The Energy Star label identifies products that deliver comparable or superior performance but save a whole lot of energy. A government and industry partnership between the EPA, the U.S. Department of Energy, and numerous private industries, Energy Star has become a respected label to help consumers identify high efficiency products. Today, Energy Star encompasses more than 50 different types of products including heating and cooling systems, appliances, office equipment, consumer electronics, and lighting. Products with an Energy Star logo meet energy efficiency criteria set by the EPA and the Department of Energy.
The Energy Star website provides a dearth of information about how products are selected. You can also download a comprehensive list of current products that meet and exceed Energy Star criteria at www.energystar.gov.
Take computers, for example. In June 2007, Energy Star strengthened its energy-efficiency requirements for computers. Recognizing that computers are used for more hours throughout a day than ever before, qualifying computers must meet energy use thresholds in each of three operating modes: while in use, in standby, and when in sleep. As a result, Energy Star rated computers use 70 percent less electricity than models that lack these power management features.