The ENERGY STAR Program

The ENERGY STAR program is a joint program between the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy. The program is designed to help people save money and protect the environment through energy efficient products and practices. In 2007 alone, the equivalent of 27 million cars' emissions was saved and Americans saved $16 billion on their utility bills.

The program was started by the EPA in 1992 as a voluntary labeling program. It is designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as well as identify and promote energy efficient options. Computers and computer monitors were the first products that were labeled. From 1992 to 1995, the EPA expanded the program to include more office equipment as well as residential heating and cooling systems.

In 1996, the Environmental Protection Agency joined forces with the Department of Energy for particular product categories. The ENERGY STAR label is now seen on major appliances, office equipment, lighting, and home electronics. Everything from roofing materials to cordless phones are now available with the ENERGY STAR option.

In addition to covering consumer products, entire new homes and office spaces can earn the ENERGY STAR seal of approval. This allows individual consumers the knowledge that their house is going to use less energy, and therefore cost less to own, than a neighbor's house without an ENERGY STAR label.

Home Options

Energy efficient choices can save families about 1/3 on their energy bill. This means that if your current energy bill is 300 dollars, ENERGY STAR features can reduce your bill to 200 dollars. That's 100 dollars that can be used elsewhere.

ENERGY STAR products are designed so you don't have to sacrifice style, comfort, or current features in order to enjoy energy savings. For most types of appliances, there is now an ENERGY STAR option available that includes all of the features of non-ENERGY STAR models.

When buying a household item, look for the ENERGY STAR. Having an ENERGY STAR means that the product has met or exceeded the strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy.

Appliances have two costs when they are purchased. The take-home (i.e. purchase) cost and the energy and water usage cost. ENERGY STAR appliances save between 10% and 50% of the energy and water used by standard models. With the increase in energy prices, that adds up quickly.

If you would like more information about the ENERGY STAR program and how to make your home more energy efficient, please visit http://www.energystar.gov.

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