ENERGY STAR

Many of us have seen energy star stickers on many of the consumer electronics and appliances we buy. I, for one, always knew that this had something to do with lower energy costs, but never did any research on the matter- until now.

To start, Energy Star is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Dept. Of Energy that provides better use of resources by saving money through improved efficiency of products and practices. This program started in 1992, mainly through computer and computer monitors electronics, but quickly spread to almost all types of consumer electronics. The goal was to promote energy efficient products, which would reduce greenhouse gas emissions. According to the Energy Star website, Energy Star has saved Americans $19 billion on their utility bills.

The site lists all of the Energy Star products from computers and televisions to water-heaters and air-conditioning units. I suggest all of us take a look and take note of our own consumer electronics and interpret if they are Energy Star certified or not. I would imagine that if someone who only uses Energy Star products was compared to someone who does not use any Energy Star products, while controlling all other variables, that the person using Energy Star products would experience much greater energy efficiency and thus, a cheaper electric bill. There are even Energy Star homes for sale, using all Energy Star certified hardware. Imagine if all of the country would use only Energy Star products, and what a change in total energy use and reduction in greenhouse gas emission could possibly result. Although this will not solve our natural gas problems it will delay the inevitable while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and saving us money . . .not a bad deal.

Reference:

1.) http://www.energystar.gov