EnergyStar Rating - Products
EPA/DOE
Energy Star rates appliances for energy efficiency and savings.
The EnergyStar Rating - Products costs $0 USD. Renewal costs $0 USD every 12 months.
Key Strengths
- Globally recognized Energy Star logo drives consumer trust and purchase intent
- Backed by U.S. EPA and DOE — strong government credibility
- Covers a vast range of product categories from appliances to electronics
- Linked to federal tax credits, boosting product appeal to end consumers
- Over 6 billion certified products sold, demonstrating massive market adoption
- Third-party testing ensures objective, credible performance verification
Ideal For
Best suited for product manufacturers — particularly of appliances, electronics, HVAC systems, lighting, and consumer electronics — who want to signal energy efficiency to buyers and retailers. Ideal for companies selling into U.S. markets where energy efficiency labeling drives consumer purchasing decisions and retail placement.
Target Audiences
Relevant Roles
Industries
Alignment & Recognition
Accrediting Body
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Overview
The Energy Star program, established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1992, aims to promote energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It offers certification for products that meet specific energy performance criteria. These products include appliances, electronics, HVAC systems, and lighting. Energy Star-certified products must undergo rigorous testing and third-party verification.
Energy Star collaborates with various partners, including manufacturers, retailers, and utility companies. Key clients include Microsoft, Intel, and Samsung. The program boasts over 6 billion certified products sold since its inception, reducing energy bills by $500 billion and cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 4 billion metric tons.
For businesses, achieving Energy Star certification can enhance brand reputation and offer potential energy savings. Certified products are labeled with the Energy Star logo, making it easier for consumers to identify and choose energy-efficient options.
Requirements & Verification
Evidence Requirements
Manufacturers must submit products for testing at EPA-recognized third-party laboratories to verify compliance with Energy Star product specifications. Test reports demonstrating that the product meets or exceeds the applicable energy performance criteria must be submitted to the EPA. Products must be tested according to the specific test procedures defined for each product category. Ongoing verification testing may be required to maintain certification status.
Prerequisites
Assessment Process
Products are assessed through third-party laboratory testing conducted at EPA-recognized test facilities. Manufacturers submit products for testing against the specific Energy Star product specification for their category, which defines energy performance thresholds and test procedures. Test reports are reviewed by EPA or its designated certification bodies. EPA also conducts independent market surveillance and verification testing of products already on the certified list to ensure ongoing compliance. There is no on-site audit of the manufacturer's facility; the assessment is product-performance based.
Renewal & Compliance
Energy Star product certifications must be maintained through ongoing compliance. When EPA updates product specifications (typically every few years), manufacturers must re-test and re-certify products to the new standards. EPA also conducts periodic market surveillance and verification testing of certified products; products that fail verification testing must be corrected or removed from the certified product list. There is no fixed annual renewal fee, but manufacturers must keep product listings current and respond to any EPA verification challenges.
Accountability Model
Impact & Outcomes
Salary & Market Value
Not applicable — Energy Star is a product-level certification, not an individual professional credential. For manufacturers, certified products can command a market premium and improve retail placement, contributing to revenue growth. Consumer studies indicate the Energy Star label positively influences purchase decisions for a significant share of buyers.
Employer Recognition
Consider Alternatives If...
Manufacturers with products that do not meet the top-tier energy efficiency thresholds for their category may find the certification out of reach without significant product redesign. Companies outside the U.S. market may find the certification less impactful, as recognition is strongest in North America.
Alternative Programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Facts
Certification
English
1992
Cost Breakdown
How to Use This Label
Certification Details
Assessment
Verification
Structure
Governance
Fee Structure
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