The commission shall, on or before January 1, 1978, develop in cooperation with affected industry and consumer representatives, who will be designated as such representatives by the commission, the specifications for certification of intermittent ignition devices which shall not significantly affect the price of gas appliances in competition with similar electrical appliances. The specifications shall be developed so as to result in the conservation of primary energy resources, shall include provisions necessary for public health and safety, and shall give due consideration to the initial costs, including installation and maintenance costs imposed upon the consumer.