CEA urges innovation-friendly approach to energy efficiency policy across North America

ARLINGTON (Scrap Monster):  The following statement is attributable to Consumer Electronics Association President and CEO Gary Shapiro, as Prime Minister Stephen Harper of Canada, President Enrique Peña Nieto of Mexico and President Barack Obama meet at the Trilateral North American Leaders Summit in Toluca, Mexico:

“Across North America, our industry is falling victim to a growing pattern of regulatory misalignment on energy efficiency. Specifically, the mishmash of Canadian, Mexican and U.S. energy efficiency policies is confusing and costly for businesses and could force consumers to pay higher prices.

“Rather than agreeing to aligned policies that support innovation and economic growth, the NAFTA partner countries are instead adopting conflicting, counterproductive and costly energy efficiency requirements. In just the past two years, we have seen two sets of efficiency regulations imposed in Mexico which are out of step with Canada and the U.S.; two regulatory mandates in Canada that do not align with the U.S. or Mexico; and one rulemaking in the U.S. that undercuts international harmonization efforts. This burdens manufacturers, reduces supply efficiencies and confuses consumers.

“We urge Prime Minister Harper, President Peña Nieto and President Obama to improve the energy efficiency policy dialogue among their governments and with the consumer electronics industry. We all agree on the need for improved energy efficiency. And with improved and better aligned efficiency policies, the three countries can save more energy, reduce carbon emissions and cut consumer costs.”

Courtesy: Consumer Electronics Association