The Trump administration announced a proposal to revise energy efficiency standards for a range of home appliances, targeting limits on future updates and lower consumer costs. The Energy Department said the rule would end mandatory improvements for air conditioners, refrigerators and washing machines and prevent subsequent administrations from tightening the standards. Energy Secretary Chris Wright said the measure would preserve consumer choice and reduce expenses.

The proposal follows earlier efforts in May 2025 to loosen standards for 16 appliance categories and mirrors 2020 regulations that were later rescinded by the Biden administration. Manufacturers expressed concern that the changes could place them at a competitive disadvantage. The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers noted that shifting regulatory requirements create uncertainty for planning and investment. The American Gas Association, a fossil fuel industry group, supported the plan, stating that consumers should be able to select appliances that meet their families' needs.

An analysis by the Appliance Standards Awareness Project estimates that updated standards could cut peak summer electricity demand by 34 gigawatts by 2040, easing strain on the grid as demand from data centers and AI grows. The administration has declared power emergencies this year, ordering utilities to keep coal plants in operation. Assistant Energy Secretary Audrey Robertson said the department opposes regulations that limit consumer choice and impose cost increases. Supporters of existing standards argue that efficiency upgrades lower utility bills.

The rule will be subject to a public comment period before finalization, and Democratic-led states have indicated they may sue if the proposal is adopted.