EPA Seeks Small Business Comments on Phase 3 GHG Rule for Trucks, Buses - Fuel Smarts

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is calling on small businesses to provide feedback on the agency’s proposed Phase 3 greenhouse gas emissions rules.

EPA is seeking “small business representatives” to join the Small Business Advocacy Review Panel. This panel will focus on the agency’s development of rules proposing to set a new phase of greenhouse gas requirements for heavy-duty engines and trucks from model year 2030.

The EPA first adopted GHG requirements for heavy duty vehicles in 2011. The Phase 1 regulations created a new certification and compliance program based on computer simulation of a vehicle’s carbon footprint and fuel efficiency, rather than emissions and fuel efficiency tests, and set performance-based standards. , and adopted interim provisions to address the impact on small businesses. Phase 1 standards began to apply to 2014 model year heavy duty vehicles.

In 2016, the EPA adopted a Phase 2 rule setting tougher CO2 standards, and also set limits for hydrofluorocarbons, methane, and nitrous oxide (three other greenhouse gases). Phase 2 standards have started to apply for 2021 models. 2 rule also updated the regulation’s emissions simulation model to account for additional new fuel-saving technologies and to include flexibility for small businesses identified by the SBAR panel for its rulemaking.

This Phase 3 proposal would revise GHG emissions limits for heavy-duty vehicles, relying on the same basic certification and compliance structure already in place. The rulemaking changes proposed in Phase 3 include future technology developments, based on revised projections of GHG emission reduction technologies used by engine and vehicle manufacturers, including more stringent regulations applicable from 2030 model year. Vehicle emission standards are expected to be included. In developing the new standard, EPA will consider what it calls the “significant role of zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) technology in significantly reducing air pollution from the heavy-duty vehicle sector.”

The proposal also includes “limited and targeted flexibility for SMEs,” so SMEs’ input is solicited.

The panel includes federal representatives from the Small Business Administration, the White House Office of Management and Budget, and the EPA. Panel members are encouraged to provide advice and recommendations on behalf of companies, governments, or organizations to inform panel members of the potential impact of the proposed rule on small businesses. Ask a selected group of

EPA is looking for direct self-endorsements from small businesses that may be subject to regulatory requirements. Other representatives may also serve as her SERs, such as trade associations that exclusively or at least primarily represent small potentially regulated entities.

Self-nominations must be received by August 29th.