The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has published a final rule pertaining to energy conservation standards for walk-in coolers and walk-in freezers (WICFs). The final rule was published in the Federal Register on July 10. DOE defines ‘walk-in  cooler’ and ‘walk-in freezer’ as “an enclosed storage space refrigerated to temperatures,
respectively, above, and at or below 32°F (0°C) that can be walked into, and has a total chilled storage area of less than 3,000 ft2 (279 m2).” The final rule details a series
of energy conservation standards that DOE says “have been determined to result in significant conservation of energy and achieve the maximum improvement in energy efficiency that is technologically feasible and economically justified.” The  final rule becomes effective September 8. Compliance with the standards established for WICF refrigeration systems in the rule is required beginning July 10, 2020.

(Source: The HVAC&R Industry, July 20, 2017)