You’ve probably been taking steps to be more energy efficient without realizing it.
Don’t believe me? Take a quick scan of your home. How many of your electronics are labeled with a bright blue ENERGY STAR logo?
The ENERGY STAR program was designed to help us save money and protect the environment. The label makes it easy for consumers to find and purchase energy-efficient products, which helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants caused by inefficient use of energy.
According to the ENERGY STAR program, “A home outfitted with ENERGY STAR certified products will use about 35 percent less energy and save more than 8,000 pounds of greenhouse gas emissions per year.”
See, you’re an energy efficiency pro and you didn’t even know!
The ENERGY STAR label is so common these days, that we often overlook it. But knowing what that bright blue square stands for—and ensuring the products you buy are ENERGY STAR certified—can help you save energy and money, while also protecting our environment.
What is ENERGY STAR?
ENERGY STAR is the government-backed symbol for energy efficiency. It was introduced as a volunteer labeling program to identify and promote energy-efficient products.
ENERGY STAR products, which can be identified by the label pictured below, use less energy and help you save money on your electric bill.
When was the ENERGY STAR program established?
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency introduced the ENERGY STAR program in 1992 with computers and monitors being the first products to earn the ENERGY STAR label. Today you’ll find the ENERGY STAR label on major appliances, lighting, electronics and more. You can find a full list of ENERGY STAR products here.
Over the past 27 years, Americans have purchased more than 6 billion ENERGY STAR certified products.
How do products earn the ENERGY STAR label?
The EPA gives products the ENERGY STAR label when they meet the following strict energy efficiency specifications:
- Product categories must contribute significant energy savings nationwide.
- Certified products must deliver the features and performance demanded by consumers, in addition to increased energy efficiency.
- If the certified product costs more than a conventional, less-efficient counterpart, purchasers will recover their investment in increased energy efficiency through utility bill savings, within a reasonable period of time.
- Energy efficiency can be achieved through broadly available, non-proprietary technologies offered by more than one manufacturer.
- Product energy consumption and performance can be measured and verified with testing.
- Labeling would effectively differentiate products and be visible for purchasers.
Where can I find ENERGY STAR products?
You can find the ENERGY STAR label on all sorts of products. Here’s a list from ENERGY STAR with more information.
And before you purchase your new appliance, be sure to reach out to Black Hills Energy. Their team of energy efficiency experts can help determine if you qualify for a rebate. Who knew saving energy and money could be so easy?
More energy saving tips
Being more energy efficient and implementing some energy-saving tips could reduce the amount of money you spend on your utility bill. We’re talking energy savings with the flip of a switch. Please enter a ZIP code to view energy saving tips and resources available in your area.