test procedure to determine the energy consumption of these EPSs. The petitioners are required to use this alternate procedure, as specified in section IV of this notice, as a condition of the grant of interim waiver, and after considering public comments on the petition, DOE will publish in the Federal Register either a decision as to the continued use of this alternate procedure (or a modified version thereof) in a subsequent Decision and Order or a new or amended test procedure that addresses the issues presented in the waiver. DOE solicits comments from interested parties on all aspects of the petition, including the suggested alternate test procedure and calculation methodology. Pursuant to 10 CFR 430.27(d), any person submitting written comments to DOE must also send a copy of such comments to the petitioner. The contact information for the petitioners is: Ms. Alexandria McBride, Director of Environment and Sustainability, Information Technology Industry Council, 1101 K Street NW Suite 610, Washington, DC 20005. All comment submissions must include the agency name and Docket No. EERE-2017-BT-WAV-0043 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). Pursuant 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 to DOE: One copy of the document marked ``confidential'' with all of the information believed to be confidential included, and one copy of the document marked ``non- confidential'' with all of 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 July 11, 2017. Kathleen B. Hogan, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. BEFORE THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY WASHINGTON, D.C. 20585 In the Matter of: Energy Efficiency Program: Test Procedure for External Power Supplies Docket No. EERE-2014-BT-TP-0043; RIN 1904-AD36 PETITION OF APPLE INC. FOR WAIVER AND APPLICATION FOR INTERIM WAIVER OF TEST PROCEDURE FOR EXTERNAL POWER SUPPLIES Apple Inc. respectfully submits this Petition for Waiver and Application for Interim Waiver \4\ as related to the Department of Energy's (DOE) test procedure for external power supplies (EPS) \5\ as applied to certain adaptive EPSs.\6\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \4\ See 10 CFR 430.27 (waiver and interim waiver). \5\ Id. Part 430, Subpart B, Appendix Z. \6\ An adaptive EPS is an external power supply that can alter its output voltage during active-mode based on an established digital communication protocol with the end-use application without any user-generated action. 10 CFR Sec. 430.2. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Apple Inc. is located at 1 Infinite Loop, Cupertino, CA 95014. Telephone number: (408) 996-1010. Apple Inc. revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple Inc. leads the world in innovation with iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch and Apple TV. Apple's four software platforms--iOS, macOS, watchOS and tvOS--provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay and iCloud. Apple's more than 100,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth, and to leaving the world better than we found it. The adaptive EPS basic models listed in Appendix I hereto meet the criteria for a waiver.\7\ The current DOE test procedure evaluates the models in a manner that is that is grossly unrepresentative of their actual energy consumption characteristics in real-world usage. This circumstance has already been recognized by DOE, and it has indicated a willingness to review the situation. Apple Inc. urges that a waiver be granted that will provide for the alternate test procedure discussed herein, under which lowest voltage average efficiency would be measured at 10 watts (W). This is far more representative of the actual energy consumption characteristics of most such products in real-world usage than the 15W required by the current DOE test procedure. DOE ``will grant a waiver from the test procedure requirements'' in these circumstances.\8\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \7\ Id. Sec. 430.27(f)(2). \8\ Id. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- I. BASIC MODELS FOR WHICH A WAIVER IS REQUESTED. The basic models for which a waiver is requested are the adaptive EPSs set forth in Appendix I hereto. They are manufactured by Apple Inc. and are distributed in commerce under the Apple brand name. II. NEED FOR THE REQUESTED WAIVER. Adaptive EPSs are highly beneficial products. They allow efficient charging with less resistive loss. They can be readily reused when devices are replaced; thus, there is less need to include EPSs in the box with a new device. This all is of significant benefit to the consumer--as well as to the environment, including reduced landfill, packaging, and transportation. Under the current DOE test procedure, average active-mode efficiency for adaptive EPSs is to be measured by testing the unit twice--once at the highest achievable output [[Page 34298]] voltage and once at the lowest.\9\ Testing is to be across four load points (100%, 75%, 50%, and 25%) for each of the highest and lowest voltage levels.\10\ The average efficiency is deemed to be the arithmetic mean of the efficiency values calculated at the four load points.\11\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \9\ Id. Part 430, Subpart B, Appendix Z, Sec. 4(a)(i)(E). \10\ Id. Sec. Sec. 4(a)(i)(C), (E), (H). \11\ Id. Sec. 4(a)(i)(H). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- The lowest achievable output voltage supported by the basic models is 5 volts (V). They are designed to provide a maximum power of 15W when this voltage is selected. 15W is an element of the USB Power Delivery Specification,\12\ which requires USB compliant products to support 15W at 5V. However, adaptive EPSs do not exceed 10W for almost all usage. 15W at 5V will only be used in rare use scenarios and only for brief periods of time. Therefore, the DOE test procedure's evaluation at this power level is unrepresentative of the true energy consumption of the basic models in real-world usage. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \12\ IEC 62680-1-2:2017, Universal serial bus interfaces for data and power--Part 1-2: Common components--USB Power Delivery Specification. See https://webstore.iec.ch/publication/26174. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- In that regard, where the adaptive EPS listed in Appendix I is used with an intended end use product (IEUP) manufactured by Apple Inc.,\13\ the adaptive EPS is required to support 15W (5V 3A [amps]) as required by the USB Power Delivery Specification, but the IEUP product is designed never to consume this level of power. The IEUP charges at 5 volts only (i) with respect to a dead battery, 0.5A, i.e., 2.5W, for up to 120 seconds; or (ii) for end of charge (battery fully charged-- trickle power at < 0.5A). At other times, particularly when power above 10W is needed, the IEUP commands the EPS to use a higher voltage rail, as this is more efficient. Therefore, evaluation of adaptive EPSs at the 15W power level when evaluating efficiency at the lowest voltage rail (5V) is grossly unrepresentative of the actual energy consumption characteristics of these models in real-world usage. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \13\ An IEUP is a product that is sold or intended to be used with the unit under test (UUT) and constitutes the primary load for the UUT. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- The same holds true of other end use products (OEUP) \14\ manufactured by Apple Inc. that can be connected to basic models of adaptive EPSs listed in Appendix I hereto. When power above 10W is needed, any IEUP manufactured by Apple uses a higher voltage rail, as this is more efficient. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \14\ An OEUP is a product other than an IEUP that can be used with the UT and constitutes the primary load for the UUT. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- The situation is the same for basic models of adaptive EPSs listed in Appendix 1 to be used with OEUPs from another manufacturer. These OEUPs are highly likely to be mobile phones (smartphones or feature phones) or tablets.\15\ As discussed herein, they are highly likely to charge at less than 10W at 5V, and to use a higher voltage rail when power above 10W is needed. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \15\ A smartphone is a mobile phone that performs many of the functions of a computer, typically having a touchscreen interface, Internet access, and an operating system capable of running downloaded applications. A feature phone is a mobile phone that is unable to run downloaded applications, and thus lacks the capabilities of a smartphone. A tablet is a small portable computer that accepts its input directly on a screen rather than via a keyboard or mouse, has Internet access, and an operating system capable of running downloaded applications. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- As shown in Table 1, mobile phones dominate the portable device market and are ubiquitous world-wide. The most likely OEUP to be charged from an adaptive EPS is a mobile phone. Note that all mobile phones are able to be charged from an adaptive EPS using an appropriate cable. TABLE 1 See the following website for figures of the ``TABLE 1'': https://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-2017-BT-WAV-0043 As shown in Table 2, smartphones dominate the U.S. market. TABLE 2 See the following website for figures of the ``TABLE 2'': https://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-2017-BT-WAV-0043 Table 3 demonstrates that the vast majority of the shipments supporting mobile phones and tablets charge at 10W or less at 5V. For mobile phones and tablets sold in 2016: 97% of North American shipments and 97.4% of worldwide shipments charge below 10W at 5V. For charging at and above 10W at 5V the comparable numbers for smartphones and tablets sold in 2016 represented a mere 3% of North American shipments and 2.6% of worldwide shipments.\16\ These figures include the 2016 introduction of smartphones that use USB Type-C as the phone's charging interface. Some of these have the capability of charging at >=10W at 5V, but the proportion is not known so a conservative assumption is made (see below). Furthermore, some of these smartphones are capable of exploiting the ability of an adaptive EPS to provide higher voltages, and thus would be expected to use these higher voltages for faster charging and not charge at >=10W at 5V, but again the proportion is not known. (The proportion of USB Type-C smartphones that exploit the capabilities of adaptive EPSs might be expected to grow in the future.) In the figures above and in Table 3 the generous assumption is made that all such phones can charge at >=10W at 5V. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \16\ Laptops are not included in the market analysis. They usually do not charge from adaptive EPSs. Newly introduced laptops that can charge from adaptive EPSs typically only charge at 5V (i) with respect to a dead battery, 0.5A, i.e., 2.5W, for up to 120 seconds; or (ii) for end of charge (battery fully charged--trickle power at < 0.5A). Some non-IT products, such as some children's toys, charge using default power (0.5A, 2.5W), while some use 1.5A, 7.5W. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- TABLE 3 See the following website for figures of the ``TABLE 3'': https://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-2017-BT-WAV-0043 Distortion caused by the test procedure when used to test the efficiency of adaptive EPSs at the lowest voltage level was highlighted during the test procedure rulemaking for EPSs. It was stressed that the test procedure for the lowest voltage level does not reflect actual use in the field.\17\ DOE was receptive and indicated that it could make changes when more information was known. ``[I]n response to comments, in response to changing markets, in response to innovative technologies, we can always change the way we do things in the future.'' \18\ DOE also stated that it had not yet done any data collection on adaptive EPSs.\19\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \17\ DOE, Transcript, External Power Supply Test Procedure NOPR Meeting at 94-100 (Nov. 21, 2014). \18\ Transcript at 99 (Ashley Armstrong, DOE). \19\ Id. at 108 (Jeremy Dommu, DOE). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- DOE's final test procedure rule \20\ acknowledged that adaptive EPSs are a ``new EPS technology,'' are ``unique among EPSs'' and ``were not considered when the current test procedure was first adopted.'' Therefore, that test procedure ``did not explicitly address the unique characteristics of these types of EPSs to ensure reproducible and repeatable results.'' \21\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \20\ 80 Fed. Reg. 51424 (Aug. 25, 2015). \21\ Id. 51426, 51431-32. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Recognizing the unrepresentative nature of the test procedure at the lowest voltage level, DOE also stated: At higher output voltages, EPSs typically have greater efficiency due to a lower loss ratio of the fixed voltage drops in the conversion circuitry to the nominal output voltage. These losses do not increase linearly with output voltage, so higher output voltages typically provide greater conversion efficiency.\22\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \22\ Id. 51432. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- [[Page 34299]] III. PROPOSED ALTERNATE TEST PROCEDURE Apple Inc. proposes the following alternate test procedure to evaluate the performance of the basic models listed in Appendix I hereto. Apple Inc. shall be required to test the performance of the basic models listed in Appendix I according to the test procedures for adaptive EPSs in 10 CFR Part 430, Subpart B, Appendix Z, except that it shall modify test measurements calculation for 5V (lowest voltage level [LV]): Measure at 4 points: 100%, 75%, 50%, & 25% of 10 W load points at 5V (LV). Take the average. Compare results against DOE efficiency requirement at 10W. The waiver should continue until DOE adopts an applicable amended test procedure. IV. REQUEST FOR INTERIM WAIVER. Apple Inc. also requests an interim waiver for its testing and rating of the models in Appendix I. The petition for waiver is likely to be granted, as evidenced by its merits. Without waiver relief, Apple Inc. would be subject to requirements that clearly should not apply to its products identified herein. And without such relief, Apple Inc. will be obliged to market products that, while meeting the requirements of the current DOE test procedure, will not comply with the international USB Power Delivery Specification (IEC 62680-1-2:2017). This will put Apple Inc. at a competitive disadvantage and impact Apple Inc.'s reputation for delivering standards compliant products. Apple Inc. would like to be compliant with the international USB Power Delivery Specification for the benefit of the USB adaptive charger ecosystem. V. LIST OF MANFACTURERS A list of manufacturers of all other basic models distributed in commerce in the United States and known to Apple Inc. to incorporate design characteristic(s) similar to those found in the basic models that are the subject of the petition is set forth in Appendix II hereto. * * * Apple Inc. requests expedited treatment of the Petition and Application. It is also willing to promptly provide any additional information DOE requires to act expeditiously. VI. CONCLUSION DOE should grant Apple Inc. the requested waiver and interim waiver for the models listed in Appendix I hereto. Respectfully submitted, May 30, 2017 Carlos Ribas Director Power Systems Engineering Apple Inc. APPENDIX I The waiver and interim waiver requested herein should apply to testing and rating of the following basic models. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Nameplate input rating Nameplate output rating Model Product type (AC) (DC) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A1718................................ Adaptive Single Voltage 100-240V~, 50-60Hz, Highest output voltage: External Power Supply. 1.5A. 20.3V, 3A (60.9W). Lowest output voltage: 5V, 3A (15W). A1719................................ Adaptive Single Voltage 100-240V~, 50-60Hz, Highest output voltage: External Power Supply. 1.5A. 20.3V, 4.3A (87W). Lowest output voltage: 5V, 3A (15W). A1540................................ Adaptive Single Voltage 100-240V~, 50-60Hz, Highest output voltage: External Power Supply. 0.75A. 14.5V, 2A (87W). Lowest output voltage: 5V, 3A (15W). ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- APPENDIX II The following are manufacturers of all other basic models distributed in commerce in the United States and known to Apple Inc. to incorporate design characteristics similar to those found in the basic models that are the subject of the petition for waiver. Acbel Active-Semi, Inc. Bitland Chicony Power Technology Chrontel, Inc Dell HONOR ELECTRONIC CO.LTD Huntkey Ever Win International Corp. Griffin Technology LLC LG Electronics USA, Inc Liteon Lucent Trans Electronics Co., Ltd. Mobileconn Technology Co., Ltd. Phihong Technology Co., Ltd. Poin2 Lab. Renesas Electronics Corp. Salcomp Plc Samsung STMicroelectronics Superior Communications Texas Instruments Ventev Mobile Weltrend Semiconductor Xentris Wireless Sources include: ``USB Power Brick'', USB Implementers Forum, Inc. Accessed <http://www.usb.org/kcompliance/view/CertifiedUSBPowerBricks.pdf BEFORE THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY WASHINGTON, D.C. 20585 In the Matter of: Energy Efficiency Program: Test Procedure for External Power Supplies Docket No. EERE-2014-BT-TP-0043; RIN 1904-AD36 PETITION OF MICROSOFT CORPORATION FOR WAIVER AND APPLICATION FOR INTERIM WAIVER OF TEST PROCEDURE FOR EXTERNAL POWER SUPPLIES Microsoft Corporation (Microsoft) respectfully submits this Petition for Waiver and Application for Interim Waiver \1\ as related to the Department of Energy's (DOE) test procedure for external power supplies (EPS) \2\ as applied to certain adaptive EPSs.\3\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \1\ See 10 CFR 430.27 (waiver and interim waiver). \2\ Id. Part 430, Subpart B, Appendix Z. \3\ An adaptive EPS is an external power supply that can alter its output voltage during active-mode based on an established digital communication protocol with the end-use application without any user-generated action. 10 C.F.R. Sec. 430.2. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Microsoft is located at 1 Microsoft Way, Redmond, Washington 98052. Telephone: (425) 882-8080. The adaptive EPS basic models listed in Appendix I hereto meet the criteria for a waiver.\4\ The current DOE test procedure evaluates the models in a manner that is that is grossly unrepresentative of their actual energy consumption characteristics in real-world usage. This situation has already been recognized by DOE, and it has indicated a willingness to review the situation. Microsoft Corporation urges that a waiver be granted that will provide for the alternate test procedure discussed herein, under which lowest voltage average efficiency would be measured at 10 watts (W). This is far more representative of actual energy consumption characteristics of the [[Page 34300]] product in real-world usage than the 15W required by the current DOE test procedure. DOE ``will grant a waiver from the test procedure requirements'' in these circumstances.\5\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \4\ Id. Sec. 430.27(f)(2). \5\ Id. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- I. BASIC MODELS FOR WHICH A WAIVER IS REQUESTED. The basic models for which a waiver is requested are the adaptive EPSs set forth in Appendix I hereto. They are distributed in commerce under the Microsoft brand name. II. NEED FOR THE REQUESTED WAIVER. Adaptive EPSs are highly beneficial products. They allow efficient charging with less resistive loss. They can be readily reused when devices are replaced; thus, there is less need to include EPSs in the box with a new device. This all is of significant benefit to the consumer--as well as to the environment, including reduced landfill, packaging, and transportation. Under the current DOE test procedure, average active-mode efficiency for adaptive EPSs is to be measured by testing the unit twice--once at the highest achievable output voltage and once at the lowest.\6\ Testing is to be across four load points (100%, 75%, 50%, and 25%) for each of the highest and lowest voltage levels.\7\ The average efficiency is deemed to be the arithmetic mean of the efficiency values calculated at the four load points.\8\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \6\ Id. Part 430, Subpart B, Appendix Z, Sec. 4(a)(i)(E). \7\ Id. Sec. Sec. 4(a)(i)(C), (E), (H). \8\ Id. Sec. 4(a)(i)(H). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- The lowest achievable output voltage supported by the basic models is 5 volts (V). They are designed to provide a maximum power of 15W when this voltage is selected. 15W is an element of the USB Power Delivery Specification,\9\ which requires the product to support 15W at 5V. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \9\ IEC 62680-1-2:2017, Universal serial bus interfaces for data and power--Part 1-2: Common components--USB Power Delivery Specification. See https://webstore.iec.ch/publication/26174. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- However, adaptive EPSs do not exceed 10W for almost all usage. 15W at 5V will only be used in rare use scenarios and only for brief periods of time. Therefore, the DOE test procedure's evaluation at this power level is unrepresentative of the true energy consumption of the basic models in real-world usage. In that regard, where the adaptive EPS listed in Appendix I is used with an intended end use product (IEUP),\10\ the adaptive EPS is required to support 15W (5V 3A [amps]) due to the USB Power Delivery Specification, but the IEUP product very rarely consumes this level of power. The IEUP charges at 5 volts only (i) with respect to a dead battery, 0.5A, i.e., 2.5W, for up to 120 seconds; or (ii) for end of charge (battery fully charged--trickle power at < 0.5A). Therefore, evaluation of adaptive EPSs at the 15W power level is grossly unrepresentative of the actual energy consumption characteristics of these models in real-world usage. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \10\ An IEUP is a product that is sold or intended to be used with the unit under test (UUT) and constitutes the primary load for the UUT. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- The same holds true of other end use products (OEUP) \11\ that can be connected to basic models of adaptive EPSs listed in Appendix I hereto. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \11\ An OEUP is a product other than an IEUP that can be used with the UT and constitutes the primary load for the UUT. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- The situation is the same for basic models of adaptive EPSs listed in Appendix 1 to be used with OEUPs from another manufacturer. These OEUPs are highly likely to be mobile phones (smartphones or feature phones) or tablets.\12\ As discussed herein, they are highly likely to charge at less than 10W. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \12\ A smartphone is a mobile phone that performs many of the functions of a computer, typically having a touchscreen interface, internet access, and an operating system capable of running downloaded applications. A feature phone is a mobile phone that is unable to run downloaded applications, and thus lacks the capabilities of a smartphone. A tablet is a small portable computer that accepts its input directly on a screen rather than via a keyboard or mouse, has internet access, and an operating system capable of running downloaded applications. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- As shown in Table 1, mobile phones dominate the portable device market and are ubiquitous world-wide. The most likely OEUP to be charged from an adaptive EPS is a mobile phone. Note that all mobile phones are able to be charged from an adaptive EPS using an appropriate cable. TABLE 1 See the following website for figures of the ``TABLE 1'': https://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-2017-BT-WAV-0043 As shown in Table 2, smartphones dominate the U.S. market. TABLE 2 See the following website for figures of the ``TABLE 2'': https://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-2017-BT-WAV-0043 Table 3 demonstrates that the vast majority of the shipments supporting mobile phones and tablets charge at 10W or less at 5V. For mobile phones and tablets sold in 2016: 97% of North American shipments and 97.4% of worldwide shipments charge below 10W at 5V. For charging at and above 10W at 5V the comparable numbers for smartphones and tablets sold in 2016 represented a mere 3% of North American shipments and 2.6% of worldwide shipments.\13\ These figures include the introduction in 2016 of smartphones that use USB Type-C as the phone's charging interface. Some of these have the capability of charging at >=10W at 5V, but proportion is not known so a conservative assumption is made (see below). Furthermore, some of these are capable of exploiting the ability of an adaptive EPS to provide higher voltages, and thus would be expected to use these higher voltages for faster charging and not charge at >=10W at 5V, but again the proportion is not known. (The proportion of USB Type-C smartphones that exploit the capabilities of adaptive EPSs might grow in the future to some extent.) In the figures above and in Table 3 the generous assumption is made that all such phones can charge at >=10W at 5V. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \13\ Laptops are not included in the market analysis. They usually do not charge from adaptive EPSs. Newly introduced laptops that can charge from adaptive EPSs typically only charge at 5V (i) with respect to a dead battery, 0.5A, i.e., 2.5W, for up to 120 seconds; or (ii) for end of charge (battery fully charged--trickle power at < 0.5A). Non-IT products such as children's toys that charge usually charge using default power (0.5A, 2.5W); some use 1.5A, 7.5W. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- TABLE 3 See the following website for figures of the ``TABLE 3'': https://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-2017-BT-WAV-0043 Distortion caused by the test procedure as applied for efficiency of adaptive EPSs at the lowest voltage level was highlighted during the test procedure rulemaking for EPSs. It was stressed that the test procedure for the lowest voltage level does not reflect actual use in the field.\14\ DOE was receptive and indicated that it could make changes when more information was known. ``[I]n response to comments, in response to changing markets, in response to innovative technologies, we can always change the way we do things in the future.'' \15\ DOE also stated that it had not done any data collection on adaptive EPSs yet.\16\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \14\ DOE, Transcript, External Power Supply Test Procedure NOPR Meeting at 94-100 (Nov. 21, 2014). \15\ Transcript at 99 (Ashley Armstrong, DOE). \16\ Id. at 108 (Jeremy Dommu, DOE). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- DOE's final test procedure rule \17\ acknowledged that adaptive EPSs are a ``new EPS technology,'' are ``unique among EPSs'' and ``were not considered when the current test procedure was [[Page 34301]] first adopted.'' Therefore, that test procedure ``did not explicitly address the unique characteristics of these types of EPSs to ensure reproducible and repeatable results.'' \18\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \17\ 80 Fed. Reg. 51424 (Aug. 25, 2015). \18\ Id. 51426, 51431-32. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Virtually acknowledging the problem with the unrepresentative nature of the test procedure at the lowest voltage level, DOE also stated: At higher output voltages, EPSs typically have greater efficiency due to a lower loss ratio of the fixed voltage drops in the conversion circuitry to the nominal output voltage. These losses do not increase linearly with output voltage, so higher output voltages typically provide greater conversion efficiency.\19\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \19\ Id. 51432. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- III. PROPOSED ALTERNATE TEST PROCEDURE Microsoft Corporation proposes the following alternate test procedure to evaluate the performance of the basic models listed in Appendix I hereto. A company subject to the waiver shall be required to test the performance of the basic models listed in Appendix I according to the test procedures for adaptive EPSs in 10 CFR Part 430, Subpart B, Appendix Z, except that it shall modify test measurements calculation for 5V (lowest voltage level [LV]): Measure at 4 points: 100%, 75%, 50%, & 25% of 10 W load points at 5V (LV). Take the average. Compare results against DOE efficiency requirement at 10W. The waiver should continue until DOE adopts an applicable amended test procedure. IV. REQUEST FOR INTERIM WAIVER. Microsoft Corporation also requests an interim waiver for its testing and rating of the models in Appendix I. The petition for waiver is likely to be granted, as evidenced by its merits. Without waiver relief, the models would be subject to requirements that clearly should not apply to them. And without such relief, there will be economic hardship. Sales of adaptive EPSs will be inhibited, to the detriment of manufacturers, users and distributors of adaptive EPSs and the products that use adaptive EPSs. V. LIST OF MANUFACTURERS A list of manufacturers of all other basic models distributed in commerce in the United States and known to Microsoft Corporation to incorporate design characteristic(s) similar to those found in the basic models that are the subject of the petition is set forth in Appendix II hereto. * * * Microsoft Corporation requests expedited treatment of the Petition and Application. It is also willing to provide promptly any additional information the Department thinks it needs to act with expedition. VI. CONCLUSION. DOE should grant the requested waiver and interim waiver for the models listed in Appendix I hereto. Respectfully submitted, Ted Eckert Microsoft Corporation 7 June, 2017 24JY3. APPENDIX I The waiver and interim waiver requested herein should apply to testing and rating of the following basic models: AC-100 APPENDIX II The following are manufacturers of all other basic models distributed in commerce in the United States and known to Microsoft Corporation to incorporate design characteristics similar to those found in the basic models that are the subject of the petition for waiver: Acbel Active-Semi, Inc. Apple, Inc Bitland Chicony Power Technology Chrontel, Inc Dell HONOR ELECTRONIC CO.LTD Huntkey Ever Win International Corp. Griffin Technology LLC LG Electronics USA, Inc Liteon Lucent Trans Electronics Co., Ltd. Mobileconn Technology Co., Ltd. Phihong Technology Co., Ltd. Poin2 Lab. Renesas Electronics Corp. Salcomp Plc Samsung STMicroelectronics Superior Communications Texas Instruments Ventev Mobile Weltrend Semiconductor Xentris Wireless Sources include: ``USB Power Brick'', USB Implementers Forum, Inc. Accessed < http://www.usb.org/kcompliance/view/CertifiedUSBPowerBricks.pdf THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY WASHINGTON, D.C. 20585 In the Matter of: Energy Efficiency Program: Test Procedure for External Power Supplies Docket No. EERE-2014-BT-TP-0043; RIN 1904-AD36 PETITION OF POIN2 LAB. FOR WAIVER AND APPLICATION FOR INTERIM WAIVER OF TEST PROCEDURE FOR EXTERNAL POWER SUPPLIES Poin2 Lab. respectfully submits this Petition for Waiver and Application for Interim Waiver \1\ as related to the Department of Energy's (DOE) test procedure for external power supplies (EPS) \2\ as applied to certain adaptive EPSs.\3\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \1\ See 10 CFR 430.27 (waiver and interim waiver). \2\ Id. Part 430, Subpart B, Appendix Z. \3\ An adaptive EPS is an external power supply that can alter its output voltage during active- mode based on an established digital communication protocol with the end-use application without any user-generated action. 10 C.F.R. Sec. 430.2. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Poin2 Lab. is located at 1404 Seoul Forest L-Tower, Seongdong-Gu, Seoul, 14789, South Korea. Telephone: (+82) 02-552-9012. The adaptive EPS basic models listed in Appendix I hereto meet the criteria for a waiver.\4\ The current DOE test procedure evaluates the models in a manner that is that is grossly unrepresentative of their actual energy consumption characteristics in real-world usage. This situation has already been recognized by DOE, and it has indicated a willingness to review the situation. Poin2 Lab. urges that a waiver be granted that will provide for the alternate test procedure discussed herein, under which lowest voltage average efficiency would be measured at 10 watts (W). This is far more representative of actual energy consumption characteristics of the product in real-world usage than the 15W required by the current DOE test procedure. DOE ``will grant a waiver from the test procedure requirements'' in these circumstances.\5\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \4\ Id. Sec. 430.27(f)(2). \5\ Id. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- I. BASIC MODELS FOR WHICH A WAIVER IS REQUESTED. The basic models for which a waiver is requested are the adaptive EPSs set forth in Appendix I hereto. They are manufactured by Chicony Power Technology and are distributed in commerce under the Chicony brand name. [[Page 34302]] II. NEED FOR THE REQUESTED WAIVER. Adaptive EPSs are highly beneficial products. They allow efficient charging with less resistive loss. They can be readily reused when devices are replaced; thus, there is less need to include EPSs in the box with a new device. This all is of significant benefit to the consumer--as well as to the environment, including reduced landfill, packaging, and transportation. Under the current DOE test procedure, average active-mode efficiency for adaptive EPSs is to be measured by testing the unit twice--once at the highest achievable output voltage and once at the lowest.\6\ Testing is to be across four load points (100%, 75%, 50%, and 25%) for each of the highest and lowest voltage levels.\7\ The average efficiency is deemed to be the arithmetic mean of the efficiency values calculated at the four load points.\8\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \6\ Id. Part 430, Subpart B, Appendix Z, Sec. 4(a)(i)(E). \7\ Id. Sec. Sec. 4(a)(i)(C), (E), (H). \8\ Id. Sec. 4(a)(i)(H). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- The lowest achievable output voltage supported by the basic models is 5 volts (V). They are designed to provide a maximum power of 15W when this voltage is selected. 15W is an element of the USB Power Delivery Specification,\9\ which requires the product to support 15W at 5V. However, adaptive EPSs do not exceed 10W for almost all usage. 15W at 5V will only be used in rare use scenarios and only for brief periods of time. Therefore, the DOE test procedure's evaluation at this power level is unrepresentative of the true energy consumption of the basic models in real-world usage. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \9\ IEC 62680-1-2:2017, Universal serial bus interfaces for data and power--Part 1-2: Common components--USB Power Delivery Specification. See https://webstore.iec.ch/publication/26174. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- In that regard, where the adaptive EPS listed in Appendix I is used with an intended end use product (IEUP) manufactured by Poin2 Lab.,\10\ the adaptive EPS is required to support 15W (5V 3A [amps]) due to the USB Power Delivery Specification, but the IEUP product very rarely consumes this level of power. The IEUP charges at 5 volts only (i) with respect to a dead battery, 0.5A, i.e., 2.5W, for up to 120 seconds; or (ii) for end of charge (battery fully charged--trickle power at < 0.5A). Therefore, evaluation of adaptive EPSs at the 15W power level is grossly unrepresentative of the actual energy consumption characteristics of these models in real- world usage. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \10\ An IEUP is a product that is sold or intended to be used with the unit under test (UUT) and constitutes the primary load for the UUT. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- The same holds true of other end use products (OEUP) \11\ manufactured by Poin2 Lab. that can be connected to basic models of adaptive EPSs listed in Appendix I hereto. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \11\ An OEUP is a product other than an IEUP that can be used with the UT and constitutes the primary load for the UUT. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- The situation is the same for basic models of adaptive EPSs listed in Appendix 1 to be used with OEUPs from another manufacturer. These OEUPs are highly likely to be mobile [sic] As shown in Table 1, mobile phones dominate the portable device market and are ubiquitous world-wide. The most likely OEUP to be charged from an adaptive EPS is a mobile phone. Note that all mobile phones are able to be charged from an adaptive EPS using an appropriate cable. TABLE 1 See the following website for figures of the ``TABLE 1'': https://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-2017-BT-WAV-0043 As shown in Table 2, smartphones dominate the U.S. market. TABLE 2 See the following website for figures of the ``TABLE 2'': https://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-2017-BT-WAV-0043 Table 3 demonstrates that the vast majority of the shipments supporting mobile phones and tablets charge at 10W or less at 5V. For mobile phones and tablets sold in 2016: 97% of North American shipments and 97.4% of worldwide shipments charge below 10W at 5V. For charging at and above 10W at 5V the comparable numbers for smartphones and tablets sold in 2016 represented a mere 3% of North American shipments and 2.6% of worldwide shipments.\12\ These figures include the introduction in 2016 of smartphones that use USB Type-C as the phone's charging interface. Some of these have the capability of charging at >=10W at 5V, but the proportion is not known so a conservative assumption is made (see below). Furthermore, some of these are capable of exploiting the ability of an adaptive EPS to provide higher voltages, and thus would be expected to use these higher voltages for faster charging and not charge at >=10W at 5V, but again the proportion is not known. (The proportion of USB Type-C smartphones that exploit the capabilities of adaptive EPSs might grow in the future to some extent.) In the figures above and in Table 3 the generous assumption is made that all such phones can charge at >=10W at 5V. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \12\ Laptops are not included in the market analysis. They usually do not charge from adaptive EPSs. Newly introduced laptops that can charge from adaptive EPSs typically only charge at 5V (i) with respect to a dead battery, 0.5A, i.e., 2.5W, for up to 120 seconds; or (ii) for end of charge (battery fully charged--trickle power at < 0.5A). Non-IT products such as children's toys that charge usually charge using default power (0.5A, 2.5W); some use 1.5A, 7.5W. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- TABLE 3 See the following website for figures of the ``TABLE 1'': https://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-2017-BT-WAV-0043 Distortion caused by the test procedure as applied for efficiency of adaptive EPSs at the lowest voltage level was highlighted during the test procedure rulemaking for EPSs. It was stressed that the test procedure for the lowest voltage level does not reflect actual use in the field.\13\ DOE was receptive and indicated that it could make changes when more information was known. ``[I]n response to comments, in response to changing markets, in response to innovative technologies, we can always change the way we do things in the future.'' \14\ DOE also stated that it had not done any data collection on adaptive EPSs yet.\15\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \13\ DOE, Transcript, External Power Supply Test Procedure NOPR Meeting at 94-100 (Nov. 21, 2014). \14\ Transcript at 99 (Ashley Armstrong, DOE). \15\ Id. at 108 (Jeremy Dommu, DOE). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- DOE's final test procedure rule \16\ acknowledged that adaptive EPSs are a ``new EPS technology,'' are ``unique among EPSs'' and ``were not considered when the current test procedure was first adopted.'' Therefore, that test procedure ``did not explicitly address the unique characteristics of these types of EPSs to ensure reproducible and repeatable results.'' \17\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \16\ 80 Fed. Reg. 51424 (Aug. 25, 2015). \17\ Id. 51426, 51431-32. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Virtually acknowledging the problem with the unrepresentative nature of the test procedure at the lowest voltage level, DOE also stated: At higher output voltages, EPSs typically have greater efficiency due to a lower loss ratio of the fixed voltage drops in the conversion circuitry to the nominal output voltage. These losses do not increase linearly with output voltage, so higher output voltages typically provide greater conversion efficiency.\18\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \18\ Id. 51432. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- III. PROPOSED ALTERNATE TEST PROCEDURE Poin2 Lab. proposes the following alternate test procedure to evaluate the [[Page 34303]] performance of the basic models listed in Appendix I hereto. Poin2 Lab. shall be required to test the performance of the basic models listed in Appendix I according to the test procedures for adaptive EPSs in 10 C.F.R. Part 430, Subpart B, Appendix Z, except that it shall modify test measurements calculation for 5V (lowest voltage level [LV]): Measure at 4 points: 100%, 75%, 50%, & 25% of 10 W load points at 5V (LV). Take the average. Compare results against DOE efficiency requirement at 10W. The waiver should continue until DOE adopts an applicable amended test procedure. IV. REQUEST FOR INTERIM WAIVER Poin2 Lab. also requests an interim waiver for its testing and rating of the models in Appendix I. The petition for waiver is likely to be granted, as evidenced by its merits. Without waiver relief, Poin2 Lab. would be subject to requirements that clearly should not apply to such products. And without such relief, Poin2 Lab. will suffer economic hardship. Sales of adaptive EPSs will be inhibited, to the detriment of Poin2 Lab. and to users and distributors of adaptive EPSs and the products that use adaptive EPSs. V. LIST OF MANUFACTURERS A list of manufacturers of all other basic models distributed in commerce in the United States and known to Poin2 Lab. to incorporate design characteristic(s) similar to those found in the basic models that are the subject of the petition is set forth in Appendix II hereto. * * * Poin2 Lab. requests expedited treatment of the Petition and Application. It is also willing to provide any additional information the Department thinks it needs to act with expedition. VI. CONCLUSION DOE should grant Poin2 Lab the requested waiver and interim waiver for the models listed in Appendix I hereto. Respectfully submitted, Jeongseon Euh June 7, 2017 APPENDIX I The waiver and interim waiver requested herein should apply to testing and rating of the following basic models: A16-045N1A APPENDIX II The following are manufacturers of all other basic models distributed in commerce in the United States and known to Poin2 Lab. to incorporate design characteristics similar to those found in the basic models that are the subject of the petition for waiver: Acbel Active-Semi, Inc. Apple, Inc Bitland Chicony Power Technology Chrontel, Inc Dell HONOR ELECTRONIC CO.LTD Huntkey Ever Win International Corp. Griffin Technology LLC LG Electronics USA, Inc Liteon Lucent Trans Electronics Co., Ltd. Mobileconn Technology Co., Ltd. Phihong Technology Co., Ltd. Renesas Electronics Corp. Salcomp Plc Samsung STMicroelectronics Superior Communications Texas Instruments Ventev Mobile Weltrend Semiconductor Xentris Wireless Sources include: ``USB Power Brick'', USB Implementers Forum, Inc. Accessed < http://www.usb.org/kcompliance/view/CertifiedUSBPowerBricks.pdf BEFORE THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY WASHINGTON, D.C. 20585 In the Matter of: Energy Efficiency Program: Test Procedure for External Power Supplies Docket No. EERE-2014-BT-TP-0043; RIN 1904-AD36 PETITION OF HEFEI BITLAND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD. FOR WAIVER AND APPLICATION FOR INTERIM WAIVER OF TEST PROCEDURE FOR EXTERNAL POWER SUPPLIES Hefei Bitland Information Technology Co., Ltd. (Bitland) respectfully submits this Petition for Waiver and Application for Interim Waiver \19\ as related to the Department of Energy's (DOE) test procedure for external power supplies (EPS) \20\ as applied to certain adaptive EPSs.\21\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \19\ See 10 C.F.R. Sec. 430.27 (waiver and interim waiver). \20\ Id. Part 430, Subpart B, Appendix Z. \21\ An adaptive EPS is an external power supply that can alter its output voltage during active-mode based on an established digital communication protocol with the end-use application without any user-generated action. 10 C.F.R. Sec. 430.2. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Bitland is located at No. 4088, Jinziu Road, National Hefei Economic & Technology Development Area, Hefei, Anhui, China. TTelephone: 0755-6685.2000 ext. 81379. The adaptive EPS basic models listed in Appendix I hereto meet the criteria for a waiver.\22\ The current DOE test procedure evaluates the models in a manner that is that is grossly unrepresentative of their actual energy consumption characteristics in real-world usage. This situation has already been recognized by DOE, and it has indicated a willingness to review the situation. Bitland urges that a waiver be granted that will provide for the alternate test procedure discussed herein, under which lowest voltage average efficiency would be measured at 10 watts (W). This is far more representative of actual energy consumption characteristics of the product in real-world usage than the 15W required by the current DOE test procedure. DOE ``will grant a waiver from the test procedure requirements'' in these circumstances.\23\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \22\ Id. Sec. 430.27(f)(2). \23\ Id. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- VII. BASIC MODELS FOR WHICH A WAIVER IS REQUESTED. The basic models for which a waiver is requested are the adaptive EPSs set forth in Appendix I hereto. They are manufactured by Chicony Power Technology and are distributed in commerce under the Chicony brand name. VIII. NEED FOR THE REQUESTED WAIVER. Adaptive EPSs are highly beneficial products. They allow efficient charging with less resistive loss. They can be readily reused when devices are replaced; thus, there is less need to include EPSs in the box with a new device. This all is of significant benefit to the consumer--as well as to the environment, including reduced landfill, packaging, and transportation. Under the current DOE test procedure, average active-mode efficiency for adaptive EPSs is to be measured by testing the unit twice--once at the highest achievable output voltage and once at the lowest.\24\ Testing is to be across four load points (100%, 75%, 50%, and 25%) for each of the highest and lowest voltage levels.\25\ The average efficiency is deemed to be the arithmetic mean of the efficiency values calculated at the four load points.\26\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \24\ Id. Part 430, Subpart B, Appendix Z, Sec. 4(a)(i)(E). \25\ Id. Sec. Sec. 4(a)(i)(C), (E), (H). \26\ Id. Sec. 4(a)(i)(H). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- The lowest achievable output voltage supported by the basic models is 5 volts (V). They are designed to provide a maximum power of 15W when this voltage is selected. 15W is an element of the USB Power Delivery [[Page 34304]] Specification,\27\ which requires the product to support 15W at 5V. However, adaptive EPSs do not exceed 10W for almost all usage. 15W at 5V will only be used in rare use scenarios and only for brief periods of time. Therefore, the DOE test procedure's evaluation at this power level is unrepresentative of the true energy consumption of the basic models in real-world usage. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \27\ IEC 62680-1-2:2017, Universal serial bus interfaces for data and power--Part 1-2: Common components--USB Power Delivery Specification. See https://webstore.iec.ch/publication/26174. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- In that regard, where the adaptive EPS listed in Appendix I is used with an intended end use product (IEUP) manufactured by Bitland,\28\ the adaptive EPS is required to support 15W (5V 3A [amps]) due to the USB Power Delivery Specification, but the IEUP product very rarely consumes this level of power. The IEUP charges at 5 volts only (i) with respect to a dead battery, 0.5A, i.e., 2.5W, for up to 120 seconds; or (ii) for end of charge (battery fully charged--trickle power at < 0.5A). Therefore, evaluation of adaptive EPSs at the 15W power level is grossly unrepresentative of the actual energy consumption characteristics of these models in real-world usage. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \28\ An IEUP is a product that is sold or intended to be used with the unit under test (UUT) and constitutes the primary load for the UUT. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- The same holds true of other end use products (OEUP) \29\ manufactured by Bitland that can be connected to basic models of adaptive EPSs listed in Appendix I hereto. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \29\ An OEUP is a product other than an IEUP that can be used with the UT and constitutes the primary load for the UUT. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- The situation is the same for basic models of adaptive EPSs listed in Appendix 1 to be used with OEUPs from another manufacturer. These OEUPs are highly likely to be mobile As shown in Table 1, mobile phones dominate the portable device market and are ubiquitous world-wide. The most likely OEUP to be charged from an adaptive EPS is a mobile phone. Note that all mobile phones are able to be charged from an adaptive EPS using an appropriate cable. TABLE 1 See the following website for figures of the ``TABLE 1'': https://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-2017-BT-WAV-0043 As shown in Table 2, smartphones dominate the U.S. market. TABLE 2 See the following website for figures of the ``TABLE 2'': https://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-2017-BT-WAV-0043 Table 3 demonstrates that the vast majority of the shipments supporting mobile phones and tablets charge at 10W or less at 5V. For mobile phones and tablets sold in 2016: 97% of North American shipments and 97.4% of worldwide shipments charge below 10W at 5V. For charging at and above 10W at 5V the comparable numbers for smartphones and tablets sold in 2016 represented a mere 3% of North American shipments and 2.6% of worldwide shipments.\30\ These figures include the introduction in 2016 of smartphones that use USB Type-C as the phone's charging interface. Some of these have the capability of charging at >=10W at 5V, but the proportion is not known so a conservative assumption is made (see below). Furthermore, some of these are capable of exploiting the ability of an adaptive EPS to provide higher voltages, and thus would be expected to use these higher voltages for faster charging and not charge at >=10W at 5V, but again the proportion is not known. (The proportion of USB Type-C smartphones that exploit the capabilities of adaptive EPSs might grow in the future to some extent.) In the figures above and in Table 3 the generous assumption is made that all such phones can charge at >=10W at 5V. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \30\ Laptops are not included in the market analysis. They usually do not charge from adaptive EPSs. Newly introduced laptops that can charge from adaptive EPSs typically only charge at 5V (i) with respect to a dead battery, 0.5A, i.e., 2.5W, for up to 120 seconds; or (ii) for end of charge (battery fully charged--trickle power at < 0.5A). Non-IT products such as children's toys that charge usually charge using default power (0.5A, 2.5W); some use 1.5A, 7.5 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- TABLE 3 See the following website for figures of the ``TABLE 1'': https://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-2017-BT-WAV-0043 Distortion caused by the test procedure as applied for efficiency of adaptive EPSs at the lowest voltage level was highlighted during the test procedure rulemaking for EPSs. It was stressed that the test procedure for the lowest voltage level does not reflect actual use in the field.\31\ DOE was receptive and indicated that it could make changes when more information was known. ``[I]n response to comments, in response to changing markets, in response to innovative technologies, we can always change the way we do things in the future.'' \32\ DOE also stated that it had not done any data collection on adaptive EPSs yet.\33\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \31\ DOE, Transcript, External Power Supply Test Procedure NOPR Meeting at 94-100 (Nov. 21, 2014). \32\ Transcript at 99 (Ashley Armstrong, DOE). \33\ Id. at 108 (Jeremy Dommu, DOE). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- DOE's final test procedure rule \34\ acknowledged that adaptive EPSs are a ``new EPS technology,'' are ``unique among EPSs'' and ``were not considered when the current test procedure was first adopted.'' Therefore, that test procedure ``did not explicitly address the unique characteristics of these types of EPSs to ensure reproducible and repeatable results.'' \35\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \34\ 80 Fed. Reg. 51424 (Aug. 25, 2015). \35\ Id. 51426, 51431-32. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Virtually acknowledging the problem with the unrepresentative nature of the test procedure at the lowest voltage level, DOE also stated: At higher output voltages, EPSs typically have greater efficiency due to a lower loss ratio of the fixed voltage drops in the conversion circuitry to the nominal output voltage. These losses do not increase linearly with output voltage, so higher output voltages typically provide greater conversion efficiency.\36\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \36\ Id. 51432. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- IX. PROPOSED ALTERNATE TEST PROCEDURE Bitland. proposes the following alternate test procedure to evaluate the performance of the basic models listed in Appendix I hereto. Bitland shall be required to test the performance of the basic models listed in Appendix I according to the test procedures for adaptive EPSs in 10 C.F.R. Part 430, Subpart B, Appendix Z, except that it shall modify test measurements calculation for 5V (lowest voltage level [LV]): Measure at 4 points: 100%, 75%, 50%, & 25% of 10 W load points at 5V (LV). Take the average. Compare results against DOE efficiency requirement at 10W. The waiver should continue until DOE adopts an applicable amended test procedure. X. REQUEST FOR INTERIM WAIVER Bitland also requests an interim waiver for its testing and rating of the models in Appendix I. The petition for waiver is likely to be granted, as evidenced by its merits. Without waiver relief, Bitland would be subject to requirements that clearly should not apply to such products. And without such relief, Bitland will suffer economic hardship. Sales of adaptive EPSs will be inhibited, to the detriment of Bitland and to users and distributors of adaptive EPSs and the products that use adaptive EPSs. [[Page 34305]] XI. LIST OF MANUFACTURER A list of manufacturers of all other basic models distributed in commerce in the United States and known to Bitland to incorporate design characteristic(s) similar to those found in the basic models that are the subject of the petition is set forth in Appendix II hereto. * * * Bitland requests expedited treatment of the Petition and Application. It is also willing to provide any additional information the Department thinks it needs to act with expedition. XII. CONCLUSION DOE should grant Bitland the requested waiver and interim waiver for the models listed in Appendix I hereto. Respectfully submitted, Robert Hsiao June 22, 2017 APPENDIX I The waiver and interim waiver requested herein should apply to testing and rating of the following basic models: A045R053L provided by Chicony Power Technology. APPENDIX II The following are manufacturers of all other basic models distributed in commerce in the United States and known to Bitland to incorporate design characteristics similar to those found in the basic models that are the subject of the petition for waiver: Acbel Active-Semi, Inc. Apple, Inc Bitland Chicony Power Technology Chrontel, Inc Dell HONOR ELECTRONIC CO.LTD Huntkey Ever Win International Corp. Griffin Technology LLC LG Electronics USA, Inc Liteon Liteon Lucent Trans Electronics Co., Ltd. Mobileconn Technology Co., Ltd. Phihong Technology Co., Ltd. Poin2 Lab. Renesas Electronics Corp. Salcomp Plc Samsung STMicroelectronics Superior Communications Texas Instruments Ventev Mobile Weltrend Semiconductor Xentris Wireless Sources include: ``USB Power Brick'', USB Implementers Forum, Inc. Accessed < http://www.usb.org/kcompliance/view/CertifiedUSBPowerBricks.pdf [FR Doc. 2017-15134 Filed 7-21-17; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6450-01-P
![34294 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 140 / Monday, July 24, 2017 / Notices
to evidence the timely production and Estimated Reporting and Recordkeeping soliciting comments, data, and
delivery of items. Cost Burden: $0. information concerning the petitions
DATES: Comments regarding this Statutory Authority: Defense Production and the suggested alternate test
collection must be received on or before Act of 1950 as amended (50 U.S.C. 4501 et procedure.
August 23, 2017. If you anticipate that seq.); Executive Order 13603. DATES: DOE will accept comments, data,
you will be submitting comments, but Issued in Washington, DC on July 11, 2017. and information with regard to the
find it difficult to do so within the Devon Streit, petition until August 23, 2017.
period of time allowed by this notice, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Office of ADDRESSES: You may submit comments,
please advise the DOE Desk Officer at Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability. identified by Docket No. EERE–2017–
OMB of your intention to make a [FR Doc. 2017–15459 Filed 7–21–17; 8:45 am] BT–WAV–0043, by any of the following
submission as soon as possible. The methods:
BILLING CODE 6450–01–P
Desk Officer may be telephoned at 202– • Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://
395–4650. www.regulations.gov. Follow the
ADDRESSES: Written comments should DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY instructions for submitting comments.
be sent to the DOE Desk Officer, Office • E-mail: AS_Waiver_Requests@
of Information and Regulatory Affairs, Office of Energy Efficiency and ee.doe.gov Include the Docket No.
Office of Management and Budget, New Renewable Energy EERE–2017–BT–WAV–0043 in the
Executive Office Building, Room 10102, subject line of the message. Submit
[Case Numbers EPS–001, EPS–002, EPS–
735 17th Street NW., Washington, DC 003 and EPS–004] electronic comments in WordPerfect,
20503. Microsoft Word, PDF, or ASCII file
And to Jeff Baumgartner, U.S. Notice of Petition for Waiver of Apple, format, and avoid the use of special
Department of Energy, OE–30, 1000 Inc., Microsoft Corporation, Poin2 Lab, characters or any form of encryption.
Independence Avenue SW., and Hefei Bitland Information • Postal Mail: Mr. Bryan Berringer,
Washington, DC 20585 or by fax at 202– Technology Co., Ltd. From the U.S. Department of Energy, Building
586–2623, or by email at Department of Energy External Power Technologies Office, Mailstop EE–5B,
Jeffrey.Baumgartner@hq.doe.gov. Supplies Test Procedure and Grant of Petition for Waiver Docket No. EERE–
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Interim Waiver 2017–BT–WAV–0043, 1000
Written comments may be sent to Jeff Independence Avenue SW.,
Baumgartner, U.S. Department of AGENCY: Office of Energy Efficiency and
Renewable Energy, Department of Washington, DC 20585–0121.
Energy, OE–30, 1000 Independence Telephone: (202) 586–0371. If possible,
Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585 or Energy.
please submit all items on a compact
by fax at 202–586–2623, or by email at ACTION: Notice of petitions for waiver,
disc (CD), in which case it is not
Jeffrey.Baumgartner@hq.doe.gov. granting of interim waiver, and request
necessary to include printed copies.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This
for public comment. • Hand Delivery/Courier: Appliance
information collection request contains: SUMMARY: This notice announces receipt and Equipment Standards Program, U.S.
(1) OMB No. 1910–5159; (2) Information of and publishes petitions for waivers Department of Energy, Building
Collection Request Title: Energy from Apple, Inc. (‘‘Apple’’), Microsoft Technologies Office, 950 L’Enfant Plaza
Priorities and Allocations System; (3) Corporation (‘‘Microsoft’’), Poin2 Lab SW., 6th Floor, Washington, DC, 20024.
Type of Request: Extension; (4) Purpose: (‘‘Poin2’’), and Hefei Bitland Telephone: (202) 586–6636. If possible,
To meet requirements of the Defense Information Technology Co., Ltd. please submit all items on a CD, in
Production Act (DPA) priorities and (‘‘Bitland’’) (collectively, ‘‘the which case it is not necessary to include
allocations authority with respect to all petitioners’’) seeking an exemption from printed copies.
forms of energy necessary or appropriate specific portions of the U.S. Department Docket: The docket, which includes
to promote the national defense. Data of Energy’s (‘‘DOE’s’’) test procedure for Federal Register notices, comments,
supplied will be used to evaluate determining external power supply and other supporting documents/
applicants requesting special priorities (‘‘EPS’’) energy efficiency. The waiver materials, is available for review at
assistance to fill a rate order issued requests pertain to adaptive EPSs that www.regulations.gov. All documents in
pursuant to the DPA and DOE’s support a particular International the docket are listed in the
implementing regulations at 10 CFR part Electrotechnical Commission standard. www.regulations.gov index. However,
217. This data will also be used to Under the existing DOE test procedure, some documents listed in the index,
conduct audits and for enforcement the average active mode efficiency of an such as those containing information
purposes. This collection will only be adaptive EPS must be tested at both its that is exempt from public disclosure,
used if the Secretary of Energy lowest and highest achievable output may not be publicly available.
determines that his authority under the voltages. The petitioners contend that FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr.
DPA is necessary to maximize domestic since their products operate above 2 Jeremy Dommu, U.S. Department of
energy supplies or to address an energy amps current at the lowest achievable Energy, Building Technologies Office,
shortage. The last collection by DOE output voltages under rare conditions Mailstop EE–5B, 1000 Independence
under this authority was in 2001; (5) and for only brief periods of time, the Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585–
Annual Estimated Number of suggested alternative testing approach 0121. Telephone: (202) 586–9870.
Respondents: 10 or more as this detailed in their waiver petition Email: appliancestandardsquestions@
collection is addressed to a substantial requests is needed to measure the active ee.doe.gov.
mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with NOTICES
majority of the energy industry; (6) mode efficiency of their products in a Michael Kido, U.S. Department of
Annual Estimated Number of Total representative manner. DOE is granting Energy, Office of the General Counsel,
Responses: 10 or more as this collection the petitioners with an interim waiver Mail Stop GC–33, Forrestal Building,
is addressed to a substantial majority of from the DOE EPS test procedure for the 1000 Independence Avenue SW.,
the energy industry; (7) Annual specified basic models of EPSs, subject Washington, DC 20585–0103.
Estimated Number of Burden Hours: 32 to use of the alternative test procedure Telephone: (202) 586–8145. Email:
minutes per response; (8) Annual as set forth in this document and is Michael.Kido@hq.doe.gov.
VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:13 Jul 21, 2017 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\24JYN1.SGM 24JYN1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/82_FR_34434/page/1.svg)
![34298 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 140 / Monday, July 24, 2017 / Notices
voltage and once at the lowest.9 Testing Appendix 1 to be used with OEUPs these smartphones are capable of
is to be across four load points (100%, from another manufacturer. These exploiting the ability of an adaptive EPS
75%, 50%, and 25%) for each of the OEUPs are highly likely to be mobile to provide higher voltages, and thus
highest and lowest voltage levels.10 The phones (smartphones or feature phones) would be expected to use these higher
average efficiency is deemed to be the or tablets.15 As discussed herein, they voltages for faster charging and not
arithmetic mean of the efficiency values are highly likely to charge at less than charge at ≥10W at 5V, but again the
calculated at the four load points.11 10W at 5V, and to use a higher voltage proportion is not known. (The
The lowest achievable output voltage rail when power above 10W is needed. proportion of USB Type-C smartphones
supported by the basic models is 5 volts As shown in Table 1, mobile phones that exploit the capabilities of adaptive
(V). They are designed to provide a dominate the portable device market EPSs might be expected to grow in the
maximum power of 15W when this and are ubiquitous world-wide. The future.) In the figures above and in
voltage is selected. 15W is an element most likely OEUP to be charged from an Table 3 the generous assumption is
of the USB Power Delivery adaptive EPS is a mobile phone. Note made that all such phones can charge at
Specification,12 which requires USB that all mobile phones are able to be ≥10W at 5V.
compliant products to support 15W at charged from an adaptive EPS using an
5V. However, adaptive EPSs do not appropriate cable. TABLE 3
exceed 10W for almost all usage. 15W See the following website for figures of
TABLE 1
at 5V will only be used in rare use the ‘‘TABLE 3’’: https://
scenarios and only for brief periods of See the following website for figures of
www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-
time. Therefore, the DOE test the ‘‘TABLE 1’’: https://
2017-BT-WAV-0043
procedure’s evaluation at this power www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-
level is unrepresentative of the true 2017-BT-WAV-0043 Distortion caused by the test
energy consumption of the basic models As shown in Table 2, smartphones procedure when used to test the
in real-world usage. dominate the U.S. market. efficiency of adaptive EPSs at the lowest
In that regard, where the adaptive EPS voltage level was highlighted during the
TABLE 2 test procedure rulemaking for EPSs.
listed in Appendix I is used with an
intended end use product (IEUP) See the following website for figures of It was stressed that the test procedure
manufactured by Apple Inc.,13 the the ‘‘TABLE 2’’: https:// for the lowest voltage level does not
adaptive EPS is required to support 15W www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE- reflect actual use in the field.17 DOE was
(5V 3A [amps]) as required by the USB 2017-BT-WAV-0043 receptive and indicated that it could
Power Delivery Specification, but the Table 3 demonstrates that the vast make changes when more information
IEUP product is designed never to majority of the shipments supporting was known. ‘‘[I]n response to
consume this level of power. The IEUP mobile phones and tablets charge at comments, in response to changing
charges at 5 volts only (i) with respect 10W or less at 5V. For mobile phones markets, in response to innovative
to a dead battery, 0.5A, i.e., 2.5W, for up and tablets sold in 2016: 97% of North technologies, we can always change the
to 120 seconds; or (ii) for end of charge American shipments and 97.4% of way we do things in the future.’’ 18 DOE
(battery fully charged—trickle power at worldwide shipments charge below also stated that it had not yet done any
< 0.5A). At other times, particularly 10W at 5V. For charging at and above data collection on adaptive EPSs.19
when power above 10W is needed, the 10W at 5V the comparable numbers for DOE’s final test procedure rule 20
IEUP commands the EPS to use a higher smartphones and tablets sold in 2016 acknowledged that adaptive EPSs are a
voltage rail, as this is more efficient. represented a mere 3% of North ‘‘new EPS technology,’’ are ‘‘unique
Therefore, evaluation of adaptive EPSs American shipments and 2.6% of among EPSs’’ and ‘‘were not considered
at the 15W power level when evaluating worldwide shipments.16 These figures when the current test procedure was
efficiency at the lowest voltage rail (5V) include the 2016 introduction of first adopted.’’ Therefore, that test
is grossly unrepresentative of the actual smartphones that use USB Type-C as the procedure ‘‘did not explicitly address
energy consumption characteristics of phone’s charging interface. Some of the unique characteristics of these types
these models in real-world usage. these have the capability of charging at of EPSs to ensure reproducible and
The same holds true of other end use ≥10W at 5V, but the proportion is not repeatable results.’’ 21
products (OEUP) 14 manufactured by known so a conservative assumption is
Apple Inc. that can be connected to Recognizing the unrepresentative
made (see below). Furthermore, some of
basic models of adaptive EPSs listed in nature of the test procedure at the
Appendix I hereto. When power above 15 A smartphone is a mobile phone that performs
lowest voltage level, DOE also stated:
10W is needed, any IEUP manufactured many of the functions of a computer, typically At higher output voltages, EPSs
by Apple uses a higher voltage rail, as having a touchscreen interface, Internet access, and typically have greater efficiency due to
an operating system capable of running a lower loss ratio of the fixed voltage
this is more efficient. downloaded applications. A feature phone is a
The situation is the same for basic mobile phone that is unable to run downloaded drops in the conversion circuitry to the
models of adaptive EPSs listed in applications, and thus lacks the capabilities of a nominal output voltage. These losses do
smartphone. A tablet is a small portable computer not increase linearly with output
9 Id.
that accepts its input directly on a screen rather voltage, so higher output voltages
Part 430, Subpart B, Appendix Z, § 4(a)(i)(E).
than via a keyboard or mouse, has Internet access,
10 Id. §§ 4(a)(i)(C), (E), (H). and an operating system capable of running typically provide greater conversion
11 Id. § 4(a)(i)(H).
downloaded applications. efficiency.22
12 IEC 62680–1–2:2017, Universal serial bus 16 Laptops are not included in the market
mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with NOTICES
interfaces for data and power—Part 1–2: Common analysis. They usually do not charge from adaptive 17 DOE, Transcript, External Power Supply Test
components—USB Power Delivery Specification. EPSs. Newly introduced laptops that can charge
See https://webstore.iec.ch/publication/26174. Procedure NOPR Meeting at 94–100 (Nov. 21,
from adaptive EPSs typically only charge at 5V (i) 2014).
13 An IEUP is a product that is sold or intended
with respect to a dead battery, 0.5A, i.e., 2.5W, for 18 Transcript at 99 (Ashley Armstrong, DOE).
to be used with the unit under test (UUT) and up to 120 seconds; or (ii) for end of charge (battery 19 Id. at 108 (Jeremy Dommu, DOE).
constitutes the primary load for the UUT. fully charged—trickle power at < 0.5A). Some non-
14 An OEUP is a product other than an IEUP that 20 80 Fed. Reg. 51424 (Aug. 25, 2015).
IT products, such as some children’s toys, charge
21 Id. 51426, 51431–32.
can be used with the UT and constitutes the using default power (0.5A, 2.5W), while some use
primary load for the UUT. 1.5A, 7.5W. 22 Id. 51432.
VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:13 Jul 21, 2017 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\24JYN1.SGM 24JYN1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/82_FR_34434/page/5.svg)
![Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 140 / Monday, July 24, 2017 / Notices 34299
III. PROPOSED ALTERNATE TEST models in Appendix I. The petition for characteristic(s) similar to those found
PROCEDURE waiver is likely to be granted, as in the basic models that are the subject
Apple Inc. proposes the following evidenced by its merits. Without waiver of the petition is set forth in Appendix
alternate test procedure to evaluate the relief, Apple Inc. would be subject to II hereto.
performance of the basic models listed requirements that clearly should not * * *
in Appendix I hereto. apply to its products identified herein. Apple Inc. requests expedited
Apple Inc. shall be required to test the And without such relief, Apple Inc. will treatment of the Petition and
performance of the basic models listed be obliged to market products that, Application. It is also willing to
in Appendix I according to the test while meeting the requirements of the promptly provide any additional
procedures for adaptive EPSs in 10 CFR current DOE test procedure, will not information DOE requires to act
Part 430, Subpart B, Appendix Z, except comply with the international USB expeditiously.
that it shall modify test measurements Power Delivery Specification (IEC
VI. CONCLUSION
calculation for 5V (lowest voltage level 62680–1–2:2017). This will put Apple
Inc. at a competitive disadvantage and DOE should grant Apple Inc. the
[LV]):
impact Apple Inc.’s reputation for requested waiver and interim waiver for
• Measure at 4 points: 100%, 75%,
delivering standards compliant the models listed in Appendix I hereto.
50%, & 25% of 10 W load points at 5V
(LV). products. Apple Inc. would like to be Respectfully submitted,
• Take the average. compliant with the international USB May 30, 2017
• Compare results against DOE Power Delivery Specification for the Carlos Ribas
efficiency requirement at 10W. benefit of the USB adaptive charger Director Power Systems Engineering
The waiver should continue until ecosystem. Apple Inc.
DOE adopts an applicable amended test V. LIST OF MANFACTURERS APPENDIX I
procedure.
A list of manufacturers of all other The waiver and interim waiver
IV. REQUEST FOR INTERIM WAIVER. basic models distributed in commerce requested herein should apply to testing
Apple Inc. also requests an interim in the United States and known to and rating of the following basic
waiver for its testing and rating of the Apple Inc. to incorporate design models.
Nameplate input rating Nameplate output rating
Model Product type (AC) (DC)
A1718 ...... Adaptive Single Voltage External Power Supply 100–240V∼, 50–60Hz, 1.5A .......... Highest output voltage: 20.3V, 3A (60.9W).
Lowest output voltage: 5V, 3A (15W).
A1719 ...... Adaptive Single Voltage External Power Supply 100–240V∼, 50–60Hz, 1.5A .......... Highest output voltage: 20.3V, 4.3A (87W).
Lowest output voltage: 5V, 3A (15W).
A1540 ...... Adaptive Single Voltage External Power Supply 100–240V∼, 50–60Hz, 0.75A ........ Highest output voltage: 14.5V, 2A (87W).
Lowest output voltage: 5V, 3A (15W).
APPENDIX II Ventev Mobile external power supplies (EPS) 2 as
The following are manufacturers of all Weltrend Semiconductor applied to certain adaptive EPSs.3
Xentris Wireless Microsoft is located at 1 Microsoft
other basic models distributed in
Sources include: ‘‘USB Power Brick’’, Way, Redmond, Washington 98052.
commerce in the United States and
USB Implementers Forum, Inc. Telephone: (425) 882–8080.
known to Apple Inc. to incorporate
Accessed <http://www.usb.org/ The adaptive EPS basic models listed
design characteristics similar to those in Appendix I hereto meet the criteria
found in the basic models that are the kcompliance/view/CertifiedUSBPower
Bricks.pdf for a waiver.4 The current DOE test
subject of the petition for waiver. procedure evaluates the models in a
Acbel BEFORE THE UNITED STATES manner that is that is grossly
Active-Semi, Inc. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY unrepresentative of their actual energy
Bitland WASHINGTON, D.C. 20585 consumption characteristics in real-
Chicony Power Technology world usage. This situation has already
Chrontel, Inc In the Matter of: Energy Efficiency
Program: Test Procedure for External Power been recognized by DOE, and it has
Dell indicated a willingness to review the
HONOR ELECTRONIC CO.LTD Supplies
Docket No. EERE–2014–BT–TP–0043; RIN situation. Microsoft Corporation urges
Huntkey
1904–AD36 that a waiver be granted that will
Ever Win International Corp.
Griffin Technology LLC provide for the alternate test procedure
PETITION OF MICROSOFT
LG Electronics USA, Inc discussed herein, under which lowest
CORPORATION FOR WAIVER AND
Liteon voltage average efficiency would be
APPLICATION FOR INTERIM
Lucent Trans Electronics Co., Ltd. measured at 10 watts (W). This is far
WAIVER OF TEST PROCEDURE FOR
Mobileconn Technology Co., Ltd. more representative of actual energy
EXTERNAL POWER SUPPLIES
consumption characteristics of the
mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with NOTICES
Phihong Technology Co., Ltd.
Poin2 Lab. Microsoft Corporation (Microsoft)
Renesas Electronics Corp. respectfully submits this Petition for 2 Id. Part 430, Subpart B, Appendix Z.
Salcomp Plc Waiver and Application for Interim 3 An adaptive EPS is an external power supply
Waiver 1 as related to the Department of that can alter its output voltage during active-mode
Samsung based on an established digital communication
STMicroelectronics Energy’s (DOE) test procedure for protocol with the end-use application without any
Superior Communications user-generated action. 10 C.F.R. § 430.2.
Texas Instruments 1 See 10 CFR 430.27 (waiver and interim waiver). 4 Id. § 430.27(f)(2).
VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:13 Jul 21, 2017 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\24JYN1.SGM 24JYN1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/82_FR_34434/page/6.svg)
![34300 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 140 / Monday, July 24, 2017 / Notices
product in real-world usage than the (5V 3A [amps]) due to the USB Power 10W at 5V. For charging at and above
15W required by the current DOE test Delivery Specification, but the IEUP 10W at 5V the comparable numbers for
procedure. DOE ‘‘will grant a waiver product very rarely consumes this level smartphones and tablets sold in 2016
from the test procedure requirements’’ of power. The IEUP charges at 5 volts represented a mere 3% of North
in these circumstances.5 only (i) with respect to a dead battery, American shipments and 2.6% of
I. BASIC MODELS FOR WHICH A 0.5A, i.e., 2.5W, for up to 120 seconds; worldwide shipments.13 These figures
WAIVER IS REQUESTED. or (ii) for end of charge (battery fully include the introduction in 2016 of
charged—trickle power at < 0.5A). smartphones that use USB Type-C as the
The basic models for which a waiver Therefore, evaluation of adaptive EPSs phone’s charging interface. Some of
is requested are the adaptive EPSs set at the 15W power level is grossly these have the capability of charging at
forth in Appendix I hereto. They are unrepresentative of the actual energy ≥10W at 5V, but proportion is not
distributed in commerce under the consumption characteristics of these known so a conservative assumption is
Microsoft brand name. models in real-world usage. made (see below). Furthermore, some of
II. NEED FOR THE REQUESTED The same holds true of other end use these are capable of exploiting the
WAIVER. products (OEUP) 11 that can be ability of an adaptive EPS to provide
connected to basic models of adaptive higher voltages, and thus would be
Adaptive EPSs are highly beneficial
EPSs listed in Appendix I hereto. expected to use these higher voltages for
products. They allow efficient charging The situation is the same for basic faster charging and not charge at ≥10W
with less resistive loss. They can be models of adaptive EPSs listed in at 5V, but again the proportion is not
readily reused when devices are
Appendix 1 to be used with OEUPs known. (The proportion of USB Type-C
replaced; thus, there is less need to
from another manufacturer. These smartphones that exploit the
include EPSs in the box with a new
OEUPs are highly likely to be mobile capabilities of adaptive EPSs might
device. This all is of significant benefit
phones (smartphones or feature phones) grow in the future to some extent.) In
to the consumer—as well as to the
or tablets.12 As discussed herein, they the figures above and in Table 3 the
environment, including reduced
are highly likely to charge at less than generous assumption is made that all
landfill, packaging, and transportation.
Under the current DOE test 10W. such phones can charge at ≥10W at 5V.
procedure, average active-mode As shown in Table 1, mobile phones
dominate the portable device market TABLE 3
efficiency for adaptive EPSs is to be
and are ubiquitous world-wide. The See the following website for figures of
measured by testing the unit twice—
most likely OEUP to be charged from an the ‘‘TABLE 3’’: https://
once at the highest achievable output
adaptive EPS is a mobile phone. Note www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-
voltage and once at the lowest.6 Testing
is to be across four load points (100%, that all mobile phones are able to be 2017-BT-WAV-0043
75%, 50%, and 25%) for each of the charged from an adaptive EPS using an Distortion caused by the test
highest and lowest voltage levels.7 The appropriate cable. procedure as applied for efficiency of
average efficiency is deemed to be the TABLE 1 adaptive EPSs at the lowest voltage level
arithmetic mean of the efficiency values was highlighted during the test
See the following website for figures of procedure rulemaking for EPSs.
calculated at the four load points.8
The lowest achievable output voltage the ‘‘TABLE 1’’: https:// It was stressed that the test procedure
supported by the basic models is 5 volts www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE- for the lowest voltage level does not
(V). They are designed to provide a 2017-BT-WAV-0043 reflect actual use in the field.14 DOE was
maximum power of 15W when this As shown in Table 2, smartphones receptive and indicated that it could
voltage is selected. 15W is an element dominate the U.S. market. make changes when more information
of the USB Power Delivery was known. ‘‘[I]n response to
TABLE 2
Specification,9 which requires the comments, in response to changing
product to support 15W at 5V. See the following website for figures of markets, in response to innovative
However, adaptive EPSs do not the ‘‘TABLE 2’’: https:// technologies, we can always change the
exceed 10W for almost all usage. 15W www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE- way we do things in the future.’’ 15 DOE
at 5V will only be used in rare use 2017-BT-WAV-0043 also stated that it had not done any data
scenarios and only for brief periods of Table 3 demonstrates that the vast collection on adaptive EPSs yet.16
time. Therefore, the DOE test majority of the shipments supporting DOE’s final test procedure rule 17
procedure’s evaluation at this power mobile phones and tablets charge at acknowledged that adaptive EPSs are a
level is unrepresentative of the true 10W or less at 5V. For mobile phones ‘‘new EPS technology,’’ are ‘‘unique
energy consumption of the basic models and tablets sold in 2016: 97% of North among EPSs’’ and ‘‘were not considered
in real-world usage. American shipments and 97.4% of when the current test procedure was
In that regard, where the adaptive EPS worldwide shipments charge below
listed in Appendix I is used with an 13 Laptops are not included in the market
intended end use product (IEUP),10 the 11 An
OEUP is a product other than an IEUP that analysis. They usually do not charge from adaptive
EPSs. Newly introduced laptops that can charge
adaptive EPS is required to support 15W can be used with the UT and constitutes the
from adaptive EPSs typically only charge at 5V (i)
primary load for the UUT.
12 A smartphone is a mobile phone that performs with respect to a dead battery, 0.5A, i.e., 2.5W, for
5 Id.
up to 120 seconds; or (ii) for end of charge (battery
many of the functions of a computer, typically
6 Id. Part 430, Subpart B, Appendix Z, § 4(a)(i)(E). fully charged—trickle power at < 0.5A). Non-IT
having a touchscreen interface, internet access, and
mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with NOTICES
7 Id. §§ 4(a)(i)(C), (E), (H). products such as children’s toys that charge usually
an operating system capable of running
8 Id. § 4(a)(i)(H). charge using default power (0.5A, 2.5W); some use
downloaded applications. A feature phone is a
9 IEC 62680–1–2:2017, Universal serial bus 1.5A, 7.5W.
mobile phone that is unable to run downloaded 14 DOE, Transcript, External Power Supply Test
interfaces for data and power—Part 1–2: Common applications, and thus lacks the capabilities of a
components—USB Power Delivery Specification. smartphone. A tablet is a small portable computer Procedure NOPR Meeting at 94–100 (Nov. 21,
See https://webstore.iec.ch/publication/26174. that accepts its input directly on a screen rather 2014).
10 An IEUP is a product that is sold or intended 15 Transcript at 99 (Ashley Armstrong, DOE).
than via a keyboard or mouse, has internet access,
16 Id. at 108 (Jeremy Dommu, DOE).
to be used with the unit under test (UUT) and and an operating system capable of running
constitutes the primary load for the UUT. downloaded applications. 17 80 Fed. Reg. 51424 (Aug. 25, 2015).
VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:13 Jul 21, 2017 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\24JYN1.SGM 24JYN1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/82_FR_34434/page/7.svg)
![Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 140 / Monday, July 24, 2017 / Notices 34301
first adopted.’’ Therefore, that test found in the basic models that are the THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT
procedure ‘‘did not explicitly address subject of the petition is set forth in OF ENERGY WASHINGTON, D.C.
the unique characteristics of these types Appendix II hereto. 20585
of EPSs to ensure reproducible and * * * In the Matter of: Energy Efficiency
repeatable results.’’ 18 Microsoft Corporation requests Program: Test Procedure for External Power
Virtually acknowledging the problem expedited treatment of the Petition and Supplies
with the unrepresentative nature of the Application. It is also willing to provide Docket No. EERE–2014–BT–TP–0043; RIN
test procedure at the lowest voltage promptly any additional information the 1904–AD36
level, DOE also stated: Department thinks it needs to act with
At higher output voltages, EPSs expedition. PETITION OF POIN2 LAB. FOR
typically have greater efficiency due to WAIVER AND APPLICATION FOR
a lower loss ratio of the fixed voltage VI. CONCLUSION. INTERIM WAIVER OF TEST
drops in the conversion circuitry to the DOE should grant the requested PROCEDURE FOR EXTERNAL POWER
nominal output voltage. These losses do waiver and interim waiver for the SUPPLIES
not increase linearly with output models listed in Appendix I hereto. Poin2 Lab. respectfully submits this
voltage, so higher output voltages
Respectfully submitted, Petition for Waiver and Application for
typically provide greater conversion
Ted Eckert Interim Waiver 1 as related to the
efficiency.19
Microsoft Corporation Department of Energy’s (DOE) test
III. PROPOSED ALTERNATE TEST 7 June, 2017 procedure for external power supplies
PROCEDURE (EPS) 2 as applied to certain adaptive
APPENDIX I EPSs.3
Microsoft Corporation proposes the
following alternate test procedure to The waiver and interim waiver Poin2 Lab. is located at 1404 Seoul
evaluate the performance of the basic requested herein should apply to testing Forest L-Tower, Seongdong-Gu, Seoul,
models listed in Appendix I hereto. and rating of the following basic 14789, South Korea. Telephone: (+82)
A company subject to the waiver shall models: AC–100 02–552–9012.
be required to test the performance of APPENDIX II The adaptive EPS basic models listed
the basic models listed in Appendix I in Appendix I hereto meet the criteria
according to the test procedures for The following are manufacturers of all
for a waiver.4 The current DOE test
adaptive EPSs in 10 CFR Part 430, other basic models distributed in
procedure evaluates the models in a
Subpart B, Appendix Z, except that it commerce in the United States and
manner that is that is grossly
shall modify test measurements known to Microsoft Corporation to
unrepresentative of their actual energy
calculation for 5V (lowest voltage level incorporate design characteristics
consumption characteristics in real-
[LV]): similar to those found in the basic
world usage. This situation has already
• Measure at 4 points: 100%, 75%, models that are the subject of the
been recognized by DOE, and it has
50%, & 25% of 10 W load points at 5V petition for waiver:
indicated a willingness to review the
(LV). Acbel situation. Poin2 Lab. urges that a waiver
• Take the average. Active-Semi, Inc. be granted that will provide for the
• Compare results against DOE Apple, Inc alternate test procedure discussed
efficiency requirement at 10W. Bitland herein, under which lowest voltage
The waiver should continue until Chicony Power Technology average efficiency would be measured at
DOE adopts an applicable amended test 10 watts (W). This is far more
Chrontel, Inc
procedure. representative of actual energy
Dell
IV. REQUEST FOR INTERIM WAIVER. HONOR ELECTRONIC CO.LTD consumption characteristics of the
Microsoft Corporation also requests Huntkey product in real-world usage than the
an interim waiver for its testing and Ever Win International Corp. 15W required by the current DOE test
rating of the models in Appendix I. The Griffin Technology LLC procedure. DOE ‘‘will grant a waiver
petition for waiver is likely to be LG Electronics USA, Inc from the test procedure requirements’’
granted, as evidenced by its merits. Liteon in these circumstances.5
Without waiver relief, the models would Lucent Trans Electronics Co., Ltd. I. BASIC MODELS FOR WHICH A
be subject to requirements that clearly Mobileconn Technology Co., Ltd. WAIVER IS REQUESTED.
should not apply to them. And without Phihong Technology Co., Ltd.
such relief, there will be economic Poin2 Lab. The basic models for which a waiver
hardship. Sales of adaptive EPSs will be Renesas Electronics Corp. is requested are the adaptive EPSs set
inhibited, to the detriment of forth in Appendix I hereto. They are
Salcomp Plc
manufacturers, users and distributors of manufactured by Chicony Power
Samsung
adaptive EPSs and the products that use Technology and are distributed in
STMicroelectronics commerce under the Chicony brand
adaptive EPSs. Superior Communications name.
V. LIST OF MANUFACTURERS Texas Instruments
A list of manufacturers of all other Ventev Mobile
mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with NOTICES
1 See 10 CFR 430.27 (waiver and interim waiver).
basic models distributed in commerce Weltrend Semiconductor 2 Id. Part 430, Subpart B, Appendix Z.
in the United States and known to Xentris Wireless 3 An adaptive EPS is an external power supply
Sources include: ‘‘USB Power Brick’’, that can alter its output voltage during active- mode
Microsoft Corporation to incorporate based on an established digital communication
design characteristic(s) similar to those USB Implementers Forum, Inc. protocol with the end-use application without any
Accessed < http://www.usb.org/ user-generated action. 10 C.F.R. § 430.2.
18 Id. 51426, 51431–32. kcompliance/view/ 4 Id. § 430.27(f)(2).
19 Id. 51432. CertifiedUSBPowerBricks.pdf 5 Id.
VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:13 Jul 21, 2017 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\24JYN1.SGM 24JYN1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/82_FR_34434/page/8.svg)
![34302 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 140 / Monday, July 24, 2017 / Notices
II. NEED FOR THE REQUESTED The same holds true of other end use faster charging and not charge at ≥10W
WAIVER. products (OEUP) 11 manufactured by at 5V, but again the proportion is not
Poin2 Lab. that can be connected to known. (The proportion of USB Type-C
Adaptive EPSs are highly beneficial
basic models of adaptive EPSs listed in smartphones that exploit the
products. They allow efficient charging
Appendix I hereto. capabilities of adaptive EPSs might
with less resistive loss. They can be The situation is the same for basic grow in the future to some extent.) In
readily reused when devices are models of adaptive EPSs listed in
replaced; thus, there is less need to the figures above and in Table 3 the
Appendix 1 to be used with OEUPs generous assumption is made that all
include EPSs in the box with a new
device. This all is of significant benefit
from another manufacturer. These such phones can charge at ≥10W at 5V.
OEUPs are highly likely to be mobile
to the consumer—as well as to the [sic] TABLE 3
environment, including reduced As shown in Table 1, mobile phones See the following website for figures of
landfill, packaging, and transportation. dominate the portable device market the ‘‘TABLE 1’’: https://
Under the current DOE test and are ubiquitous world-wide. The www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-
procedure, average active-mode most likely OEUP to be charged from an 2017-BT-WAV-0043
efficiency for adaptive EPSs is to be adaptive EPS is a mobile phone. Note
measured by testing the unit twice— Distortion caused by the test
that all mobile phones are able to be procedure as applied for efficiency of
once at the highest achievable output charged from an adaptive EPS using an
voltage and once at the lowest.6 Testing adaptive EPSs at the lowest voltage level
appropriate cable. was highlighted during the test
is to be across four load points (100%,
75%, 50%, and 25%) for each of the TABLE 1 procedure rulemaking for EPSs.
highest and lowest voltage levels.7 The See the following website for figures of It was stressed that the test procedure
average efficiency is deemed to be the the ‘‘TABLE 1’’: https:// for the lowest voltage level does not
arithmetic mean of the efficiency values www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE- reflect actual use in the field.13 DOE was
calculated at the four load points.8 2017-BT-WAV-0043 receptive and indicated that it could
The lowest achievable output voltage make changes when more information
As shown in Table 2, smartphones
supported by the basic models is 5 volts was known. ‘‘[I]n response to
dominate the U.S. market.
(V). They are designed to provide a comments, in response to changing
maximum power of 15W when this TABLE 2 markets, in response to innovative
voltage is selected. 15W is an element See the following website for figures of technologies, we can always change the
of the USB Power Delivery the ‘‘TABLE 2’’: https:// way we do things in the future.’’ 14 DOE
Specification,9 which requires the www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE- also stated that it had not done any data
product to support 15W at 5V. However, 2017-BT-WAV-0043 collection on adaptive EPSs yet.15
adaptive EPSs do not exceed 10W for Table 3 demonstrates that the vast DOE’s final test procedure rule 16
almost all usage. 15W at 5V will only be majority of the shipments supporting acknowledged that adaptive EPSs are a
used in rare use scenarios and only for mobile phones and tablets charge at ‘‘new EPS technology,’’ are ‘‘unique
brief periods of time. Therefore, the 10W or less at 5V. For mobile phones among EPSs’’ and ‘‘were not considered
DOE test procedure’s evaluation at this and tablets sold in 2016: 97% of North when the current test procedure was
power level is unrepresentative of the American shipments and 97.4% of first adopted.’’ Therefore, that test
true energy consumption of the basic worldwide shipments charge below procedure ‘‘did not explicitly address
models in real-world usage. 10W at 5V. For charging at and above the unique characteristics of these types
In that regard, where the adaptive EPS 10W at 5V the comparable numbers for of EPSs to ensure reproducible and
listed in Appendix I is used with an smartphones and tablets sold in 2016 repeatable results.’’ 17
intended end use product (IEUP) represented a mere 3% of North Virtually acknowledging the problem
manufactured by Poin2 Lab.,10 the American shipments and 2.6% of with the unrepresentative nature of the
adaptive EPS is required to support 15W worldwide shipments.12 These figures test procedure at the lowest voltage
(5V 3A [amps]) due to the USB Power level, DOE also stated:
include the introduction in 2016 of
Delivery Specification, but the IEUP At higher output voltages, EPSs
smartphones that use USB Type-C as the
product very rarely consumes this level typically have greater efficiency due to
phone’s charging interface. Some of
of power. The IEUP charges at 5 volts a lower loss ratio of the fixed voltage
these have the capability of charging at
drops in the conversion circuitry to the
only (i) with respect to a dead battery, ≥10W at 5V, but the proportion is not
0.5A, i.e., 2.5W, for up to 120 seconds; nominal output voltage. These losses do
known so a conservative assumption is
or (ii) for end of charge (battery fully not increase linearly with output
made (see below). Furthermore, some of
charged—trickle power at < 0.5A). voltage, so higher output voltages
these are capable of exploiting the
Therefore, evaluation of adaptive EPSs typically provide greater conversion
ability of an adaptive EPS to provide
at the 15W power level is grossly efficiency.18
higher voltages, and thus would be
unrepresentative of the actual energy expected to use these higher voltages for III. PROPOSED ALTERNATE TEST
consumption characteristics of these PROCEDURE
models in real- world usage. 11 An OEUP is a product other than an IEUP that
can be used with the UT and constitutes the Poin2 Lab. proposes the following
6 Id.
primary load for the UUT. alternate test procedure to evaluate the
Part 430, Subpart B, Appendix Z, § 4(a)(i)(E). 12 Laptops are not included in the market
mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with NOTICES
7 Id. §§ 4(a)(i)(C), (E), (H). analysis. They usually do not charge from adaptive 13 DOE, Transcript, External Power Supply Test
8 Id. § 4(a)(i)(H).
EPSs. Newly introduced laptops that can charge Procedure NOPR Meeting at 94–100 (Nov. 21,
9 IEC 62680–1–2:2017, Universal serial bus
from adaptive EPSs typically only charge at 5V (i) 2014).
interfaces for data and power—Part 1–2: Common with respect to a dead battery, 0.5A, i.e., 2.5W, for 14 Transcript at 99 (Ashley Armstrong, DOE).
components—USB Power Delivery Specification. up to 120 seconds; or (ii) for end of charge (battery 15 Id. at 108 (Jeremy Dommu, DOE).
See https://webstore.iec.ch/publication/26174. fully charged—trickle power at < 0.5A). Non-IT
10 An IEUP is a product that is sold or intended 16 80 Fed. Reg. 51424 (Aug. 25, 2015).
products such as children’s toys that charge usually
17 Id. 51426, 51431–32.
to be used with the unit under test (UUT) and charge using default power (0.5A, 2.5W); some use
constitutes the primary load for the UUT. 1.5A, 7.5W. 18 Id. 51432.
VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:13 Jul 21, 2017 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\24JYN1.SGM 24JYN1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/82_FR_34434/page/9.svg)
![Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 140 / Monday, July 24, 2017 / Notices 34303
performance of the basic models listed commerce in the United States and procedure evaluates the models in a
in Appendix I hereto. known to Poin2 Lab. to incorporate manner that is that is grossly
Poin2 Lab. shall be required to test the design characteristics similar to those unrepresentative of their actual energy
performance of the basic models listed found in the basic models that are the consumption characteristics in real-
in Appendix I according to the test subject of the petition for waiver: world usage. This situation has already
procedures for adaptive EPSs in 10 Acbel been recognized by DOE, and it has
C.F.R. Part 430, Subpart B, Appendix Z, Active-Semi, Inc. Apple, Inc Bitland indicated a willingness to review the
except that it shall modify test Chicony Power Technology Chrontel, situation. Bitland urges that a waiver be
measurements calculation for 5V Inc granted that will provide for the
(lowest voltage level [LV]): Dell alternate test procedure discussed
• Measure at 4 points: 100%, 75%, HONOR ELECTRONIC CO.LTD herein, under which lowest voltage
50%, & 25% of 10 W load points at 5V Huntkey average efficiency would be measured at
(LV). Ever Win International Corp. Griffin
10 watts (W). This is far more
• Take the average. Technology LLC
representative of actual energy
• Compare results against DOE LG Electronics USA, Inc Liteon
efficiency requirement at 10W. Lucent Trans Electronics Co., Ltd. consumption characteristics of the
The waiver should continue until Mobileconn Technology Co., Ltd. product in real-world usage than the
DOE adopts an applicable amended test Phihong Technology Co., Ltd. 15W required by the current DOE test
procedure. Renesas Electronics Corp. Salcomp Plc procedure. DOE ‘‘will grant a waiver
Samsung STMicroelectronics Superior from the test procedure requirements’’
IV. REQUEST FOR INTERIM WAIVER Communications Texas Instruments in these circumstances.23
Poin2 Lab. also requests an interim Ventev Mobile
VII. BASIC MODELS FOR WHICH A
waiver for its testing and rating of the Weltrend Semiconductor Xentris
WAIVER IS REQUESTED.
models in Appendix I. The petition for Wireless
waiver is likely to be granted, as Sources include: ‘‘USB Power Brick’’, The basic models for which a waiver
evidenced by its merits. Without waiver USB Implementers Forum, Inc. is requested are the adaptive EPSs set
relief, Poin2 Lab. would be subject to Accessed < http://www.usb.org/ forth in Appendix I hereto. They are
requirements that clearly should not kcompliance/view/ manufactured by Chicony Power
apply to such products. And without CertifiedUSBPowerBricks.pdf Technology and are distributed in
such relief, Poin2 Lab. will suffer BEFORE THE UNITED STATES commerce under the Chicony brand
economic hardship. Sales of adaptive DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY name.
EPSs will be inhibited, to the detriment WASHINGTON, D.C. 20585
of Poin2 Lab. and to users and VIII. NEED FOR THE REQUESTED
distributors of adaptive EPSs and the In the Matter of: Energy Efficiency WAIVER.
products that use adaptive EPSs. Program: Test Procedure for External
Power Supplies Adaptive EPSs are highly beneficial
V. LIST OF MANUFACTURERS Docket No. EERE–2014–BT–TP–0043; products. They allow efficient charging
A list of manufacturers of all other RIN 1904–AD36 with less resistive loss. They can be
basic models distributed in commerce readily reused when devices are
PETITION OF HEFEI BITLAND
in the United States and known to Poin2 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY CO., replaced; thus, there is less need to
Lab. to incorporate design LTD. FOR WAIVER AND include EPSs in the box with a new
characteristic(s) similar to those found device. This all is of significant benefit
APPLICATION FOR INTERIM
in the basic models that are the subject to the consumer—as well as to the
WAIVER OF TEST PROCEDURE FOR
of the petition is set forth in Appendix environment, including reduced
EXTERNAL POWER SUPPLIES
II hereto. landfill, packaging, and transportation.
* * * Hefei Bitland Information Technology
Poin2 Lab. requests expedited Co., Ltd. (Bitland) respectfully submits Under the current DOE test
treatment of the Petition and this Petition for Waiver and Application procedure, average active-mode
Application. It is also willing to provide for Interim Waiver 19 as related to the efficiency for adaptive EPSs is to be
any additional information the Department of Energy’s (DOE) test measured by testing the unit twice—
Department thinks it needs to act with procedure for external power supplies once at the highest achievable output
expedition. (EPS) 20 as applied to certain adaptive voltage and once at the lowest.24 Testing
EPSs.21 is to be across four load points (100%,
VI. CONCLUSION 75%, 50%, and 25%) for each of the
Bitland is located at No. 4088, Jinziu
DOE should grant Poin2 Lab the Road, National Hefei Economic & highest and lowest voltage levels.25 The
requested waiver and interim waiver for Technology Development Area, Hefei, average efficiency is deemed to be the
the models listed in Appendix I hereto. Anhui, China. TTelephone: 0755– arithmetic mean of the efficiency values
6685.2000 ext. 81379. calculated at the four load points.26
Respectfully submitted,
Jeongseon Euh The adaptive EPS basic models listed The lowest achievable output voltage
June 7, 2017 in Appendix I hereto meet the criteria supported by the basic models is 5 volts
for a waiver.22 The current DOE test (V). They are designed to provide a
APPENDIX I
maximum power of 15W when this
The waiver and interim waiver
mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with NOTICES
19 See 10 C.F.R. § 430.27 (waiver and interim
voltage is selected. 15W is an element
requested herein should apply to testing waiver). of the USB Power Delivery
20 Id. Part 430, Subpart B, Appendix Z.
and rating of the following basic
21 An adaptive EPS is an external power supply
models: A16–045N1A 23 Id.
that can alter its output voltage during active-mode
24 Id. Part 430, Subpart B, Appendix Z,
APPENDIX II based on an established digital communication
protocol with the end-use application without any § 4(a)(i)(E).
The following are manufacturers of all user-generated action. 10 C.F.R. § 430.2. 25 Id. §§ 4(a)(i)(C), (E), (H).
other basic models distributed in 22 Id. § 430.27(f)(2). 26 Id. § 4(a)(i)(H).
VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:13 Jul 21, 2017 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\24JYN1.SGM 24JYN1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/82_FR_34434/page/10.svg)
![34304 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 140 / Monday, July 24, 2017 / Notices
Specification,27 which requires the Table 3 demonstrates that the vast also stated that it had not done any data
product to support 15W at 5V. However, majority of the shipments supporting collection on adaptive EPSs yet.33
adaptive EPSs do not exceed 10W for mobile phones and tablets charge at DOE’s final test procedure rule 34
almost all usage. 15W at 5V will only be 10W or less at 5V. For mobile phones acknowledged that adaptive EPSs are a
used in rare use scenarios and only for and tablets sold in 2016: 97% of North ‘‘new EPS technology,’’ are ‘‘unique
brief periods of time. Therefore, the American shipments and 97.4% of among EPSs’’ and ‘‘were not considered
DOE test procedure’s evaluation at this worldwide shipments charge below when the current test procedure was
power level is unrepresentative of the 10W at 5V. For charging at and above first adopted.’’ Therefore, that test
true energy consumption of the basic 10W at 5V the comparable numbers for procedure ‘‘did not explicitly address
models in real-world usage. smartphones and tablets sold in 2016 the unique characteristics of these types
In that regard, where the adaptive EPS represented a mere 3% of North of EPSs to ensure reproducible and
listed in Appendix I is used with an American shipments and 2.6% of repeatable results.’’ 35
intended end use product (IEUP) Virtually acknowledging the problem
worldwide shipments.30 These figures
manufactured by Bitland,28 the adaptive with the unrepresentative nature of the
include the introduction in 2016 of
EPS is required to support 15W (5V 3A test procedure at the lowest voltage
smartphones that use USB Type-C as the
[amps]) due to the USB Power Delivery level, DOE also stated:
phone’s charging interface. Some of At higher output voltages, EPSs
Specification, but the IEUP product very
these have the capability of charging at typically have greater efficiency due to
rarely consumes this level of power. The
≥10W at 5V, but the proportion is not a lower loss ratio of the fixed voltage
IEUP charges at 5 volts only (i) with
known so a conservative assumption is drops in the conversion circuitry to the
respect to a dead battery, 0.5A, i.e.,
made (see below). Furthermore, some of nominal output voltage. These losses do
2.5W, for up to 120 seconds; or (ii) for
end of charge (battery fully charged— these are capable of exploiting the not increase linearly with output
trickle power at < 0.5A). Therefore, ability of an adaptive EPS to provide voltage, so higher output voltages
evaluation of adaptive EPSs at the 15W higher voltages, and thus would be typically provide greater conversion
power level is grossly unrepresentative expected to use these higher voltages for efficiency.36
of the actual energy consumption faster charging and not charge at ≥10W
at 5V, but again the proportion is not IX. PROPOSED ALTERNATE TEST
characteristics of these models in real- PROCEDURE
world usage. known. (The proportion of USB Type-C
The same holds true of other end use smartphones that exploit the Bitland. proposes the following
products (OEUP) 29 manufactured by capabilities of adaptive EPSs might alternate test procedure to evaluate the
Bitland that can be connected to basic grow in the future to some extent.) In performance of the basic models listed
models of adaptive EPSs listed in the figures above and in Table 3 the in Appendix I hereto.
Appendix I hereto. generous assumption is made that all Bitland shall be required to test the
The situation is the same for basic such phones can charge at ≥10W at 5V. performance of the basic models listed
models of adaptive EPSs listed in in Appendix I according to the test
TABLE 3 procedures for adaptive EPSs in 10
Appendix 1 to be used with OEUPs
from another manufacturer. These C.F.R. Part 430, Subpart B, Appendix Z,
See the following website for figures of
OEUPs are highly likely to be mobile except that it shall modify test
the ‘‘TABLE 1’’: https://
As shown in Table 1, mobile phones measurements calculation for 5V
www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE- (lowest voltage level [LV]):
dominate the portable device market 2017-BT-WAV-0043
and are ubiquitous world-wide. The • Measure at 4 points: 100%, 75%,
most likely OEUP to be charged from an Distortion caused by the test 50%, & 25% of 10 W load points at 5V
adaptive EPS is a mobile phone. Note procedure as applied for efficiency of (LV).
that all mobile phones are able to be adaptive EPSs at the lowest voltage level • Take the average.
charged from an adaptive EPS using an was highlighted during the test • Compare results against DOE
appropriate cable. procedure rulemaking for EPSs. efficiency requirement at 10W.
The waiver should continue until
TABLE 1 It was stressed that the test procedure DOE adopts an applicable amended test
for the lowest voltage level does not procedure.
See the following website for figures of reflect actual use in the field.31 DOE was
the ‘‘TABLE 1’’: https:// receptive and indicated that it could X. REQUEST FOR INTERIM WAIVER
www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE- make changes when more information Bitland also requests an interim
2017-BT-WAV-0043 was known. ‘‘[I]n response to waiver for its testing and rating of the
As shown in Table 2, smartphones comments, in response to changing models in Appendix I. The petition for
dominate the U.S. market. markets, in response to innovative waiver is likely to be granted, as
TABLE 2 technologies, we can always change the evidenced by its merits. Without waiver
way we do things in the future.’’ 32 DOE relief, Bitland would be subject to
See the following website for figures of
the ‘‘TABLE 2’’: https:// requirements that clearly should not
www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-
30 Laptops are not included in the market apply to such products. And without
analysis. They usually do not charge from adaptive such relief, Bitland will suffer economic
2017-BT-WAV-0043 EPSs. Newly introduced laptops that can charge
from adaptive EPSs typically only charge at 5V (i)
hardship. Sales of adaptive EPSs will be
27 IEC 62680–1–2:2017, Universal serial bus with respect to a dead battery, 0.5A, i.e., 2.5W, for inhibited, to the detriment of Bitland
mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with NOTICES
interfaces for data and power—Part 1–2: Common up to 120 seconds; or (ii) for end of charge (battery and to users and distributors of adaptive
components—USB Power Delivery Specification. fully charged—trickle power at < 0.5A). Non-IT EPSs and the products that use adaptive
See https://webstore.iec.ch/publication/26174. products such as children’s toys that charge usually
28 An IEUP is a product that is sold or intended charge using default power (0.5A, 2.5W); some use
EPSs.
to be used with the unit under test (UUT) and 1.5A, 7.5
31 DOE, Transcript, External Power Supply Test 33 Id. at 108 (Jeremy Dommu, DOE).
constitutes the primary load for the UUT.
34 80 Fed. Reg. 51424 (Aug. 25, 2015).
29 An OEUP is a product other than an IEUP that Procedure NOPR Meeting at 94–100 (Nov. 21,
can be used with the UT and constitutes the 2014). 35 Id. 51426, 51431–32.
primary load for the UUT. 32 Transcript at 99 (Ashley Armstrong, DOE). 36 Id. 51432.
VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:13 Jul 21, 2017 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\24JYN1.SGM 24JYN1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/82_FR_34434/page/11.svg)
![Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 140 / Monday, July 24, 2017 / Notices 34305
XI. LIST OF MANUFACTURER DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY consultation pursuant to section 7 of the
A list of manufacturers of all other Endangered Species Act and
basic models distributed in commerce Federal Energy Regulatory consultation pursuant to section 106 of
in the United States and known to Commission the National Historic Preservation Act.
Bitland to incorporate design [Project No. 14590–001] m. Pike Island Energy, LLC filed a
characteristic(s) similar to those found Pre-Application Document (PAD);
in the basic models that are the subject Pike Island Energy, LLC; Notice of including a proposed process plan and
of the petition is set forth in Appendix Intent To File License Application, schedule) with the Commission,
II hereto. Filing of Pre-Application Document, pursuant to 18 CFR 5.6 of the
* * * Approving Use of the Traditional Commission’s regulations.
Bitland requests expedited treatment Licensing Process n. A copy of the PAD is available for
of the Petition and Application. It is also review at the Commission in the Public
a. Type of Filing: Notice of Intent to Reference Room or may be viewed on
willing to provide any additional
File License Application and Request to the Commission’s Web site (http://
information the Department thinks it
Use the Traditional Licensing Process. www.ferc.gov), using the eLibrary link.
needs to act with expedition. b. Project No.: 14590–001. Enter the docket number, excluding the
XII. CONCLUSION c. Dates Filed: May 31, 2017 and June last three digits in the docket number
13, 2017. field to access the document. For
DOE should grant Bitland the
d. Submitted By: Pike Island Energy,
requested waiver and interim waiver for assistance, contact FERC Online
LLC.
the models listed in Appendix I hereto. Support at FERCONlineSupport@
e. Name of Project: Pike Island
Respectfully submitted, ferc.gov, (866) 208–3676 (toll free), or
Hydroelectric Project.
Robert Hsiao f. Location: At the existing U.S. Army (202) 502–8659 (TTY). A copy is also
June 22, 2017 Corps of Engineers’ Pike Island Locks available for inspection and
and Dam on the Ohio River, in Belmont reproduction at the address in
APPENDIX I paragraph h.
and Jefferson Counties, Ohio, and Ohio
The waiver and interim waiver County, West Virginia. The project o. Register online at http://
requested herein should apply to testing would occupy United States lands www.ferc.gov/docs-filing/
and rating of the following basic administered by the U.S. Army Corps of esubscription.asp to be notified via
models: A045R053L provided by Engineers. email of new filing and issuances
Chicony Power Technology. g. Filed Pursuant to: 18 CFR 5.3 of the related to this or other pending projects.
Commission’s regulations. For assistance, contact FERC Online
APPENDIX II Support.
h. Potential Applicant Contact: Alan
The following are manufacturers of all W. Skelly, J.S., CEO; Pike Island Energy, Dated: July 18, 2017.
other basic models distributed in LLC, 127 Longwood Boulevard, Mount Kimberly D. Bose,
commerce in the United States and Orab, Ohio 45154; (513) 375–9242;
known to Bitland to incorporate design Secretary.
email: awskelly@gmail.com. [FR Doc. 2017–15433 Filed 7–21–17; 8:45 am]
characteristics similar to those found in i. FERC Contact: Chelsea Hudock at
the basic models that are the subject of (202) 502–8448; or email at
BILLING CODE 6717–01–P
the petition for waiver: chelsea.hudock@ferc.gov.
Acbel j. Pike Island Energy, LLC filed its
Active-Semi, Inc. Apple, Inc Bitland DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
pre-application document on May 31,
Chicony Power Technology Chrontel, 2017. On June 13, 2017, Pike Island Federal Energy Regulatory
Inc Energy, LLC filed its request to use the Commission
Dell Traditional Licensing Process, and
HONOR ELECTRONIC CO.LTD provided public notice of its request on Combined Notice of Filings
Huntkey
June 2, 2017. In a letter dated July 18,
Ever Win International Corp. Griffin Take notice that the Commission has
2017, the Director of the Division of
Technology LLC received the following Natural Gas
LG Electronics USA, Inc Liteon Hydropower Licensing approved Pike
Pipeline Rate and Refund Report filings:
Liteon Island Energy, LLC’s request to use the
Lucent Trans Electronics Co., Ltd. Traditional Licensing Process. Filings Instituting Proceedings
Mobileconn Technology Co., Ltd. k. With this notice, we are initiating
Docket Numbers: CP16–17–002.
Phihong Technology Co., Ltd. informal consultation with the U.S. Fish
Applicants: Millennium Pipeline
Poin2 Lab. and Wildlife Service under section 7 of
Company, L.L.C.
Renesas Electronics Corp. Salcomp Plc the Endangered Species Act and the
Description: Abbreviated Application
Samsung joint agency regulations thereunder at
for a Limited Amendment of Certificate
STMicroelectronics 50 CFR, Part 402. We are also initiating
of Public Convenience and Necessity of
Superior Communications Texas consultation with the Ohio State
Millennium Pipeline Company, L.L.C.
Instruments Historic Preservation Officer and West
Ventev Mobile Filed Date: 06/02/2017.
Virginia State Historic Preservation
Weltrend Semiconductor Accession Number: 20170602–5155.
Officer, as required by section 106,
Xentris Wireless Comment Date: 5:00 p.m. Eastern
National Historic Preservation Act, and
mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with NOTICES
Time on Friday, August 4, 2017.
Sources include: ‘‘USB Power Brick’’, the implementing regulations of the
USB Implementers Forum, Inc. Advisory Council on Historic Docket Numbers: RP17–900–000.
Accessed < http://www.usb.org/ Preservation at 36 CFR 800.2. Applicants: Dominion Energy Questar
kcompliance/view/ l. With this notice, we are designating Pipeline, LLC.
CertifiedUSBPowerBricks.pdf Pike Island Energy, LLC as the Description: Dominion Energy
[FR Doc. 2017–15134 Filed 7–21–17; 8:45 am] Commission’s non-federal Questar Pipeline, LLC submits tariff
BILLING CODE 6450–01–P representative for carrying out informal filing per 154.204: Firm Peaking
VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:13 Jul 21, 2017 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\24JYN1.SGM 24JYN1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/82_FR_34434/page/12.svg)
Document Created: 2017-07-22 01:20:00
Document Modified: 2017-07-22 01:20:00
| 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 petitions for waiver, granting of interim waiver, and request for public comment. | |
| Dates | DOE will accept comments, data, and information with regard to the petition until August 23, 2017. | |
| Contact | Mr. Jeremy Dommu, U.S. Department of Energy, Building Technologies Office, Mailstop EE-5B, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585-0121. Telephone: (202) 586-9870. Email: [email protected] | |
| FR Citation | 82 FR 34294 |
2025 Federal Register | Disclaimer | Privacy Policy
USC | CFR | eCFR