MINNEAPOLIS - In response to new wood stove standards proposed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), reps from Hearth & Home Technologies® (HHT) (along with other Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association (HPBA) members) testified last week at the New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) public hearing in Boston.

Long-standing supporters of EPA efforts and the development of clean-burning hearth products, HHT representatives spoke in support of updating EPA NSPS standards, but expressed concern regarding unspecified regulations and the lack of consistent, reliable testing methods for the new regulations.

“We embrace continuous improvement and support the EPA’s efforts to update the NSPS standards,” said Peter Dircks, vice president of Marketing at Hearth & Home Technologies. “However, the current proposal includes unclear, untested standards that make it extremely difficult, if not impossible, to comply.”

HHT, along with other hearth manufacturers and industry stakeholders, are pushing for standards that can be reliably measured on a consistent basis. The group is also pushing for testing scenarios that reflect how consumers use stoves in real-world settings. Without reliable measurement and realistic testing, the EPA proposal will mean even higher product costs for consumers and uncertain, unproven environmental benefits.

“We are eager to continue working with the EPA to develop meaningful requirements and testing procedures that produce a proven low emissions benefit and products that consumers can afford,” said Dircks.  

While Feb. 26 was the only hearing scheduled regarding the proposed wood stove standards, concerned organizations and individuals have until May 5, 2014, to submit formal, written comments. To submit a comment, visit the EPA website here: http://www2.epa.gov/residential-wood-heaters/how-comment-proposed-new-source-performance-standards-residential-wood

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