The U.S. Department of Energy has announced the rescission of federal efficiency regulations on household appliances, following a directive from President Trump. The announcement was made in a public statement.
According to Reuters, the decision follows Trump's May 2025 directive to eliminate efficiency regulations on appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines, and toilets. These rules were originally instituted under prior Democratic administrations with the aim of reducing water and energy use. However, they faced criticism from consumers and manufacturers for allegedly increasing appliance costs and reducing performance. The DOE's reversal is part of a broader initiative by the Trump administration to dismantle what it perceives as excessive environmental and regulatory burdens.
Reuters reports that under the now-rescinded rules, dishwasher cycle times increased from roughly one hour to nearly two due to water-use restrictions. A study conducted by the Competitive Enterprise Institute found that these efficiency standards added up to $100 to the price of washing machines. The same study concluded that many of these regulations decreased appliance lifespans and provided limited energy savings in real-world conditions.
According to a 2023 cost assessment by the U.S. Department of Energy cited by Reuters, Biden-era regulations on electric water heaters would have increased unit prices by as much as $990 if implemented in 2029. The DOE also noted that revised standards for light bulbs doubled their average retail prices due to mandated efficiency upgrades. Consumer advocates argued that these regulations disproportionately impacted low-income families while offering negligible environmental benefits, prompting significant political backlash.
According to its official website, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is tasked with advancing the energy, environmental, and nuclear security of the United States. It manages federal efforts in scientific innovation, energy production, and regulatory oversight, including standards for appliance efficiency. As of 2025, under the Trump administration, the DOE is prioritizing deregulation to promote consumer affordability and reduce federal interference in household technologies.
