On August 24, 2022, the DOE published a supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking and request for comments on amended energy conservation standards for microwave ovens.
The DOE estimates that over a 30-year period, the cumulative net present value of total consumer benefits of the proposed standards for microwave ovens ranges from $0.15 billion (at a 7-percent discount rate) to $0.33 (at a 3-percent discount rate). In addition, the proposed standards for microwave ovens are projected to yield significant environmental benefits. The DOE further estimates that, over a 30-year period, the proposed standards would result in cumulative emission reductions of 1.86 million metric tons of carbon dioxide, 0.84 thousand tons of sulfur dioxide, 2.86 thousand tons of nitrogen oxides, 12.54 thousand tons of methane, 0.02 thousand tons of nitrous oxide, and 0.005 tons of mercury.
The DOE will accept comments, data, and information regarding this proposal until October 24, 2022.