Energy Star is a program that helps consumers find energy-efficient appliances and electronics. Despite efforts to cut it, the program got backing from Congress and has survived recent challenges. President Trump signed legislation that ensures its continued funding, much to the relief of environmentalists and consumers alike.
However, concerns linger over how the program will function, especially with a reduced Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Critics worry that efficiency standards for appliances, which were tightened under previous administrations, might be rolled back in the future. Trump believes these standards limit consumer choice and increase costs.
The Energy Star program has been around since 1992. It educates consumers about the efficiency of products like dishwashers and washing machines. The EPA claims that this program has helped save billions of tons of greenhouse gases and lower utility bills. On average, households can save around $450 each year by choosing Energy Star-certified products.
This year, Congress allocated about $33 million for the program, which is slightly more than last year’s funding but reflects a downward trend over the past decade. Many industry groups pushed to keep Energy Star funded, as its removal could harm consumers and the environment.
The uncertainty surrounding the program hasn’t impacted consumers much yet, according to experts. They point out that manufacturers can’t suddenly change their product lines. Amanda Smith, a climate scientist from Project Drawdown, highlighted concerns about staffing cuts at the EPA hurting program management.
In addition to Energy Star, the Department of Energy is considering weakening 17 other efficiency standards for various products. These standards help save consumers money without them even realizing it. Andrew deLaski from the Appliance Standards Awareness Project emphasized that removing these standards could raise costs and flood the market with less efficient products, particularly from overseas competitors.
Experts generally support the idea that maintaining efficiency standards is beneficial for consumers and the environment. Public sentiment backs this idea, with many advocating for more robust energy policies as climate issues gain more attention.
For more on the importance of energy efficiency programs, you can explore reports from the EPA.
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Brigit Hirsch,Amanda Smith,Business,Andrew deLaski,environment,Climate,Joe Biden,Donald Trump,U.S. news
