Microwave Ovens No Longer Need to Meet Energy Saving Rules
Published Date: 5/16/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The government plans to remove the energy-saving rules for microwave ovens, meaning these appliances won’t have to meet specific efficiency standards anymore. This change affects microwave makers and buyers, possibly changing how much energy microwaves use and how much you pay for electricity. The update could happen soon, so keep an eye out for new microwave options and prices!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Manufacturers Lose Efficiency Rules
The Department of Energy is proposing to rescind (remove) the energy conservation standards for microwave ovens. That means microwave makers will no longer have to meet the current efficiency requirements for those appliances.
Consumers May See Energy Changes
The Department of Energy is proposing to rescind the energy conservation standards for microwave ovens, which will eliminate efficiency requirements. This could change how much energy microwaves use and how much you pay for electricity when you run them.
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Key Dates
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-08587, Energy Conservation Program: Energy Conservation Standards for External Power Supplies
The Department of Energy wants to cancel the current energy-saving rules for external power supplies, like phone chargers and laptop adapters. This change affects manufacturers who make these power supplies and could shake up how energy efficiency is handled. Keep an eye out for updates on when this switch happens and what it means for your gadgets and bills!
Next: 2025-08589, Energy Conservation Program: Energy Conservation Standards for Conventional Cooking Tops
The Department of Energy wants to roll back new design rules for regular cooking tops and go back to the old standards set by Congress. This mainly affects gas kitchen ranges and ovens with electric cords, making sure they don’t have a constantly burning pilot light if made after January 1, 1990. This change could simplify things for manufacturers and keep energy use in check without extra costs.