...
By Gabe Whisnant
News Editor
0
Share
Newsweek is a Trust Project member
See more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) plans to shut down the Energy Star program—known for its iconic blue labels that have certified energy-efficient home appliances for over 30 years—as part of a broader agency reorganization, two sources familiar with the plan told Reuters.
The proposed elimination of the widely recognized program would coincide with the dissolution of the EPA's Office of Atmospheric Protection and the Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, both of which were included in the agency's reorganization plan unveiled on Friday.
The EPA on Tuesday declined to comment on Energy Star but told Newsweek in a statement, "EPA announced the next phase of organizational improvements to the agency to better provide clean air, water, and land for all Americans."
Read More on Politics
Newsweek has reached out to Energy Star via email on Tuesday afternoon for comment.
...
What is Energy Star?
The Energy Star program, launched by the EPA in 1992, is a voluntary labeling initiative that identifies energy-efficient appliances, electronics and buildings. Its iconic blue label has become a trusted symbol for consumers seeking to reduce energy consumption, lower utility bills and minimize environmental impact.
Over the years, Energy Star has expanded across multiple product categories—from refrigerators and washing machines to lighting, windows, and commercial buildings.
Manufacturers participate in the program voluntarily, and products must meet strict energy performance standards established by the EPA. Independent testing and third-party certification ensure the integrity and credibility of the label.
What People Are Saying
In March, nearly three dozen trade industry groups and appliance companies sent a letter to EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin urging him not to end Energy Star. The statement said, according to Reuters, "Eliminating it will not serve the American people. In fact, because the ENERGY STAR brand is highly recognizable to consumers, it is likely that, should the program be eliminated, it will be supplanted by initiatives that drive results counter to the goals of this administration such as decreased features, functionality, performance, or increased costs," the letter said.
EPA's statement continued, "With this action, EPA is delivering organizational improvements to the personnel structure that will directly benefit the American people and better advance the agency's core mission, while Powering the Great American Comeback."
Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire said ending the program would raise costs, "Let's be clear: Cutting the popular Energy Star program - which helps everyday households and businesses save on their energy bills - would mark another rash attempt by this administration to line the pockets of billionaires and utility companies at the expense of hardworking Americans."
Update: 5/6/25, 2:36 p.m. ET: This article has been updated with additional information.
Update: 5/6/25, 7:04 p.m. ET: This article has been updated with additional information and remarks.
View 0 Comments
Submit Correction
View Editorial & AI Guidelines