Feds to unplug energy rules for backyard hot tubs?
Published Date: 4/18/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The Department of Energy wants to stop treating portable electric spas as products that need to follow special energy rules. This change affects manufacturers and sellers of these spas, possibly easing their costs and regulations. People can share their thoughts by May 19, 2025, before the decision is final.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
DOE Proposes Removing Portable Spas from Coverage
The Department of Energy is proposing to withdraw its prior determination that portable electric spas (``PESs'') are a covered product under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act. If finalized, DOE would remove the definition of "portable electric spa" from 10 CFR 430.2 and would no longer have the authority to consider establishing or amending energy conservation standards or test procedures for PESs. DOE is accepting comments on this proposal through May 19, 2025.
DOE Finds No Significant Small-Business Impact
DOE reviewed the proposed withdrawal under the Regulatory Flexibility Act and initially concludes that, because the proposal does not establish test procedures or standards and would remove DOE's authority to consider such measures for PESs, the withdrawal would not have a "significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities." DOE will transmit this certification and supporting factual basis to the Chief Counsel for Advocacy of the Small Business Administration under 5 U.S.C. 605(b).
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-19154, Energy Conservation Program: Energy Conservation Standards for Manufactured Housing
The Department of Energy’s 2022 energy-saving rules for manufactured homes are now on pause because a new law says only the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) can set these standards. HUD has one year from July 2026 to create new energy rules and must update them every three years. This means manufacturers and homebuyers should watch for HUD’s upcoming standards, which could affect costs and energy savings soon.
2026-17872, Rescission of Production Incentives for Cellulosic Biofuels
The Office of Critical Minerals and Energy Innovation (formerly Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy) of the Department of Energy (DOE) is publishing a final rule to rescind the regulatory framework for production incentives for cellulosic biofuels, eliminating an inactive regulatory framework.
2026-13674, Energy Conservation Program: Procedures, Interpretations, and Policies for Consideration of New or Revised Energy Conservation Standards and Test Procedures for Consumer Products and Certain Commercial/Industrial Equipment
The Department of Energy is updating how it sets and reviews energy-saving rules for products like appliances and industrial equipment. These changes include clearer steps, new definitions, and economic checks to make sure energy savings really matter. If you make or sell these products, or just care about saving energy, you can share your thoughts by August 6, 2026, and join a free webinar on July 15 to learn more.
2026-12475, Application for Authorization To Transmit Electric Energy to a Foreign Country
The Department of Energy is making it easier and faster for companies to get permission to send electricity across U.S. borders. This new rule starts on July 22, 2026, and helps keep our electric supply safe while encouraging cross-border energy trade. If you’re involved in exporting electricity, get ready for a simpler application process with clear deadlines and fewer headaches.
2026-11057, Rescinding Regulations for Loans for Minority Business Enterprises Seeking DOE Contracts and Assistance
The Department of Energy is delaying a rule that would stop loans for minority-owned businesses trying to get DOE contracts. This means minority businesses can keep applying for these loans a bit longer while the government reviews the rule carefully. The new delay pushes the rule’s start date to September 1, 2026, giving everyone more time to prepare and comment.
2026-10729, Zero-Based Regulating
The Department of Energy wants to add expiration dates to some of its rules to keep things fresh and efficient, following a new White House order. This means certain regulations will automatically end unless reviewed and renewed, helping save time and money. If you have thoughts, speak up by June 29, 2026, because your input could shape the future of energy rules!
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-06689, Amendment of Class D and Class E Airspace; Fargo, ND
The FAA wants to update the airspace rules around Fargo, ND, to keep flights safe and smooth. They’re tweaking the boundaries of Class D and Class E airspace and updating airport coordinates to match their latest maps. Pilots and local air traffic controllers will feel the difference, but there’s no cost to the public. You’ve got until June 2, 2025, to share your thoughts!
Next: 2025-06617, Air Plan Approval; Indiana; Indiana NOX Emissions Monitoring
The EPA wants to approve Indiana’s updated plan for tracking and reporting nitrogen oxide (NOX) pollution from big factories that aren’t power plants. This change helps keep the air cleaner by using new, approved ways to monitor emissions. People and businesses involved with these factories should know comments are open until May 21, 2025, but no new costs are expected.