Energy Efficiency Reform Act of 2026

This bill changes how the U.S. Department of Energy sets energy efficiency standards for appliances and equipment. It cancels the federal efficiency rules for consumer furnaces and commercial water heaters, requires the Department to finalize a pending rule on its standard-setting process within 270 days, and removes the legal requirement that the Department periodically review and update standards. It defines "significant energy savings" as at least a 10 percent cut in energy use over 30 years, lets the Department loosen standards in some cases, and sets longer waiting periods before new standards take effect. It also blocks state and local laws that restrict appliances based on fuel type or air pollution, and stops new efficiency standards for distribution transformers.

Full text and official record on Congress.gov

Sponsors

• Mike Lee Republican sponsor
• 0 cosponsors