Should Smart Appliances Be Regulated?
The Energy Department is asking whether the energy usage of internet-connected home appliances, such as Samsung Family Hub refrigerators that can report the weather and play music, should be regulated.
The department is requesting public feedback on how it should approach regulating the energy efficiency of home appliances such as refrigerators, televisions, dishwashers, and clothing washers and dryers that are wifi-connected.
Energy efficiency advocates welcomed the agency assessing how it handles the growing field of appliances that are internet connected. But appliance manufacturer groups advised that DOE not to issue new regulations that could stifle innovation in the home appliance space.
(Bloomberg Environment)
