New Federal Refrigerator Standard Will Preserve Choice and Innovation

WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 29, 2023) – AHAM applauds the U.S. Department of Energy for its publication of energy conservation standards for refrigerators, refrigerator-freezers, and freezers that reduce energy use and allow home appliance manufacturers to continue offering a range of energy-efficient products with the features consumers depend on in every home, every day.

The new standards, which will take effect in January 2030, will reduce the energy use in new refrigerators by approximately 10 to 15 percent, depending on product type.

The energy levels in the standards were recommended by a diverse group of stakeholders, including home appliance manufacturers, consumer groups, energy efficiency supporters and environmental advocates. AHAM appreciates the consideration DOE gave to the stakeholders’ recommendations in developing an achievable standard that allows sufficient time for manufacturers to develop the innovations necessary to meet the new requirements. The home appliance industry, which has played a critical role in pursuing innovations that enhance household energy efficiency, will continue working to find new ways to approach regulations that preserve historic efficiency gains while advancing innovation.

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The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) is the trade association representing manufacturers of major, portable and floor care home appliances and suppliers to the industry. AHAM is headquartered in Washington, D.C. and maintains an office in Ottawa. AHAM is the single voice providing the home appliance industry and its customers leadership, advocacy and a forum for action — developing and implementing credible solutions for public policy, standards and business decisions. You can visit AHAM’s web site at http://www.aham.org or follow us on Twitter @AHAM_Voice and @AHAM_Policy.