Posted inRV Generator Guide

RV Generators: A Guide to Emission Regulations

June 28, 2024
RV Generators

The world is paying more attention to how our actions affect the environment. This shift means the rules for RV generators are getting stricter. So, what’s changing for those who love RVs and the companies that make them?

We’re here to dig into the details of the California Air Resources Board(CARB)’s Small Off-Road Engines (SORE) regulation. And to see what it might mean for the future of RV power sources.

Key Takeaways

  • CARB’s SORE regulation will require all small off-road engines, including RV generators, to be zero-emission by 2028.
  • The RV industry wants a difference to be made between fixed-mount stationary generators and portable ones. They believe the fixed-mount ones are most important for RV power needs.
  • Setting up zero-emission solutions for RVs is currently seen as too hard and too costly. This is making some people worried about how the new rules will affect things.
  • Even so, companies are looking into new ways to follow the new rules. They’re trying to find ways that still meet the special power needs of RVs.
  • It’s important for RV owners and the industry to keep up with changes in the rules. This will help them plan for the future of generating power for RVs.

Understanding CARB’s SORE Regulations

The RV industry is changing because of new emission laws. CARB’s (California Air Resources Board) Small Off-Road Engine (SORE) rules will significantly affect gas and LP vapor-powered RV generators. This brings challenges but also chances for both makers and owners.

Overview of the Small Off-Road Engines (SORE) Regulation

CARB’s SORE rules are now in place to lower emissions from small off-road engines. This includes those in RV generators. It affects spark-ignition engines up to 19 kilowatts. The rules focus on gases like hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, and carbon monoxide over time.

Impact on Gas and LP-Powered RV Generators

Gas and LP-powered RV generators will feel the effect of the new SORE rules. Starting in 2024, these engines must emit less. Manufacturers will have to change their designs to meet these stricter rules.

Most RV generators are spark-ignited and range from 2.5 to 7 kilowatts. They fall within certain engine sizes. These will now have to meet the rules’ tighter emissions and durability standards.

“The amendments approved by CARB will ban gas/LP engines used in RV generators, effective with the 2028 certification model year.”

The RV industry faces challenges and chances with the SORE rules. Makers must quickly find zero-emission solutions. But, RV owners might have fewer choices for generators in the future. It’s important to understand the SORE rules for smart choices and to get ready for industry changes.

RV Industry’s Request for Exemption

RV industry exemption

The RV industry quickly responded to the new CARB SORE regulation. It includes a group of suppliers, makers, and sellers. In December 2021, they spoke up at CARB’s hearing. They asked for RV generators to be exempt from the new rules.

They argued that banning gas and LP RV generators by 2028 would harm both them and their buyers. Unfortunately, CARB decided to go ahead with the regulation. They knew it would be hard for the RV world.

But, not all hope is lost. Even though they didn’t get a full exemption, there are still chances for some relief. Exemptions can let businesses skip certain rules for up to 5 years, and then they can ask for more time. For example, big names like Daimler Trucks North America and Navistar have gotten these breaks before.

Exemption Type Potential Relief Expiration Timeline
Partial Exemptions Exemptions from specific requirements in 49 CFR parts 382, 383, 391, 392, 393, 395, 396, and 399 Ranges from a few years to up to 5 years after the effective date
Full Exemptions Exemptions that allow individuals to operate commercial motor vehicles without possessing a U.S. Commercial Driver’s License in certain cases Varies depending on the organization and the specific exemption applied for

Although the RV industry didn’t get everything they wanted, there’s still a chance for a bit of help. They will keep working with CARB to find ways to make the rules easier on them and their clients.

Cummins’ Response to the SORE Regulation

Cummins is working hard on the SORE 2024 regulations. They have a dual approach to meet these new standards. First, they are launching a new line of generators that comply entirely with the new rules. Secondly, they are tweaking their current models so that they too, fit the bill.

Introducing the Onan QC 4000i

The Onan QC 4000i marks a big step in Cummins’ efforts. It’s a brand-new model that’s built to be better for the environment. This generator has fuel injection, a special alternator, and inverter tech. Because of this, it cuts down on harmful emissions by more than half compared to older models.

Adjustments to Existing Quiet Gas Portfolio

Changes aren’t just coming with new models. Cummins is also updating existing ones, like the QG 2500i LP and QG 2800i. These updates help these models hit the new emissions goals. Other models, like the QG 3600 LP, QG 5500 LP, and QG 6500 LP, are already good to go. They meet the new standards without needing any big updates.

Cummins is also working on making EFI versions of some models. The QG 5500 and QG 7000 will get this special upgrade. This will even further help reduce emissions and meet the upcoming regulations.

“We are committed to providing Cummins RV generators that not only meet but exceed the upcoming CARB SORE regulations,” said a Cummins spokesperson. “Our focus on innovation and continuous improvement ensures our customers can continue to rely on Onan generators for their power needs, even as the regulatory landscape evolves.”

CARB’s Decision and Timeline

On December 9, 2021, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) made a big decision. They agreed to changes in the SORE rule. This change means the end of gas and LP-powered engines in RV generators, starting in the 2028 model year.

The RV Industry Association tried hard, but couldn’t get generators exempted. CARB chose to stick with their plan. Still, they did add a rule for CARB staff to check on how well everyone is following the new rule. They will also see how fast the RV industry is coming up with zero-emission options.

The 2028 Ban on Gas/LP Engines

CARB’s SORE rule affects spark ignition engines under 25 horsepower. This includes the generators in many RVs. From the 2028 model year onwards, selling these generators in California is a no-go.

Provisions for Zero-Emission Solutions

The SORE rule gives a way for the RV industry to earn credits. By offering zero-emission alternatives from 2022-2027, they can get these credits. These credits can help delay the gas/LP engine ban to 2032. This gives the industry more time to switch to cleaner tech.

In 2025-2026, CARB’s staff will check if zero-emission solutions are ready by 2028. If not, they might adjust the plan. They want to make sure the switch is smooth for everyone.

The SORE rule is key to lowering emissions from small off-road engines. By moving the RV sector to zero-emission generators, the aim is to better our air. This move will help protect everyone’s health.

RV Generators: Challenges and Opportunities

RV generator opportunities

The CARB SORE rule, especially the gas/LP RV generator ban in 2028, is affecting the RV world. This means Cummins might not have gas generators meeting the 2024 CARB rules. So, soon RVs shipped to California might not have gas-powered generators.

But, there’s hope in this change for the RV business. With a credit program for clean power, the 2028 ban could be pushed to 2032. This could let RV makers find new, green ways to power RVs. It’s a chance to use new tech for more eco-friendly RV power.

Keeping RV generators in good shape is a big issue. Without regular use, gas generators can have their fuel go bad and cause problems. To avoid this, the generator should be run with a good load for two hours a month. This keeps the fuel in good condition and stops water from building up.

  • RV generators are rated in kilowatts (KW), with 1 kilowatt equaling 1,000 watts.
  • RVs have either 30 amp or 50 amp electrical systems, allowing for power consumption up to 3,600 watts with a 30 amp system.
  • Regular oil and filter changes for generators are crucial, similar to automobile maintenance schedules.
  • Preventive maintenance and using the generator with a load on it helps to keep the generator in top operating condition, ensuring long-lasting performance and faithful service.

Even with its challenges, the shift to greener RV power is full of chances. The CARB SORE rule can push the RV industry to find greener and better ways to power RVs. By using clean power ideas and the credit program, RV makers can step up to meet these new demands. This means cleaner, more reliable power for RV users.

“The shift towards zero-emission generators presents a chance for the industry to embrace the latest technologies and provide RV owners with more sustainable and efficient power options.”

Earning and Banking Credits

The RV industry is facing a new CARB SORE regulation soon. But, there’s a silver lining. A credit program for zero-emission alternatives has started in 2022. RV makers and suppliers can get credits by providing new, green options to the usual generators.

The Credit Program for Zero-Emission Alternatives

To use these credits with CARB, companies must have their eco-friendly systems approved. There are four levels of credits (1-4). These levels depend on how much power and energy the green generators have.

From 2022 to 2027, companies can earn these credits. They can then sell or trade them with makers of usual gas/LP generators. This selling can help those with a lack of green generators meet regulations. It’s an interesting fact that using these credits can delay the 2028 gas/LP engine ban to 2032. This gives the RV industry more time to switch to green tech.

The CARB SORE regulation’s credit plan is big for RVs going green. By switching to zero-emission RV generators, manufacturers can earn credits. They also help make the RV world cleaner and more eco-friendly.

Monitoring Progress and Readiness Assessments

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is pushing the SORE regulation forward. They’re making sure the RV industry is ready for the upcoming zero-emission changes. This action is to ensure the industry can follow the new rules without trouble.

Regarding the CARB SORE regulation progress, CARB’s people will give updates yearly. They’ll check on how well the zero-emission RV generator readiness is doing. By doing this, they aim to understand if the RV industry is on track. It will also help them see if there are any big problems or changes needed in the plan.

A detailed look at tech readiness will happen around 2025-2026. This check will see if the right technologies can be used in time for the 2028 ban on certain RV generators. If they find these tech solutions won’t be ready, CARB may change the deadlines. This move is to make sure the switch to new, clean generators goes well.

The RV Industry Association vows to be ahead of the game. They’re closely watching how well generator makers are doing. They’re also helping their members learn about a new credit program. This program offers benefits, making the change to zero-emission setups easier for the industry to handle.

Key Activities Timeline Responsible Parties
Annual Progress Reporting Ongoing CARB Staff
Technology Readiness Assessment 2025-2026 CARB
RV Industry Monitoring and Education Ongoing RV Industry Association

CARB and the RV industry are working together to prepare for the change to zero-emission RV generator readiness. They’re keeping an eye on how things are going, running checks, and boosting teamwork. This way, they aim for a future where RVs are cleaner and eco-friendly.

Conclusion

The CARB SORE rule will ban gas/LP RV generators by 2028, presenting big problems for the RV field. While it pushes for zero-emission tech, current options aren’t affordable for most RV owners. The attempt to exclude RV generators from this rule failed.

The zero-emission credit program is a chance for the RV industry to delay the 2028 ban. It’s key for the industry to keep an eye on progress and work with CARB for a smooth change to zero-emission RVs. Being proactive and using new tech will help us adjust to the CARB SORE rule and offer RV lovers green, dependable power solutions.

The RV sector is working hard to meet the needs of RV users and environmental goals. By investing in research and working together, we can create a future where RV generators follow the rules and meet user expectations for performance, ease of use, and being eco-friendly.

FAQ

What is the RV Industry Association’s request to the California Air Resources Board (CARB)?

The RV Industry Association wants CARB to treat fixed-mount stationary generators in RVs differently from portable ones. The focus is on the recent SORE regulation for small off-road engines.

How will the SORE regulation impact RV generators?

The new SORE regulation hits engines in RV generators, using gas and LP. It looks at pollutants like HC+NOx and CO over time. Both the pollution targets and the allowed time are now longer.

What was the RV Industry Association’s response to the proposed SORE regulation?

The RV Industry Association brought together a group to fight the regulation at CARB’s December 2021 meeting. They pushed back but couldn’t stop the 2028 ban on RV generators.

How is Cummins, the supplier of the majority of RV generators, responding to the SORE regulation?

Cummins is rolling out new Onan RV and Commercial Mobile generators that meet the 2024 CARB standards, like the Onan QC 4000i. It has added tech like electronic fuel injection to meet the stricter rules.

What is the timeline for the CARB SORE regulation, and how does it impact the RV industry?

By 2028, the CARB rule will phase out current engines in RV generators. It’s already stressing the RV industry. Cummins warns they may not have new gas models ready as soon as 2024.

What opportunities does the CARB SORE regulation present for the RV industry?

There’s a chance to delay the 2028 ban to 2032 through a zero-emission credit program. Since 2022, RV makers can earn credits by offering cleaner generator options.

How will the RV industry monitor progress and readiness assessments?

CARB will update each year on how well the industry is keeping up with the new rules. By 2025-2026, a close look at the tech progress will decide if the timeline needs changing.

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Last updated on June 30, 2024