Bill > LD1158

This bill expands Maine's existing appliance energy and water standards by adding new restrictions on the sale of specific commercial and residential appliances starting January 1, 2027. The bill prohibits the sale of seven types of appliances and products: commercial battery chargers, commercial dishwashers, commercial food steamers, commercial fryers, commercial ovens, computer server power supplies, and residential ventilating fans that do not meet energy efficiency standards. The Maine Department of Environmental Protection will determine compliance by referencing standards from other states and can adopt rules to enforce these restrictions. Violators may face a civil fine of up to $100. The bill includes several important exclusions: it does not apply to appliances manufactured before specific dates (January 1, 2023, or January 1, 2027), used appliances, or products that are preempted by federal regulations. The rulemaking process for these new standards will be considered "major substantive rules," which typically requires additional legislative oversight and approval. This legislation builds upon previous energy efficiency standards enacted in 2021 and aims to reduce energy consumption and promote more environmentally friendly appliance technologies.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1158&snum=132