Trump Administration Proposes Ending Energy Star Program
The Trump administration is considering eliminating the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Energy Star program, according to a CNN report. This program helps consumers save an estimated $40 billion annually on energy costs.
With a budget of $32 million, Energy Star partners with appliance and electronics manufacturers to certify energy-efficient products. It also helps consumers find rebates, lowering purchase costs.
Eliminating the Energy Star program would directly contradict this administration’s promise to reduce household energy costs.
This statement comes from Paula Glover, president of the Alliance to Save Energy. She emphasizes the program's 350-to-one return on investment.
Energy Star's History and Impact
Created in 1992 under President George H.W. Bush, Energy Star was reauthorized in 2005 under President George W. Bush. Oversight falls under the EPA and the Department of Energy.
The program's recognizable yellow labels inform consumers about estimated annual energy costs for appliances and electronics. Energy Star saves the average U.S. household approximately $450 on energy bills each year.
More information on the program's impact can be found on the Energy Star website and a Congressional Research Service report.
