Sec. 4. Review of federal law. No later than June 1, 2006, the Public Utilities Commission, in consultation with the Attorney General, shall determine whether implementation of state standards for residential boilers, furnaces or furnace air handlers requires a waiver from federal preemption. If the Public Utilities Commission determines that such a waiver is not needed, the commission shall submit emergency legislation to the Second Regular Session of the 122nd Legislature to implement minimum energy efficiency standards for residential boilers, furnaces or furnace air handlers to take effect on June 1, 2008. If the commission determines that a waiver from federal preemption is required for residential boilers, furnaces or furnace air handlers, the commission shall apply for any necessary waiver and submit legislation to implement minimum energy efficiency standards for residential boilers, furnaces or furnace air handlers to take effect at the earliest date permitted by federal law.

SUMMARY

This bill sets minimum energy efficiency standards for certain products sold or installed in Maine, including exit signs, traffic signals and ceiling fans.

This bill authorizes the Public Utilities Commission to establish higher energy efficiency standards and to adopt standards for additional products and directs the Public Utilities Commission to monitor and enforce compliance with the standards.