Matzie: House Consumer Protection, Technology and Utilities Committee hears testimony on bill to set appliance energy efficiency standards

Estimated to save consumers millions in utility costs

Rep. Robert Matzie    November 15, 2023 | 12:37 PM

HARRISBURG, Nov. 15 – The PA House Consumer Protection, Technology and Utilities Committee on Tuesday heard testimony about legislation that would set minimum energy efficiency and water conservation standards for some new consumer appliances sold in the state, Majority Chairman Rob Matzie announced.

Matzie, D-Beaver, said proponents of H.B. 1615 testified about how the bill would benefit public health, the environment and consumer pocketbooks.

“We heard a lot of positives about this bill, including how it would save PA consumers and businesses hundreds of millions annually, cut hundreds of tons of air pollutants and reduce water use by billions,” Matzie said. “We also heard that other states have implemented similar laws.

“While the testimony is certainly promising, the committee will continue reviewing the bill’s potential impact on all stakeholders – including the Public Utility Commission, the Pennsylvania Restaurant and Lodging Association and others – before moving forward with a vote.”

Matzie said the bill – which is co-sponsored by state Reps. Jennifer O’Mara, D-Delaware, and Thomas Mehaffie, R-Dauphin – would not apply to the sale or purchase of used appliances and would not require consumers to switch from existing appliances they already own.

The products listed in the bill include commercial dishwashers, fryers, ovens and steam cookers; faucets, toilets, urinals, showerheads, spray sprinkler bodies, water coolers and portable electric spas; and gas fireplaces, high CRI fluorescent lamps and residential ventilation fans. 

Video of the hearing is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iIJuOT88vRs&list=PLjtqNtfs0bgWW2Z55MW3dLdrjshP7cI8o.