Energy Star Program Strengthened

April 14th, 2010

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Changes have been made to the Energy Star product certification process by the Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency. According to a press release from the DOE and EPA, the changes were made to “ensure that only products meeting the program requirements can receive an Energy Star label.”

“The Energy Star program started out small and has grown quickly, and now the brand is immensely valuable to consumers and businesses,” said Gina McCarthy, EPA Assistant Administrator for Air and Radiation. “The safeguards we’re putting into effect are essential for the millions of consumers who rely on Energy Star products to help save energy, money and the environment.”

“Consumers trust the Energy Star brand to save them money and reduce carbon pollution,” said Cathy Zoi, DOE Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. “The steps we are taking to strengthen the program will ensure that Energy Star continues to be the hallmark for energy efficiency in the years to come.”

Manufacturers who want to qualify for the Energy Star must submit complete laboratory reports and result for approval by the EPA prior to using the label. The EPA has strengthened its approval system and all new qualification applications will be reviewed and individually approved.

At the end of 2010, all manufacturers will be required to submit test results from an EPA-approved, accredited lab for all products from the more than 60 eligible product categories for which they want the Energy Star label. This testing is already required for windows, skylights, doors and compact fluorescent lights.

A recent Inspector General audit revealed that about 99% of the products tested were fully compliant with the Energy Star requirements. The DOE is now conducting off-the-shelf testing for some of the most common household appliances.

For more information, go to the Energy Star website.