U.S. Senator Ted Cruz has introduced a joint resolution aimed at repealing a Department of Energy rule established under the Biden administration. This rule bans certain natural gas water heaters, which Cruz argues limits consumer choice and imposes unnecessary costs.
Senator Cruz stated, “Once again, Democrats are waging a war on household appliances under the guise of combating climate change. This rule, rushed through by the Biden administration in its final days, does more harm than good. It forces American families to choose between costly, high-end models or less efficient alternatives—limiting their options and undermining their freedom of choice. American families deserve access to affordable, reliable appliances without unnecessary bureaucratic obstacles.”
The resolution has gained support from several senators including Rick Scott from Florida, Bill Cassidy and John Kennedy from Louisiana, Tim Sheehy from Montana, Cindy Hyde-Smith from Mississippi, Jim Risch and Mike Crapo from Idaho, Tim Scott from South Carolina, Roger Wicker from Mississippi, and Jim Banks from Indiana.
The contested DOE rule requires new tankless gas water heaters to use 13% less energy compared to the least efficient model currently available. If not repealed, it could eliminate about 40% of the market for these water heaters and increase consumer costs by approximately $450 for alternatives. The ban is set to be implemented on March 11, 2025.
Support for Cruz’s resolution comes from various organizations including the American Public Gas Association (APGA), National Propane Gas Association (NPGA), American Energy Alliance (AEA), American Gas Association (AGA), Texas Alliance of Energy Producers, Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA), Texas Independent Producers and Royalty Owners Association (TIPRO), National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB), U.S. Oil & Gas Association (USOGA), Western Energy Alliance (WEA), Rinnai America, and Americans for Prosperity (AFP).
