Trump Administration Moves to Eliminate Energy Star Program, Jeopardizing Household Savings

The Trump administration is reportedly moving to dismantle theEnergy Starprogram, a long-standing initiative that has annually saved American households an average of $450 on their energy bills. Steven Nadel of the American Council for Energy Efficiency commented on the potential shutdown, stating, "If you wanted to raise families’ energy bills, getting rid of the Energy Star label would be a pretty good way."

Established in 1992, the program offers crucial information regarding the energy consumption of appliances. Without theEnergy Starlabel, consumers could face unforeseen increases in operating costs for major appliance purchases. Beyond guiding cost-effective choices, opting forEnergy Star-rated products also makes consumers eligible for appliance rebates and federal tax credits, which can amount to as much as $3,200 each year.

According to reports fromCNNandThe Washington Post, sources within the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the body responsible for overseeingEnergy Star, have indicated that Trump administration officials conveyed intentions to shutter the program.

When contacted byThe Verge, Molly Vaseliou, EPA Associate Administrator for Public Affairs, confirmed via email that the agency is undergoing the "next phase of organizational improvements" aimed at "better provid[ing] clean air, water, and land for all Americans." Vaseliou provided a PDF outlining a future organizational structure, which showed the elimination of the Office of Transportation & Air Quality and the Office of Radiation & Indoor Air Quality. While Vaseliou did not directly address inquiries aboutEnergy Star, the program operates under the purview of these departments.

Conceived as a public-private partnership by the first Bush administration in 1992,Energy Starwas designed to empower both consumers and businesses to cut energy expenses and conserve natural resources. Over its tenure, the program has collectively saved more than $500 billion in energy costs nationwide.

Highlighting its remarkable efficiency, Paula Glover, president of the nonprofit Alliance to Save Energy, toldCNN, "For just $32 million a year,Energy Starhelps American families save over $40 billion in annual energy costs. That’s a return of $350 for every federal dollar invested."