82 FR 37031 - Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedures for General Service Fluorescent Lamps, General Service Incandescent Lamps, Incandescent Reflector Lamps

DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 151 (August 8, 2017)

The U.S. Department of Energy (``DOE'') is initiating a data collection process through this RFI to consider whether to amend DOE's test procedures for general service fluorescent lamps, general service incandescent lamps, and incandescent reflector lamps. To inform interested parties and to facilitate this process, DOE has gathered data, identifying several issues associated with the currently applicable test procedures on which DOE is interested in receiving comment. The issues outlined in this document mainly concern updating industry references in and making clarifications to DOE's test procedures for general service fluorescent lamps, general service incandescent lamps, and incandescent reflector lamps; and any additional topics that may inform DOE's decisions in a future test procedure rulemaking, including methods to reduce regulatory burden while ensuring the procedures' accuracy. DOE welcomes written comments from the public on any subject within the scope of this document (including topics not raised in this RFI).

[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 151 (Tuesday, August 8, 2017)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 37031-37036]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2017-16669]


========================================================================
Proposed Rules
                                                Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________

This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of 
the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these 
notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in 
the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules.

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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 151 / Tuesday, August 8, 2017 / 
Proposed Rules

[[Page 37031]]



DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

10 CFR Parts 429 and 430

[EERE-2017-BT-TP-0011]
RIN 1904-AD85


 Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedures for General Service 
Fluorescent Lamps, General Service Incandescent Lamps, Incandescent 
Reflector Lamps

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

ACTION: Request for information (``RFI'').

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of Energy (``DOE'') is initiating a data 
collection process through this RFI to consider whether to amend DOE's 
test procedures for general service fluorescent lamps, general service 
incandescent lamps, and incandescent reflector lamps. To inform 
interested parties and to facilitate this process, DOE has gathered 
data, identifying several issues associated with the currently 
applicable test procedures on which DOE is interested in receiving 
comment. The issues outlined in this document mainly concern updating 
industry references in and making clarifications to DOE's test 
procedures for general service fluorescent lamps, general service 
incandescent lamps, and incandescent reflector lamps; and any 
additional topics that may inform DOE's decisions in a future test 
procedure rulemaking, including methods to reduce regulatory burden 
while ensuring the procedures' accuracy. DOE welcomes written comments 
from the public on any subject within the scope of this document 
(including topics not raised in this RFI).

DATES: Written comments and information are requested and will be 
accepted on or before September 7, 2017.

ADDRESSES: Interested persons are encouraged to submit comments using 
the Federal eRulemaking Portal at http://www.regulations.gov. Follow 
the instructions for submitting comments. Alternatively, interested 
persons may submit comments, identified by docket number EERE-2017-BT-
TP-0011, by any of the following methods:
    1. Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov. Follow 
the instructions for submitting comments.
    2. Email: To [email protected]. Include EERE-2017-BT-TP-
0011 in the subject line of the message.
    3. Postal Mail: Appliance and Equipment Standards Program, U.S. 
Department of Energy, Building Technologies Office, Mailstop EE-5B, 
1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585-0121. Telephone: 
(202) 287-1445. If possible, please submit all items on a compact disc 
(``CD''), in which case it is not necessary to include printed copies.
    4. Hand Delivery/Courier: Appliance and Equipment Standards 
Program, U.S. Department of Energy, Building Technologies Office, 950 
L'Enfant Plaza SW., Suite 600, Washington, DC 20024. Telephone: (202) 
287-1445. If possible, please submit all items on a CD, in which case 
it is not necessary to include printed copies.
    No telefacsimilies (faxes) will be accepted. For detailed 
instructions on submitting comments and additional information on this 
process, see section III of this document.
    Docket: The docket, which includes Federal Register notices, public 
meeting attendee lists and transcripts, comments, and other supporting 
documents/materials, is available for review at http://www.regulations.gov. All documents in the docket are listed in the 
http://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.
    The docket Web page can be found at https://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_standards/standards.aspx?productid=22. The docket 
Web page contains simple instructions on how to access all documents, 
including public comments, in the docket. See section III for 
information on how to submit comments through http://www.regulations.gov.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. Lucy deButts, U.S. Department of 
Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Building 
Technologies Office, EE-5B, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, 
DC 20585-0121. Telephone: (202) 287-1604. Email: 
[email protected].
    Ms. Celia Sher, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the General 
Counsel, GC-33, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585-
0121. Telephone: (202) 287-6122. Email: [email protected].
    For further information on how to submit a comment or review other 
public comments and the docket, contact the Appliance and Equipment 
Standards Program staff at (202) 287-1445 or by email: 
[email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Table of Contents

I. Introduction
II. Request for Information
    A. Scope and Definitions
    B. Test Procedure
    1. Updates to Industry Standards
    a. ANSI C78.375, ANSI C78.81, ANSI C78.901, and ANSI C82.3
    b. IES LM-58
    c. IES LM-45
    d. IES LM-49
    e. IES LM-20
    2. Updates to Appendix R
    a. Rated Voltage of Incandescent Lamps
    b. Photometric Measurements
    C. Other Test Procedure Topics
III. Submission of Comments

I. Introduction

    General service fluorescent lamps (``GSFLs''), general service 
incandescent lamps (``GSILs''), and incandescent reflector lamps 
(``IRLs'') are included in the list of ``covered products'' for which 
DOE is authorized to establish and amend energy conservation standards 
and test procedures. (42 U.S.C. 6292(a)(14)) DOE's test procedures for 
GSFLs, GSILs, and IRLs are prescribed at Appendix R to Subpart B of 
Part 430 of Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations (``CFR''). The 
following sections discuss DOE's authority to establish and amend test 
procedures for GSFLs, GSILs, and IRLs, as well as relevant background 
information regarding DOE's consideration of test procedures for these 
products.

[[Page 37032]]

A. Authority and Background

    The Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975 (``EPCA'' or ``the 
Act''),\1\ Public Law 94-163 (42 U.S.C. 6291-6317, as codified), among 
other things, authorizes DOE to regulate the energy efficiency of a 
number of consumer products and industrial equipment. Title III, Part B 
\2\ of EPCA established the Energy Conservation Program for Consumer 
Products Other Than Automobiles, which sets forth a variety of 
provisions designed to improve energy efficiency. These products 
include GSFLs, GSILs, and IRLs--the products that are the focus of this 
RFI. (42 U.S.C. 6292(a)(14))
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    \1\ All references to EPCA in this document refer to the statute 
as amended through the Energy Efficiency Improvement Act of 2015 
(EEIA 2015), Public Law 114-11 (April 30, 2015).
    \2\ For editorial reasons, upon codification in the U.S. Code, 
Part B was redesignated Part A.
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    Under EPCA, DOE's energy conservation program consists essentially 
of four parts: (1) Testing, (2) labeling, (3) Federal energy 
conservation standards, and (4) certification and enforcement 
procedures. Relevant provisions of the Act specifically include 
definitions (42 U.S.C. 6291), energy conservation standards (42 U.S.C. 
6295), test procedures (42 U.S.C. 6293), labeling provisions (42 U.S.C. 
6294), and the authority to require information and reports from 
manufacturers (42 U.S.C. 6296).
    Federal energy efficiency requirements for covered products 
established under EPCA generally supersede State laws and regulations 
concerning energy conservation testing, labeling, and standards. (See 
42 U.S.C. 6297) DOE may, however, grant waivers of Federal preemption 
for particular State laws or regulations, in accordance with the 
procedures and other provisions of EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6297(d))
    The Federal testing requirements consist of test procedures that 
manufacturers of covered products must use as the basis for: (1) 
Certifying to DOE that their products comply with the applicable energy 
conservation standards adopted pursuant to EPCA (42 U.S.C. 6295(s)), 
and (2) making representations about the efficiency of those consumer 
products (42 U.S.C. 6293(c)). Similarly, DOE must use these test 
procedures to determine whether the products comply with relevant 
standards promulgated under EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6295(s))
    Under 42 U.S.C. 6293, EPCA sets forth the criteria and procedures 
DOE must follow when prescribing or amending test procedures for 
covered products. EPCA requires that any test procedures prescribed or 
amended under this section be reasonably designed to produce test 
results which measure energy efficiency, energy use or estimated annual 
operating cost of a covered product during a representative average use 
cycle or period of use and not be unduly burdensome to conduct. (42 
U.S.C. 6293(b)(3))
    In addition, if DOE determines that a test procedure amendment is 
warranted, it must publish a proposed test procedure and offer the 
public an opportunity to present oral and written comments. (42 U.S.C. 
6293(b)(2)) EPCA also requires that, at least once every 7 years, DOE 
review test procedures for each type of covered equipment, including 
GSFLs, GSILs, and IRLs, to determine whether amended test procedures 
would more accurately or fully comply with the requirements for the 
test procedures to not be unduly burdensome to conduct and be 
reasonably designed to produce test results that reflect energy 
efficiency, energy use, and estimated operating costs during a 
representative average use cycle. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(1)(A)) If amended 
test procedures are appropriate, DOE must publish a final rule to 
incorporate the amendments. If DOE determines that test procedure 
revisions are not appropriate, DOE must publish its determination not 
to amend the test procedures. DOE is publishing this RFI to collect 
data and information to inform a potential test procedure rulemaking to 
satisfy the 7-year review requirement specified in EPCA, which requires 
that DOE publish, by January 27, 2019, either a final rule amending the 
test procedures or a determination that amended test procedures are not 
required. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(1)(A))

B. Rulemaking History

    EPCA directs DOE to take into consideration applicable Illuminating 
Engineering Society of North America (IESNA) and American National 
Standards Institute (ANSI) standards when prescribing test procedures 
for GSFLs and IRLs. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(6)) On September 28, 1994, DOE 
issued an interim final rule to add a new section in the CFR to 
establish test procedures for certain fluorescent and incandescent 
lamps. 59 FR 49468 (``September 1994 interim final rule''). The test 
procedures incorporated by reference a number of IESNA and ANSI 
standards. Id.
    On May 29, 1997, DOE published a final rule adopting, with 
amendments, the test procedures established in the September 1994 
interim final rule. 62 FR 29222 (``May 1997 final rule''). The May 1997 
final rule affirmed DOE's determination that the referenced test 
procedures effectively measure lamp efficacy and color rendering index, 
and they are not unduly burdensome to conduct; and incorporated updates 
to the referenced IESNA and ANSI standards. Id.
    On July 6, 2009, DOE published a final rule amending the test 
procedures for GSFLs, IRLs, and GSILs. 74 FR 31829 (``July 2009 final 
rule''). These amendments consisted largely of: (1) Referencing the 
most current versions of several lighting industry standards 
incorporated by reference; (2) adopting certain technical changes and 
clarifications; and (3) expanding the test procedures to accommodate 
new classes of lamps to which coverage was extended by the Energy 
Independence and Security Act of 2007 (Pub. L. 110-140). Id. The July 
2009 final rule also addressed the then recently established statutory 
requirement to expand test procedures to incorporate a measure of 
standby mode and off mode energy consumption and determined that an 
expansion of the test procedures was not necessary. Id. Shortly 
thereafter, DOE again amended the test procedures to adopt reference 
ballast settings necessary for the additional GSFLs for which DOE was 
establishing standards. 74 FR 34080, 34096 (July 14, 2009).
    DOE most recently amended the test procedures for GSFLs and GSILs 
in a final rule published on January 27, 2012. 77 FR 4203 (``January 
2012 final rule''). DOE updated several references to the industry 
standards referenced in DOE's test procedures and established a lamp 
lifetime test procedure for GSILs. Id. DOE did not amend in the January 
2012 final rule the existing test procedure for IRLs established under 
EPCA. Id.
    The current test procedures for GSFLs, GSILs, and IRLs are in 
Appendix R to Subpart B of Part 430 of Title 10 of the CFR.

II. Request for Information

    In the following sections, DOE has identified a variety of issues 
on which it seeks input to aid in the development of the technical and 
economic analyses regarding whether amended test procedures for GSFLs, 
GSILs, and IRLs may be warranted. Specifically, DOE is requesting 
comment on any opportunities to streamline and simplify testing 
requirements for GSFLs, GSILs, and IRLs.
    Additionally, DOE welcomes comments on other issues relevant to the 
conduct of this process that may not specifically be identified in this 
document. In particular, DOE notes that under Executive Order 13771, 
``Reducing Regulation and Controlling

[[Page 37033]]

Regulatory Costs,'' Executive Branch agencies such as DOE are directed 
to manage the costs associated with the imposition of expenditures 
required to comply with Federal regulations. See 82 FR 9339 (Feb. 3, 
2017). Pursuant to that Executive Order, DOE encourages the public to 
provide input on measures DOE could take to lower the cost of its 
regulations applicable to GSFLs, GSILs, and IRLs consistent with the 
requirements of EPCA.

A. Scope and Definitions

    This RFI covers GSFLs, GSILs, and IRLs, which are established as 
covered consumer products under EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6292(a)(14)) A GSFL is 
defined as any fluorescent lamp which can be used to satisfy the 
majority of fluorescent lighting applications. 10 CFR 430.2. The GSFL 
definition does not include any lamp designed and marketed for any of 
the following nongeneral applications: Fluorescent lamps designed to 
promote plant growth; fluorescent lamps specifically designed for cold 
temperature applications; colored fluorescent lamps; impact-resistant 
luorescent lamps; reflectorized or aperture lamps; fluorescent lamps 
designed for use in reprographic equipment; lamps primarily designed to 
produce radiation in the ultra-violet region of the spectrum; and lamps 
with a Color Rendering Index of 87 or greater. Id.
    The currently effective definition of a GSIL is a standard 
incandescent or halogen type lamp that is intended for general service 
applications; has a medium screw base; has a lumen range of not less 
than 310 lumens and not more than 2,600 lumens or, in the case of a 
modified spectrum lamp, not less than 232 lumens and not more than 
1,950 lumens; and is capable of being operated at a voltage range at 
least partially within 110 and 130 volts. 10 CFR 430.2. However, the 
GSIL definition does not include the following incandescent lamps: 
Appliance lamps; black light lamps; bug lamps; colored lamps; infrared 
lamps; left-hand thread lamps; marine lamps; marine signal service 
lamps; mine service lamps; plant light lamps; reflector lamps; rough 
service lamps; shatter-resistant lamps (including a shatter-proof lamps 
and a shatter-protected lamps); sign service lamps; silver bowl lamps; 
showcase lamps; 3-way incandescent lamps; traffic signal lamps; 
vibration service lamps; G shape lamps (as defined in ANSI C78.20) and 
ANSI C79.1-2002 with a diameter of 5 inches or more; T shape lamps (as 
defined in ANSI C78.20) and ANSI C79.1-2002 and that uses not more than 
40 watts or has a length of more than 10 inches; and B, BA, CA, F, G16-
1/2, G-25, G30, S, or M-14 lamps (as defined in ANSI C79.1-2002) and 
ANSI C78.20 of 40 watts or less. Id.
    An IRL (commonly referred to as a reflector lamp) is defined as any 
lamp in which light is produced by a filament heated to incandescence 
by an electric current, which: Contains an inner reflective coating on 
the outer bulb to direct the light; is not colored; is not designed for 
rough or vibration service applications; is not an R20 short lamp; has 
an R, PAR, ER, BR, BPAR, or similar bulb shapes with an E26 medium 
screw base; has a rated voltage or voltage range that lies at least 
partially in the range of 115 and 130 volts; has a diameter that 
exceeds 2.25 inches; and has a rated wattage that is 40 watts or 
higher. 10 CFR 430.2.

B. Test Procedure

1. Updates to Industry Standards
    As noted, EPCA directs DOE to prescribe test procedures for GSFLs 
and IRLs, taking into consideration the applicable standards of IESNA 
or ANSI. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(6)) Consideration of IESNA and ANSI 
standards aligns DOE test procedures with latest industry practices for 
testing electric lamps and therefore DOE considers these industry 
standards when prescribing test procedures for GSILs as well as for 
GSFLs and IRLs. Appendix R references several ANSI and IES standards in 
its test conditions, methods, and measurements for GSFLs, GSILs, and 
IRLs. DOE has determined that several of the referenced industry 
standards have been updated since DOE last amended its test procedure. 
Specifically, appendix R references industry standards shown in Table 
II.1.

                 Table II.1--Industry Standards Referenced in Appendix R to 10 CFR 430 Subpart B
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Industry standard referenced in Appendix R                      Updated version if available
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ANSI C78.375 version 1997 \3\ (section 4.1.1 of   ANSI C78.375A \4\ version 2014.
 appendix R).
ANSI C78.81 version 2010 \5\ (section 4.1.1 of    ANSI C78.81 version 2016.\6\
 appendix R).
ANSI C78.901 version 2005 \7\ (section 4.1.1 of   ANSI C78.901 version 2014.\8\
 appendix R).
ANSI C82.3 version 2002 \9\ (section 4.1.1 of     ANSI C82.3 version 2016.\10\
 appendix R).
IES LM-9 version 2009 \11\ (sections 2.1, 2.9,    No updated version available.
 3.1, 4.1.1, 4.4.1 of appendix R).
IESNA LM-58 version 1994 \12\ (sections 2.1,      IES LM-58 (retitled) version 2013.\13\
 4.4.1 of appendix R).
IES LM-45 version 2009 \14\ (sections 2.1, 2.9,   IES LM-45 version 2015.\15\
 3.2, 4.2.1, 4.2.2 of appendix R).
IESNA LM-49 version 2001 \16\ (section 4.2.3 of   IES LM-49 (retitled) version 2012.\17\
 appendix R).
IESNA LM-20 version 1994 \18\ (sections 2.1,      IES LM-20 (retitled) version 2013.\19\
 2.9, 3.3, 4.3 of appendix R).
CIE 13.3 version 1995 \20\ (section 2.1, 4.4.1    No updated version available.
 of appendix R).
CIE 15 version 2004 \21\ (section 4.4.1 of        No updated version available.
 appendix R).
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    The following sections discuss a variety of issues on which DOE

[[Page 37034]]

specifically requests comment concerning referencing the updated 
versions of each of these industry standards. Additionally, DOE also 
requests comment on the benefits and burdens of adopting any industry/
voluntary consensus-based or other appropriate test procedure, without 
modification.
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    \3\ American National Standard For Fluorescent Lamps--Guide for 
Electrical Measurements (approved September, 25, 1997).
    \4\ American National Standard For Fluorescent Lamps--Guide for 
Electrical Measurements (approved August, 28, 2014).
    \5\ American National Standard For Electric Lamps--Double-Capped 
Fluorescent Lamps-- Dimensional and Electrical Characteristics 
(approved January, 14, 2010).
    \6\ American National Standard For Electric Lamps--Double-Capped 
Fluorescent Lamps-- Dimensional and Electrical Characteristics 
(approved June 29, 2016).
    \7\ American National Standards for Electric Lamps--Single-Based 
Fluorescent Lamps--Dimensional and Electrical Characteristics 
(approved March 23, 2005).
    \8\ American National Standards for Electric Lamps--Single-Based 
Fluorescent Lamps--Dimensional and Electrical Characteristics 
(approved July 2, 2014).
    \9\ American National Standard For Lamp Ballasts--Reference 
Ballasts for Fluorescent Lamps (approved January, 1, 2002).
    \10\ American National Standard For Lamp Ballasts--Reference 
Ballasts for Fluorescent Lamps (approved April, 8, 2016).
    \11\ Illuminating Engineering Society of North America--Approved 
Method: Electrical and Photometric Measurements of Fluorescent Lamps 
(approved January 31, 2009).
    \12\ Illuminating Engineering Society of North America--Guide to 
Spectroradiometric Measurements (approved December, 3, 1994).
    \13\ Illuminating Engineering Society--Approved Method: 
Spectroradiometric Measurements Methods for Lighting Sources 
(approved September, 3, 2013).
    \14\ Illuminating Engineering Society--Approved Method for The 
Electrical and Photometric Measurement of General Service 
Incandescent Filament Lamps (approved).
    \15\ Illuminating Engineering Society--Approved Method: 
Electrical and Photometric Measurement of General Service 
Incandescent Filament Lamps (approved August, 8, 2015).
    \16\ Illuminating Engineering Society--Approved Method for Life 
Testing of Incandescent Filament Lamps (approved December, 1, 2001).
    \17\ Illuminating Engineering Society--Approved Method: Life 
Testing of Incandescent Filament Lamps (approved July, 18, 2012).
    \18\ Illuminating Engineering Society of North America--Approved 
Method for Photometric Testing of Reflector-Type Lamps (approved 
December, 3, 1994).
    \19\ Illuminating Engineering Society of North America--Approved 
Method: Photometry of Reflector Type Lamps (approved February, 4, 
2013).
    \20\ International Commission on Illumination--Method of 
Measuring and Specifying Colour Rendering Properties of Light 
Sources (approved 1995).
    \21\ International Commission on Illumination--Colorimetry 
(approved 2004).
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a. ANSI C78.375, ANSI C78.81, ANSI C78.901, and ANSI C82.3
    Section 4.1.1 of Appendix R references industry standards ANSI 
C78.375, ANSI C78.81, ANSI C78.901, and ANSI C82.3 for taking 
measurements of GSFLs. ANSI C78.375 provides general instructions for 
taking measurements of electrical characteristics of fluorescent lamps. 
Lamp data sheets with physical and electrical characteristics of 
fluorescent lamps are provided in ANSI C78.81 (double-ended lamps) and 
ANSI C78.901 (single-ended lamps). Per section 4.1.1 of Appendix R, 
GSFLs must be operated by a reference ballast during testing. ANSI 
C82.3 provides general design and operating characteristics for 
reference ballasts used to test GSFLs.
    DOE's initial review indicates updates mainly provide more detail 
on how the wattage, voltage and current should be measured in reference 
circuits in ANSI C78.375A-2014 compared to its 1997 version. ANSI 
C82.3-2016, compared to its 2002 version, contains updates regarding 
impedance tolerances, voltage regulation, and instrumentation for 
taking high frequency measurements. DOE requests comments on 
referencing the updated versions of ANSI C78.375 and ANSI C82.3.
    In the latest versions of ANSI C78.81 and ANSI C78.901, DOE has 
identified new lamp datasheets and updates to existing lamp datasheets 
for certain GSFLs. A lamp data sheet provides the physical and 
electrical characteristics needed to appropriately operate a lamp 
including starting method and the input voltage, current, and impedance 
of the reference ballast on which the lamp should be tested. For some 
lamps, the updated standard now specifies only high frequency reference 
ballast settings, whereas previously low frequency settings were 
provided. Because cathode heat is not utilized at high frequency, the 
lamp efficacy would likely increase during high frequency operation 
compared to low frequency operation. DOE's test procedures require 
testing at low frequency unless only high frequency settings are 
provided. Hence the potential adoption of ANSI C78.81-2016 and ANSI 
C78.901-2014 would result in certain lamps that were previously tested 
at low frequency being tested at high frequency, negating the 
consideration of cathode heat. ANSI C78.81-2016 and/or ANSI C78.901-
2014 remove low frequency reference ballast settings and provide only 
high frequency reference ballast settings for the following lamps: 32 
Watt (W), 48-Inch T8 lamp; 32 W U-shaped lamp, 6-Inch Center T8 lamp; 
31 W, U-shaped, 1-\5/8\ Inch Center T8 lamp; 59 W, 96-Inch T8, Single 
Pin Instant Start lamp; and 25 W, 28 W, and 30 W 48-Inch T8 lamps. 
Additionally, two new lamp datasheets were added providing only high 
frequency reference ballast settings for the following lamps: 30 W, U-
shaped, 6-Inch Center T8 lamp and 54 W 96-Inch T8, Single Pin Instant 
Start lamp. DOE requests comments on modifying the test procedure to 
test at high frequency settings unless only low frequency settings are 
provided. DOE is seeking information to determine the extent of change 
in efficacy, if any, if lamps are tested at high frequency instead of 
low frequency settings. In particular, DOE would welcome test data for 
all or any relevant lamps showing lumen and wattage measurements for 
the same lamp at both low and high frequency settings.
    Additionally, DOE has determined that for certain lamps other 
reference ballast characteristics (e.g., input voltage, current, 
impedance) have been updated in the latest versions of ANSI C78.81 and 
ANSI C78.901. DOE has determined that ANSI C78.81-2016 and/or ANSI 
C78.901-2014 have updated the reference ballast characteristics (e.g., 
input voltage, current, impedance) for the 59 W 96-Inch T8, Single Pin 
Instant Start lamp and 86 W, 96-Inch T8, 0.4 A HF Programmed Start 
lamp. DOE requests comments on referencing the updated ballast 
characteristics for these lamps and whether these changes impact 
measured lamp efficacy.
b. IES LM-58
    Section 4.4.1 of appendix R describes test methods for measuring 
coloring rendering index (CRI) and correlated color temperature (CCT). 
It states that the required spectroradiometric measurement and 
characterization shall be conducted in accordance with IES LM-58.\22\ 
DOE's initial review indicates that changes in IES LM-58-2013 compared 
to its 1994 version include a definition for colorimetry and the 
removal of definitions for spectral irradiance, spectral radiance, and 
spectral radiant intensity; clarification updates regarding the 
characteristics of spectroradiometers and applicable detectors; and 
additions of a new method called array spectrometry and a section on 
correction methods. DOE requests comments on referencing the updated 
version of IES LM-58, whether DOE should consider permitting use of the 
new array spectrometry method, and how measured values derived from 
that method compare with currently authorized test methods.
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    \22\ Note that the 1994 version of this standard was titled 
IESNA LM-58 but the 2013 version is titled IES LM-58.
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c. IES LM-45
    IES LM-45 provides methods for taking electrical and photometric 
measurements of GSILs. Sections 3.2, 4.2.1, and 4.2.2 of appendix R 
specify that, for GSILs, test conditions, methods, and measurements be 
in accordance with IES LM-45. DOE's initial review indicates that 
changes in IES LM-45-2015, compared to its 2009 version, include 
various clarification updates regarding the impact of lamp polarity on 
light output and changes to certain tolerances (e.g., impedance limits 
for instruments). DOE requests comments on referencing the updated 
version of IES LM-45.
d. IES LM-49
    IES LM-49 \23\ provides test methods for measuring the lifetime of 
incandescent filament lamps. Section 4.2.3 of appendix R specifies that 
lifetime testing of GSILs must be conducted in accordance with IES LM-
49. DOE's initial review indicates that changes in IES LM-49-2012 
compared to its 2001 version include clarifications regarding input 
voltage, voltage regulation, lamp handling, wiring, and recording 
failures; the addition of instrumentation voltage tolerances; and 
direction regarding the interval at which operation of lamps should be 
checked.

[[Page 37035]]

DOE requests comments on referencing the updated version of IES LM-49 
and whether these changes would impact measured lamp life.
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    \23\ Note that the 2001 version of this standard was titled 
IESNA LM-49 but the 2012 version is titled IES LM-49.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

e. IES LM-20
    IES LM-20 \24\ provides methods for taking photometric measurements 
of reflector-type lamps. Sections 3.3, 4.3.1, and 4.3.2 of appendix R 
specify that, for IRLs, test conditions, methods, and measurements be 
in accordance with IES LM-20. DOE's initial review indicates IES LM-20-
2013, compared to its 1994 version, includes the addition of new 
definitions (e.g., extraneous light, undirected light) and changes to 
existing definitions (e.g., beam axis, central cone, stray light). IES 
LM-20-2013 also includes updates regarding characteristics of 
photometers, lamp stabilization, intensity distribution determination, 
among other topics; and changes to certain tolerances (e.g., allowable 
reflectivity in the integrated sphere). DOE requests comments on 
referencing the updated version of IES LM-20.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \24\ Note that the 1994 version of this standard was titled 
IESNA LM-20 but in the 2013 version titled IES LM-20.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

2. Updates to Appendix R
a. Rated Voltage of Incandescent Lamps
    Appendix R specifies lamps shall be operated at the rated voltage 
as defined in 10 CFR 430.2 for measurements of GSILs (see section 
4.2.1) and IRLs (see section 4.3.1). Previously, DOE had required the 
test voltage for incandescent lamps to be 120 V. However, DOE received 
comments that lamps designed to be operated at higher voltages (e.g., 
125 V or 130 V) when tested at 120 V would be unfairly evaluated. In 
response to these comments, in a final test procedure rule for 
fluorescent and incandescent lamps published on May 29, 1997, DOE 
defined terms for rated voltage and design voltage for incandescent 
lamps and required testing at voltages according to these definitions. 
62 FR 29221, 29231-2. The terms ``rated voltage with respect to 
incandescent lamps'' and the associated ``design voltage with respect 
to incandescent lamps'' are defined as follows in 10 CFR 430.2:
    Rated voltage with respect to incandescent lamps means:
    (1) The design voltage if the design voltage is 115 V, 130 V or 
between 115V and 130 V;
    (2) 115 V if the design voltage is less than 115 V and greater than 
or equal to 100 V and the lamp can operate at 115 V; and
    (3) 130 V if the design voltage is greater than 130 V and less than 
or equal to 150 V and the lamp can operate at 130 V.
    Design voltage with respect to an incandescent lamp means:
    (1) The voltage marked as the intended operating voltage;
    (2) The mid-point of the voltage range if the lamp is marked with a 
voltage range; or
    (3) 120 V if the lamp is not marked with a voltage or voltage 
range. 10 CFR 430.2
    DOE noted in its final rule that this approach provided for testing 
incandescent lamps at a known voltage for certification while 
accommodating the FTC requirements for labeling, which allow testing 
and labeling at the design voltage. 62 FR 29232.
    DOE would like feedback on simplifying the test voltage 
requirements for incandescent lamps and aligning them, to the extent 
possible, with DOE test procedure requirements for other lamp types 
such as compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) and integrated light-emitting-
diodes (LED) lamps. Those test procedures require that CFLs and LED 
lamps be tested at the voltage marked on the lamp as the intended 
operating voltage and if no voltage is marked to test at 120 V; if 
multiple voltages are marked including 120 V to test at 120 V, and if 
multiple voltages are marked not including 120 V to test at the highest 
voltage. DOE requests comments on modifying the required test voltage 
for incandescent lamps.
b. Photometric Measurements
    To the extent possible DOE would like to harmonize its test 
procedures for taking photometric measurements for lamps. For example, 
DOE test procedures for CFLs and integrated LED lamps prescribe the use 
of an integrating sphere method and disallow the use of 
goniophotometer. DOE requests comments on allowing only the integrating 
sphere method and not the goniophotometer method for testing of GSFLs, 
GSILs, and IRLs, particularly comments regarding accuracy and test 
burden.
    For IRLs, section 4.3.2 of appendix R states that lumen output may 
be measured in an integrating sphere or from an average intensity 
distribution curve as specified in IES LM-20. DOE requests comments on 
how frequently industry uses the average intensity distribution curve 
method to take total lumen output measurements for IRLs.
    For taking lumen output measurements of GSFLs, DOE's test procedure 
currently references IES LM-9-2009. Section 6.3 of IES LM-9 describes 
the use of a ``peak lumen'' method which allows measurements at peak 
light output which are adjusted by a correction factor, a ratio of the 
stabilized lumens to the peak lumens developed specifically for that 
lamp type. DOE requests feedback on how frequently industry uses the 
peak lumen method to take measurements for GSFLs.

C. Other Test Procedure Topics

    In addition to the issues identified earlier in this document, DOE 
welcomes comment on any other aspect of the existing test procedures 
for GSFLs, GSILs, and IRLs not already addressed by the specific areas 
identified in this document. DOE particularly seeks information that 
would improve the repeatability, reproducibility, and consumer 
representativeness of the test procedures. DOE also requests 
information that would help DOE create procedures that would limit 
manufacturer test burden through streamlining or simplifying testing 
requirements. Comments regarding the repeatability and reproducibility 
are also welcome.
    DOE also requests feedback on any potential amendments to the 
existing test procedures that could be considered to address impacts on 
manufacturers, including small businesses. Regarding the Federal test 
method, DOE seeks comment on the degree to which the DOE test 
procedures should consider and be harmonized with the most recent 
relevant industry standards for GSFLs, GSILs, and IRLs, and whether 
there are any changes to the Federal test methods that would provide 
additional benefits to the public.
    DOE requests comment on whether the existing test procedures limit 
a manufacturer's ability to provide additional features to consumers on 
GSFLs, GSILs, and IRLs. DOE particularly seeks information on how the 
test procedures could be amended to reduce the cost of new or 
additional features and make it more likely that such features are 
included on GSFLs, GSILs, and IRLs.

III. Submission of Comments

    DOE invites all interested parties to submit in writing by 
September 7, 2017, comments and information on matters addressed in 
this notice and on other matters relevant to DOE's consideration of 
amended test procedures for GSFLs, GSILs, and IRLs.
    Submitting comments via regulations.gov. The http://www.regulations.gov Web page will require you to provide your name and

[[Page 37036]]

contact information. Your contact information will be viewable to DOE 
Building Technologies staff only. Your contact information will not be 
publicly viewable except for your first and last names, organization 
name (if any), and submitter representative name (if any). If your 
comment is not processed properly because of technical difficulties, 
DOE will use this information to contact you. If DOE cannot read your 
comment due to technical difficulties and cannot contact you for 
clarification, DOE may not be able to consider your comment.
    However, your contact information will be publicly viewable if you 
include it in the comment or in any documents attached to your comment. 
Any information that you do not want to be publicly viewable should not 
be included in your comment, nor in any document attached to your 
comment. Persons viewing comments will see only first and last names, 
organization names, correspondence containing comments, and any 
documents submitted with the comments.
    Do not submit to http://www.regulations.gov information for which 
disclosure is restricted by statute, such as trade secrets and 
commercial or financial information (hereinafter referred to as 
Confidential Business Information (CBI)). Comments submitted through 
www.regulations.gov cannot be claimed as CBI. Comments received through 
the Web site will waive any CBI claims for the information submitted. 
For information on submitting CBI, see the Confidential Business 
Information section.
    DOE processes submissions made through http://www.regulations.gov 
before posting. Normally, comments will be posted within a few days of 
being submitted. However, if large volumes of comments are being 
processed simultaneously, your comment may not be viewable for up to 
several weeks. Please keep the comment tracking number that http://www.regulations.gov provides after you have successfully uploaded your 
comment.
    Submitting comments via email, hand delivery, or mail. Comments and 
documents submitted via email, hand delivery, or mail also will be 
posted to http://www.regulations.gov. If you do not want your personal 
contact information to be publicly viewable, do not include it in your 
comment or any accompanying documents. Instead, provide your contact 
information on a cover letter. Include your first and last names, email 
address, telephone number, and optional mailing address. The cover 
letter will not be publicly viewable as long as it does not include any 
comments.
    Include contact information each time you submit comments, data, 
documents, and other information to DOE. If you submit via mail or hand 
delivery, please provide all items on a CD, if feasible. It is not 
necessary to submit printed copies. No facsimiles (faxes) will be 
accepted.
    Comments, data, and other information submitted to DOE 
electronically should be provided in PDF (preferred), Microsoft Word or 
Excel, WordPerfect, or text (ASCII) file format. Provide documents that 
are not secured, written in English and free of any defects or viruses. 
Documents should not contain special characters or any form of 
encryption and, if possible, they should carry the electronic signature 
of the author.
    Campaign form letters. Please submit campaign form letters by the 
originating organization in batches of between 50 to 500 form letters 
per PDF or as one form letter with a list of supporters' names compiled 
into one or more PDFs. This reduces comment processing and posting 
time.
    Confidential Business Information. According to 10 CFR 1004.11, any 
person submitting information that he or she believes to be 
confidential and exempt by law from public disclosure should submit via 
email, postal mail, or hand delivery two well-marked copies: One copy 
of the document marked confidential including all the information 
believed to be confidential, and one copy of the document marked non-
confidential with the information believed to be confidential deleted. 
Submit these documents via email or on a CD, if feasible. DOE will make 
its own determination about the confidential status of the information 
and treat it according to its determination.
    Factors of interest to DOE when evaluating requests to treat 
submitted information as confidential include (1) a description of the 
items, (2) whether and why such items are customarily treated as 
confidential within the industry, (3) whether the information is 
generally known by or available from other sources, (4) whether the 
information has previously been made available to others without 
obligation concerning its confidentiality, (5) an explanation of the 
competitive injury to the submitting person which would result from 
public disclosure, (6) when such information might lose its 
confidential character due to the passage of time, and (7) why 
disclosure of the information would be contrary to the public interest.
    It is DOE's policy that all comments may be included in the public 
docket, without change and as received, including any personal 
information provided in the comments (except information deemed to be 
exempt from public disclosure).
    DOE considers public participation to be a very important part of 
the process for developing test procedures. DOE actively encourages the 
participation and interaction of the public during the comment period 
in each stage of this process. Interactions with and between members of 
the public provide a balanced discussion of the issues and assist DOE 
in this process. Anyone who wishes to be added to the DOE mailing list 
to receive future notices and information about this RFI may do so at 
https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USEERE/subscriber/new?topic_id=USEERE_398.

    Issued in Washington, DC, on August 2, 2017.
Kathleen Hogan,
Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency, Energy Efficiency and 
Renewable Energy.
[FR Doc. 2017-16669 Filed 8-7-17; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 6450-01-P