The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has begun a 3-year rulemaking and data collection process for establishing amended energy conservation standards for residential central air-conditioners and heat pumps.

A final rule is expected to be published in 2011 and the new standards will be effective June 2016.

DOE has scheduled a public meeting for today to discuss comments on its planned analytical approach and issues to be addressed in this rulemaking proceeding.