83 FR 12726 - Notice of Petition for Waiver of Big Ass Solutions (BAS) From the Department of Energy Ceiling Fan Test Procedure, and Grating of Interim Waiver
DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 57 (March 23, 2018)
Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 57 (March 23, 2018)
| Page Range | 12726-12734 | |
| FR Document | 2018-05932 |
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 57 (Friday, March 23, 2018)] [Notices] [Pages 12726-12734] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2018-05932] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY [Case No. 2017-011] Notice of Petition for Waiver of Big Ass Solutions (BAS) From the Department of Energy Ceiling Fan Test Procedure, and Grating of Interim Waiver AGENCY: Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Department of Energy. ACTION: Notice of petition for waiver, notice of grant of an interim waiver, and request for comments. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: This notice announces receipt of and publishes a petition for waiver from Big Ass Solutions (BAS) seeking an exemption from specified portions of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) test procedure for determining the efficiency of ceiling fans under appendix U (appendix U). BAS seeks to use an alternate test procedure to address issues involved in testing certain basic models identified in its petition. According to BAS, testing at low speed for the low-speed small-diameter ceiling fan basic models identified in the petition, may cause BAS undue hardship in meeting the stability requirements contained in [[Page 12727]] appendix U. Consequently, BAS recommended relaxing the low speed stability criteria from DOE's requirement of 5 percent to 10 percent. This notice also grants BAS an interim waiver from the DOE's ceiling fan test procedure for its specified basic models, subject to use of the alternative test procedure as set forth in this notice. DOE solicits comments, data, and information concerning BAS's petition and its suggested alternate test procedure. DATES: DOE will accept comments, data, and information with respect to the BAS petition until April 23, 2018. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments, identified by case number ``2017- 011'', and Docket number ``EERE-2017-BT-WAV-0049,'' by any of the following methods:Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. Email: [email protected]. Include the case number [Case No. 2017-011] 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: Ms. Lucy deButts, U.S. Department of Energy, Building Technologies Office, Mailstop EE-5B, Petition for Waiver Case No. 2017-011, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20585-0121. 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, Room 6055, Washington, DC 20024. Please submit one signed original paper copy. Docket: The docket, which includes Federal Register notices, 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 http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=EERE-2017-BT-WAV-0049. The docket Web page will contain simple instruction on how to access all documents, including public comments, in the docket. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. Lucy deButts, U.S. Department of Energy, Building Technologies Office, Mailstop EE-5B, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20585-0121. Email: [email protected]. Elizabeth Kohl, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the General Counsel, Mail Stop GC-33, Forrestal Building, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20585-0103. E-mail: [email protected]. Telephone 202-586-7796. 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 ceiling fans that are the subject 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 measuring energy efficiency, energy use, or estimated operating costs during a representative average use cycle or period of use, and that are not unduly burdensome to conduct. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(3)) The test procedure for ceiling fans is contained in 10 CFR part 430, subpart B, appendix U (referred to in this notice as ``appendix U''). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \1\ For editorial reasons, upon codification in the U.S. Code, Part B was re-designated 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 product when: The basic model for which the petition for waiver was submitted contains one or more design characteristics that (1) prevent testing according to the prescribed test procedure, or (2) cause the prescribed test procedure to evaluate the basic model in a manner so unrepresentative of its true energy consumption characteristics as to provide materially inaccurate comparative data. 10 CFR 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 characteristics. 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 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 14, 2017, BAS filed a petition for waiver and an application for interim waiver from the test procedure applicable to ceiling fans set forth in 10 CFR part 430, subpart B, appendix U. According to BAS, testing at low speed for the basic models listed in the petition,\3\ may cause BAS undue hardship in meeting the requirements of the stability requirements contained in appendix U. Consequently, in its petition, BAS offered two alternate test procedures for determining the stability criteria for testing low-speed small-diameter ceiling fans at low speed: (1) BAS's preferred method, which would require BAS to employ a stability criteria using airflow instead of air velocity measurements, and (2) BAS's alternate method, which would require relaxing the low speed stability criteria from DOE's requirement of 5 percent to 10 percent. BAS initially stated that this second method is not preferred because it could add significant variability to the [[Page 12728]] calculated airflow on low speed. BAS also requests an interim waiver from the existing DOE test procedure. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \3\ The specific basic models for which the petition applies are ceiling fan basic models Isis F-IS2-0601S4 and Isis F-IS2-0601. These basic model names were provided by BAS in its June 2017 petition. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- However, by email dated December 6, 2017, BAS withdrew their preferred method for modifying the stability criteria from consideration. Instead, BAS requested that DOE consider their alternative method as their recommendation for the alternate test procedure.\4\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \4\ A copy of the email is available at regulations.gov, under docket number EERE-2017-BT-WAV-0049. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- DOE understands that the basic models identified in BAS's petition cannot be tested under the DOE test procedure because at the lower operating speeds for these fans, air speed is so low that the acceptable variance under the stability criteria (often less than 2 feet per minute) falls below the required accuracies for air velocity sensors in section 3.2 of the DOE test procedure. DOE also understands that absent an interim waiver, BAS's products cannot be tested and rated according to the DOE test procedure, and BAS is unable to advertise performance data for these models. DOE has reviewed the alternate procedure suggested by BAS and concludes that relaxing the stability criteria for low speed will allow for the accurate measurement of efficiency of these products, while alleviating the testing problems associated with BAS's implementation of ceiling fan testing for the basic models specified in its petition. Further discussion on DOE's review of the alternate test procedure are provided in section IV of this notice. Consequently, DOE has determined that BAS's petition for waiver will likely be granted. Furthermore, DOE has determined that it is desirable for public policy reasons to grant BAS immediate relief pending a determination of the petition for waiver. III. Summary of Grant of an Interim Waiver DOE has reviewed the manufacturer specifications and test data provided by BAS and agrees that it demonstrates that the basic models specified in the petition cannot be tested under the DOE test procedure because, when testing the basic models at low speed, the air speed is so low that the acceptable variance under the stability criteria (often less than 2 feet per minute) falls below the required accuracies for air velocity sensors in section 3.2 of the DOE test procedure. DOE compared BAS's test data to DOE's own test data from previous rulemakings and observed that the air velocities at low speed for the new BAS basic models are much lower than the test data previously evaluated. DOE's understanding is that the primary purpose of low speed for the basic models included in BAS's petition is to mix air in the room. Achieving the desired mixing effect requires much lower airflow that creates highly variable airflow patterns in the room. These atypically variable airflow patterns make it hard for the ceiling fan to achieve the stability criteria required by the DOE test procedure. For the reasons stated above, DOE is granting BAS's application for interim waiver from testing for its specified ceiling fan basic models. The substance of DOE's Interim Waiver Order is summarized. BAS is required to use the alternate test procedure set forth in this notice to test and rate the ceiling fan basic models listed in the petition (Isis F-IS2-0601S4, Isis F-IS2-0601, Isis F-IS2-0401L8S4, Isis F-IS2-0401L8, Isis F-IS2-0401I06L8S4, Isis F-IS2-0401I06L8, Isis F-IS2- 0501L8S4 and Isis F-IS2-0501L8). BAS is permitted to make representations about the ceiling fan efficiency of these basic models for compliance, marketing, or other purposes to the extent that such products have been tested in accordance with the provisions set forth in the alternate test procedure and such representations fairly disclose the results of such testing in accordance with 10 CFR 429.32. DOE makes decisions on waivers and interim waivers for only those basic models specifically set out in the petition, not future models that may be manufactured by the petitioner. BAS may request that DOE extend the scope of a waiver or an interim waiver to include additional basic models employing the same technology as the basic model(s) set forth in the original petition consistent with 10 CFR 430.27(g). In addition, DOE notes that granting of an interim waiver or waiver does not release a petitioner from the certification requirements set forth at 10 CFR part 429. See also 10 CFR 430.27(a) and (i). The interim waiver shall remain in effect consistent with the provisions of 10 CFR 430.27(h). Furthermore, this interim waiver is conditioned upon the presumed validity of statements, representations, and documents provided by the petitioner. DOE may rescind or modify a waiver or interim waiver at any time upon a determination that the factual basis underlying the petition for waiver or interim waiver is incorrect, or upon a determination that the results from the alternate test procedure are unrepresentative of the basic model's true energy consumption characteristics. See 10 CFR 430.27(k)(1). Similarly, BAS may request that DOE rescind or modify a waiver or interim waiver if BAS discovers an error or determines that the waiver is no longer necessary or for other appropriate reasons. 10 CFR 430.27(k)(2). IV. Alternate Test Procedure Under EPCA, manufacturers may not make representations with respect to the energy use or efficiency of a covered product unless the basic model has been tested in accordance with the applicable DOE test procedure and the representation fairly discloses the results of such testing. (42 U.S.C. 6293(c)) Consistent representations are important for manufacturers to use in making representations about the energy efficiency of their products and to demonstrate compliance with applicable DOE energy conservation standards. Pursuant to the regulations applicable to waivers from applicable test procedures at 10 CFR 430.27, DOE will consider setting an alternate test procedure for BAS in a subsequent Decision and Order. In its petition, BAS proposes that the basic models listed in the petition be tested according to the test procedure for ceiling fans prescribed by DOE at 10 CFR part 430, subpart B, appendix U, except that the stability criteria at low speed for low-speed small-diameter ceiling fans be modified to either of the recommended alternate test procedures as follows: (1) Replace the stability criteria to allow a percentage variation around airflow, instead of average air velocity, between two consecutive tests. Therefore, the suggested test procedure should instead state: ``In a successive set of measurements, the lower recorded value for airflow multiplied by 1.03 is greater than or equal to the higher recorded value for airflow, or these airflow measurements vary less than 15 cfm'' (preferred), OR (2) Relax the current low speed stability criteria tolerances such that the average air velocity measurements for each sensor varies by less than 10 percent, instead of 5 percent, compared to the average air velocity measured for the same sensor in a successive set of air velocity measurements (alternative). However, by email dated December 6, 2017, BAS withdrew their preferred method for modifying the stability criteria. Instead, BAS requested that DOE consider their alternative method as their recommendation for the alternate test procedure. [[Page 12729]] DOE reviewed both alternate test procedures and preliminarily concluded that the BAS alternate test procedure of applying stability criteria to airflow instead of air velocity could allow a greater variation in airflow and efficiency results between multiple tests of the same fan. Under the current DOE test procedure, air velocity is measured at each sensor along the sensor arm, and airflow is calculated based on these measurements. The air velocity measurements indicate both the amount and location of air provided by the fan within the effective area (i.e., the air profile). DOE found that large variations in air profile often indicate test room instability (e.g., localized temperature gradients that effect airflow). Applying stability criteria to the air velocity measurements ensures that successive sets of measurements result in similar air profiles, which is indicative of test room stability. On the other hand, DOE observed that stability criteria applied only to airflow could be met with large variations in air profile (i.e., at unstable test room conditions). This allows for airflow, and in turn fan efficiency, to vary significantly between multiple tests of the same fan because stable airflow can be achieved at varied test room conditions. DOE also evaluated whether increased tolerances for the air velocity stability criteria for low speed tests could be used to reduce test burden without materially affecting the results of the test procedure. Specifically, DOE used test data from the previous rulemaking to compare the airflow and efficiency results using the current test procedure and the alternate test procedure. DOE found that increasing the stability criteria to 10 percent for low speed would allow more fans to meet the stability criteria and reduce the number of successive measurements needed to do so without materially changing the efficiency results of the test procedure. Under this approach, the section of the test procedure would read as follows: 3.3.2 Airflow and Power Consumption Testing Procedure Measure the airflow (CFM) and power consumption (W) for HSSD ceiling fans until stable measurements are achieved, measuring at high speed only. Measure the airflow and power consumption for LSSD ceiling fans until stable measurements are achieved, measuring first at low speed and then at high speed. Airflow and power consumption measurements are considered stable for high speed if: (1) The average air velocity for all axes for each sensor varies by less than 5% compared to the average air velocity measured for that same sensor in a successive set of air velocity measurements, and (2) Average power consumption varies by less than 1% in a successive set of power consumption measurements. Airflow and power consumption measurements are considered stable for low speed if: (1) The average air velocity for all axes for each sensor varies by less than 10% compared to the average air velocity measured for that same sensor in a successive set of air velocity measurements, and (2) Average power consumption varies by less than 1% in a successive set of power consumption measurements. V. Summary and Request for Comments Through this notice, DOE announces receipt of BAS's petition for waiver from the DOE test procedure for certain basic models of BAS ceiling fans, and grants BAS an interim waiver from the test procedure for the ceiling fan basic models listed in BAS's petition. DOE is publishing BAS's petition for waiver pursuant to 10 CFR 439.27(b)(1)(iv). BAS provided confidential performance information that is not included in this notice. DOE solicits comments from interested parties on all aspects of the petition, including the alternate test procedures offered by the petitioner. DOE seeks comment on whether either of BAS' alternative test procedures would more accurately or fully comply with the EPCA test procedure requirements that a test procedure measure the energy use or energy efficiency of ceiling fans during a representative use cycle or period of use, and not be unduly burdensome to conduct. DOE seeks comment on whether the alternate test procedure of applying stability criteria to airflow instead of air velocity a greater variation in airflow and efficiency results between multiple tests of the same fan. DOE also seeks comment on whether use of the test method specified in this interim waiver would result in variability in the calculated airflow, and if so, to what extent. 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 petitioner is Taylor Sawyer <[email protected]>, Big Ass Solutions, 2348 Innovation Drive, Lexington, KY 40511. All comment submissions to DOE must include the Case Number 2017-011 for this proceeding. Submit electronic comments in 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: One copy of the document including all the information believed to be confidential, and one copy of the document with the information believed to be confidential deleted. DOE will make its own determination about the confidential status of the information and treat it according to its determination. Issued in Washington, DC, on March 16, 2018. Kathleen B. Hogan, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. Big Ass Solutions 2348 Innovation Drive Lexington, KY 40511 Contact: Taylor Sawyer. (859) [email protected]">629-6203/[email protected] June 14, 2017 Via Electronic Mail Submitted To: Mr. John Cymbalsky Ms. Ashley Armstrong Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Building Technologies Program EE-2J U.S. Department of Energy 1000 Independence Avenue SW Washington, DC, 20585 [email protected] Submitted by: Big Ass Solutions 2348 Innovation Drive Lexington, KY 40511 Contact: Taylor Sawyer. (859) [email protected]">629-6203/[email protected] Re: Petition to waive select provisions under Test Procedures for Ceiling Fans Dear Mr. Cymbalsky and Ms. Armstrong, Big Ass Solutions respectfully requests a waiver of one element in the Test Procedures for Ceiling Fans, finalized by DOE on July 25, 2016. The compliance date for representations made with respect to the energy use or efficiency of ceiling fans under this final rule was January 23, 2017. The docket number is EERE-2013-BT-TP-0050. It has come to our attention that the stability requirements contained in the [[Page 12730]] final test procedure, when tested at low speed for certain small- diameter ceiling fan models, may cause Big Ass Solutions undue hardship in meeting the requirements of the test procedure. Details The final rule includes a specification for the stability criteria of the sensors used on small-diameter ceiling fans to evaluate airflow and power consumption: Airflow and power consumption measurements are considered stable if: (1) the average air velocity for all axes for each sensor varies by less than 5% compared to the average air velocity measured for that same sensor in a successive set of air velocity measurements, and (2) average power consumption varies by less than 1% in a successive set of power consumption measurements. When Big Ass Solutions initiated testing, we discovered that we are unable to meet this stability requirement at the lower operating speeds of a certain fan containing design characteristics that prevent testing per the current DOE test procedures. The average air speed is so low, that the acceptable variance under the stability criteria above is often less than 2 feet per minute, which falls below the required accuracies for airflow sensors that is stated in section 3.2 of the Final Rule. The measured velocity at this point also falls below the calibrated ranges of our two models of airflow sensors, (~30-1969 fpm) and (~30-196 fpm), which are in accordance with the requirements of the DOE test method and similar to sensors used at other small-diameter fan test labs. We have run several different tests and contracted an independent test lab to conduct additional testing, and all testing appears to have the same issue with stability at very low airspeeds, even with the use of two sets of sensors with different calibrated ranges. An example test for stability we have conducted is as follows: DOE Test Method for LSSD [Fans Stability Verification] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Average air velocity (fpm) Sensor position Sensor -------------------------------- Average a/b Stability? 0.95 <= Range (fpm) 1a 1b (a/b) <=1.05 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1............................... BAF1114 13.27 14.55 13.91 0.91 Yes................ 1.39 2............................... BAF1119 13.29 14.74 14.02 0.90 Yes................ 1.40 3............................... BAF1115 13.35 13.44 13.39 0.99 Yes................ 1.34 4............................... BAF1122 13.27 13.56 13.41 0.98 Yes................ 1.34 5............................... BAF1118 15.42 15.80 15.61 0.98 Yes................ 1.56 6............................... BAF1110 15.02 14.01 14.52 1.07 Yes................ 1.45 7............................... BAF1113 13.10 13.24 13.17 0.99 Yes................ 1.32 8............................... BAF1121 11.17 14.71 12.94 0.76 No................. 1.29 9............................... BAF1111 7.77 12.52 10.15 0.62 No................. 1.01 10.............................. BAF1120 16.12 19.57 17.85 0.82 No................. 1.78 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- While we are moving forward with testing on other BAS products not affected by this issue, the potential for future innovative fan products with blade spans under 7ft to become burdened by this may be substantial. Big Ass Solutions currently manufactures a series of affected small-diameter HVLS fans with a blade spans of 6ft and markets them as Isis model Big Ass Fans. The two basic model Big Ass Fans found below, have physical and mechanical characteristics that meet the criteria for LSSD ceiling fan blade thickness and tip speed. Big Ass Solutions has included data detailing the exactness of this model's LSSD classification eligibility. Isis, Commercial Fan Kit--4ft, 110-125 Volt/1 Phase; Direct Mount; Plug Winglets--F-IS2-0401L8S4 Isis, Commercial Fan Kit--4ft, 110-125 Volt/1 Phase--F-IS2-0401L8 Isis, Commercial Fan Kit--4'6'', 110-125 Volt/1 Phase; Plug Winglets-- F-IS2-0401I06L8S4 Isis, Commercial Fan Kit--4'6'', 110-125 Volt/1 Phase--F-IS2-0401I06L8 Isis, Commercial Fan Kit--5ft, 110-125 Volt/1 Phase; Plug Winglets--F- IS2-0501L8S4 Isis, Commercial Fan Kit--5ft, 110-125 Volt/1 Phase--F-IS2-0501L8 Isis, Commercial Fan Kit--6ft, 110-125 Volt/1 Phase; Plug Winglets--F- IS2-0601S4 Isis, Commercial Fan Kit--6ft, 110-125 Volt/1 Phase--F-IS2-0601 [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TN23MR18.014 [[Page 12731]] Other affected parties This requirement does not affect large-diameter fans or high speed small-diameter ceiling fans. Furthermore, this problem consistently appears only at our lower operating speeds. Because our lowest operating speed is designed for mixing of air, without causing a draft, in the winter and the typical 3 speed fan is designed to provide cooling at the lowest speed, our fan produces a much lower airspeed on low than the average fan on the market. While there is only a small number of known manufacturers who have had their comments to the DOE on this matter published, we expect additional fan manufacturers with products where the speed of the air exiting the fan is not intended to provide cooling are likely to encounter this issue in their respective tests. The product class that is most likely to encounter this issue is the ``LSSD'' fan class. The manufacturers of LSSD fans include, but are not limited to: Aertron Pty., Ltd. Air Comfort Products Air Cool Industrial American-De Rosa Lamparts DBA Luminance Artisan Industrial Company, Ltd. China Canarm, Ltd. Casablanca Fan Company Champ-Ray Industrial Company, Ltd Chien Luen Industries (Zhongshan), Ltd. Collins Company, Ltd. Craftmade Electric Emerson Ceiling Fans Fanim Industries Fanimation Generation Brands Halsey Enterprise Company, Ltd. Hong Kong China Electric Manufacture Company, Ltd. Hunter Fan Company J & P Manufacturing Kendal Lighting Inc. Kichler Lighting King of Fans Landmark Enterprise, Inc. Litex Industries Luminance Madison Avenue Lighting & Fan Company Maxim Lighting International, Inc. Minka Group Modern Fan Company Orient Electric Pacific Coast Lighting, Inc. Pan Air Electric Company, Ltd. Progress Lighting Quorum International Regency Ceiling Fans Royal Pacific Savoy House Lighting Shell Electric Manufacturing (H.K.) Company, Ltd. Tai-Der Electric Manufacturer Company, Ltd. The Modern Fan Company Inc. Torch Lighting, Ltd. Vaxcel International Ventamatic, Ltd. Westinghouse Lighting YuYuan, Ltd. Zhongshan Hongwei Motor Manufacturing Company Zhongshan Weihe Electrical Appliances Company, Ltd. Zhongshan Zhifa Electrical Appliances Company, Ltd. What is the impact on Big Ass Solutions? Without a waiver or modification of the stability requirement for low speed air movement, the BAS fan models named above cannot be tested per federal standards. Thus, Big Ass Solutions' current products are unable to pass the stability requirements at low speeds and in these cases, the entirety of the product test will be considered inadequate under the DOE rulemaking. Big Ass Solutions received from DOE a 180 day extension on Test Procedure compliance, so our compliance date is July 22, 2017. For our products unable to satisfy the DOE test procedures, BAS will not be able to advertise performance data for these products into the US market after July 22nd. Suggested correction/alternative procedure Big Ass Solutions recommends modifying the stability requirement with a process of comparing the airflow between two consecutive tests. This would replace the comparison of measured air speed on a senor by sensor basis which is problematic for the turbulent airflow generated by ceiling fans. For example, in two successive tests Sensor 3 may show a reduction in airflow whereas Sensor 4 registers an increase, but the total airflow is the same between the tests. Instead of achieving stability based on average air velocity per each individual sensor position, Big Ass Solutions recommends basing the stability criteria on airflow. For example, on the high speed test the lower airflow from two consecutive test runs shall be within 3% of the higher aiflow. BAS proposes the aforementioned basic models be tested according to the test procedure prescribed by DOE at 10 CFR 430, Subpart B, Appendix U, but using the following alternative definition for stability: ``In a successive set of measurements, the lower recorded value for airflow multiplied by 1.03 is greater than or equal to the higher recorded value for airflow, or these airflow measurements vary less than 15 cfm'' Alternatively, DOE could maintain the original methodology and simply relax the low speed stability requirement to 10%. However, this method is not preferred as it could add significant variability to the calculated airflow on low speed. An example of the relaxed low speed stability requirement is provided below: ``(1) The average air velocity for all axes for each sensor varies by less than 5% for high speed and 10% for low speed compared to the average air velocity measured for that same sensor'' Closing It is our sincere intent to comply with the new test requirements, and we appreciate DOE's efforts to consider input from Big Ass Solutions as part of their stakeholder engagement process. We also appreciate DOE's efforts so far to resolve this isolated but impactful difficulty in the final rule. Thank you for your consideration and we are available to answer any questions you may have. Sincerely, Taylor Sawyer Government Affairs Director Big Ass Solutions Big Ass Solutions 2348 Innovation Drive Lexington, KY 40511 Contact: Taylor Sawyer. (859) [email protected]">629-6203/[email protected] June 14, 2017 Via Electronic Mail Submitted To: Mr. John Cymbalsky Ms. Ashley Armstrong Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Building Technologies Program EE-2J U.S. Department of Energy 1000 Independence Avenue SW Washington, DC, 20585 [email protected] Submitted by: Big Ass Solutions 2348 Innovation Drive Lexington, KY 40511 Contact: Taylor Sawyer. (859) [email protected]">629-6203/[email protected] Re: Petition to waive select provisions under Test Procedures for Ceiling Fans Dear Mr. Cymbalsky and Ms. Armstrong, Big Ass Solutions respectfully requests an interim waiver of one [[Page 12732]] element in the Test Procedures for Ceiling Fans, finalized by DOE on July 25, 2016. The compliance date for representations made with respect to the energy use or efficiency of ceiling fans under this final rule was January 23, 2017. The docket number is EERE-2013-BT-TP- 0050. It has come to our attention that the stability requirements contained in the final test procedure, when tested at low speed for certain small-diameter ceiling fan models, may cause Big Ass Solutions undue hardship in meeting the requirements of the test procedure. Therefore, we request an interim waiver so that product testing can proceed and regular operations can continue as DOE considers our application for the permanent waiver. Details The final rule includes a specification for the stability criteria of the sensors used on small-diameter ceiling fans to evaluate airflow and power consumption: Airflow and power consumption measurements are considered stable if: (1) the average air velocity for all axes for each sensor varies by less than 5% compared to the average air velocity measured for that same sensor in a successive set of air velocity measurements, and (2) average power consumption varies by less than 1% in a successive set of power consumption measurements. When Big Ass Solutions initiated testing, we discovered that we are unable to meet this stability requirement at the lower operating speeds of a certain fan containing design characteristics that prevent testing per the current DOE test procedures. The average air speed is so low, that the acceptable variance under the stability criteria above is often less than 2 feet per minute, which falls below the required accuracies for airflow sensors that is stated in section 3.2 of the Final Rule. The measured velocity at this point also falls below the calibrated ranges of our two models of airflow sensors, (~30--1969 fpm) and (~30--196 fpm), which are in accordance with the requirements of the DOE test method and similar to sensors used at other small-diameter fan test labs. We have run several different tests and contracted an independent test lab to conduct additional testing, and all testing appears to have the same issue with stability at very low airspeeds, even with the use of two sets of sensors with different calibrated ranges. An example test for stability we have conducted is as follows: Doe Test Method for LSSD [Fans Stability Verification] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Average air velocity (fpm) Stability? Sensor position Sensor -------------------------------- Average a/b 0.95<= (a/b) Range (fpm) 1a 1b <=1.05 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1....................................... BAF1114 13.27 14.55 13.91 0.91 Yes 1.39 2....................................... BAF1119 13.29 14.74 14.02 0.90 Yes 1.40 3....................................... BAF1115 13.35 13.44 13.39 0.99 Yes 1.34 4....................................... BAF1122 13.27 13.56 13.41 0.98 Yes 1.34 5....................................... BAF1118 15.42 15.80 15.61 0.98 Yes 1.56 6....................................... BAF1110 15.02 14.01 14.52 1.07 Yes 1.45 7....................................... BAF1113 13.10 13.24 13.17 0.99 Yes 1.32 8....................................... BAF1121 11.17 14.71 12.94 0.76 No 1.29 9....................................... BAF1111 7.77 12.52 10.15 0.62 No 1.01 10...................................... BAF1120 16.12 19.57 17.85 0.82 No 1.78 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- While we are moving forward with testing on other BAS products not affected by this issue, the potential for future innovative fan products with blade spans under 7ft to become burdened by this may be substantial. Big Ass Solutions currently manufactures a series of affected small-diameter HVLS fans with a blade spans of 6ft and markets them as Isis model Big Ass Fans. The two basic model Big Ass Fans found below, have physical and mechanical characteristics that meet the criteria for LSSD ceiling fan blade thickness and tip speed. Big Ass Solutions has included data detailing the exactness of this model's LSSD classification eligibility. Isis, Commercial Fan Kit--4ft, 110-125 Volt/1 Phase; Direct Mount; Plug Winglets--F-IS2-0401L8S4 Isis, Commercial Fan Kit--4ft, 110-125 Volt/1 Phase--F-IS2-0401L8 Isis, Commercial Fan Kit--4'6'', 110-125 Volt/1 Phase; Plug Winglets-- F-IS2-0401I06L8S4 Isis, Commercial Fan Kit--4'6'', 110-125 Volt/1 Phase--F-IS2-0401I06L8 Isis, Commercial Fan Kit--5ft, 110-125 Volt/1 Phase; Plug Winglets--F- IS2-0501L8S4 Isis, Commercial Fan Kit--5ft, 110-125 Volt/1 Phase--F-IS2-0501L8 Isis, Commercial Fan Kit--6ft, 110-125 Volt/1 Phase; Plug Winglets--F- IS2-0601S4 Isis, Commercial Fan Kit--6ft, 110-125 Volt/1 Phase--F-IS2-0601 [[Page 12733]] [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TN23MR18.015 Other affected parties This requirement does not affect large-diameter fans or high speed small-diameter ceiling fans. Furthermore, this problem consistently appears only at our lower operating speeds. Because our lowest operating speed is designed for mixing of air, without causing a draft, in the winter and the typical 3 speed fan is designed to provide cooling at the lowest speed, our fan produces a much lower airspeed on low than the average fan on the market. While there is only a small number of known manufacturers who have had their comments to the DOE on this matter published, we expect additional fan manufacturers with products where the speed of the air exiting the fan is not intended to provide cooling are likely to encounter this issue in their respective tests. The product class that is most likely to encounter this issue is the ``LSSD'' fan class. The manufacturers of LSSD fans include, but are not limited to: Aertron Pty., Ltd. Air Comfort Products Air Cool Industrial American-De Rosa Lamparts DBA Luminance Artisan Industrial Company, Ltd. China Canarm, Ltd. Casablanca Fan Company Champ-Ray Industrial Company, Ltd Chien Luen Industries (Zhongshan), Ltd. Collins Company, Ltd. Craftmade Electric Emerson Ceiling Fans Fanim Industries Fanimation Generation Brands Halsey Enterprise Company, Ltd. Hong Kong China Electric Manufacture Company, Ltd. Hunter Fan Company J & P Manufacturing Kendal Lighting Inc. Kichler Lighting King of Fans Landmark Enterprise, Inc. Litex Industries Luminance Madison Avenue Lighting & Fan Company Maxim Lighting International, Inc. Minka Group Modern Fan Company Orient Electric Pacific Coast Lighting, Inc. Pan Air Electric Company, Ltd. Progress Lighting Quorum International Regency Ceiling Fans Royal Pacific Savoy House Lighting Shell Electric Manufacturing (H.K.) Company, Ltd. Tai-Der Electric Manufacturer Company, Ltd. The Modern Fan Company Inc. Torch Lighting, Ltd. Vaxcel International Ventamatic, Ltd. Westinghouse Lighting YuYuan, Ltd. Zhongshan Hongwei Motor Manufacturing Company Zhongshan Weihe Electrical Appliances Company, Ltd. Zhongshan Zhifa Electrical Appliances Company, Ltd. What is the impact on Big Ass Solutions? Without an interim waiver or modification of the stability requirement for low speed air movement, the BAS fan models named above cannot be tested per federal standards. Thus, Big Ass Solutions' current products are unable to pass the stability requirements at low speeds and in these cases, the entirety of the product test will be considered inadequate under the DOE rulemaking. Big Ass Solutions received from DOE a 180 day extension on Test Procedure compliance, so our compliance date is July 22, 2017. For our products unable to satisfy the DOE test procedures, BAS will not be able to advertise performance data for these products into the US market after July 22nd. Suggested correction/alternative procedure Big Ass Solutions recommends modifying the stability requirement with a process of comparing the airflow between two consecutive tests. This would replace the comparison of measured air speed on a senor by sensor basis which is problematic for the turbulent airflow generated by ceiling fans. For example, in two successive tests Sensor 3 may show a reduction in airflow whereas Sensor 4 registers an increase, but the total airflow is the same between the tests. Instead of achieving stability based on average air velocity per each individual sensor position, Big Ass Solutions recommends basing the stability criteria on airflow. For example, on the high speed test the lower airflow from two consecutive test runs shall be within 3% of the higher aiflow. BAS proposes the aforementioned basic models be tested according to the test procedure prescribed by DOE at 10 CFR 430, Subpart B, Appendix U, but using the following alternative definition for stability: ``In a successive set of measurements, the lower recorded value for airflow multiplied by 1.03 is greater than or equal to the higher recorded value for airflow, or these airflow measurements vary less than 15 cfm'' Alternatively, DOE could maintain the original methodology and simply relax the low speed stability requirement to 10%. However, this method is not preferred as it could add significant variability to the calculated airflow on low speed. An example of the [[Page 12734]] relaxed low speed stability requirement is provided below: ``(1) The average air velocity for all axes for each sensor varies by less than 5% for high speed and 10% for low speed compared to the average air velocity measured for that same sensor'' Closing It is our sincere intent to comply with the new test requirements, and we appreciate DOE's efforts to consider input from Big Ass Solutions as part of their stakeholder engagement process. We also appreciate DOE's efforts so far to resolve this isolated but impactful difficulty in the final rule. Thank you for your consideration and we are available to answer any questions you may have. Sincerely, Taylor Sawyer Government Affairs Director Big Ass Solutions [FR Doc. 2018-05932 Filed 3-22-18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6450-01-P
![12726 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 57 / Friday, March 23, 2018 / Notices
electricity customers. As the electric and inform research and development additional gaps needs to be highlighted
power system continues to evolve, with activities. Please provide your to address the R&D challenges
stakeholders integrating higher amounts comments next to the relevant questions identified? What specific actions will
of variable renewable generation, in the Excel spreadsheet and supporting need to be taken in the near-, mid-, and
deploying electric vehicles and information if noted, including studies, long-term to sufficiently address the
associated charging infrastructure, and reports, references, data, and examples gaps identified?
connecting more dynamic end-use relevant to SSPS. What additional non-technical
devices and subsystems, substations challenges are there that would prevent
will need to evolve as well. These SSPS Roadmap Questions SSPS converters from being accepted by
critical nodes will need to continue Chapter 1–2: Introduction and industry? What additional standards
providing their traditional functions as Conventional Substations would be relevant to SSPS technology,
well as new functions and capabilities as envisioned? What are potential
What issues and concerns not
required in a future grid. market or regulatory barriers that will
The SSPS Roadmap will present a captured in the roadmap most deeply
need to be addressed?
path for the strategic integration of high impact the ability of substations to meet Are there any other issues or
voltage power electronic converters in the demands of an evolving grid? What comments regarding this Chapter?
substations to provide enhanced are additional challenges faced by
utilities that would necessitate power General Comments
capabilities and support the evolution of
the grid. Ultimately envisioned as a electronic converters in substations? Comments are requested on the
modular, scalable, flexible, and Are there any other issues or technology topic described in the
adaptable power block that can be used comments regarding these Chapters? roadmap. What is the appropriate
within all substations, SSPS converters Chapter 3–4: Solid State Power Federal role in advancing this
will serve as power routers or hubs that Substations and SSPS Technology technology area? What are some
have the capability to electrically isolate Development Pathway organizational roles in helping to
system components and provide advance this technology concept? What
bidirectional alternating current or Is there evidence of a growing need amount of resources would be required
direct current power flow control from for power electronic converters in to fully implement the roadmap?
one or more sources to one or more substations? If so, in what capacity?
Issued in Washington, DC, on March 16,
loads—indifferent to magnitude and What specific challenges would the use
2018.
frequency. Deployment of SSPS of power electronic converters address?
Bruce Walker,
technology within substations can Comments are requested on the SSPS
vision and the three classification of Assistant Secretary, U.S. Department of
facilitate evolution of the grid by Energy, Office of Electricity Delivery and
enabling better asset utilization, SSPS converters articulated in the Energy Reliability.
increasing system efficiency, enhancing roadmap, as well as on the defining
[FR Doc. 2018–05940 Filed 3–22–18; 8:45 am]
security and resilience, and easing the feature and functions and the voltage
BILLING CODE 6450–01–P
integration of distributed energy and power ratings.
resources and microgrids. Comments are requested on the SSPS
technology development pathway DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
II. Request for Information presented in the roadmap. For each
The draft SSPS Roadmap was classification of SSPS converters, are [Case No. 2017–011]
developed by the OE Transformer there other potential applications that
Resilience and Advanced Components have not been captured? Notice of Petition for Waiver of Big Ass
program with support from the What are additional benefits of using Solutions (BAS) From the Department
Savannah River National Laboratory. SSPS converters that should be of Energy Ceiling Fan Test Procedure,
The roadmap is structured to provide captured? and Grating of Interim Waiver
the context, rationale, and potential Are there any other issues or AGENCY: Office of Energy Efficiency and
benefits of utilizing SSPS technology, comments regarding these Chapters? Renewable Energy, Department of
and articulates a research and Energy.
Chapter 5: SSPS Technology Challenges,
development pathway to accelerate ACTION: Notice of petition for waiver,
Gaps, and Goals
maturation of SSPS. It aims to capture notice of grant of an interim waiver, and
the state-of-the-art in critical enabling Comments are requested on the R&D request for comments.
technologies, highlight research gaps challenges identified in the roadmap
and opportunities, and align disparate and their associated goals. Are they SUMMARY: This notice announces receipt
activities across the stakeholder sufficiently aggressive and appropriate of and publishes a petition for waiver
communities to realize the SSPS vision. to realize the defining feature and from Big Ass Solutions (BAS) seeking an
This RFI provides the public, functions for each classification of SSPS exemption from specified portions of
industry, and interested stakeholders, converter? What R&D challenges not yet the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)
the opportunity to play an important identified would prevent SSPS test procedure for determining the
role in defining and refining the SSPS technologies from being realized, as efficiency of ceiling fans under
vision and the potential technology envisioned? For these additional R&D appendix U (appendix U). BAS seeks to
development pathway. The intent of challenges, what would be the use an alternate test procedure to
this RFI is to solicit input concerning associated goals for each classification address issues involved in testing
amozie on DSK30RV082PROD with NOTICES
the benefits offered by SSPS technology, of SSPS converter? certain basic models identified in its
the application areas where SSPS Comments are requested on the state- petition. According to BAS, testing at
technology can provide a value of-the-art and the research gaps low speed for the low-speed small-
proposition, the current state-of-the-art, identified in the roadmap for each of the diameter ceiling fan basic models
and the gaps that are most critical to fill. R&D challenges. What on-going work, identified in the petition, may cause
The information obtained will be public that can be publicly shared, should be BAS undue hardship in meeting the
and is meant to be used by DOE to guide reflected in the state-of-the-art? What stability requirements contained in
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![Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 57 / Friday, March 23, 2018 / Notices 12727
appendix U. Consequently, BAS FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. consumption characteristics. 10 CFR
recommended relaxing the low speed Lucy deButts, U.S. Department of 430.27(b)(1)(iii).
stability criteria from DOE’s Energy, Building Technologies Office, DOE may grant a waiver subject to
requirement of 5 percent to 10 percent. Mailstop EE–5B, 1000 Independence conditions, including adherence to
This notice also grants BAS an interim Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20585– alternate test procedures. 10 CFR
waiver from the DOE’s ceiling fan test 0121. Email: AS_Waiver_Request@ 430.27(f)(2). As soon as practicable after
procedure for its specified basic models, ee.doe.gov. the granting of any waiver, DOE will
subject to use of the alternative test Elizabeth Kohl, U.S. Department of publish in the Federal Register a notice
procedure as set forth in this notice. Energy, Office of the General Counsel, of proposed rulemaking to amend its
DOE solicits comments, data, and Mail Stop GC–33, Forrestal Building, regulations so as to eliminate any need
information concerning BAS’s petition 1000 Independence Avenue SW, for the continuation of such waiver. As
and its suggested alternate test Washington, DC 20585–0103. E-mail: soon thereafter as practicable, DOE will
procedure. Elizabeth.Kohl@hq.doe.gov. Telephone publish in the Federal Register a final
202–586–7796. rule. 10 CFR 430.27(l).
DATES: DOE will accept comments, data, SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The waiver process also allows DOE
and information with respect to the BAS to grant an interim waiver if it appears
petition until April 23, 2018. I. Background and Authority likely that the petition for waiver will be
ADDRESSES: You may submit comments, Title III, Part B 1 of the Energy Policy granted and/or if DOE determines that it
identified by case number ‘‘2017–011’’, and Conservation Act of 1975 (EPCA), would be desirable for public policy
and Docket number ‘‘EERE–2017–BT– Public Law 94–163 (42 U.S.C. 6291– reasons to grant immediate relief
WAV–0049,’’ by any of the following 6309, as codified) established the pending a determination on the petition
methods: Energy Conservation Program for for waiver. 10 CFR 430.27(e)(2). Within
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: http:// Consumer Products Other Than one year of issuance of an interim
www.regulations.gov. Follow the Automobiles, a program that includes waiver, DOE will either: (i) Publish in
instructions for submitting comments. ceiling fans that are the subject of this the Federal Register a determination on
• Email: BASFan2017WAV0049@ notice.2 Part B includes definitions, test the petition for waiver; or (ii) publish in
ee.doe.gov. Include the case number procedures, labeling provisions, energy the Federal Register a new or amended
[Case No. 2017–011] in the subject line conservation standards, and the test procedure that addresses the issues
of the message. Submit electronic authority to require information and presented in the waiver. 10 CFR
comments in WordPerfect, Microsoft reports from manufacturers. Further, 430.27(h)(1). When DOE amends the test
Word, PDF, or ASCII file format, and Part B authorizes the Secretary of procedure to address the issues
avoid the use of special characters or Energy to prescribe test procedures that presented in a waiver, the waiver will
any form of encryption. are reasonably designed to produce automatically terminate on the date on
results measuring energy efficiency, which use of that test procedure is
• Postal Mail: Ms. Lucy deButts, U.S.
energy use, or estimated operating costs required to demonstrate compliance. 10
Department of Energy, Building
during a representative average use CFR 430.27(h)(2).
Technologies Office, Mailstop EE–5B,
cycle or period of use, and that are not
Petition for Waiver Case No. 2017–011, II. Petition for Waiver of Test Procedure
unduly burdensome to conduct. (42
1000 Independence Avenue SW, and Application for Interim Waiver
U.S.C. 6293(b)(3)) The test procedure for
Washington, DC 20585–0121. If On June 14, 2017, BAS filed a petition
ceiling fans is contained in 10 CFR part
possible, please submit all items on a for waiver and an application for
430, subpart B, appendix U (referred to
compact disc (CD), in which case it is interim waiver from the test procedure
in this notice as ‘‘appendix U’’).
not necessary to include printed copies. DOE’s regulations set forth at 10 CFR applicable to ceiling fans set forth in 10
• Hand Delivery/Courier: Appliance 430.27 contain provisions that allow a CFR part 430, subpart B, appendix U.
and Equipment Standards Program, U.S. person to seek a waiver from the test According to BAS, testing at low speed
Department of Energy, Building procedure requirements for a particular for the basic models listed in the
Technologies Office, 950 L’Enfant Plaza basic model of a type of covered product petition,3 may cause BAS undue
SW, Room 6055, Washington, DC 20024. when: The basic model for which the hardship in meeting the requirements of
Please submit one signed original paper petition for waiver was submitted the stability requirements contained in
copy. contains one or more design appendix U. Consequently, in its
Docket: The docket, which includes characteristics that (1) prevent testing petition, BAS offered two alternate test
Federal Register notices, comments, according to the prescribed test procedures for determining the stability
and other supporting documents/ procedure, or (2) cause the prescribed criteria for testing low-speed small-
materials, is available for review at test procedure to evaluate the basic diameter ceiling fans at low speed: (1)
http://www.regulations.gov. All model in a manner so unrepresentative BAS’s preferred method, which would
documents in the docket are listed in of its true energy consumption require BAS to employ a stability
the http://www.regulations.gov index. characteristics as to provide materially criteria using airflow instead of air
However, some documents listed in the inaccurate comparative data. 10 CFR velocity measurements, and (2) BAS’s
index, such as those containing 430.27(a)(1). A petitioner must include alternate method, which would require
information that is exempt from public in its petition any alternate test relaxing the low speed stability criteria
disclosure, may not be publicly procedures known to the petitioner to from DOE’s requirement of 5 percent to
available. evaluate the basic model in a manner 10 percent. BAS initially stated that this
amozie on DSK30RV082PROD with NOTICES
The docket Web page can be found at representative of its energy second method is not preferred because
http://www.regulations.gov/#!docket it could add significant variability to the
Detail;D=EERE-2017-BT-WAV-0049. 1 For editorial reasons, upon codification in the
The docket Web page will contain U.S. Code, Part B was re-designated Part A. 3 The specific basic models for which the petition
2 All references to EPCA in this document refer applies are ceiling fan basic models Isis F–IS2–
simple instruction on how to access all to the statute as amended through the Energy 0601S4 and Isis F–IS2–0601. These basic model
documents, including public comments, Efficiency Improvement Act of 2015 (EEIA), Public names were provided by BAS in its June 2017
in the docket. Law 114–11 (April 30, 2015). petition.
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![12732 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 57 / Friday, March 23, 2018 / Notices
element in the Test Procedures for used on small-diameter ceiling fans to acceptable variance under the stability
Ceiling Fans, finalized by DOE on July evaluate airflow and power criteria above is often less than 2 feet
25, 2016. The compliance date for consumption: per minute, which falls below the
representations made with respect to the Airflow and power consumption required accuracies for airflow sensors
energy use or efficiency of ceiling fans measurements are considered stable that is stated in section 3.2 of the Final
under this final rule was January 23, if: (1) the average air velocity for all Rule. The measured velocity at this
2017. The docket number is EERE-2013- axes for each sensor varies by less point also falls below the calibrated
BT-TP-0050. than 5% compared to the average ranges of our two models of airflow
It has come to our attention that the air velocity measured for that same sensors, (∼30—1969 fpm) and (∼30—196
stability requirements contained in the sensor in a successive set of air fpm), which are in accordance with the
final test procedure, when tested at low velocity measurements, and (2)
speed for certain small-diameter ceiling requirements of the DOE test method
average power consumption varies and similar to sensors used at other
fan models, may cause Big Ass
by less than 1% in a successive set small-diameter fan test labs. We have
Solutions undue hardship in meeting
of power consumption run several different tests and
the requirements of the test procedure.
measurements. contracted an independent test lab to
Therefore, we request an interim waiver
so that product testing can proceed and When Big Ass Solutions initiated conduct additional testing, and all
regular operations can continue as DOE testing, we discovered that we are testing appears to have the same issue
considers our application for the unable to meet this stability requirement with stability at very low airspeeds,
permanent waiver. at the lower operating speeds of a even with the use of two sets of sensors
certain fan containing design with different calibrated ranges.
Details characteristics that prevent testing per
the current DOE test procedures. The An example test for stability we have
The final rule includes a specification
for the stability criteria of the sensors average air speed is so low, that the conducted is as follows:
DOE TEST METHOD FOR LSSD
[Fans Stability Verification]
Average air velocity (fpm) Stability? Range
Sensor position Sensor Average a/b 0.95≤ (a/b) (fpm)
1a 1b ≤1.05
1 ................................... BAF1114 13.27 14.55 13.91 0.91 Yes 1.39
2 ................................... BAF1119 13.29 14.74 14.02 0.90 Yes 1.40
3 ................................... BAF1115 13.35 13.44 13.39 0.99 Yes 1.34
4 ................................... BAF1122 13.27 13.56 13.41 0.98 Yes 1.34
5 ................................... BAF1118 15.42 15.80 15.61 0.98 Yes 1.56
6 ................................... BAF1110 15.02 14.01 14.52 1.07 Yes 1.45
7 ................................... BAF1113 13.10 13.24 13.17 0.99 Yes 1.32
8 ................................... BAF1121 11.17 14.71 12.94 0.76 No 1.29
9 ................................... BAF1111 7.77 12.52 10.15 0.62 No 1.01
10 ................................. BAF1120 16.12 19.57 17.85 0.82 No 1.78
.
While we are moving forward with meet the criteria for LSSD ceiling fan Isis, Commercial Fan Kit—4’6’’, 110–
testing on other BAS products not blade thickness and tip speed. Big Ass 125 Volt/1 Phase—F–IS2–0401I06L8
affected by this issue, the potential for Solutions has included data detailing Isis, Commercial Fan Kit—5ft, 110–125
future innovative fan products with the exactness of this model’s LSSD Volt/1 Phase; Plug Winglets—F–IS2–
blade spans under 7ft to become classification eligibility. 0501L8S4
burdened by this may be substantial. Isis, Commercial Fan Kit—4ft, 110–125 Isis, Commercial Fan Kit—5ft, 110–125
Big Ass Solutions currently Volt/1 Phase; Direct Mount; Plug Volt/1 Phase—F–IS2–0501L8
manufactures a series of affected small- Winglets—F–IS2–0401L8S4
diameter HVLS fans with a blade spans Isis, Commercial Fan Kit—4ft, 110–125 Isis, Commercial Fan Kit—6ft, 110–125
of 6ft and markets them as Isis model Volt/1 Phase—F–IS2–0401L8 Volt/1 Phase; Plug Winglets—F–IS2–
Big Ass Fans. The two basic model Big Isis, Commercial Fan Kit—4’6’’, 110– 0601S4
Ass Fans found below, have physical 125 Volt/1 Phase; Plug Winglets—F– Isis, Commercial Fan Kit—6ft, 110–125
and mechanical characteristics that IS2–0401I06L8S4 Volt/1 Phase—F–IS2–0601
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![12734 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 57 / Friday, March 23, 2018 / Notices
relaxed low speed stability requirement DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY AGENCY: Office of Fossil Energy,
is provided below: Department of Energy.
‘‘(1) The average air velocity for Notice of Orders Issued Under Section ACTION: Notice of orders.
3 of the Natural Gas Act During
all axes for each sensor varies by
February 2018 SUMMARY: The Office of Fossil Energy
less than 5% for high speed and 10%
(FE) of the Department of Energy gives
for low speed compared to the FE Docket Nos. notice that during February 2018, it
average air velocity measured for issued orders granting or vacating
that same sensor’’ JORDAN COVE ENERGY 12–32–LNG authority to import and export natural
PROJECT, L.P.
Closing gas, and to import and export liquefied
SHELL NA LNG ................. 18–14–LNG
EXCELERATE ENERGY 18–12–LNG
natural gas (LNG). These orders are
It is our sincere intent to comply with L.P. summarized in the attached appendix
the new test requirements, and we SUMAS DRY KILNS INC .. 18–13–NG and may be found on the FE website at
appreciate DOE’s efforts to consider PACIFIC GAS & ELEC- 17–166–NG https://www.energy.gov/fe/downloads/
input from Big Ass Solutions as part of TRIC COMPANY. listing-doefe-authorizationsorders-
their stakeholder engagement process. CENTRAL VALLE 18–11–NG issued-2018-1. They are also available
We also appreciate DOE’s efforts so far HERMOSO, S.A. DE for inspection and copying in the U.S.
to resolve this isolated but impactful C.V. Department of Energy (FE–34), Division
CENTRAL LOMAS DE 18–10–NG of Natural Gas Regulation, Office of
difficulty in the final rule. REAL, S.A. DE C.V. Regulation and International
Thank you for your consideration and NORTHWEST NATURAL 18–22–NG
Engagement, Office of Fossil Energy,
we are available to answer any GAS COMPANY.
Docket Room 3E–033, Forrestal
questions you may have. CARGILL INCOR- 17–08–NG
PORATED. Building, 1000 Independence Avenue
Sincerely, IRVING OIL COMMER- 15–165–NG SW, Washington, DC 20585, (202) 586–
CIAL GP & IRVING OIL 9478. The Docket Room is open between
Taylor Sawyer TERMINALS OPER- the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.,
Government Affairs Director ATIONS LLC. Monday through Friday, except Federal
SHELL ENERGY NORTH 18–17–NG holidays.
Big Ass Solutions AMERICA (US), L.P.
[FR Doc. 2018–05932 Filed 3–22–18; 8:45 am] UPSTREAM PETROLEUM 18–21–NG Issued in Washington, DC, on March 20,
INC. 2018.
BILLING CODE 6450–01–P
WHITE EAGLE TRADING, 18–20–NG Robert J. Smith,
LLC. Deputy Assistant Secretary for Oil and
BROOKFIELD ENERGY 18–18–NG Natural Gas (Acting).
MARKETING LP.
APPENDIX
DOE/FE ORDERS GRANTING IMPORT/EXPORT AUTHORIZATIONS
Unnumbered ..... 02/01/18 12–32–LNG ...... Jordan Cove Energy Order Dismissing Supplemental Comments Dismissing Request
Project, L.P. for Extension of Time, and Dismissing Motion to File Partial
Answer.
4151 .................. 02/08/18 18–14–LNG ...... Shell NA LNG ........... Order 4151 granting blanket authority to import LNG from var-
ious international sources by vessel.
4152 .................. 02/08/18 18–12–LNG ...... Excelerate Energy Order 4152 granting blanket authority to import LNG from var-
L.P. ious international sources by vessel.
4153 .................. 02/08/18 18–13–NG ........ Sumas Dry Kilns Inc Order 4153 granting blanket authority to import natural gas from
Canada.
4154 .................. 02/12/18 17–166–NG ...... Pacific Gas & Electric Order 4154 granting blanket authority to import natural gas from
Company. Canada.
4155 .................. 02/15/18 18–11–NG ........ Central Valle Order 4155 granting blanket authority to import/export natural
Hermoso, S.A. de gas from/to Mexico.
C.V.
4156 .................. 02/15/18 18–10–NG ........ Central Lomas de Order 4156 granting blanket authority to import/export natural
Real, S.A. de C.V. gas from/to Mexico.
4157 .................. 02/28/18 18–22–NG ........ Northwest Natural Order 4157 granting blanket authority to import/export natural
Gas Company. gas from/to Canada.
3989–A ............. 02/28/18 17–08–NG ........ Cargill Incorporated .. Order 3989–A vacating blanket authority to import/export natural
gas from/to Canada/Mexico, and to import LNG from various
international sources by vessel.
3765–B ............. 02/28/18 15–165–NG ...... Irving Oil Commercial Order 3765–B granting Request to Amend long-term authority to
GP & Irving Oil import/export natural gas from/to Canada.
Terminals Oper-
ations LLC.
amozie on DSK30RV082PROD with NOTICES
4158 .................. 02/28/18 18–17–NG ........ Shell Energy North Order 4158 granting blanket authority to import/export natural
America (US), L.P. gas from/to Canada/Mexico, and to import LNG from various
international sources by vessel.
4159 .................. 02/28/18 18–21–NG ........ Upstream Petroleum Order 4159 granting blanket authority to import/export natural
Inc. gas from/to Canada/Mexico.
4160 .................. 02/28/18 18–20–NG ........ White Eagle Trading, Order 4160 granting blanket authority to import/export natural
LLC. gas from/to Mexico.
VerDate Sep<11>2014 21:54 Mar 22, 2018 Jkt 244001 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\23MRN1.SGM 23MRN1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/83_FR_12783/page/9.svg)
Document Created: 2018-11-01 08:53:36
Document Modified: 2018-11-01 08:53:36
| Category | Regulatory Information | |
| Collection | Federal Register | |
| sudoc Class | AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106: | |
| Publisher | Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration | |
| Section | Notices | |
| Action | Notice of petition for waiver, notice of grant of an interim waiver, and request for comments. | |
| Dates | DOE will accept comments, data, and information with respect to the BAS petition until April 23, 2018. | |
| Contact | Ms. Lucy deButts, U.S. Department of Energy, Building Technologies Office, Mailstop EE-5B, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20585-0121. Email: [email protected] | |
| FR Citation | 83 FR 12726 |
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