Statement on possible elimination of Energy Star
On May 7, 2025, it was widely reported by mainstream national media that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) plans to eliminate energy efficiency certification through the Energy Star program. For more than three decades, Energy Star’s well-known blue label has notified American consumers that an appliance has met research-defined efficiency standards set by the federal government. As it effectively encourages consumers and manufacturers to prioritize products that use less energy, the program cuts pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
As an energy efficiency program designer and implementer for homes and businesses, CEE relies on Energy Star as a uniquely trusted partner and resource.
Statement from Chris Duffrin, CEE president
The Trump Administration’s possible decision to eliminate Energy Star is short-sighted and will increase home energy bills for everyone.
While Energy Star costs $32 million per year, it saves customers $40 billion on their utility bills annually. With 90% consumer recognition, Energy Star is the most familiar brand in energy efficiency, driving hundreds of millions of purchases each year.
Customers trust its blue label when they shop for appliances, home builders rely on it to make their efficient construction stand out, and efficiency experts use it to design programs with impact.
Right now, we need federal policies that reduce inflation to save families and businesses money — eliminating Energy Star will have the opposite effect. Manufacturers will have less incentive to produce efficient appliances when customers cannot recognize them.
With less efficient appliances, energy bills rise. Over time, increased energy demand increases the need for more utility infrastructure, further raising utility costs for everyone.
About CEE
CEE seeks a healthy, carbon-neutral economy that works for all people. A 501(c)(3) clean energy nonprofit with nearly 40 years' experience in energy efficiency, we align our strategies behind technical research, program development and implementation, community engagement, policy advocacy, and project financing. Working across homes, businesses, and communities, CEE discovers and deploys the most effective energy solutions to improve the environment and strengthen the economy for everyone.
Media contact
Tim Hanrahan, thanrahan@mncee.org