The Security Industry Association (SIA) praised House adoption of the bipartisan Power and Security Systems Act, H.R. 6375, introduced by Reps. Mike Pompeo, R-Kansas, and Peter Welch, D-Vermont.
?The bill removes the expiration on the no-load exemption for security and life-safety products under current energy efficiency standards governing external power supplies, and authorizes the U.S. Department of Energy to incorporate this common-sense provision in future updates to energy efficiency standards,? said Jake Parker, SIA Director of Government Relations. ?SIA was pleased to support Congressman Pompeo and Congressman Welch in their efforts to pass this measure.?
The Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA) of 2007 required improved energy efficiency for battery chargers and external power supplies (EPS) operating in certain modes, including a standby or ?no-load? mode. For example, when a cell phone charger is plugged into the wall but disconnected from the phone, it is still consuming power. But electronic security and life safety systems require a constant, uninterrupted power supply. Product and installation standards ensure that fire alarm, carbon monoxide, intrusion detection and other sensors are constantly powered to detect and monitor. Since EPS designed for use in such systems are always connected, and they are not manufactured with a ?no-load? mode.
SIA has led a coalition in support of extending the current exemption for security and life safety products, which is set to expire on July 1, 2017. Without an extension, manufacturers must redesign EPS products to meet the ?no-load? standard, more than doubling their cost unnecessarily. H.R. 6375 is supported by SIA, the National Electrical Manufacturers Association, and the Electronic Security Association, which have also worked with energy efficiency community on the common-sense provision.
The Senate is expected to take up the measure before adjourning for its holiday break. SIA anticipates President Barack Obama will sign the measure prior to leaving office.
About the Security Industry Association
The Security Industry Association (SIA) is the leading trade association for global security solution providers, with nearly 700 innovative member companies representing thousands of security leaders and experts who shape the future of the security industry. SIA protects and advances its members’ interests by advocating pro-industry policies and legislation at the federal and state levels; creating open industry standards that enable integration; advancing industry professionalism through education and training; opening global market opportunities; and collaboration with other like-minded organizations. As a proud sponsor of ISC Events expos and conferences, SIA ensures its members have access to top-level buyers and influencers, as well as unparalleled learning and network opportunities. SIA also enhances the position of its members in the security marketplace through SIA Government Summit, which brings together private industry with government decision makers, and Securing New Ground?, the security industry’s top executive conference for peer-to-peer networking.