R.I. Gen. Laws § 39-27-7: New and revised standards.

The commission may adopt regulations, in accordance with the provisions of chapter 35 of title 42, to establish increased efficiency standards for the products listed in § 39-27-4. In considering such amended standards, the commission, in consultation with the chief of energy and community services, shall set efficiency standards upon a determination that increased efficiency standards would serve to promote energy conservation in the state and would be cost-effective for consumers who purchase and use such products; provided, that increased efficiency standards shall become effective within one year following the adoption of any amended regulations establishing such increased efficiency standards.