Labeling: Full Fuel Cycle

Bottom Line: NPGA advocates for Full Fuel Cycle labeling on appliances.

NPGA requested the Federal Trade Commission use Full Fuel Cycle information on EnergyGuide labels.  The U.S. Department of Energy and the Federal Trade Commission implement EnergyGuide labels for commercial and residential appliances, like furnaces, water heaters, air-conditioners, refrigerators, clothes washers and dryers, etc.  EnergyGuide labels are intended to educate consumers on the energy efficiency as well as immediate and long-term costs or payback of the appliances.

The Full Fuel Cycle shows the energy loss from generation, transmission, and distribution. Generally speaking, electricity experiences a greater energy loss from the source of production through the site or location of use, compared to propane. If the Commission includes Full Fuel Cycle information on EnergyGuide labels, consumers will have accurate information on the well-to-wheel efficiency of propane compared to the generation process for electricity.

NPGA was able to secure support in this request from the American Public Gas Association and the American Gas Association.  Demonstrating a united front among the fuel industries is that much more impactful to urge the Commission to incorporate Full Fuel Cycle analysis into EnergyGuide labels. NPGA’s next steps including additional discussions with the Commission on the data resources available to provide the Full Fuel Cycle information. Questions? Contact NPGA Vice President, Regulatory & Industry Affairs, Sarah Reboli