NEWS: The DOE might scrap Biden-era energy efficiency rules for transformers—but power pros aren’t too keen on the idea.

The context: In 2024, the DOE set requirements for more energy-efficient types of steel in new distribution transformers. Now, the Trump administration claims the rules could affect “national security considerations, including impacts on domestic manufacturing capacity, supply chain resilience, and the availability and cost of key materials.” This aligns with the DOE’s recent move to rewrite home appliance efficiency standards.

The industry response: In comments filed earlier this month, the American Public Power Association said it “does not advocate for any changes to the final rule.” Andrew deLaski, executive director of the Appliance Standards Awareness Project, told Utility Dive that “we’re not aware of anyone asking for this.”