ENERGY STAR is a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) voluntary program that helps businesses and individuals save money and protect our climate through superior energy efficiency.
The ENERGY STAR program was established by EPA in 1992, under the authority of the Clean Air Act Section 103(g). Section103(g) of the Clean Air Act directs the Administrator to "conduct a basic engineering research and technology program to develop, evaluate, and demonstrate non–regulatory strategies and technologies for reducing air pollution."
Dear Energy Efficiency Program Sponsor or Other Interested Party:
The models listed below have been disqualified from the ENERGY STAR® program. The Disqualified Products List has been updated, and these models have been removed from the ENERGY STAR Qualified Products Lists:
Luminaires
- Jaykal LED Solutions, Inc., JAYKAL model JLS68102-CP-10-M1-8MCCT-10-S-28
- Jaykal LED Solutions, Inc., JAYKAL model JLS68102-CP-6-M1-8MCCT-10-S-28
- Jaykal LED Solutions, Inc., JAYKAL model JLS68102-CP-8-M1-8MCCT-10-S-28
Please visit the Products Integrity Page for specific brands and model numbers, and email Enforcement@energystar.gov with any questions.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program
Dear ENERGY STAR® Residential Electric Cooking Product Manufacturers and Other Interested Stakeholders:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to share the Final Version 1.0 ENERGY STAR Residential Electric Cooking Products specification. EPA would like to thank the many stakeholders who have invested time and resources in contributing feedback that has informed this specification development process. The Version 1.0 requirements will take effect immediately, September 25, 2023.
ENERGY STAR certified residential electric cooking products under the Version 1 specification will offer users, on average, energy savings of approximately 18% from standard electric units. Further, ENERGY STAR certified models are anticipated to deliver additional benefits such as a healthier indoor living environment and induction units, in particular, are expected to offer faster heating, precision controls, easy cleaning, smart capabilities, various sensors, and multiple user-friendly product features.
If all residential electric cooking tops sold in the United States were ENERGY STAR certified, the energy cost savings would grow to nearly $160 million each year, and almost 1.75 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions would be prevented.
This specification was developed through a process that included release of two draft specifications and a final draft specification, two webinars, multiple stakeholder meetings, and additional input from various industry stakeholders including manufacturers, utilities, and affiliated groups. Stakeholder comments, previous drafts of the specification, and related supporting materials are available on the ENERGY STAR Residential Electric Cooking Products Version 1.0 Product Development website.
EPA received written and verbal feedback in response to the Final Draft which was released on August 29, 2023. Though stakeholders generally support the residential electric cooking products specification and the relaxed certification criteria proposed in the final draft, a couple commenters reiterated previously written feedback or expressed new concerns. EPA has provided responses to all previously submitted comments in the Draft 1 and Draft 2 comment response matrices with one notable difference: EPA retains the Time t90 reporting as optional instead of as a requirement and has removed the entry from the “Additional Reporting Requirements” list in Section 4 of the product specification. Further, EPA lists electric standalone ovens under excluded products for further clarity on scope (see Section 2). New comments include a proposal to exclude coil and portable products from ENERGY STAR scope. However, coil and portable products can be tested under the DOE test procedure, which forms the basis for this product specification. Further, the certification criteria of 195 kWh/year expands the selection of residential electric cooking products eligible for certification, which continues to include relatively low-cost coil and portable products.
In addition to the minor change to Section 4 of the product specification, EPA revises the final data and analysis package to include a new worksheet for energy efficiency program sponsors (EEPS) and utility programs to reference. The worksheet contains supplemental information about the calculation of annual energy consumption from the DOE test procedure.
Third-Party Certification
Effective immediately, brand owner partners may begin the certification process for residential electric cooking products. Companies new to the program may apply for partnership at https://energystar.gov/join. All products must be tested by an EPA-recognized laboratory that is accredited to use the required test method, 10 CFR 430, Subpart B, Appendix I1 - Uniform Test Method for Measuring the Energy Consumption of Conventional Cooking Products. Successful test results may allow products to become certified through an EPA-recognized certification body (CB) before being labeled and marketed as ENERGY STAR. Laboratories and CBs seeking EPA recognition should submit an application, which can be found at the third-party certification page, by e-mail to Certification@energystar.gov.
ENERGY STAR partnership as a manufacturer is limited to organizations that own and/or license a brand name under which they sell eligible products in the United States and/or Canada. Partnership is not available to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) that do not sell directly to consumers or end users. OEMs may certify products on behalf of the ENERGY STAR brand owners/licensees; however, the brand owner must be the ENERGY STAR partner associated directly with the certified product models, since only partners are authorized to use the ENERGY STAR certification mark.
Manufacturers are strongly encouraged to list every model number associated with each model certification. Rebate programs match model numbers to the ENERGY STAR certified models. If the certification is for a model number with wildcards, manufacturers need to list all actual model numbers as additional models at the time of certification and update the information with their certification body as new model variations become available so models can be matched for rebates. The UPC number will also be required at the time of certification to enable EPA, retailers, and others to identify those models for consumers.
EPA thanks stakeholders who provided feedback during the specification development process and looks forward to working with you as you certify and market your energy-efficient residential electric cooking products. If you have any questions or concerns about the specification or partnership process, please contact me at Steve Leybourn (EPA) at Leybourn.Stephen@epa.gov or 202-862-1566, Tanja Crk (EPA) at Crk.Tanja@epa.gov or 202-650-7522, and Fabria Jno Baptiste (ICF) at Fabria.JnoBaptiste@icf.com or 571-842-4949 for questions or concerns. For questions about the test method, please contact Carl Shapiro, DOE, at Carl.Shapiro@ee.doe.gov.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Steve Leybourn, EPA Product Manager
ENERGY STAR
Tanja Crk, EPA Product Manager
ENERGY STAR
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Residential Electric Cooking Products Final Specification
ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Residential Electric Cooking Products Final Data & Analysis Package
Dear Energy Efficiency Program Sponsor or Other Interested Party:
The models listed below have been disqualified from the ENERGY STAR® program. The Disqualified Products List has been updated, and these models have been removed from the ENERGY STAR Qualified Products Lists:
Ceiling Fans
- Royal Pacific Ltd., RP Lighting & Fans model 1048LED
Clothes Dryers
- Whirlpool Corporation, Maytag model MEDB955FC*
- Whirlpool Corporation, Maytag model MEDB955FC2
- Whirlpool Corporation, Maytag model MEDB955FS*
- Whirlpool Corporation, Maytag model MEDB955FW*
Computers
- IGEL Technology GmbH, IGEL model UD7
- IGEL Technology GmbH, IGEL model UD7-LX
LED Lamps
- Lucidity Lights, Inc., BRILLI model BRI-L/BLB/BR30/65/27/D00
- Maxlite, MaxLite model 27P38WD30FL
- Maxlite, MaxLite model 27P38WD30NF
- Maxlite, MaxLite model 27P38WD30SP
- Maxlite, MaxLite model 27P38WD40FL
- Maxlite, MaxLite model 27P38WD40NF
- Maxlite, MaxLite model 27P38WD40SP
- Topaz Lighting, Topaz model LCTC/7/827/D-46
- Topaz Lighting, Topaz model LCTC/7/830/D-46
- Westinghouse Lighting Corporation, Westinghouse model 53130
- Westinghouse Lighting Corporation, Westinghouse model 53132
- Westinghouse Lighting Corporation, Westinghouse model 53200
- Westinghouse Lighting Corporation, Westinghouse model 53201
Luminaires
- ASD Lighting Corp,, ASD model ASD-CDL5-8AD30AC
- ESL Vision LLC, ESL Vision model ESL-OPT-8-xW-1yy-10V
- Minka Group, MINKA-LAVERY model 739-2-44-L
- Minka Group, MINKA-LAVERY model 739-2-84-L
- NDR Electric, NDR Electric model TBX-CCT-810-WH
- P.Q.L., Inc.,, Superior Life model 90997
- Taizhou JiaoGuang Lighting Co. Ltd., LIGHT THE FUTURE model D848-90-10
Refrigerators and Freezers
- NINGBO HAILANG ELECTRIC APPLIANCE CO.,LTD., HAILANG model HLBCD90
Ventilating Fans
- FartF, LLC, FartF model IRF-150
Please visit the Products Integrity Page for specific brands and model numbers, and email Enforcement@energystar.gov with any questions.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Dear ENERGY STAR Set-Top Box (STB) Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder:
This letter serves as a reminder that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)'s sunset of the ENERGY STAR specification for STB products takes effect September 29, 2023. All STB partners must cease use of the ENERGY STAR name and ENERGY STAR mark in association with all STB products, including on products, web pages, and other collateral materials as of this date.
EPA appreciates the efforts of STB product partners to advance a cleaner environment through the ENERGY STAR Program and applauds your success in moving the market towards greater energy efficiency. Please send any questions to STBs@energystar.gov. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Ann Bailey, Chief
ENERGY STAR Labeling Branch
US Environmental Protection Agency
Dear ENERGY STAR® Residential Electric Cooking Product Manufacturers and Other Interested Stakeholders:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing the ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Residential Electric Cooking Products Final Draft Specification. Stakeholder comments in response to the Final Draft may be submitted to EPA no later than September 12, 2023.
EPA received written and verbal feedback in response to the Draft 2 which was released on May 31, 2023. Most stakeholders are in support of the creation of this residential cooking products specification. They support the technology neutral approach to determining the energy consumption level for ENERGY STAR. Some concerns specific to the proposed criteria, reporting requirement for Time t90, and timeline remain. The Agency provides a summary of comments and Agency responses in the Version 1.0 Draft 2 comment response matrix.
Overview of Final Draft
The Final Draft reflects input received from stakeholders in response to the Draft 2 specification and individual discussions with a range of stakeholders. Several revisions were made to the Version 1.0 Final Draft specification and Version 1.0 Final Draft data package relative to Draft 2 documents. A short list of revisions to the specification is provided below:
- Addition of two terms and definitions, minimum-above-threshold power setting and active cooling.
- Adjustment to the proposed IAEC criteria, such that ENERGY STAR residential electric cooking tops would use ≤ 195 kWh/yr.
- Specify that Time t90 will be reported in minutes with rounding to the nearest half minute.
- Inclusion of reporting requirements for presence/absence of active mode cooling and designations for cooktops as either portable, free-standing, or built-in/slide-in.
EPA estimates the proposed ENERGY STAR efficiency level is 18% more efficient in annual energy consumption, electricity costs, and emissions, compared to a weighted baseline efficiency level using DOEs market share estimates for smooth and coil electric product types.
Comment Submittal
Stakeholders are welcome to submit any final comments on the ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Residential Electric Cooking Products Final Draft specification to appliances@energystar.gov by September 12, 2023. EPA anticipates finalizing this Version 1.0 specification September 25, 2023. Upon finalization, manufacturers will be able to immediately begin certifying products.
All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Residential Electric Cooking Products Version 1.0 Product Development website unless the submitter requests otherwise.
Please contact me at Crk.Tanja@epa.gov or 202-650-7522 and Steve Leybourn (EPA) at Leybourn.Stephen@epa.gov or 202-862-1566, and Fabria Jno Baptiste (ICF) at Fabria.JnoBaptiste@icf.com or 571-842-4949 for questions or concerns. For questions about the test method, please contact Carl Shapiro, DOE, at Carl.Shapiro@ee.doe.gov.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Tanja Crk, EPA Product Manager
ENERGY STAR
Steve Leybourn, EPA Product Manager
ENERGY STAR
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Residential Electric Cooking Products Final Draft Specification
ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Residential Electric Cooking Products Final Draft Data Package
ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Residential Electric Cooking Products Draft 2 Stakeholder Comment Response Matrix
Dear ENERGY STAR® Appliance Partners or Other Interested Stakeholders,
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to announce that Steve Leybourn has joined EPA as the new ENERGY STAR appliance program manager.
Steve has over a decade of experience in the appliance industry, as the lead technical consultant to EPA for ENERGY STAR appliances and with the home appliance trade association. Steve also served as a development engineer at Carrier Corporation. Steve has a bachelor’s degree in Economics from Butler University and a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University. He also holds a Juris Doctor from Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law.
I trust many of you have interacted with Steve as he has worked on over 30 ENERGY STAR specifications and test procedures. He is excited to continue working with all of the ENERGY STAR stakeholders and hopes to see many of you at the 2023 ENERGY STAR Products Partner Meeting, which will take place Tuesday, September 26 – Thursday, September 28, 2023. Dan Cronin will continue to be available to our ENERGY STAR appliance partners to support marketing activities and collaboration with retailers.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Katharine Kaplan, Manager, Product Development and Product Administration
ENERGY STAR Labeled Products
Dear ENERGY STAR ® Laboratory Grade Refrigerator and Freezer Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing the Draft 1, Version 2 ENERGY STAR Laboratory Grade Refrigerators and Freezers specification. The deadline to submit comments on this draft specification is September 18, 2023.
The ENERGY STAR Lab Grade Refrigerator and Freezers specification has been in place since 2017. Participation in the specification has grown in part due to rebates for ENERGY STAR equipment offered in connection with COVID vaccines. Additionally, EPA’s analysis shows that there are many products performing better than the ENERGY STAR levels particularly in the high performance and ultra-low categories.
Leading up to the release of this Draft 1, EPA invited stakeholders to submit data and information in support of this revision. While EPA did not receive data, EPA did receive feedback on recommended changes to the criteria, which EPA has considered in preparing this Draft 1.
Based on EPA’s analysis of ENERGY STAR data, the Agency is proposing more stringent criteria for most lab grade refrigeration and freezer products. This Draft 1 also adjusts the bins for each of the product categories, confirming that a variety of products at different volumes can meet the proposed criteria. In addition, EPA has adjusted the definition of these products to more closely align with the latest NSF/ANSI standard.
Comment Submittal
Comments on the Version 2.0 Draft Specification may be submitted to labgraderefrigeration@energystar.gov by September 18, 2023. All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Product Development website unless the submitter requests otherwise. Stakeholder comments, previous draft specifications, and related materials are available on the ENERGY STAR Laboratory Grade Refrigerators and Freezers Specification Development webpage.
Stakeholder Webinar
EPA will host a webinar to answer any questions on this Draft 1, Version 2.0 specification on August 28, 2023, from 1-3 pm Eastern Time. Please register here if you plan on attending.
Please contact me at (202) 343-9153 or Fogle.Ryan@epa.gov, or Annie Williams at (703) 236-5492 or Annie.Williams@icf.com with questions. For test method questions, please contact Bryan Berringer, Department of Energy, at Bryan.Berringer@ee.doe.gov, or 202-586-0371.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR Program.
Best Regards,
Ryan Fogle
EPA Manager, ENERGY STAR for Medical Products
Enclosures
Draft 1, Version 2.0 Specification
Data and Analysis Package
Dear ENERGY STAR® Computer Servers Partners and Stakeholders:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to remind stakeholders that as of August 30, 2023, EPA-recognized certification bodies (CBs) are required to cease certification of new computer servers to the Version 3.0 specification and may only certify computer servers to the Version 4.0 specification. Certification bodies may continue submitting administrative modifications to existing computer server certifications to the Version 3.0 specification until January 12, 2024. After this date, only computer servers certified to the Version 4.0 specification will appear on the ENERGY STAR website and certified products list.
CBs must notify EPA by August 29, 2023, of models certified to Version 3.0, but not yet submitted to EPA, along with information on when data will be submitted. Failure to do so will result in QPX blocking submissions of these products to EPA.
Please contact EPA at servers@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specification. CBs should direct questions concerning the submittal of certified computer servers to Certification@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program
Dear Energy Efficiency Program Sponsor or Other Interested Party:
The models listed below have been disqualified from the ENERGY STAR® program. The Disqualified Products List has been updated, and these models have been removed from the ENERGY STAR Qualified Products Lists:
Displays
- Compumax Computer Ltd., COMPUMAX model ML2022CM
LED Lamps
- Greenlite Lighting Corporation, Greenlite model 9W/A19/50K
- Greenlite Lighting Corporation, Greenlite model 9W/A19/50K/2
- Greenlite Lighting Corporation, Greenlite model 9W/A19/50K/4
- Keystone Technologies, Keystone model KT-LED9A19-O-850-ND
- Keystone Technologies, Keystone model KT-LED9A19-O-830-ND
- Keystone Technologies, Keystone model KT-LED9A19-O-827-ND
- Keystone Technologies, Keystone model KT-LED9A19-O-835-ND
- Kian Tech LLC, Kian model 13PAR38DIM827LT25DD
- Megalight Inc., Megalight model LPAR3801330
Room Air Cleaners
- Shenzhen Starmax Technology Co., Ltd, Storebary model C380
Telephony
- VTech Telecommunications, Ltd., VTech model VSP861
Please visit the Products Integrity Page for specific brands and model numbers, and email Enforcement@energystar.gov with any questions.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Dear ENERGY STAR® TV Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is sharing amendments to the ENERGY STAR Version 9.0 Televisions Specification to align with the U.S. Department of Energy’s Uniform Test Method for Measuring the Energy Consumption of Television Sets incorporated in Appendix H to Subpart B of 10 CFR Part 430, published in a Final Rule on March 15, 2023 and effective starting April 14, 2023. Updates to Appendix H correspond with the recently finalized industry-developed test method, ANSI/CTA-2037-D: Determination of Television Set Power Consumption.
Products already certified to Version 9.0 will not need to be retested to maintain their ENERGY STAR certification. In other words, test results already submitted through the certification process using test method ANSI/CTA-2037-C are not affected by this update. All new testing shall be based on Appendix H to Subpart B of 10 CFR Part 430 (i.e., ANSI/CTA-2037-D). EPA encourages manufacturers with products already certified to the Version 9.0 specification to work with their certification bodies to update their reported values consistent with the results from the updated Appendix H to Subpart B of 10 CFR Part 430.
The Version 9.1 Draft Specification has been amended to account for this updated test method. These proposed updates include:
- Updating, adding, and removing definitions;
- removing requirements for previously defined modes;
- revising the power measurement interpolation instructions for models that would otherwise be certified at a dynamic luminance level below given thresholds; and
- updating the applicable test procedures to reference Appendix H to Subpart B of 10 CFR Part 430.
Comments on the Version 9.1 Draft specification may be submitted to televisions@energystar.gov by August 17, 2023. All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Product Development website unless the submitter requests otherwise. Stakeholder comments, previous drafts of the specification, and related materials are available on the ENERGY STAR Televisions Version 9 Specification Development webpage.
Please contact me at (202) 564-8538 or Kwon.James@epa.gov, or Annie Williams at (703) 236-5492 or Annie.Williams@icf.com, with questions.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR.
Best Regards,
James Kwon, EPA Product Manager
ENERGY STAR for Consumer Electronics
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Televisions Version 9.1 Draft Specification
Dear ENERGY STAR® Residential Ceiling Fans, Ventilating Fans, and Lighting Brand Owners and Other Interested Parties:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to announce that the amended versions of the Residential Ceiling Fans and Ventilating Fans specifications with the lighting requirements removed, are now posted and effective.
As a reminder in line with the sunset timeline, EPA will no longer allow products to be certified referencing the Certified Subcomponent Database as of August 1, 2023. The web services for submitting data on certified subcomponents is closed and the database is no longer available for certification.
The finalized lighting sunset details are available on the ENERGY STAR Products Partner Public Notices page.
Please contact EPA at lighting@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specifications. CBs should direct questions concerning the submittal of certified ceiling fans, ventilating fans, or lighting subcomponents to Certification@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR® program.
Four Weeks Left to Reserve Your Hotel Sleeping Room!
September 26–28, 2023
Atlanta, Georgia
Dear ENERGY STAR® Commercial Electric Cooktop Manufacturers and Other Interested Stakeholders:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing the ENERGY STAR Commercial Electric Cooktops Version 1.0 Final Draft Specification. Stakeholders’ comments in response to the Final Draft may be submitted to EPA no later than August 11, 2023.
EPA received written and verbal feedback since the Draft 2 was released on April 20, 2023, and notes that most of the feedback was supportive of the Draft 2 specification. The Agency provides a summary and responses in the Version 1.0 Draft 2 comment response matrix.
Overview of Final Draft Proposal
Minor revisions were made to the Version 1.0 Final Draft specification and no changes were made to the Version 1.0 Final Draft data package relative to the Draft 2 documents. A short list of revisions to the specification is provided below:
- Addition of two terms and definitions, cooking energy and simmer average water temperature, derived from the from the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) F1521-22 Standard Test Methods for Range Tops.
- Inclusion of the safety requirement for third-party testing under UL 197 Standard for Safety Commercial Electric Cooking Appliances prior to ENERGY STAR certification for products included in scope.
- Removal of the reporting requirement confirming testing to NSF/ANSI Standard 4. Reporting requirements confirming testing to UL 197 Standard are also excluded to avoid confusion.
- Revision of the reporting requirement for individual hob size from diameter to area for greater inclusivity.
- Revision of the reporting requirement for simmer test results to include three endpoints: simmer average water temperature, energy rate, and energy efficiency.
Comment Submittal
Stakeholders are welcome to submit any final comments on the ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Commercial Electric Cooktops specification to cfs@energystar.gov by August 11, 2023. EPA anticipates finalizing this Version 1.0 specification September 1, 2023. Upon finalization, manufacturers will be able to immediately begin certifying products.
All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Commercial Electric Cooktop Version 1.0 Product Development website unless the submitter requests otherwise.
Please contact me at Crk.Tanja@epa.gov or 202-650-7522 or Adam Spitz, ICF, at Adam.Spitz@icf.com or 916-231-7685 for any questions or concerns.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Tanja Crk, Product Manager for Commercial Food Service
ENERGY STAR Program
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Commercial Electric Cooktop Version 1.0 Final Draft Specification
ENERGY STAR Commercial Electric Cooktop Version 1.0 Final Draft Specification Data Package
ENERGY STAR Commercial Electric Cooktop Version 1.0 Draft 2 Comment Response Matrix
Dear ENERGY STAR® Computer Server Partner, Certification Body, or Recognized Laboratory,
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been made aware of an update to the Standard Performance Evaluation Corporation (SPEC) Server Efficiency Rating Tool (SERT). For the purposes of ENERGY STAR certification, computer servers should be tested using SERT Version 2.0.7 moving forward. As has been the case with previous SERT updates during the life of the ENERGY STAR Computer Server program, test results already submitted through the certification process using a version of SERT EPA previously accepted are not affected by this update. This clarification memo can be found on the Computer Servers Version 4.0 Specification product development website.
The SERT Version 2.0.7 is a minor update, with the following changes, and the results it produces are comparable to those produced by previous SERT versions:
- Adds support for regulatory certification with AmpereOne and other future ARM-compatible processors developed by Ampere
- Addresses an ARM specific disk I/O bug
Please contact me at Fogle.Ryan@epa.gov or 202-343-9153 or John Clinger at John.Clinger@icf.com or 215-967-9407 with questions or concerns regarding this update. For any questions regarding certification to SERT Version 2.0.7, please contact certification@energystar.gov. For any other computer server related questions, please contact servers@energystar.gov. Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Ryan Fogle
EPA Manager, ENERGY STAR for IT and Data Center Products
Dear ENERGY STAR® Partners and other Stakeholders:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to share both an update on ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023 and proposed recognition criteria for 2024. Stakeholders are invited to provide written comments on these proposed criteria no later than August 21, 2023, to MostEfficient@energystar.gov.
ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023
As of June 2023, 2651 models from 343 ENERGY STAR partners meet the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023 recognition criteria. The number of models and partners per category is noted in the following table:
| Product Category | Product Count | Partner Count |
| Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps | 35 | 3 |
| Ceiling Fans | 163 | 15 |
| Clothes Dryers | 34 | 8 |
| Clothes Washers | 62 | 6 |
| Computer Monitors | 130 | 21 |
| Dehumidifiers | 330 | 49 |
| Dishwashers | 288 | 37 |
| Freezers | 20 | 11 |
| Geothermal Heat Pumps | 348 | 23 |
| Refrigerators | 750 | 66 |
| Room Air Cleaners | 53 | 19 |
| Room Air Conditioners | 75 | 14 |
| Ventilating Fans | 194 | 23 |
| Windows/Sliding Glass Doors/Skylights | 517 | 42 |
| Totals | 2651 | 343 |
ENERGY STAR Most Efficient enjoys robust utility support and is leveraged by 17 energy efficiency program sponsors, serving over 5.3 million households (or roughly 13.8 million consumers). These rebate programs feature one or more product categories covered by ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023 and reflect a diverse geographic spread.
ENERGY STAR Most Efficient is also leveraged for retailer incentives as part of the ENERGY STAR Retail Products Platform (ESRPP), an innovative, nationally coordinated, market transformation initiative. ESRPP retailers now represent 1,243 appliance storefronts in current program sponsors’ service areas. In 2023, there are 15 efficiency program sponsors participating in ESRPP currently serving 21.3% of U.S. households.
EPA provides consumers with information about recognized products through a filter on the popular ENERGY STAR Products Finders. This year, EPA created the first ever EPA hosted ENERGY STAR and ENERGY STAR Most Efficient Product Finders for central air conditioners and air source heat pumps making identification of an energy efficient choice in heating and cooling much easier. EPA also recently launched a new consumer friendly ENERGY STAR Product Finder for windows, doors, and skylights and intends to feature ENERGY STAR Most Efficient models through this interface in 2024.
2024 Product Categories and Recognition Criteria
EPA completed a review of the data associated with currently recognized models and found in multiple cases updates to the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient criteria are needed to recognize the best of ENERGY STAR. EPA is proposing changes for ceiling fans, CAC/ASHP, computer monitors, dehumidifiers, dishwashers, dryers, freezers, room air cleaners, room air conditioners, vent fans, and windows. Criteria for clothes washers, geothermal heat pumps, refrigeration products, and skylights will remain unchanged in 2024.
Ceiling Fans: EPA proposes to raise the current criteria for ceiling fans for 2024 as many high performing fans have entered the market recently. Savings offered by the proposed criteria are significant, 74% for a 52-inch fan, the most common size on the market, and 75% for hugger fans.
Clothes Washers: No changes are proposed to the current criteria for clothes washer types. The ENERGY STAR Most Efficient list includes 41 base models from 5 brands, providing consumers with a good selection of models with superior energy and water efficiency.
Computer Monitors: Recognizing the availability of more efficient models, EPA proposes to revise the current criteria for 2024. 52 models meet the proposed criteria, offering consumers an average of 15.7kWh/year and savings of 38% over conventional models.
Dehumidifiers: EPA proposes to revise the criteria for dehumidifiers for 2024. Currently, there are 35 base models that meet the proposed criteria, offering consumers significant savings between 10% and 27%, depending on product class, over conventional models. Five whole-home dehumidifiers meet the criteria with a savings between 23% and 45%, depending on product class, over conventional models.
Dishwashers: With the Version 7.0 specification being equal to the current Most Efficient level, EPA proposes to revise the criteria for 2024. Currently, there are 20 base models from 8 brands that meet this proposal. Additionally, EPA is removing the cleaning performance requirement from the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient criteria since cleaning performance is part of the Version 7.0 specification taking effect on July 19, 2023. The proposed criteria save consumers 27% in energy and 36% in water over the federal standard.
Dryers: EPA proposes to adjust the criteria for dryers for 2024 in light of more efficient products entering the market. Currently 21 base models from 8 brands, representing both heat pump and hybrid heat pump technologies, meet the proposed criteria. EPA is proposing to carve out a separate product class for compact ventless 120V units for 2024. At the proposed levels energy savings will increase to 40% better than the federal standard for standard sized units, 61% for compact ventless 240V units, and 52% for compact ventless 120V units. EPA continues to encourage partners to complete optional fields for technology type when certifying products to make it easier for utilities to incentivize these technologies in the market.
Ducted and Ductless Air Source Heat Pumps: EPA proposes to adjust the criteria for ductless heat pumps, in light of the opportunity to make equipment that meets the requirements for tax credits easier to find while maintaining the exclusiveness of ENERGY STAR Most Efficient recognition. The criteria for ducted products remain unchanged. For ductless heat pumps, EPA has aligned SEER2, EER2, and HSPF2 requirements with tax credit levels, such that all ENERGY STAR Most Efficient non-ducted heat pumps will be eligible for a tax credit. In addition, since the installation benefits requirement has proven to be a challenge particularly for ductless units, EPA is pausing this requirement for ductless units in 2024. As indicated when finalizing the 2023 criteria and in line with EPA’s May 18 proposal to sunset the ENERGY STAR specification for CAC, EPA proposes to cease ENERGY STAR Most Efficient recognition of CAC in 2024. Lastly, EPA has reorganized the criteria documents, grouping all air-source heat pumps together and creating a separate recognition criteria document for geothermal heat pumps.
Geothermal Heat Pumps: No changes are proposed to the current criteria for geothermal heat pumps.
Refrigerators-Freezers and Freezers: EPA proposes to make a single adjustment to the criteria for refrigerators and freezers for 2024. Specifically, EPA proposes to revise the level for upright freezers from 15% to 20% better than the federal standard for 2024. This proposal will reduce the base models meeting the criteria from 18% to 7% of base models on the market. EPA proposes to maintain the criteria for all other product classes for 2024. There are 292 base models from 59 brands of standard size refrigerators, which represents 28% of the standard size market. For compact refrigerators, there are 43 base models from 23 brands that meet the proposed criteria representing 4% of the market. There are 10 upright freezer and chest freezer base models from 7 brands that meet the criteria representing 4% of the market.
Room Air Cleaners: EPA proposes to revise the metric but maintain the same levels for room air cleaners in 2024. The proposal is for the metric to change from Smoke CADR to PM2.5 to align with the new DOE test procedure going into effect next year. Under this proposal, EPA estimates 49 base models from 25 brands will meet the criteria, which represents 9% of the market. There has been tremendous growth in shipments over the past few years due to both COVID + wildfires making it more important to highlight greater efficiency for consumers.
Room Air Conditioners: EPA proposes to revise the criteria for most of the room air conditioner product classes in 2024 in light of the ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 specification taking effect in October 2023. There are currently 13 base models from 6 brands meeting the proposed criteria, which represents 2% of the market. EPA also proposes that for products with heating capability, the heating mode efficiency be reported based on the TBD ENERGY STAR Heating Mode Test for room air conditioners. EPA will be working with stakeholders to develop this test procedure with the goal of finalizing later this year.
Ventilating Fans: EPA proposes to revise the criteria for 2024. 10% of the market and 20% of ENERGY STAR certified models meet the proposed criteria, offering more than 80% savings over a baseline bath fan, and almost 60% savings over baseline in-line vent fans across a variety of fan types and 15 brands.
Windows and Sliding Glass Doors: EPA proposes to revise the window and sliding glass door criteria for 2024. No changes are proposed for the Northern Zone and North-Central Zone criteria. EPA proposes to revise the SHGC down to 0.23 in the South-Central Zone to align with the new ENERGY STAR Version 7.0 criteria. In addition, EPA proposes to revise U-factor and SHGC of the Southern Zone criteria to 2 equivalent energy performance options: Either U ≤ 0.21 and SHGC ≤ 0.23 or U ≤ 0.22 and SHGC ≤ 0.21 may be used. This change in the Southern Zone may help expand the number of products available to consumers. These combinations of performance criteria for the Southern Zone have equivalent energy performance when using the ‘Results and Assumptions’ table created for the Version 7.0 criteria revision analysis. EPA is also proposing to remove the requirement of North American Fenestration Standard/Specification (NAFS) Performance Grade ≥15 for windows, doors, and skylights. This will simplify the criteria. EPA believes that the NAFS Performance Grade requirement has not been shown to be beneficial in the product’s energy performance. EPA is not proposing any changes to the skylight U-factor or SHGC criteria.
The proposed ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2024 criteria for the full suite of products is summarized below. In addition to meeting these recognition criteria, products must be certified as ENERGY STAR by an EPA-recognized certification body. Additional detail for each product category is included in the recognition criteria documents.
| Category | ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2024 Recognition Criteria | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Ceiling Fans |
Efficiency as per 10 CFR 430 Subpart B, Appendix U (cfm/W)
*D is the ceiling fan blade span in inches |
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| Clothes Washers* |
To be recognized, laundry centers must meet the Most Efficient washer and dryer criteria. |
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| Ducted Air Source Heat Pumps |
Installation benefits, multiple capacities
Cold climate heat pumps must also meet a COP of 1.75 at 5 degrees F, and provide 70% capacity maintenance at 5 degrees F. |
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| Dehumidifiers |
Product must meet the following applicable minimum Integrated Energy Factor (IEF): |
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| Ductless Heat Pumps |
Multiple capacities.
Ductless old climate heat pumps must also meet a COP of 1.75 at 5 degrees F, and provide 70% capacity maintenance at 5 degrees F. |
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|
Geothermal Heat Pumps* |
|
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|
Computer Monitors |
Total Energy Consumption (ETEC) in kilowatt-hours per year shall be calculated as follows:
5.67 if A ≥ 220 in2 |
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|
Dishwashers |
|
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|
Dryers |
Products must meet the applicable energy performance requirements shown in the table below, as determined by 10 CFR Part 430 Subpart B Appendix D2, unless noted otherwise.
|
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|
Refrigerator-Freezers and Freezers* |
Product must have an Annual Energy Consumption (AEC) of less than or equal to 637 kWh per year. Side-by-side and bottom freezer product types must be at least 30% more efficient than federal requirements. Top freezers must be at least 10% more efficient than federal requirements. Standard-size upright freezer and chest freezer product types must be at least 20% more efficient than federal requirements. Compact freezer product types must be at least 20% more efficient than federal requirements. Compact refrigerator or refrigerator-freezer product types must be at least 30% more efficient than federal requirements. Optional reporting of refrigerant type. |
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|
Room Air Cleaners |
Product must meet the minimum PM2.5 Clean Air Delivery Rate per Watt (PM2.5 CADR/W) requirements shown in the table below, as determined by Appendix FF to Subpart B of Part 430—Uniform Test Method for Measuring the Energy Consumption of Air Cleaners
|
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|
Room Air Conditioners |
Product must have a Combined Energy Efficiency Ratio (CEER) that is greater than or equal to the values in the table below.
Products must also be at or below a maximum sound level of 45 dB(A) for the lowest operational setting. |
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|
Ventilating Fans |
|
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|
Residential Windows and Sliding Glass Doors |
Products must meet these new performance requirements. Changes occur in the SHGC requirements for the South-Central Zone and the U-factor and SHGC requirements of the Southern Zone.
Note: SHGC = Solar Heat Gain Coefficient. |
*Proposed criteria carried over from 2023 for these categories with no changes.
[1]For purposes of this requirement, the manufacturer shall test the dryer according to the provisions in the DOE test procedure in 10 CFR 430, Subpart B, Appendix D2, but where the drying temperature setting can be chosen independently of the program, it shall be set to the maximum. At the time of certification, for each basic model the manufacturer shall report per this criteria section the energy performance (CEF), the cycle program name, the temperature setting, the dryness setting, as well as any settings enabled by default, and the time taken to complete the energy test cycle (as defined in the ENERGY STAR Version 1.1 specification, Section 5C).
EPA will provide additional information regarding the roll out of ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2024 recognition with the finalization of these criteria.
EPA will host a webinar to discuss these proposals with stakeholders on July 26, 2023, from 1-3pm EDT. Please register here. This document as well as the criteria documents can be found here. Please share written comments no later than August 21, 2023, with MostEfficient@energystar.gov. Unless the commenter asks otherwise, all comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient criteria development page. EPA plans to finalize these recognition requirements in the coming months.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Ann Bailey, Director
ENERGY STAR Product Labeling
Dear ENERGY STAR® Residential Ceiling Fans, Ventilating Fans, Lighting Brand Owners and Other Interested Parties:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to remind stakeholders that on August 1, 2023, the EPA will issue amended versions of the Residential Ceiling Fans and Ventilating Fans specifications with the lighting requirements removed, effective at issuance.
EPA will be updating the data requirements for the XML-based web services for submitting data on models for these products on August 1st to align with the amended requirements.
In addition, EPA will no longer allow products to be certified referencing the Certified Subcomponent Database on August 1, 2023. As of this date, the web services for submitting data on certified subcomponents will all be closed and the database will no longer be available for certification.
The finalized lighting sunset details are available on the ENERGY STAR Products Partner Public Notices page.
Please contact EPA at lighting@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specifications. Certification bodies should direct questions concerning the submittal of certified ceiling fans, ventilating fans, or lighting subcomponents to Certification@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR® program.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Residential Ceiling Fans, Ventilating Fans, Lighting Brand Owners and Other Interested Parties:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to remind stakeholders that on August 1, 2023, the EPA will issue amended versions of the Residential Ceiling Fans and Ventilating Fans specifications with the lighting requirements removed, effective at issuance.
EPA will be updating the data requirements for the XML-based web services for submitting data on models for these products on August 1st to align with the amended requirements.
In addition, EPA will no longer allow products to be certified referencing the Certified Subcomponent Database on August 1, 2023. As of this date, the web services for submitting data on certified subcomponents will all be closed and the database will no longer be available for certification.
The finalized lighting sunset details are available on the ENERGY STAR Products Partner Public Notices page.
Please contact EPA at lighting@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specifications. Certification bodies should direct questions concerning the submittal of certified ceiling fans, ventilating fans, or lighting subcomponents to Certification@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR® program.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Lighting Stakeholders:
This is a reminder that this Wednesday July 12, 2023, beginning at 2 PM EDT EPA will host a webinar providing an overview of the ENERGY STAR Recessed Downlights V1 Draft 2 specification and allow for detailed discussion. Please register here to attend.
We look forward to our discussion and thank you for your support of ENERGY STAR.
Sincerely,
Taylor Jantz-Sell
ENERGY STAR Lighting Program Manager
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Dear ENERGY STAR® Residential Dishwashers Stakeholders:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to remind stakeholders that the effective date for the Version 7.0 ENERGY STAR Residential Dishwashers specification is July 19, 2023. On this date, only products certified to Version 7.0 and submitted by EPA-recognized certification bodies (CBs) to EPA using the Version 7.0 web service will display on our list of certified models.
Please contact EPA at appliances@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specification. CBs should direct questions concerning the submittal of Version 7.0 certified residential dishwashers to Certification@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Lighting Stakeholders:
This letter announces the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) release of the second draft of the ENERGY STAR Recessed Downlights Version 1.0 specification (V1.0), intended to replace the Luminaires Version 2.2 specification (V2.2; the “existing specification”) for recessed downlights and recessed downlight retrofit kits.
EPA received formal comment on the first draft of the specification from three EPA-recognized Certification Bodies, two industry associations (jointly), and one brand owner partner which are posted at www.energystar.gov/luminaires.
Changes Proposed in This Draft
EPA’s intent remains that eligible models currently certified under Luminaires V2.2 may be reevaluated and recertified without additional testing. In response to the valuable feedback provided by stakeholders, the primary changes proposed in draft 2 are a new approach to certifying product families, simplification of lumen maintenance life requirements, and revised packaging requirements for models destined only for online sales. Please review all note boxes in the draft specification for details. Below is a summary of changes proposed in Draft 2.
(Section 6.1) Product Families
Based on the feedback received from draft 1 around efficacy and product variations, EPA is proposing a new approach to certifying product families in draft 2. Rather than requiring the testing of all variations or worst-case efficacy scenarios, this proposal focuses on the amount of energy used and requires the tested representative model for a product family to be the variation with the highest input power and highest efficacy. Variations in the product family that reduce light output and thus would have lower luminous efficacy are allowed so long as the applicable minimum initial light output requirement is met. The goal of this approach is for the certification to represent the same energy savings for any product in the family. The result of this approach should be a greater number of models being certified, with less testing. Further, this approach allows for flexibility in serving customer preference while delivering the same benefit to the environment.
(Section 9) Lumen Maintenance and Rated Life Requirements
In response to concerns about more conservative projections highlighted in the 2022 NEMA white paper (https://www.nema.org/standards/view/nema-comments-on-updated-ies-tm-21-22-calculator), EPA is proposing a single light source life requirement for all products, whether the light source is separable or inseparable, of 25,000 hours instead of maintaining the two thresholds of 25,000 and 50,000 hours respectively. With the official release of the ANSI/IES TM-21 Calculator confirmed, EPA is proposing that all products be re-evaluated using the new calculator so that all ENERGY STAR certified recessed downlights under the new specification will be represented consistently. Additionally, EPA proposes to remove the “Option 2” lumen maintenance compliance path and all associated references to LM-84 testing and TM-28 lifetime projections due to the extremely limited use of this certification pathway over the history of the luminaires program.
(Section 15.1) Packaging Requirements
EPA has updated the packaging requirements in response to stakeholder comments that the current packaging requirements were designed for retail sales where consumers make purchasing decisions based on information displayed on a package in a store and are costly and unnecessary for online sales. For models destined exclusively for online sale, EPA proposes that packaging requirements may be fulfilled by providing a supplemental performance summary document for certification and to all online resellers to help ensure that online marketing claims are consistent with the model’s certification. Additionally, EPA has removed requirements that were redundant with existing safety standards. Note that this does not impact existing luminaires partner commitments regarding the use of ENERGY STAR marks which will carry over.
Additional Changes Proposed
- The scope has been expanded to allow for alternate mounting configurations (Section 1).
- The Downlight, Accent Light, and Downlight Retrofit definitions are further harmonized and a new Wallwash Distribution definition is introduced (Section 4).
- The expectation that color tunable and multi-output products are to be evaluated at the most consumptive white light setting has been clarified (Section 5.1).
- EPA has clarified that ANSI/IES LM-80-21, IES LM-80-15, or LM-80-08 and its Addendum A are acceptable methods of measurement related to ENERGY STAR lumen and color maintenance requirements. Additionally, ANSI/IES LM-79-19 and IES LM-79-08 are acceptable methods of measurement where applicable (section 7, 8, and 9) as are ANSI C82.77-10-2021 and C82.77-10-2014 for power factor.
- Light source serviceability and driver replaceability requirements are replaced with recommendations whenever possible based on product design (Section 11).
Summary
EPA seeks comments on the second draft via email to lighting@energystar.gov by July 28, 2023. Please indicate “ENERGY STAR Recessed Downlights V1 Draft 2 Comments” in the subject line. Please note that comments received will be posted to the ENERGY STAR website unless otherwise requested.
On Wednesday July 12, 2023, EPA will host a webinar providing an overview of the V1 Draft 2 specification and allow for detailed discussion. Register here to attend. All documents related to Draft 2 are posted to www.energystar.gov/luminaires.
EPA appreciates your contribution to the development of this specification and welcomes inquiries; please contact me with questions, comments or concerns at jantz-sell.taylor@epa.gov or lighting@energystar.gov. Thank you for your support of ENERGY STAR.
Sincerely,
Taylor Jantz-Sell
ENERGY STAR Lighting Program Manager
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Recessed Downlights Version 1.0 Specification
ENERGY STAR Recessed Downlights V1.0 Draft 1 Comment Summary and Response
Dear ENERGY STAR® Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) Brand Owner or Other Interested Party:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to share with you the finalized ENERGY STAR Version 1.2 Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment specification. EPA would like to thank the stakeholders who have invested time and effort to contribute feedback that has informed this specification amendment. EPA has not revised any criteria pertaining to DC EVSE and currently certified DC and AC products will not be affected by this update. These Version 1.2 requirements are effective immediately.
With Version 1.2, EPA addresses updates to the criteria for AC EVSE prompted by recent state requirements in terms of added product functionality. Data shared demonstrated that some of the state mandated features warrant additional allowed energy across multiple modes. This proposed amendment also includes minor updates to the connected criteria. In response to extensive stakeholder feedback as well as data shared by multiple partners, this amended specification proposes a new base allowance and new functionality adders for the AC-output EVSE energy efficiency criteria. Stakeholder comments, previous drafts of the specification, test method and related materials are available on the ENERGY STAR Version 1.2 EVSE Specification Development Page.
Feedback on the Draft Specification
EPA received stakeholder comments in response to the draft specification. EPA made modest updates to the final specification in response to these comments as outlined below:
Definitions –
- EPA received feedback from stakeholders that although the metering in charging stations meets utility requirements for accuracy, noise, environmental conditions etc. it doesn’t typically meet ANSI C-12 requirements. As such, EPA updated the Revenue Grade Meter definition to harmonize with NIST Handbook 44 requirements, which EPA understands products do meet.
- Stakeholders requested that EPA update the Credit Card Reader definition to allow for EMV CHIP credit cards as required by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), which this final document does.
- Stakeholders mentioned that the term ‘In-use’ in tables 2 through 4 was unclear. EPA added a definition clarifying the meaning of the in-use feature.
Clarifications –
- EPA would like to remind stakeholders that EVSE station lighting including status lights and with the exception of displays may be turned off or disabled by means of hardware or software during the ENERGY STAR testing process as lighting doesn’t pertain to the EVSE functionality.
- Stakeholders pointed out that some EVSEs in the market require Wi-Fi, Cellular and Ethernet to be enabled simultaneously. As such, EPA allows testing of products with any or all the network connections enabled. However, allowance can be claimed for only one connection as per the order mentioned in the test method.
- To support the addition of ISO 15118 functionality in the optional connected criteria, EPA has clarified how brand owners should demonstrate compliance if they want their model recognized as having ENERGY STAR connected functionality.
ENERGY STAR partnership as a manufacturer is limited to organizations that own and/or license a brand name under which they sell eligible products in the United States and/or Canada. Partnership is not available to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) that do not sell directly to consumers or end users. OEMs may certify products on behalf of the ENERGY STAR brand owners/licensees; however, the brand owner must be the ENERGY STAR partner associated directly with the certified product models, since only partners are authorized to use the ENERGY STAR certification mark.
Please contact me at (202) 564-8538 or Kwon.James@epa.gov, or Abhishek Jathar at (202) 862-1203 or Abhishek.Jathar@icf.com, with questions or to share feedback on this amendment.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR.
Best Regards,
James Kwon, EPA Product Manager
ENERGY STAR for EVSE
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR EVSE Version 1.2 Final Specification
ENERGY STAR DC EVSE Final Test Method
ENERGY STAR AC EVSE Final Test Method
Dear ENERGY STAR® Medical Imaging Equipment Manufacturers and Other Interested Stakeholder,
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing the Draft 1, Version 1.0 ENERGY STAR Medical Imaging Equipment Specification.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency launched the ENERGY STAR program in 1992. Since then, ENERGY STAR has grown to become the international standard for energy efficiency and one of the most successful voluntary U.S. government programs in history. ENERGY STAR is a voluntary partnership between government, businesses, and purchasers designed to encourage the manufacture, purchase, and use of efficient products to help protect the environment. Products that earn the ENERGY STAR label reduce greenhouse gas emissions by meeting strict energy efficiency guidelines set by EPA in consultation with stakeholders. To date:
- More than 90% of American households recognize the ENERGY STAR label.
- In 2020, more than 2000 manufacturers and 1900 retailers partnered with ENERGY STAR to make and sell millions of ENERGY STAR certified products across more than 75 residential and commercial product categories.
- More than 840 utilities, state and local governments, and nonprofits leverage ENERGY STAR in their efficiency programs, reaching roughly 97% of households in all 50 states. Nationwide, utilities invested $8.4 billion in energy efficiency programs in 2019.4
- Since 1992, ENERGY STAR and its partners helped American families and businesses save 5 trillion kilowatt-hours of electricity, avoid more than $450 billion in energy costs, and achieve 4 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas reductions.
The ENERGY STAR program benefits partners by benefiting their customers. In 2020 alone, Americans, with the help of ENERGY STAR, 400 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions––and saved $42 billion on their utility bills. Consistent with the commitment to helping consumers save money and reduce their environmental impact, EPA adds new products to the ENERGY STAR product portfolio as compelling new opportunities arise.
Medical imaging equipment contributes about five percent to the energy use of medical facilities. Since ENERGY STAR last considered a specification in this space, interest from buyers in hospital systems and clinics has continued to grow as they look to achieve their energy and emissions savings goals. With this in mind, EPA seeks to establish an ENERGY STAR specification that recognizes medical imaging equipment that can save energy without compromising performance. ENERGY STAR is aware of initiatives in Europe and is looking to build on that effort by expanding energy efficiency in these products to the United States and Canada.
EPA previously released an ENERGY STAR Medical Imaging Equipment Discussion Document for stakeholder review and comment focusing on developing the key components for a specification. These included definitions, scope, test methodology, and criteria, notably power management criteria and energy reporting. EPA is now releasing a Draft 1 specification and test method that consider this early feedback. Note boxes throughout the specification provide EPA’s rationale for the enclosed proposals and respond to comments made by stakeholders in response to the Discussion Document.
The Draft 1, Version 1.0 specification incorporates the following key elements:
Scope:
Stakeholders commented that ENERGY STAR should have a limited scope. EPA has considered the comment, but without further justification for why the scope should not follow the COCIR1 self-regulatory initiative scope, EPA is largely retaining what was presented in the Discussion Document. The Agency has made some slight adjustments based on the stakeholder feedback, particularly clarifying excluded products.
Power Modes and Auto-Power Down:
The efficiency requirements in this specification remain focused on the non-active state of medical imaging products. EPA is proposing to collect energy consumption data on the ready-to-scan mode and low-power mode. The ENERGY STAR program has consistently heard feedback from radiology and facilities staff that they are interested in better understanding the energy consumption of these products so they can factor energy use into purchasing decisions.
In addition, EPA’s ENERGY STAR program is proposing that ENERGY STAR certified medical imaging equipment default to having power management capabilities enabled. The Agency understands that not every medical facility’s use-cases are appropriate for power management and notes that as proposed, this feature can be turned off based on user needs. However, the Agency also believes that equipment in all but the heaviest use scenarios would benefit from some energy saving power management and offering this functionality in the default setting will allow more facilities to engage it, where prudent to do so.
Test Method:
The Department of Energy (DOE) has made a slight modification to the test method clarifying that all products should be tested with the power saving mode turned on for ENERGY STAR certification purposes.
Comment Submittal
EPA welcomes stakeholder input on the attached Draft 1, Version 1.0 specification. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit any comments to medicalimaging@energystar.gov July 7, 2023. All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Product Development website unless the submitter requests otherwise.
Stakeholder Webinar
EPA will host a webinar to answer any questions on this discussion guide on June 14, 2023, from 12-2 PM Eastern Time. Please register here if you plan on attending.
The exchange of ideas and information between EPA, industry, and other interested parties is critical to the success of ENERGY STAR. Specifications and meeting materials will be distributed via email and posted on the ENERGY STAR website. To track EPA’s progress on this specification, please visit the product development website.
Please contact me at Fogle.Ryan@epa.gov or 202-343-9153 or John Clinger at John.Clinger@icf.com or 215-967-9407 with questions or concerns. For any other medical imaging related questions, please contact medicalimaging@energystar.gov. Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Ryan Fogle
EPA Manager, ENERGY STAR for IT and Data Center Products
Enclosures:
Draft 1, Version 1.0 Specification
Draft 1, Version 1.0 Specification Partner Commitments
Draft 1 Medical Imaging Equipment Test Method
Dear ENERGY STAR® Residential Electric Cooking Product Manufacturers and Other Interested Stakeholders:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing the ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Residential Electric Cooking Products Draft 2 Specification. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit comments to EPA no later than June 30, 2023. EPA will host a webinar on June 21, 2023, to discuss this Draft 2 specification.
Activities to Date
The ENERGY STAR Residential Electric Cooking Products Version 1.0 Draft 1 specification was released on December 15, 2022. EPA hosted a webinar on January 11, 2023, to discuss the specification with stakeholders and gather initial feedback. EPA received comments from multiple stakeholders in response to the Draft 1 specification.
Most stakeholders expressed support for the development of this residential cooking products specification, noting it will provide market guidance at a key time. Some stakeholders proposed a more stringent IAEC level, while others recommended that the level be eased to account for an engineering margin between the tested values and reported values. Additionally, one stakeholder suggested that the levels be relaxed to allow more radiant products to qualify. Another stakeholder suggested removing oven standby mode energy use from the criteria. Based on analysis of the available test data, EPA believes that the originally proposed levels are justified. EPA also agrees with the commenter who notes that with time more data will become available and enable further criteria refinements that can be reflected in a Version 2.0 specification.
Several stakeholders expressed support for additional reporting. A stakeholder proposed induction cooking tops be a separate product class. A different stakeholder requested EPA align the product classes with DOE. Some stakeholders expressed reservations about using the DOE test procedure to qualify products. EPA addresses each of these comments in the Draft 1 comment response matrix.
Some stakeholders encouraged the specification to move forward as soon as possible, while other stakeholders indicated more time is necessary. EPA anticipates finalizing the ENERGY STAR Residential Electric Cooking Products Version 1.0 in the summer of 2023.
Multiple stakeholders requested the EPA offer a savings and payback analysis, which EPA is providing in the Draft 2 data package and further explanation in the corresponding note box in the Draft 2 specification.
Electric cooking products are present in 60% of U.S. homes according to the 2020 Residential Energy Consumption Survey (RECS)[1]. As momentum has rapidly built around the expansion of electric cooking, many are eager to understand the savings potential. Since Draft 1 was published, DOE published a Technical Support Document, which provides baseline levels for coil and smooth electric products. With these baseline levels, EPA estimates the proposed ENERGY STAR efficiency level is 16% more efficient in annual energy consumption, electricity costs, and emissions, compared to a weighted baseline efficiency level using DOEs market share estimates for smooth and coil electric product types.
Overview of Draft 2 Proposal
The EPA has considered all stakeholder comments and addresses them in the Draft 2 specification including explanations in section note boxes, the Draft 1 comment response matrix as well as the Draft 2 data package.
Key elements of the Draft 2 proposal include:
- Simplifying the wording for the additional reporting requirement of the annual combined low-power mode energy consumption (ETLP), excluding the following clause: “of the conventional electric cooking top component of a combined electric cooking product,” and replacing it with “of the cooking top.” The reporting requirement is written as follows: “annual combined low-power mode energy consumption of the cooking top (ETLP).” The annual combined low-power mode energy consumption for the combined cooking product (conventional range) and conventional electric oven component can be calculated from the annual combined low-power mode energy consumption of the conventional electric cooking top component.
- Providing savings analysis in the Draft 2 data package.
Comment Submittal
EPA welcomes stakeholder input on the attached ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Residential Electric Cooking Products Draft 2 Specification. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit any comments to appliances@energystar.gov by June 30, 2023.
All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Residential Electric Cooking Products Version 1.0 Product Development website unless the submitter requests otherwise.
Stakeholder Webinar
EPA will host a webinar on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, from 1:00pm – 2:00pm ET to address stakeholder comments and questions. Stakeholders interested in participating in this discussion should register here.
Please contact me at Crk.Tanja@epa.gov or 202-650-7522, Fabria Jno Baptiste (ICF) at Fabria.JnoBaptiste@icf.com or 571-842-4949, and Steve Leybourn (ICF) at Steve.Leybourn@icf.com or 202-862-1566 for questions or concerns. For questions about the test method, please contact Carl Shapiro, DOE, at Carl.Shapiro@ee.doe.gov.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Tanja Crk, Product Manager
ENERGY STAR
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Residential Electric Cooking Products Draft 2 Specification
ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Residential Electric Cooking Products Draft 2 Data Package
ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Residential Electric Cooking Products Draft 1 Stakeholder Comment Response Matrix
[1] U.S. Energy Information Administration, Office of Energy Demand and Integrated Statistics, Form EIA-457A of the 2020 Residential Energy Consumption Survey (RECS)
Dear ENERGY STAR® Residential Electric Cooking Product Manufacturers and Other Interested Stakeholders:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing the ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Residential Electric Cooking Products Draft 2 Specification. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit comments to EPA no later than June 30, 2023. EPA will host a webinar on June 21, 2023, to discuss this Draft 2 specification.
Activities to Date
The ENERGY STAR Residential Electric Cooking Products Version 1.0 Draft 1 specification was released on December 15, 2022. EPA hosted a webinar on January 11, 2023, to discuss the specification with stakeholders and gather initial feedback. EPA received comments from multiple stakeholders in response to the Draft 1 specification.
Most stakeholders expressed support for the development of this residential cooking products specification, noting it will provide market guidance at a key time. Some stakeholders proposed a more stringent IAEC level, while others recommended that the level be eased to account for an engineering margin between the tested values and reported values. Additionally, one stakeholder suggested that the levels be relaxed to allow more radiant products to qualify. Another stakeholder suggested removing oven standby mode energy use from the criteria. Based on analysis of the available test data, EPA believes that the originally proposed levels are justified. EPA also agrees with the commenter who notes that with time more data will become available and enable further criteria refinements that can be reflected in a Version 2.0 specification.
Several stakeholders expressed support for additional reporting. A stakeholder proposed induction cooking tops be a separate product class. A different stakeholder requested EPA align the product classes with DOE. Some stakeholders expressed reservations about using the DOE test procedure to qualify products. EPA addresses each of these comments in the Draft 1 comment response matrix.
Some stakeholders encouraged the specification to move forward as soon as possible, while other stakeholders indicated more time is necessary. EPA anticipates finalizing the ENERGY STAR Residential Electric Cooking Products Version 1.0 in the summer of 2023.
Multiple stakeholders requested the EPA offer a savings and payback analysis, which EPA is providing in the Draft 2 data package and further explanation in the corresponding note box in the Draft 2 specification.
Electric cooking products are present in 60% of U.S. homes according to the 2020 Residential Energy Consumption Survey (RECS)[1]. As momentum has rapidly built around the expansion of electric cooking, many are eager to understand the savings potential. Since Draft 1 was published, DOE published a Technical Support Document, which provides baseline levels for coil and smooth electric products. With these baseline levels, EPA estimates the proposed ENERGY STAR efficiency level is 16% more efficient in annual energy consumption, electricity costs, and emissions, compared to a weighted baseline efficiency level using DOEs market share estimates for smooth and coil electric product types.
Overview of Draft 2 Proposal
The EPA has considered all stakeholder comments and addresses them in the Draft 2 specification including explanations in section note boxes, the Draft 1 comment response matrix as well as the Draft 2 data package.
Key elements of the Draft 2 proposal include:
- Simplifying the wording for the additional reporting requirement of the annual combined low-power mode energy consumption (ETLP), excluding the following clause: “of the conventional electric cooking top component of a combined electric cooking product,” and replacing it with “of the cooking top.” The reporting requirement is written as follows: “annual combined low-power mode energy consumption of the cooking top (ETLP).” The annual combined low-power mode energy consumption for the combined cooking product (conventional range) and conventional electric oven component can be calculated from the annual combined low-power mode energy consumption of the conventional electric cooking top component.
- Providing savings analysis in the Draft 2 data package.
Comment Submittal
EPA welcomes stakeholder input on the attached ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Residential Electric Cooking Products Draft 2 Specification. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit any comments to appliances@energystar.gov by June 30, 2023.
All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Residential Electric Cooking Products Version 1.0 Product Development website unless the submitter requests otherwise.
Stakeholder Webinar
EPA will host a webinar on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, from 1:00pm – 2:00pm ET to address stakeholder comments and questions. Stakeholders interested in participating in this discussion should register here.
Please contact me at Crk.Tanja@epa.gov or 202-650-7522, Fabria Jno Baptiste (ICF) at Fabria.JnoBaptiste@icf.com or 571-842-4949, and Steve Leybourn (ICF) at Steve.Leybourn@icf.com or 202-862-1566 for questions or concerns. For questions about the test method, please contact Carl Shapiro, DOE, at Carl.Shapiro@ee.doe.gov.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Tanja Crk, Product Manager
ENERGY STAR
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Residential Electric Cooking Products Draft 2 Specification
ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Residential Electric Cooking Products Draft 2 Data Package
ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Residential Electric Cooking Products Draft 1 Stakeholder Comment Response Matrix
[1] U.S. Energy Information Administration, Office of Energy Demand and Integrated Statistics, Form EIA-457A of the 2020 Residential Energy Consumption Survey (RECS)
Dear ENERGY STAR® Medical Imaging Equipment Manufacturers and Other Interested Stakeholder,
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing the Draft 1, Version 1.0 ENERGY STAR Medical Imaging Equipment Specification.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency launched the ENERGY STAR program in 1992. Since then, ENERGY STAR has grown to become the international standard for energy efficiency and one of the most successful voluntary U.S. government programs in history. ENERGY STAR is a voluntary partnership between government, businesses, and purchasers designed to encourage the manufacture, purchase, and use of efficient products to help protect the environment. Products that earn the ENERGY STAR label reduce greenhouse gas emissions by meeting strict energy efficiency guidelines set by EPA in consultation with stakeholders. To date:
- More than 90% of American households recognize the ENERGY STAR label.
- In 2020, more than 2000 manufacturers and 1900 retailers partnered with ENERGY STAR to make and sell millions of ENERGY STAR certified products across more than 75 residential and commercial product categories.
- More than 840 utilities, state and local governments, and nonprofits leverage ENERGY STAR in their efficiency programs, reaching roughly 97% of households in all 50 states. Nationwide, utilities invested $8.4 billion in energy efficiency programs in 2019.4
- Since 1992, ENERGY STAR and its partners helped American families and businesses save 5 trillion kilowatt-hours of electricity, avoid more than $450 billion in energy costs, and achieve 4 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas reductions.
The ENERGY STAR program benefits partners by benefiting their customers. In 2020 alone, Americans, with the help of ENERGY STAR, 400 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions––and saved $42 billion on their utility bills. Consistent with the commitment to helping consumers save money and reduce their environmental impact, EPA adds new products to the ENERGY STAR product portfolio as compelling new opportunities arise.
Medical imaging equipment contributes about five percent to the energy use of medical facilities. Since ENERGY STAR last considered a specification in this space, interest from buyers in hospital systems and clinics has continued to grow as they look to achieve their energy and emissions savings goals. With this in mind, EPA seeks to establish an ENERGY STAR specification that recognizes medical imaging equipment that can save energy without compromising performance. ENERGY STAR is aware of initiatives in Europe and is looking to build on that effort by expanding energy efficiency in these products to the United States and Canada.
EPA previously released an ENERGY STAR Medical Imaging Equipment Discussion Document for stakeholder review and comment focusing on developing the key components for a specification. These included definitions, scope, test methodology, and criteria, notably power management criteria and energy reporting. EPA is now releasing a Draft 1 specification and test method that consider this early feedback. Note boxes throughout the specification provide EPA’s rationale for the enclosed proposals and respond to comments made by stakeholders in response to the Discussion Document.
The Draft 1, Version 1.0 specification incorporates the following key elements:
Scope:
Stakeholders commented that ENERGY STAR should have a limited scope. EPA has considered the comment, but without further justification for why the scope should not follow the COCIR1 self-regulatory initiative scope, EPA is largely retaining what was presented in the Discussion Document. The Agency has made some slight adjustments based on the stakeholder feedback, particularly clarifying excluded products.
Power Modes and Auto-Power Down:
The efficiency requirements in this specification remain focused on the non-active state of medical imaging products. EPA is proposing to collect energy consumption data on the ready-to-scan mode and low-power mode. The ENERGY STAR program has consistently heard feedback from radiology and facilities staff that they are interested in better understanding the energy consumption of these products so they can factor energy use into purchasing decisions.
In addition, EPA’s ENERGY STAR program is proposing that ENERGY STAR certified medical imaging equipment default to having power management capabilities enabled. The Agency understands that not every medical facility’s use-cases are appropriate for power management and notes that as proposed, this feature can be turned off based on user needs. However, the Agency also believes that equipment in all but the heaviest use scenarios would benefit from some energy saving power management and offering this functionality in the default setting will allow more facilities to engage it, where prudent to do so.
Test Method:
The Department of Energy (DOE) has made a slight modification to the test method clarifying that all products should be tested with the power saving mode turned on for ENERGY STAR certification purposes.
Comment Submittal
EPA welcomes stakeholder input on the attached Draft 1, Version 1.0 specification. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit any comments to medicalimaging@energystar.gov July 7, 2023. All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Product Development website unless the submitter requests otherwise.
Stakeholder Webinar
EPA will host a webinar to answer any questions on this discussion guide on June 14, 2023, from 12-2 PM Eastern Time. Please register here if you plan on attending.
The exchange of ideas and information between EPA, industry, and other interested parties is critical to the success of ENERGY STAR. Specifications and meeting materials will be distributed via email and posted on the ENERGY STAR website. To track EPA’s progress on this specification, please visit the product development website.
Please contact me at Fogle.Ryan@epa.gov or 202-343-9153 or John Clinger at John.Clinger@icf.com or 215-967-9407 with questions or concerns. For any other medical imaging related questions, please contact medicalimaging@energystar.gov. Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Ryan Fogle
EPA Manager, ENERGY STAR for IT and Data Center Products
Enclosures:
Draft 1, Version 1.0 Specification
Draft 1, Version 1.0 Specification Partner Commitments
Draft 1 Medical Imaging Equipment Test Method
Dear ENERGY STAR® Residential Heating and Cooling Equipment Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder:
Consistent with the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) focus on the potential for electric heat pumps to deliver energy-efficiency gains, pollution reduction and cost-savings to consumers, the ENERGY STAR program is proposing to sunset the certification pathway to the ENERGY STAR label for residential furnaces and central air conditioners (CACs). This will allow EPA to evolve the ENERGY STAR portfolio of product specifications toward identifying the most efficient electric equipment now available to consumers.
This proposal involves sunsetting the ENERGY STAR Version 4.1 Specification for Furnaces and removing CACs from the ENERGY STAR V6.1 Specification for CAC and Heat Pump Equipment. A similar sunset proposal will be considered for gas and oil appliances in the context of forthcoming revisions of the ENERGY STAR V3.0 Specification for Boilers, the Version 1.0 Specification for Dryers, and the ENERGY STAR V1.0 for Commercial Packaged Boilers.
With the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, EPA sees an unprecedented opportunity for the ENERGY STAR program to support the national transition to the most energy efficient equipment available. The Agency recognizes an important responsibility to guide consumers to the choices that support the efficient electrification of residential space conditioning. As such, EPA is proposing to phase out the labeling and promotion of residential gas furnaces and CACs. Leading up to this sunset proposal, EPA has heard from a range of stakeholders emphasizing the opportunity the Agency has to focus the ENERGY STAR label on efficient electric products like air source heat pumps in order to highlight products that reduce energy consumption, improve energy security, and reduce pollution. In fact, heat pumps are as much as four times more efficient than even the most efficient condensing gas furnaces. Notably, while indoor NOx pollution is associated with gas appliances, electric appliances are not responsible for any direct emissions and garner significant emissions reductions even when source or upstream emissions from electricity generation are factored in.
With respect to cooling, stakeholders have highlighted the need for the ENERGY STAR label to serve as a market signal moving the United States towards energy efficient heat pumps. Estimates indicate that if all CACs were replaced by heat pumps about 50 Mt of CO2 would be avoided over 10 years and billions of dollars in heating costs would also be saved. EPA agrees that ENERGY STAR can serve as a trusted resource in helping American households understand the value of replacing their CACs with heat pumps. At the same time, EPA recognizes that households in the coldest climates may not be comfortable relying solely on a heat pump and may therefore retain their existing furnace in the near term. EPA intends to serve as a trusted source for consumers by providing guidance about how to use such a dual fuel system to save energy and minimize greenhouse gas emissions while staying comfortable.
Proposed Timing
EPA recognizes the investment ENERGY STAR brand owner and utility partners have made in certifying and promoting products in these categories and is sensitive to providing a reasonable transition period. The Agency proposes to sunset the ENERGY STAR Version 4.1 Specification for Furnaces and remove CAC from the ENERGY STAR V6.1 Specification for CAC and Heat Pump Equipment effective December 30, 2024, with no new certifications accepted after December 30, 2023.
EPA values stakeholder feedback on this proposal and timeline. Comments may be submitted to HVAC@energystar.gov by June 22, 2023. Stakeholders may contact HVAC@energystar.gov with questions. In closing, EPA appreciates the efforts of all heating and cooling stakeholders to advance a cleaner environment through the ENERGY STAR Program and applauds your success in moving the market towards greater energy efficiency.
Sincerely,
Ann Bailey, Director
ENERGY STAR Labeling Branch
US EPA
Dear ENERGY STAR® Light Commercial HVAC Manufacturers and Other Interested Stakeholders:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing a clarification to the ENERGY STAR Version 4.0 Light Commercial HVAC Specification.
Background
The ENERGY STAR Version 4.0 Light Commercial HVAC Specification was released on March 28, 2022, and a clarification of the specification was released in April 2022. The specification went into effect on January 1, 2023. On March 21, 2023, DOE issued a final rule pertaining to standards for air-cooled, three-phase, small commercial air conditioners and heat pumps and air-cooled, three-phase, variable refrigerant flow air conditioners and heat pumps. DOE notes that compliance with the amended standards established in this final rule is required on and after January 1, 2025. These final rules do not require substantive change to the ENERGY STAR specification but allow EPA to clarify existing criteria.
Summary of Changes
The purpose of this clarification is to account for DOE test standards being final and for upcoming test method compliance dates.
Key elements of the clarification include:
- “Proposed Appendix B1” has been changed to “Appendix F1.”
- Table 6 in the Test Requirements section now clarifies when to transition to using the updated DOE test methods. DOE requires the use of the updated test methods to show compliance with new energy conservation standards starting on January 1, 2024, for some equipment and January 1, 2025, for other equipment.
- Table 6 includes a footnote which states "Table 1 includes guidance about the transition to updated test methods. All quantities reported to EPA shall use the same test method as the rated values reported to DOE at all times, regardless of whether they are rated values. For instance, when large CUHP are required to use Appendix D1 to rate their equipment to IEER, they shall also use Appendix D1 to measure EER for the purposes of this specification. "
EPA does not expect the transition to new test methods to require products to be recertified, but their performance may need to be updated to reflect new results.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR Program. If you have any questions or feedback, please direct them to Abigail Daken at EPA, Daken.Abigail@epa.gov or 202-343-9375, and Megan McNelly at ICF, Megan.McNelly@icf.com or 703-934-3726.
Sincerely,
Abigail Daken
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
ENERGY STAR HVAC Program
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Version 4.0 Light Commercial HVAC Specification Rev May 2023
Dear Energy Efficiency Program Sponsor or Other Interested Party:
The models listed below have been disqualified from the ENERGY STAR® program. The Disqualified Products List has been updated, and these models have been removed from the ENERGY STAR Qualified Products Lists:
Ceiling Fans
- Royal Pacific Ltd., RP Lighting+Fans model 1RP69LED-***
- Royal Pacific Ltd., RP Lighting+Fans model 1RP69LED-WW
- The Home Depot, Home Decorators Collection model YG493A-***
- The Home Depot, Home Decorators Collection model YG493A-BN
- The Home Depot, Home Decorators Collection model YG493A-EB
- The Home Depot, Home Decorators Collection model YG493A-EB (1002 910 948)
- The Home Depot, Home Decorators Collection model YG493A-WH
LED Lamps
- Verbatim Americas, LLC, Verbatim model 70170
- Verbatim Americas, LLC, Verbatim model 70189
Please visit the Products Integrity Page for specific brands and model numbers, and email Enforcement@energystar.gov with any questions.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Commercial Electric Cooktop Manufacturers and Other Interested Stakeholders:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing the ENERGY STAR Commercial Electric Cooktops Version 1.0 Draft 2 Specification. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit comments to EPA no later than May 22, 2023.
Activities to Date
The ENERGY STAR Commercial Electric Cooktops Version 1.0 Draft 1 Specification was released on November 10, 2022. The EPA hosted a webinar on November 30, 2022 to discuss the specification with stakeholders and address any initial concerns and questions. The deadline for submitting Draft 1 comments to EPA was December 22, 2022. EPA received comments from multiple stakeholders in response to the ENERGY STAR Commercial Electric Cooktops Version 1.0 Draft 1 specification.
Stakeholders proposed suggestions on scope clarification regarding terms and definitions, including differentiating between range and non-range electric cooktops. Additionally, commenters suggested that EPA consider taking a more segmented approach regarding how an electric cooktop that is part of a packaged range (i.e., inclusive of a conventional or standard oven as a base but sold as a single unit) should be considered for ENERGY STAR certification compared to a dedicated independent countertop electric cooktop without an oven base. Clarification was also requested for differentiating terms and definitions between “hot tops” and “countertop cooktop units.” Other stakeholders requested further clarification on cooking container specificity such as dimensions and metal composition/material. EPA was encouraged to consider basing the energy efficiency level on each individual hob (for multi-hob units) rather than taking a weighted average of energy efficiency performance. In addition, EPA considered treatment of units with more than one operating voltage and potential impact to energy performance.
Overview of Draft 2 Proposal
The EPA has considered all stakeholder comments and addresses them in the Draft 2 specification including explanations in section note boxes, the Draft 1 comment matrix as well as the Draft 2 data package.
Key elements of the Draft 2 proposal include:
- Adding definitions for cooktop types including counter top cooktop units, commercial electric ranges, measured energy input, and simmer energy rate; and clarified inside diameter (ID) as the approach to use to measure cookware dimensions.
- Basing energy efficiency criteria on individual hobs instead of a weighted average of all hobs.
- Incorporating efficiency measures for multiple operating voltages for a single unit.
- Including a reporting requirement to confirm commercial electric cooktops are certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 4 ahead of energy efficiency testing for the purposes of ENERGY STAR certification.
- Adding in scope commercial electric ranges, which may be certified if the commercial cooktop portion of the unit meets the criteria set forth in this specification and the commercial electric oven portion is included in scope and is certified to the ENERGY STAR Commercial Ovens specification version currently in effect.
To ensure consistent and comparable test results among laboratories as well as certification and verification testing, the EPA continues to support use of a stainless-steel cooking container for commercial induction and electric non-induction cooktops for the purposes of ENERGY STAR certification. The EPA supports and engages in the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) F26 committee process and encourages participants to work through their process to specify a single cooking material for commercial electric cooktops.
Data Assembly for Commercial Electric Cooktops
EPA received additional induction and non-induction data that were evaluated and included in the data package. The induction data which closely track the ASTM F1521-22 standard test method affirm the ENERGY STAR proposed level of 80%. While EPA believes that the current dataset is reasonably reflective of commercial electric cooktop energy performance, the Agency remains interested in obtaining additional eligible data to incorporate in the performance requirement analysis. Data used for purposes of setting specification levels does not need to be third-party certified.
Comment Submittal
EPA welcomes stakeholder input on the attached ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Commercial Electric Cooktops Draft 2 Specification. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit any comments to cfs@energystar.gov by May 22, 2023. EPA will also accept additional data for any electric cooktop products submitted by this same deadline. All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Commercial Electric Cooktop Version 1.0 Product Development website unless the submitter requests otherwise.
Stakeholder Webinar
EPA will host a webinar on May 3, 2023, from 1 pm- 3 pm ET to address stakeholder comments and questions. Stakeholders interested in participating in this discussion should register here.
Please contact me at Crk.Tanja@epa.gov or 202-650-7522 or Adam Spitz, ICF, at Adam.Spitz@icf.com or 916-231-7685 for questions or concerns.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Tanja Crk, Product Manager for Commercial Food Service
ENERGY STAR Program
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Commercial Electric Cooktops Version 1.0 Draft 1 Comment Matrix
ENERGY STAR Commercial Electric Cooktops Version 1.0 Draft 2 Data Package
ENERGY STAR Commercial Electric Cooktops Version 1.0 Draft 2 Specification
Dear ENERGY STAR® Computer Server Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder,
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to share the final Version 4.0 ENERGY STAR Computer Server Specification. EPA would like to thank the many stakeholders who have invested time and effort to contribute feedback and data that has informed this product specification process. These Version 4.0 requirements will take effect on January 12, 2024. This letter provides highlights of the new requirements and outlines the transition process.
The Version 4.0 specification will recognize the top performing computer server products on the market. ENERGY STAR certified computer servers with power management enabled will use, on average, approximately 38% less energy than standard computer. If all computer servers sold in the United States were ENERGY STAR certified, the cost savings would grow to over $4 billion each year and more than 74 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions would be prevented, equivalent to the emissions of nearly 8 million vehicles.
EPA received limited comments in response to the final draft specification focused on improving clarity, which EPA has addressed fully in the final document. Specifically, EPA made very modest clarifications to the definitions for Storage Heavy Servers, Auxiliary Processing Accelerator (APA) and High and Low End Performance Configurations. New definitions for Field Programmable Gate Array and Data Processing Units were included to support the changes to the APA definition. In addition, the footnote related to power supplies was amended to clarify that the power supply values used for servers should be at 230V/60Hz rather than 115V/60Hz. Finally, there were small changes made to the scope, to exclude products that would never be sold without an APA.
Version 4.0 Transition Timeline and Next Steps
EPA shares partners’ desire for a smooth transition from one ENERGY STAR specification to the next so that consumer expectations are met and ENERGY STAR labeled products fully meet the new requirements upon their effective date. With this in mind, EPA has established the following timeline:
- Effective immediately, manufacturers may elect to have their Certification Body (CB) certify eligible products to the Version 4.0 requirements.
- CBs must upload required SERT files specified in Section 4.1.2.v of the specification to EPA in a location to be determined which will be shared with CBs upon the release of the final QPX form.
- After August 30, 2023, CBs will be instructed to stop certifying new product submittals to Version 3.0. Note, however, that existing certifications to V3.0 will remain valid for the purposes of ENERGY STAR certification until January 12, 2024.
- Any computer server manufactured as of January 12, 2024, must meet the Version 4.0 requirements to bear the ENERGY STAR mark. All certifications of products to the Version 3.0 specification will be invalid for purposes of ENERGY STAR and CBs will only submit product models certified to Version 4.0 to EPA.
On behalf of EPA, I would like to thank all stakeholders who provided feedback during this specification revision process and I look forward to working with you as you certify and market your ENERGY STAR certified computer servers. Please contact me at Fogle.Ryan@epa.gov or 202-343-9153 or John Clinger at John.Clinger@icf.com or 215-967-9407 with questions or concerns. For any other computer server related questions, please contact servers@energystar.gov. Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Ryan Fogle
EPA Manager, ENERGY STAR for IT and Data Center Products
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Version 4.0 Final Specification
ENERGY STAR Version 4.0 Data and Analysis Package
Dear ENERGY STAR® Computer Server Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder,
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to share the final Version 4.0 ENERGY STAR Computer Server Specification. EPA would like to thank the many stakeholders who have invested time and effort to contribute feedback and data that has informed this product specification process. These Version 4.0 requirements will take effect on January 12, 2024. This letter provides highlights of the new requirements and outlines the transition process.
The Version 4.0 specification will recognize the top performing computer server products on the market. ENERGY STAR certified computer servers with power management enabled will use, on average, approximately 38% less energy than standard computer. If all computer servers sold in the United States were ENERGY STAR certified, the cost savings would grow to over $4 billion each year and more than 74 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions would be prevented, equivalent to the emissions of nearly 8 million vehicles.
EPA received limited comments in response to the final draft specification focused on improving clarity, which EPA has addressed fully in the final document. Specifically, EPA made very modest clarifications to the definitions for Storage Heavy Servers, Auxiliary Processing Accelerator (APA) and High and Low End Performance Configurations. New definitions for Field Programmable Gate Array and Data Processing Units were included to support the changes to the APA definition. In addition, the footnote related to power supplies was amended to clarify that the power supply values used for servers should be at 230V/60Hz rather than 115V/60Hz. Finally, there were small changes made to the scope, to exclude products that would never be sold without an APA.
Version 4.0 Transition Timeline and Next Steps
EPA shares partners’ desire for a smooth transition from one ENERGY STAR specification to the next so that consumer expectations are met and ENERGY STAR labeled products fully meet the new requirements upon their effective date. With this in mind, EPA has established the following timeline:
- Effective immediately, manufacturers may elect to have their Certification Body (CB) certify eligible products to the Version 4.0 requirements.
- CBs must upload required SERT files specified in Section 4.1.2.v of the specification to EPA in a location to be determined which will be shared with CBs upon the release of the final QPX form.
- After August 30, 2023, CBs will be instructed to stop certifying new product submittals to Version 3.0. Note, however, that existing certifications to V3.0 will remain valid for the purposes of ENERGY STAR certification until January 12, 2024.
- Any computer server manufactured as of January 12, 2024, must meet the Version 4.0 requirements to bear the ENERGY STAR mark. All certifications of products to the Version 3.0 specification will be invalid for purposes of ENERGY STAR and CBs will only submit product models certified to Version 4.0 to EPA.
On behalf of EPA, I would like to thank all stakeholders who provided feedback during this specification revision process and I look forward to working with you as you certify and market your ENERGY STAR certified computer servers. Please contact me at Fogle.Ryan@epa.gov or 202-343-9153 or John Clinger at John.Clinger@icf.com or 215-967-9407 with questions or concerns. For any other computer server related questions, please contact servers@energystar.gov. Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Ryan Fogle
EPA Manager, ENERGY STAR for IT and Data Center Products
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Version 4.0 Final Specification
ENERGY STAR Version 4.0 Data and Analysis Package
Dear ENERGY STAR® Residential Water Heaters Stakeholders:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to remind stakeholders that the effective date for the Version 5.0 ENERGY STAR Residential Water Heaters specification is April 18, 2023. On this date, only products certified to Version 5.0 and submitted by EPA-recognized certification bodies (CBs) to EPA using the Version 5.0 web service will display on our list of certified models.
Please contact EPA at waterheaters@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specification. CBs should direct questions concerning the submittal of Version 5.0 certified residential water heaters to Certification@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Dear Energy Efficiency Program Sponsor or Other Interested Party:
The models listed below have been disqualified from the ENERGY STAR® program. The Disqualified Products List has been updated, and these models have been removed from the ENERGY STAR Qualified Products Lists:
LED Lamps
- LEDVANCE LLC, Sylvania model 78352
- LEDVANCE LLC, Sylvania model 78353
- LEDVANCE LLC, Sylvania model 78354
- LEDVANCE LLC, Sylvania model 78355
- LEDVANCE LLC, Sylvania model 78356
- LEDVANCE LLC, Sylvania model 78357
- LEDVANCE LLC, Sylvania model 78358
- LEDVANCE LLC, Sylvania model 78359
- LEDVANCE LLC, Sylvania model 78360
Luminaires
- Acuity Brands Lighting, Juno model JBK4 ADJ SWW5 90CRI
- Acuity Brands Lighting, Juno model JBK4 ADJ SWW5 90CRI MW M6
- AM Conservation Group, Inc., Simply Conserve model L9DL627D
- AM Conservation Group, Inc., Simply Conserve model L9DL630D
- AM Conservation Group, Inc., Simply Conserve model L9DL640D
- AM Conservation Group, Inc., Simply Conserve model L9DL650D
- EarthTronics, Inc., Earthtronics model RTF700406WH2
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LCALD6B350-DUN-T35
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LCALDX6350-DUN-T30
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LCALDX6350-DUN-T40
- EnVision LED Lighting, Inc., Envision LED model LED-DLJBX-6B-9W-27K
- EnVision LED Lighting, Inc., Envision LED model LED-DLJBX-6B-9W-30K
- EnVision LED Lighting, Inc., Envision LED model LED-DLJBX-6B-9W-40K
- EnVision LED Lighting, Inc., Envision LED model LED-DLJBX-6B-9W-50K
- Inspiring Star Tech Co.,Ltd, Inspiring Star model INS-02LED-12-AS2(3000K)
- Inspiring Star Tech Co.,Ltd, Inspiring Star model INS-02LED-12-AS2(4000K)
- Inspiring Star Tech Co.,Ltd, Inspiring Star model INS-02LED-12-AS2(5000K)
- Westinghouse Lighting Corporation, Westinghouse model 50900
- Westinghouse Lighting Corporation, Westinghouse model 50910
- Westinghouse Lighting Corporation, Westinghouse model 50920
- Westinghouse Lighting Corporation, Westinghouse model 50930
Please visit the Products Integrity Page for specific brands and model numbers, and email Enforcement@energystar.gov with any questions.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Dear Battery Charging Systems Partners, Battery Charger Stakeholders and Other Interested Parties: Please see the attached letter from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), announcing their intent to launch the revision of the Version 1.0 ENERGY STAR® specification for Battery Charging Systems (BCS). The announcement letter outlines the goals and next steps in the specification development process. As a key stakeholder, EPA invites your participation in the development of an appropriate test procedure(s) and performance requirements for battery chargers. If you know of others who may be interested in participating in this process, please forward this announcement and encourage them to send their contact information to batterychargers@energystar.gov to be added to the stakeholder contact list. If you have any questions, please contact Andrew Fanara, EPA, at Fanara.andrew@epa.gov or (206) 553-6377 or Robin Clark, ICF International, at rclark@icfi.com or (202) 862-1223. Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR!
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing for stakeholder comment the Draft 1 Version 2.0 ENERGY STAR® specification for Battery Charging Systems (BCSs). The document is attached to this email, as are a cover memo and data collection sheets. The final date for provision of comments on the draft specification will be January 15, 2010. EPA would also like to notify stakeholders that it will be hosting a Webinar to discuss the draft specification on Tuesday, December 14, 2010, from 11 am to 2 pm, Eastern Time. Please RSVP to batterychargers@energystar.gov by this Friday, December 10, to receive Webinar information. Please direct any specific questions to Katharine Kaplan, at kaplan.katharine@epamail.epa.gov, or 202-343-9120, or Matt Malinowski, ICF International, at mmalinowski@icfi.com or 202-862-2693. We look forward to working with you and thank you for your interest in ENERGY STAR.
Please see attached important correspondence from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency concerning the Final Version 3.0 ENERGY STAR Specification for Boilers.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR.
• Join Us for the 2018 ENERGY STAR Products Partner Meeting
• Light the Moment, with ENERGY STAR!
• Free Marketing Resources for Consumers and Partners
Join Us for the 2018 ENERGY STAR Products Partner Meeting
Phoenix, Arizona | September 5-7
Get excited for the 2018 ENERGY STAR Products Partner Meeting! The ENERGY STAR team has developed sessions specifically geared for Lighting Partners. These sessions are meant to help partners learn about the latest market insight, cutting edge technology, and new energy efficiency program models.Online registration closes August 14, 2018, register today!
View the latest agenda to start planning your time in Phoenix and make sure to join ENERGY STAR for the following lighting sessions on September 6:
Extending the Life of Lighting Programs: How to Light the Way to "Hard to Reach" Customers.
Learn innovative marketing strategies lighting manufacturers have adopted to deliver ENERGY STAR certified LED bulbs to underserved communities and capture energy savings from this untapped market.
Speakers:
• Gillian Saidman, Director Utility Rebate and Government Programs, L'Image Home Products
• Jesus Pernia, Energy Efficiency Consultant, Energize CT
• Jill Vohr, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Key Meeting Reminders:
Location: The Sheraton Grand Phoenix
340 North 3rd Street
Phoenix, Arizona 85004
(602) 262-2500
http://www.sheratonphoenixdowntown.com/
The hotel's cut-off date for reserving rooms in the ENERGY STAR room block is August 14, 2018. Rooms are limited and available on a first come, first served basis so please make your arrangements as soon as possible.
Updates on the meeting will be provided as they become available and will also be posted on the ENERGY STAR meetings page at https://www.energystar.gov/partnermeeting.
Moderator:
• Dan Cronin, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Fashion & Features & Flair Oh My! Uncovering the Sexy Side of ENERGY STAR Luminaires
Join this session to hear success stories from a home builder about marketing non-energy features such as style and functionality to drive the energy efficiency conversation and to emphasize the importance of the ENERGY STAR.
Speakers:
• Geoff Ferrell, CTO, Mandalay Homes
• Dan Rogers, ENERGY STAR technical support, ICF
Moderator:
• Taylor Jantz-Sell, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Recognizing Smart Home Energy Management Systems
EPA is considering ENERGY STAR recognition of smart home systems that save energy by automatically detecting when a home is empty triggering energy saving modes. ENERGY STAR certified smart lighting is a key component of this system. Come to learn more and shape this new opportunity! This technical working session will continue stakeholder discussion of the possibility. Discussion will be led by EPA's Taylor Jantz-Sell and Abigail Daken and feature contributions from:
• Lara Bonn, Director of Emerging Technologies and Services, Efficiency Vermont
• Gustaf Lonaeus, Senior Product Manager, Alarm.com
• Bradley Piper, Project Manager/Lead for NYSERDA Smart Home Pilot, Lockheed Martin Energy
The ENERGY STAR Products Partner Meeting is also a great time to set up networking meetings and interact with other ENERGY STAR stakeholders. The schedule for this year's meeting opens the opportunity for even more networking than in previous years. One-on-one networking rooms are now available. Learn how you can reserve meeting rooms HERE.
Key Meeting Reminders:
Location: The Sheraton Grand Phoenix
340 North 3rd Street
Phoenix, Arizona 85004
(602) 262-2500
http://www.sheratonphoenixdowntown.com/
The hotel's cut-off date for reserving rooms in the ENERGY STAR room block is August 14, 2018. Rooms are limited and available on a first come, first served basis so please make your arrangements as soon as possible.
Updates on the meeting will be provided as they become available and will also be posted on the ENERGY STAR meetings page at https://www.energystar.gov/partnermeeting.
Light the Moment with ENERGY STAR!
Did you know there are more than 3 billion light fixtures in homes across the U.S. with old, inefficient bulbs, wasting billions of dollars in energy costs and contributing to greenhouse gas emissions? Join the momentum with ENERGY STAR to switch out 300 million inefficient bulbs to certified LED light bulbs! Together, we could save $1.5 billion dollars in annual energy bills and prevent 17 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions. Light the Moment, with ENERGY STAR!
Access key marketing resources, such as seasonal social media graphics, sample posts, event kits, posters, and more, to spread the word about the benefits of ENERGY STAR certified LED lighting. Encourage your customers and networks to make the most of their moments, and their contribution to the environment, by lighting them with ENERGY STAR certified LED bulbs.
Please contact your ENERGY STAR account manager or changetheworld@energystar.gov with any questions.
Choose a Light Guide
Help your customers find the perfect bulb with ENERGY STAR's new tool, Choose A Light Guide! Through three easy steps, customers identify what shape, color and brightness they prefer to learn which bulb is the best fit for their needs.
Share this new tool with your networks and sales associates to use in stores and online during promotions.
Free Marketing Resources for Consumers and Partners!
Check out the ENERGY STAR Lighting Resources page to access key marketing tools. Engage these resources to educate your consumers, colleagues, and networks on the benefits on choosing ENERGY STAR certified lighting!
For Consumers:
• Renovate with LED Lighting Factsheet
• Dimmable ENERGY STAR Infographic
• Lighting Made Easy Infographic
• ENERGY STAR Lighting FAQs "Ask the Expert" Video
Partner Training Resources:
• ENERGY STAR Products Partner Meeting
• "Illuminated"—EPA's Lighting Podcast
• ENERGY STAR Lighting Training Center
It was brought to our attention some stakeholders did not receive the mailing that went out Mach 23, 2023. We apologize for the delay in this communication. For reference public notices related to ENERGY STAR products are posted here.
March 23, 2023
Dear ENERGY STAR® Lighting Stakeholders:
This letter announces the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) release of the first draft of the ENERGY STAR Recessed Downlights Version 1.0 Specification (V1.0), intended to replace the Luminaires Version 2.2 specification (V2.2; the “existing specification”) for recessed downlights and recessed downlight retrofit kits.
In response to EPA’s Lighting Sunset Proposal, two trade associations and the DesignLights Consortium™ made a case for continuing ENERGY STAR certification for recessed downlights and recessed downlight retrofit kits because of the potential for significant additional energy savings. In response, EPA performed research and confirmed a wide range of performance levels in this category and the opportunity for significant energy savings. Considering DOE’s stated intent not to cover recessed downlights and recessed downlight retrofit kits in federal standards, EPA determined it would be valuable to continue ENERGY STAR certification for these products via a new specification with higher efficacy criteria than currently set in the Luminaires specification, while preserving existing relevant performance requirements.
EPA aims to complete this process promptly and release a final Recessed Downlight V1.0 specification in 2023. After its release date, until the end of 2023, partners will be able to certify new models to either Luminaires V2.2 or Recessed Downlights V1.0. Consistent with the Luminaires V2.2 sunset timeline, after December 31, 2023, new recessed downlight and recessed downlight retrofit kit models must be certified to Recessed Downlights V1.0. Additionally, upon finalization of Recessed Downlights V1.0, EPA’s intent is that currently certified models that meet the new requirements may be certified to the new specification without additional testing.
Recessed downlights and recessed downlight retrofit kits certified to Luminaires V2.2 specification will be considered ENERGY STAR certified until December 31, 2024. For recessed downlight products that will not be recertified to the new specification, brand owners are encouraged to remove ENERGY STAR references on websites and materials as they are updated or reprinted to ensure compliance by December 31, 2024.
Proposed Changes from the Existing Specification
The primary changes proposed in Draft 1 are raising the existing minimum efficacy requirement, focusing the scope to cover only recessed downlights and recessed downlight retrofit kits, and harmonizing with the latest versions of the existing methods of measurement and reference documents. The following summarizes proposed changes in Draft 1.
Specification Scope
EPA is proposing the scope of this specification cover recessed downlights and retrofit kits with apertures less than or equal to ten inches. All other luminaire types are excluded.
Efficacy
EPA is proposing a single minimum efficacy requirement of 90 lumens per watt for recessed downlights and recessed downlight retrofit kits. As of January 10, 2023, there were nearly 2,500 recessed downlight and recessed downlight retrofit kit model families certified by more than 100 partners on the Luminaires V2.2 QPL that meet the proposed efficacy requirement.
Power Factor
EPA is proposing the power factor requirement be greater than or equal to 0.7 because there are currently no certified recessed downlights or recessed downlight retrofit kits with efficacy ≥90 lumens per watt that have power factor less than 0.7.
Test Methods
EPA is proposing updating methods of measurement to the latest versions, use of the ANSI/IES TM-21 Calculator for new certifications, and to retire the ENERGY STAR TM-21 Calculator on December 31, 2023, when no new models may be certified to Luminaires V2.2.
Based on market developments and insights gained with color tunable and multi-output products, EPA is proposing to include 2200K and 2500K nominal CCTs and for all tests and evaluations to be performed at the most consumptive white light setting (i.e., the white light setting that results in the highest measured input power) rather than the least efficient white light setting per Luminaires V2.2. EPA has clarified definitionally that dim-to-warm, full-color-tunable, and white-tunable products are considered color tunable for the purposes of ENERGY STAR certification. Since performance at the most consumptive setting was always required to be reported for these products, EPA does not anticipate additional testing for recertification.
Summary
EPA seeks comments on the first draft via email to lighting@energystar.gov by Friday April 21, 2023. Please indicate “ENERGY STAR Recessed Downlights V1.0 First Draft Comments” in the subject line. Please note that comments received will be posted to the ENERGY STAR website unless otherwise requested.
EPA appreciates your contribution to the development of this specification and welcomes inquiries; please contact me with questions, comments or concerns at jantz-sell.taylor@epa.gov or lighting@energystar.gov. Thank you for your support of ENERGY STAR.
Sincerely,
Taylor Jantz-Sell
ENERGY STAR Lighting Program Manager
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Recessed Downlights V1.0 Draft 1 Specification
ENERGY STAR Recessed Downlights V1.0 Draft 1 Specification Data & Analysis Package
Dear ENERGY STAR® Laboratory Grade Refrigerator and Freezer Manufacturer or Other Interested Stakeholder,
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is launching the revision of the ENERGY STAR Laboratory Grade Refrigerator and Freezer specification. To support this revision, EPA is assembling an enhanced dataset. Additional information and a template to follow.
Since the 2016 launch of this specification, more than 650 lab grade refrigerators and freezers and ultra-low lab grade freezers are currently certified. These products are from 35 different brands and are purchased by hospitals, clinics, university and government research laboratories, and pharmaceutical manufacturing plants. With growing interest among health care facilities in reducing their environmental footprint, more such facilities are seeking the best in efficiency. With the development of the Version 2.0 ENERGY STAR criteria, the program intends to recognize the significant improvements in energy efficiency that have been achieved and will continue to highlight products that make use of lower GWP refrigerants on the ENERGY STAR Product Finder.
EPA will leverage the robust dataset associated with products certified to current Version 1.1 specification as a starting point when evaluating levels for the Version 2.0. However, EPA would like to give manufacturers the opportunity to provide additional data to inform the Draft 1 proposal. EPA is particularly interested in energy data for smaller ULT products as few are currently certified. Testing should be completed using the ENERGY STAR Test Method for Laboratory Grade Refrigerators, Freezers, and Ultra-Low Temperature Freezers and data should be submitted using the test reporting template to labgraderefrigeration@energystar.gov. EPA will accept data through May 24, 2023.
EPA also encourages manufacturers to contact EPA with any items that the Agency should take under consideration as we begin the development of the Draft 1, Version 2.0 proposal, including additional product types that could be added to the eligible product list and features or functionality that may impact energy use.
The exchange of ideas and information between EPA, industry, and other interested parties is critical to the success of ENERGY STAR. Your input is valuable during this specification development process. All EPA correspondence and specification documents will be posted throughout the specification development process to the ENERGY STAR Laboratory Grade Refrigerator and Freezer Specification Development webpage.
Please contact me at Fogle.Ryan@epa.gov or 202-343-9153 or John Clinger, ICF, at John.Clinger@icf.com or 215-967-9407 with questions or concerns. Please direct any questions on the finalized test method to Bryan Berringer, DOE, at Bryan.Berringer@ee.doe.gov, or 202-586-0371. For any other laboratory grade refrigerator or freezer related questions, please contact labgraderefrigeration@energystar.gov. Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Ryan Fogle
EPA Manager, ENERGY STAR for Laboratory Grade Refrigerator and Freezer Products
Dear ENERGY STAR® Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) Brand Owner or Other Interested Party:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to share with you a proposed amendment to the ENERGY STAR Version 1.1 Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment specification. This amendment addresses updates to the criteria for AC EVSE prompted by recent state requirements in terms of added product functionality. EPA has not revised any criteria pertaining to DC EVSE and currently certified DC and AC products will not be affected by this update. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit written comments on this amendment to evse@energystar.gov by April 10, 2023.
In response to extensive stakeholder feedback as well as data shared by multiple partners, this amended specification proposes a new base allowance and new functionality adders for the AC-output EVSE energy efficiency criteria. Data shared demonstrated that some of the mandated features warrant additional allowed energy across multiple modes. This proposed amendment also includes minor updates to the connected criteria. Key specification updates are outlined below.
Definitions – EPA has included the definition for a speaker, PLC board (ISO 15118), RFID card reader, Revenue Grade Meter and a credit card reader in harmonization with the state regulatory requirements to clarify treatment of these features for the purposes of ENERGY STAR certification.
Base Allowance – EVSE is a rapidly evolving product category wherein many new features have been added to improve customer experience since the last revision. These additional features require more advanced processors leading to higher energy consumption. As such, EPA has amended the base allowance from 2.6 watts to 4 watts based on the data and feedback received from stakeholders.
No Vehicle, Partial On, and Idle Mode Adders – EPA has proposed additional allowances for EVSEs in the No Vehicle Mode, Partial On Mode, and Idle Mode for functionalities such as credit card readers, Revenue Grade Meters, RFID systems and PLC boards that will be enabled during testing in accordance with the state regulatory requirements. EPA is proposing an additional allowance for in-use speakers for improved driver engagement with the vehicle and its functions. Occupancy sensing is an important feature from an energy savings standpoint. When EVSE systems are sophisticated and well designed, occupancy sensing can be used as a primary input to determine the time required to put various subcomponents to sleep, identifying utility rates, detecting vacant spots as well as equipment security. To encourage innovation in this space and reward systems that lead to significant savings through occupancy sensing, EPA is also proposing an adder for this function. EPA would appreciate stakeholder comments and the submission of any additional data to support further refinement of this proposal, as needed.
Connected Functionality Criteria – To be recognized as having connected functionality, EPA has proposed an additional requirement that the EVSE have the necessary hardware (PLC board for ISO 15118) to facilitate high-level communication between the EV and the EVSE based on a wired communication technology beyond basic signaling. At this time, EPA intends compliance with this criterion to be confirmed through review of documentation by a certification body, rather than with a test procedure. For instance, this might include annotated product manuals, a record of product examination, etc. Products already certified as connected will continue to maintain their connected listing on the ENERGY STAR website.
Feedback – The exchange of ideas and information between EPA and stakeholders is critical to the success of ENERGY STAR. Stakeholder participation is key to the ENERGY STAR specification development process and is strongly encouraged. Please send comments via e-mail to evse@energystar.gov by April 10, 2023. All comments received will be posted to the EVSE specification development webpage, unless the submitter specifically requests that their comments remain confidential. EPA looks forward to further work with stakeholders in the completion of this amendment to the EVSE Version 1.2 specification.
Please contact me at (202) 564-8538 or Kwon.James@epa.gov, or Abhishek Jathar at (202) 862-1203 or Abhishek.Jathar@icf.com, with questions or to share feedback on this amendment.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR.
Best Regards,
James Kwon, EPA Product Manager
ENERGY STAR for EVSE
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR EVSE Version 1.2 Draft Specification
Dear ENERGY STAR® Set-Top Box Partners and Stakeholders:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to remind stakeholders that as of March 31, 2023, EPA-recognized certification bodies (CBs) are required to cease certification of new set-top boxes to the Version 5.1 specification. Certification bodies may continue submitting administrative modifications to existing set-top box certifications to the Version 5.1 specification until September 29, 2023. Brand owners must stop using the ENERGY STAR name and ENERGY STAR mark in association with all set-top box products on and after September 29, 2023.
While brand owners may continue to promote models as ENERGY STAR until this date, they are encouraged to stop applying the ENERGY STAR logo to printed material, including packaging, as soon as possible to minimize the presence of the ENERGY STAR label on materials after September 29, 2023.
Please reference EPA's Set Top Box Sunset Decision Memo for more details, and contact EPA at STBs@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specification. CBs should direct questions concerning the submittal of certified set-top box products to certification@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Dear ENERGY STAR Lighting Brand Owners and Other Interested Parties:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is finalizing the sunset of the ENERGY STAR specifications for lamps and luminaires effective December 31, 2024. Recessed downlights, discussed more below, will be covered by a new specification moving forward. Lighting requirements will be removed from the ENERGY STAR ceiling fan and ventilation fan specifications effective August 1, 2023. Fans with lighting will still be eligible.
EPA thanks stakeholders who submitted comments on the sunset proposal released last year. Feedback was provided by manufacturers, trade associations, energy efficiency organizations, facility managers and procurement organizations, certification bodies for ENERGY STAR lighting products, and sustainability consultants. All written comments received as well as the Comment Response Document are posted here, and the final sunset timeline is detailed below.
Multiple commenters suggested that the marketplace still needs part or all the ENERGY STAR lighting program to avoid losing the significant efficiency gains associated with lamps and luminaires. To the contrary, historical efficiency gains for lamps and luminaires will be secured by way of the sales prohibition of inefficient light sources in the United States that will be enforced starting this summer. These efficiency gains will translate to luminaires to the extent they accept covered light sources. For the remaining luminaires, recessed downlights excepted, which multiple stakeholders noted still had room for significant energy savings differentiation, any remaining efficiency potential is quite small, especially for residential applications. Commenters also expressed concern regarding quality. While instituting performance quality metrics in the ENERGY STAR program was critical for ensuring widespread market adoption of energy efficient lighting technology, it is not the role of the Program to recognize products based on non-energy attributes alone. It is important to note that energy conservation is the congressionally mandated directive of the ENERGY STAR program.
In absence of the ENERGY STAR mark, the Federal Trade Commission’s Lighting Facts labels will continue to communicate lamp performance to consumers, including brightness, estimated yearly energy cost, life, light appearance as the expression of the correlated color temperature, and energy used. Additionally, the Department of Energy (DOE) has initiated a rulemaking process that would significantly raise the minimum efficiency of general service lamps and establish a new minimum power factor requirement of 0.7 to go along with the minimum Color Rendering Index (CRI) of 80 initially set by the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. The proposed DOE rulemaking is open for comment until March 23, 2023, providing stakeholders the opportunity to participate in the development of a national standard for general service lamps (light bulbs).
ENERGY STAR for Recessed Downlights
Two trade associations, and the DesignLights Consortium™ made a case for continuing ENERGY STAR certification for recessed downlights and recessed downlight retrofit kits because of the potential for significant additional energy savings. In response, EPA performed research and confirmed wide performance in this category and the opportunity for energy savings. If all downlights and downlight retrofit kits sold in the United States were ENERGY STAR certified with efficacy > 90 lumens per watt (for example), the energy cost savings would grow to more than $1 billion each year, and more than 13 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions would be prevented, equivalent to the emissions from more than 1 million vehicles. Considering DOE’s stated intent not to cover recessed downlights and recessed downlight retrofit kits in federal standards, EPA has decided to continue ENERGY STAR certification for these products via a new specification with a higher efficacy requirement than currently required in the luminaires specification, while preserving existing relevant performance requirements. EPA is striving to complete this specification in time for a seamless transition from Luminaires.
Timeline Milestones
This timeline was set based on the 45 lumen per watt backstop and not future DOE rulemaking.
|
Specification Milestone |
Lamps and Luminaires* | Ceiling Fan Light Kits | Ceiling and Vent fans with Lighting |
|
Certified lighting models recognized on www.energystar.gov/productfinder until (static lists will be archived) |
December 31, 2024 | December 31, 2024 | N/A |
| EPA to stop accepting new Partnership Applications | August 1, 2023 | August 1, 2023 | N/A |
| Certification Bodies (CBs) to stop certifying new lighting models and subcomponents** | December 31, 2023 | August 1, 2023 | August 1, 2023 |
| Brand owners to stop using the ENERGY STAR name and ENERGY STAR mark | December 31, 2023 | December 31, 2024 | December 31, 2024 |
* EPA intends for there to be no interruption in the certification of recessed downlights and downlight retrofit kits.
** CBs to stop certifying models referencing the Certified Subcomponent Database on August 1, 2023.
EPA will continue market surveillance and enforcement of the proper use of the ENERGY STAR mark. Brand owners are encouraged to remove ENERGY STAR references on Web sites and materials as they are updated or reprinted to ensure compliance by December 31, 2024.
Ceiling Fan and Ventilation Fan Amendments
On August 1, 2023, EPA will issue amended versions of the Residential Ceiling Fans and Ventilating Fans specifications with the lighting requirements removed, effective at issuance. See Appendix A.
Please contact us at lighting@energystar.gov with any questions. For inquiries on DOE’s Rulemaking please contact Bryan Berringer at bryan.berringer@ee.doe.gov. EPA appreciates the efforts of lighting partners to advance a cleaner environment through the ENERGY STAR Program and applauds your success in moving the market towards greater energy efficiency.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Taylor Jantz-Sell
ENERGY STAR Lighting Program Manager
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Appendix A
Following are details for the specification amendments EPA plans to finalize effective August 1, 2023. EPA will coordinate with its Certification Bodies the changes necessary to the Qualified Product Exchange forms to reflect the elimination of all lighting criteria. Ceiling and Vent fans packaged with lighting will still be eligible, but no longer be subject to lighting requirements.
Residential Ceiling Fans Version 4.1
For purposes of this amendment:
1. Definitions of the following terms will be removed: ceiling fan light kit (CFLK) with integrated solid-state lighting circuitry, CFLK with separable light source, LED light engine, non-standard integrated LED lamps, Other SSL product, and solid-state lighting.
2. Scope: as of August 1, 2023, Ceiling Fan Light Kit that are sold separately from a residential ceiling fan will be removed from the scope.
3. Ceiling Fan Light Kit Requirements (Section 3.2) will be removed.
4. Control and Standby Requirements (Section 4) related to CFLKs will be eliminated.
5. Minimum Warranty requirements (Section 5) related to CFLKs will be eliminated.
6. Product Certification requirements related to CFLK Product Families (Section 6.1), Solid-state Lumen Performance Data (Section 6.2), and CFLK rounding, and sampling requirements will be eliminated.
7. Labeling and Packaging requirements (Section 7) related to CFLKs sold separately from a residential ceiling fan will be eliminated.
8. Lighting Toxics Reduction Requirements (Section 8) will be eliminated.
Residential Ventilating Fans Version 4.2
For purposes of this amendment:
1. Definition of Residential Ventilating Fan will be updated to recognize that some models contain a light source for general lighting and/or a night light.
2. Definition of Combination Unit will be eliminated.
3. Lighting Requirements (Section 3.B.) will be eliminated.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Room Air Conditioner Partners or Other Interested Stakeholders,
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to share the Final ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Room Air Conditioner specification. EPA would like to thank the many stakeholders who have invested time and effort to contribute feedback that has informed this product specification process. The effective date for this ENERGY STAR Room Air Conditioner specification will be October 30, 2023.
The ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 specification will recognize the best in energy efficiency and will continue to arm consumers with features and materials that further their energy savings including; consumer overridable energy saver mode, installation materials and instructions, and filter change reminders, as well as refrigerant information. Further, products seeking connected recognition will do so without required demand response testing under Version 5.0. If all room air conditioners sold in the United States were certified to ENERGY STAR Version 5.0, the energy cost savings would grow to more than $1 billion each year and 5.7 MMT of greenhouse gas emissions would be avoided annually.
Since initiating the Version 5.0 ENERGY STAR specification revision for room air conditioners in July 2022, EPA has released three drafts and held numerous webinars and meetings to collect feedback from stakeholders, as well as coordinated with DOE to ensure the ENERGY STAR specification harmonizes with DOE’s definitions and test methods used in minimum efficiency standards. EPA received comments from numerous stakeholders, including manufacturers, utilities, and energy efficiency organizations.
EPA received one set of comments in response to the final draft specification that focused on topics shared and responded to previously, including the timing of the finalization of this specification and the provision of a credit for connected room air conditioners. EPA weighed these comments previously as the Agency did those of other stakeholders who supported the timing and the simplification of the connected testing. One new concern was shared specific to Energy Saver Mode. EPA has maintained the Energy Saver Mode requirements and notes that Energy Saver Mode is overridable by the consumer if they are dissatisfied.
The Version 5.0 ENERGY STAR Room Air Conditioner final specification is unchanged from the final draft. Stakeholder comments, the final draft, previous drafts of the specification, and all related supporting materials are available on the ENERGY STAR Room Air Conditioner Version 5.0 Specification Development webpage.
Timeline and Next Steps
EPA shares partners’ desire for a smooth transition from one ENERGY STAR specification to the next so that consumers can expect ENERGY STAR labeled products to fully meet the latest requirements upon their effective date. Considering this, EPA has established the following timeline:
- Effective immediately, manufacturers may elect to have their Certification Body (CB) certify their eligible products to the Version 5.0 requirements.
- On June 12, 2023, CBs will be instructed to stop certifying new product submittals to Version 4.2. Note, however, that existing certifications will remain valid until October 30, 2023.
- Any room air conditioners manufactured as of October 30, 2023, must meet Version 5.0 requirements to bear the ENERGY STAR mark. All certifications of products to the Version 4.2 specification will be invalid for purposes of ENERGY STAR certification, and CBs will only submit product models certification to Version 5.0 to EPA.
ENERGY STAR partnership as a manufacturer is limited to organizations that own and/or license a brand name under which they sell eligible products in the Unites States and/or Canada. Partnership is not available to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) that do not sell directly to consumers or end users. OEMs may certify products on behalf of the ENERGY STAR brand owners/licensees; however, the brand owner must be the ENERGY STAR partner associated directly with the certified product models because only partners are authorized to use the ENERGY STAR certification mark.
EPA thanks stakeholders who provided feedback during the specification revision process and looks forward to working with you as you certify and market your ENERGY STAR certified room air conditioners. If you have any questions or concerns about the specification or partnership process, please contact me at kaplan.katharine@epa.gov or (202) 343-9120, or Steve Leybourn, ICF, at Steve.Leybourn@icf.com or (202) 862-1566.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Best Regards,
Katharine Kaplan, Manager, Product Development and Product Administration
ENERGY STAR Labeled Products
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Room Air Conditioner Specification
ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Room Air Conditioner Final Data & Analysis Package
Dear ENERGY STAR® Set-Top Box Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder,
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is finalizing the sunset of the ENERGY STAR specification for Set-Top Boxes (STB) and the Set-Top Box Service Provider Partnership, effective September 29, 2023.
In response to EPA’s proposal to sunset the ENERGY STAR specification for Set-Top Boxes and the Set-Top Box Service Provider partnership, EPA received one set of supportive comments. The comments agreed with EPA that the relevance and usage of set-top boxes has drastically declined over the years since EPA began recognizing efficiency leadership in these products. The market shift to lower energy using alternatives to accessing content, enables EPA to sunset the ENERGY STAR Set-Top Box specification and Set-Top Box Service Provider partnership. Further, EPA expects, and stakeholders agreed, that the Set-Top Box Energy Use Voluntary Agreement will prevent backsliding in efficiency gains.
Milestones for Sunsetting ENERGY STAR Set-Top Box Products and the Set-Top Box Service Provider Partnership
The sunset will proceed consistent with the following milestones:
- ENERGY STAR certified set-top box products and their brand owners as well as ENERGY STAR Service Provider partners will continue to be recognized at www.energystar.gov until September 29, 2023.
- No new Partnership Agreements for the Set-Top Box program will be accepted by EPA as of February 22, 2023.
- No new Set-Top Box product certifications will be accepted by EPA as of March 31, 2023.
- Manufacturers and Service Provider Partners must stop using the ENERGY STAR name and ENERGY STAR mark in association with all Set-Top Box products manufactured and services offered on or after September 29, 2023.
- In order to be in compliance by September 29, 2023, manufacturers of Set-Top Box products and Set-Top Box Service Provider partners are encouraged to remove ENERGY STAR references on web sites or in other collateral materials as these materials are reprinted or changed in the coming months. Partners are permitted to use up existing printed material, including packaging, in order to minimize waste.
Partners who have any questions or want to discuss their plans to discontinue labeling may contact STBs@energystar.gov. In closing, EPA appreciates the efforts of all set-top box stakeholders to advance a cleaner environment through the ENERGY STAR Program and applauds your success in moving the market towards greater energy efficiency.
Sincerely,
Ann Bailey, Director
ENERGY STAR Product Labeling
Dear ENERGY STAR® Computer Server Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder,
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing the Final Draft, Version 4.0 ENERGY STAR Computer Server specification. EPA thanks stakeholders for the feedback that they have provided and has taken that feedback into consideration in developing this final draft specification. The effective date for this specification will be January 12, 2024.
EPA received limited comments on the Draft 1 proposal. Stakeholders broadly supported the active mode levels proposed in the Draft 1 specification. This final draft reflects the close work with stakeholders to finalize the criteria and incorporates minor edits suggested by stakeholders for better clarity. Among the edits made were clarifications to definitions, scope, internal power supply requirements, and testing guidance. This testing guidance is included in the draft test method. Clarifying edits are highlighted in note boxes throughout the specification and test method.
Any remaining comments on this Final Draft Version 4.0 specification may be submitted to servers@enegystar.gov by February 14, 2023. All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Product Development website unless the submitter requests otherwise.
The exchange of ideas and information between EPA, industry, and other interested parties is critical to the success of ENERGY STAR. Specifications and meeting materials will be distributed via email and posted on the ENERGY STAR website. To track EPA’s progress on this specification, please visit the Computer Servers Specification Version 4.0 product development webpage.
Please contact me at Fogle.Ryan@epa.gov or 202-343-9153 or John Clinger, ICF, at John.Clinger@icf.com or 215-967-9407 with questions or concerns. For any other computer server related questions, please contact servers@energystar.gov. Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Ryan Fogle
EPA Manager, ENERGY STAR for IT and Data Center Products
Enclosures:
Final Draft, Version 4.0 Specification
Final Draft Test Method
Dear ENERGY STAR® Room Air Conditioner Partners or Other Interested Stakeholders,
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to share the Final Draft ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Room Air Conditioner specification. EPA would like to thank the many stakeholders who have invested time and effort to contribute feedback that has informed this product specification process. Final comments on the Version 5.0 Final Draft specification may be submitted no later than February 9, 2023, to appliances@energystar.gov.
EPA received support for the Draft 2 proposed levels and the inclusion of a second tier to be established through a subsequent specification development process. One stakeholder noted that the levels would limit selection while a second indicated that EPA should return to the more stringent Draft 1 levels as they are more appropriate for a leadership program. EPA has retained the Draft 2 levels in this final draft as they balance efficiency gains and selection. Some commenters supported the signaling of a second tier timed with the DOE standard while others called on EPA to hold both Version 5 and Version 6 until the DOE standard is finalized. In light of the high ENERGY STAR market share for room air conditioners and to create an incentive for meaningful efficiency gains for the 2024 cooling season and beyond, EPA is moving to a finalize the Version 5 specification now and will return to the Version 6 subsequently. Responses to each of these comments and others can be found in note boxes throughout the final draft specification as well as in the accompanying Draft 2 Comment Response Matrix.
Final comments on the Version 5.0 Final Draft specification may be submitted no later than February 9, 2023, to appliances@energystar.gov. All comments received will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Room Air Conditioners Version 5.0 Specification Development webpage, unless the submitter specifically requests that their comments remain confidential.
Please contact Katharine Kaplan, EPA, at kaplan.katharine@epa.gov or (202) 343-9120, or Steve Leybourn, ICF, at Steve.Leybourn@icf.com or (202) 862-1566, with any questions or concerns about the specification. Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Best Regards,
Katharine Kaplan, Manager, Product Development and Product Administration
ENERGY STAR Labeled Products
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Room Air Conditioner Final Draft Specification
ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Room Air Conditioner Draft 2 Comment Response Matrix
Thank you for participating in the ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Residential Electric Cooking Products Draft 1 webinar on Wednesday, January 11, 2023. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has posted the presentation slides here. In response to stakeholder request, EPA has extended the comment deadline to February 10, 2023. Please submit any comments to EPA at appliances@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your support of ENERGY STAR
Dear ENERGY STAR® Residential Dishwashers Partners and Stakeholders:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to remind stakeholders that as of January 19, 2023, EPA-recognized certification bodies (CBs) are required to cease certification of new residential dishwashers to the Version 6.0 specification and may only certify residential dishwashers to the Version 7.0 specification. Certification bodies may continue submitting administrative modifications to existing residential dishwashers certifications to the Version 6.0 specification until July 19, 2023. After this date, only residential dishwashers certified to the Version 7.0 specification will appear on the ENERGY STAR website and certified products list.
CBs must notify EPA by January 18, 2023, of models certified to Version 6.0, but not yet submitted to EPA, along with information on when data will be submitted. Failure to do so will result in QPX blocking submissions of these products to EPA.
Please contact EPA at appliances@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specification. CBs should direct questions concerning the submittal of certified residential dishwashers to Certification@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Dear Energy Efficiency Program Sponsor or Other Interested Party:
The models listed below have been disqualified from the ENERGY STAR® program. The Disqualified Product List has been updated, and these models have been removed from the ENERGY STAR Qualified Products Lists:
LED Lamps
- EiKO Global, LLC, EiKO model LED19WA21/OMN/850-G8
- Greenlite Lighting Corporation, Greenlite model 19W/A21/H/50K
- Greenlite Lighting Corporation, Greenlite model 19W/A21/H/50K/2
- Greenlite Lighting Corporation, Greenlite model 19W/A21/H/50K/4
- Maxlite, MaxLite model 12G40DLED302
- Maxlite, MaxLite model 12G40DLED272
- SATCO/NUVO, Satco model S8649
- Westinghouse Lighting Corporation, Westinghouse model 51170
Luminaires
- Acuity Brands Lighting, Juno model JCLR6* 15LM [27|30|35|40]K 90CRI [120 FRPC|347 ZT|MVOLT ZT] [HZWH|WWH]
- Acuity Brands Lighting, Juno model JCLR6* 24LM [27|30|35|40]K 80CRI [120 FRPC|347 ZT|MVOLT ZT] [HZWH|WWH]
- Acuity Brands Lighting, Juno model JCLR6*18LM [27|30|35|40]K 80CRI [120 FRPC|347 ZT|MVOLT ZT] [HZWH|WWH]
- Acuity Brands Lighting, Juno model JCLR6S 15LM 30K 90CRI 120 FRPC HZWH
- Acuity Brands Lighting, Juno model JCLR6w-15-9xxKy-zz
- Acuity Brands Lighting, Juno model JCLR6w-18-8xxKy-zz
- Acuity Brands Lighting, Juno model JCLR6w-20-9xxKy-zz
- Acuity Brands Lighting, Juno model JCLR6w-24-8xxKy-zz
- Acuity Brands Lighting, Juno model JCLR8* 15LM[27|30|35|40]K 90CRI [120 FRPC|347 ZT|MVOLT ZT] [HZWH|WWH]
- Acuity Brands Lighting, Juno model JCLR8* 18LM[27|30|35|40]K 80CRI [120 FRPC|347 ZT|MVOLT ZT] [HZWH|WWH]
- Acuity Brands Lighting, Juno model JCLR8* 24LM [27|30|35|40]K 80CRI [120 FRPC|347 ZT|MVOLT ZT] [HZWH|WWH]
- Acuity Brands Lighting, Juno model JCLR8w-15-9xxKy-zz
- Acuity Brands Lighting, Juno model JCLR8w-18-8xxKy-zz
- Acuity Brands Lighting, Juno model JCLR8w-20-9xxKy-zz
- Acuity Brands Lighting, Juno model JCLR8w-24-8xxKy-zz
- Best Lighting Products, BEST model BRK-LED4-BW-27-ECO
- Best Lighting Products, BEST model BRK-LED4-BW-3-ECO
- Best Lighting Products, BEST model BRK-LED4-BW-4-ECO
- Best Lighting Products, BEST model BRK-LED4-BW-5-ECO
- Best Lighting Products, Best model BRK-LED56-GR-27K-ECO
- Best Lighting Products, Best model BRK-LED56-GR-3K-ECO
- Best Lighting Products, Best model BRK-LED56-GR-4K-ECO
- Cree Lighting, e-conolight model E-RTA06A-4ABW-8301E
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521***-L14-B10-T27-C97UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521***-L14-B10-T27UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521***-L14-B10-T35UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521***-L14-B10-T40UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521***-L14-B10UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521***-L14-B25-C97UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521***-L14-B25-T27-C97UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521***-L14-B25-T27UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521***-L14-B25-T35UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521***-L14-B25-T40UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521***-L14-B25UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521***-L14-B35-C97UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521***-L14-B35-T27-C97UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521***-L14-B35-T27UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521***-L14-B35-T35UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521***-L14-B35-T40UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521***-L14-B35UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521***-L14-B60-C97UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521***-L14-B60-T27-C97UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521***-L14-B60-T27UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521***-L14-B60-T35UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521***-L14-B60-T40UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521***-L14-B60UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521J***-L14-B10-C97UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521J***-L14-B10-T27-C97UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521J***-L14-B10-T27UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521J***-L14-B10-T35UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521J***-L14-B10-T40UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521J***-L14-B10UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521J***-L14-B25-C97UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521J***-L14-B25-T27-C97UE-DUN-**
- EEMA Industries Dba Liton Lighting, Liton model LRLD2521SW-L14-B10-C97UE-DUN / LHLD25-FRM
- EiKO Global, LLC, EiKO model DDS4-70-10W-830-120-DT-WH
- EiKO Global, LLC, EiKO model DDS4-70-10W-840-120-DT-WH
- EiKO Global, LLC, EiKO model DDS4-70-10W-850-120-DT-WH
- EiKO Global, LLC, EiKO model DDS6-100-15W-830-120-DT-WH
- EiKO Global, LLC, EiKO model DDS6-100-15W-840-120-DT-WH
- EiKO Global, LLC, EiKO model DDS6-100-15W-850-120-DT-WH
- Lighting Spot 26 LLC, Lighting Spot 26 model LS26-DL4"-10W3K(3000K)
- Lighting Spot 26 LLC, Lighting Spot 27 model LS26-DL4"-10W4K(4000K)
- Lighting Spot 26 LLC, Lighting Spot 28 model LS26-DL4"-10W5K(5000K)
- Lighting Spot 26 LLC, Lighting Spot 29 model LS26-DL6"-15W3K(3000K)
- Lighting Spot 26 LLC, Lighting Spot 30 model LS26-DL6"-15W4K(4000K)
- Lighting Spot 26 LLC, Lighting Spot 31 model LS26-DL6"-15W5K(5000K)
- Lighting Spot 26 LLC, Lighting Spot 32 model LS26-DL8"-20W3K(3000K)
- Lighting Spot 26 LLC, Lighting Spot 33 model LS26-DL8"-20W4K(4000K)
- Lighting Spot 26 LLC, Lighting Spot 34 model LS26-DL8"-20W5K(5000K)
- Liteline Corporation, A-Line, Liteline model DL6-15W-C-**-#
- Liteline Corporation, A-Line, Liteline model DL6-15W-C-WH
- Shenzhen Homi Lighting Co., HOMI model HM15-DR4-10W120-30K-*SA
- Shenzhen Homi Lighting Co., HOMI model HM15-DR4-10W120-40K-*SA
- Shenzhen Homi Lighting Co., HOMI model HM15-DR4-10W120-50K-*SA
- Shenzhen Homi Lighting Co., HOMI model HM15-DR6-15W120-30K-*SA
- Shenzhen Homi Lighting Co., HOMI model HM15-DR6-15W120-40K-*SA
- Shenzhen Homi Lighting Co., HOMI model HM15-DR6-15W120-50K-*SA
- Shenzhen Homi Lighting Co., HOMI model HM15-DR8-20W120-30K-*SA
- Shenzhen Homi Lighting Co., HOMI model HM15-DR8-20W120-40K-*SA
- Shenzhen Homi Lighting Co., HOMI model HM15-DR8-20W120-50K-*SA
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model AM[33|32|54|72]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model AM[33|32|54|72]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/17W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model AM[33|32|54|72]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/28W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DAB[13|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DAB[13|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/17W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DAB[13|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/23W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DAB[13|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/28W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DBC18/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DBC18/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/17W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DBC18/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/23W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DBC18/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/28W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DBN[11|12|13|14|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DBN[11|12|13|14|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/17W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DBN[11|12|13|14|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/23W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DBN[11|12|13|14|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/28W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DBP15/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DBP15/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/17W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DBP15/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/23W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DBP15/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/28W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DBS[11|13|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DBS[11|13|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/17W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DBS[11|13|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/23W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DBS[11|13|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/28W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DCB[13|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DCB[13|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/17W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DCB[13|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/23W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DCB[13|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/28W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DCO[10|12|14|16|18]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DCO[10|12|14|16|18]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/17W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DCO[10|12|14|16|18]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/23W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DCO[10|12|14|16|18]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/28W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DDB[11|13|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DDB[11|13|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/17W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DDB[11|13|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/23W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DDB[11|13|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/28W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DOD/[10|12]GL/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DOD/CC/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DOD/CC/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/17W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DOD/CC/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/23W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DOD/CC/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/28W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DOD/EBH/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CB]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DOD/EBL/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CB]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DOD/EG/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CB]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DOD/EG/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CB]/23W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DOD/EG/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CB]/28W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DOD/EG/BK/17W/E/D/50K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DOD/OC/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DOD/OC/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/17W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DOD/OC/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/23W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DOD/OC/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/28W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DOD/PTR/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/17W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DOD/PTR/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/23W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DOD/PTR/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/28W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DOD/PTS/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DOD/PTS/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/17W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DOD/PTS/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/23W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DOD/PTS/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/28W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DWS[11|13|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DWS[11|13|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/17W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DWS[11|13|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/23W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DWS[11|13|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/28W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DWT11/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DWT11/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/17W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DWT11/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/23W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model DWT11/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/28W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model FCM[12|16|20]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model FCM[12|16|20]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/17W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model FCM[12|16|20]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/23W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model FCM[12|16|20]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/28W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model LFX/AM[11|12|14|15|23]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model LFX/AM[11|12|14|15|23]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/17W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model LFX/AM[11|12|14|15|23]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/23W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model LFX/AM[11|12|14|15|23]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/28W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model LFX/DBN[13|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model LFX/DBN[13|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/17W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model LFX/DBN[13|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/23W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model LFX/DBN[13|15]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/28W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model LFX/DCO[10|12|14|16|18]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model LFX/DCO[10|12|14|16|18]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/17W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model LFX/DCO[10|12|14|16|18]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/23W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model LFX/DCO[10|12|14|16|18]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/28W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model LFX/DOD/HM/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CB]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model LFX/DOD/HM/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CB]/17W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model LFX/HM/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CB]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model LFX/HM/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CB]/17W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model LFX/MU[15|20|23]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model LFX/MU[15|20|23]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/17W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model LFX/MU[15|20|23]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/23W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model LFX/MU[15|20|23]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/28W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model M[33|32|54|72]/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/23W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model OD/PTR/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model S1050A/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model S1050A/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/17W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model S1050A/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/23W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model S1050A/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/28W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model VANXX/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/10W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model VANXX/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/17W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model VANXX/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/23W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Sunshine Lighting, Sunlite model VANXX/[WH|BK|BN|BZ|PB|CH|WP|CP]/28W/E/D/[27|30|35|40|50]K
- Verbatim Americas, LLC, Verbatim model 70272
- Verbatim Americas, LLC, Verbatim model 70273
Residential Water Coolers
- Greenway Home Products Inc., Vitapur model VWD1076BLST
Windows, Doors, and Skylights
- United Window & Door Manufacturing, Inc., United Window & Door Manufacturing, Inc. model UWD-M-56-00002-00003
- United Window & Door Manufacturing, Inc., United Window & Door Manufacturing, Inc. model UWD-M-56-00002-00004
Please visit the Products Integrity Page for specific brands and model numbers, and email Enforcement@energystar.gov with any questions.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Commercial Ovens Stakeholders:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to remind stakeholders that the effective date for the Version 3.0 ENERGY STAR Commercial Ovens specification is January 12, 2023. On this date, only products certified to Version 3.0 and submitted by EPA-recognized certification bodies (CBs) to EPA using the Version 3.0 web service will display on our list of certified models.
Please contact EPA at cfs@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specification. CBs should direct questions concerning the submittal of Version 3.0 certified Commercial Ovens to Certification@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
EPA has finalized the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023 criteria for Central Air Conditioning and Heat Pumps (CAC-HP) and qualified models will be highlighted on the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient web page beginning January 1, 2023. This memo explains how you can have your models recognized.
In the interest of bringing more attention to these highly efficient models, EPA will be featuring ENERGY STAR Most Efficient models using its highly visited ENERGY STAR Product Finder. EPA is using certification data to recognize eligible models in the CAC-HP product category. To ensure recognition, models will need to meet the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient efficiency criteria, have 2 or more capacity stages, and meet 3 of the 6 installation criteria (or 2 of the 4 that apply to ductless units). All of this information can be confirmed automatically using your ENERGY STAR certification data, but please remember you must supply your certification body with information that confirms your model meets the installation criteria as the installation criteria are optional for ENERGY STAR certification but required for ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023 recognition.
Once you have a 2023 recognized model, EPA will share the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023 designation and usage guidelines. The ENERGY STAR Most Efficient designation is intended to be used on point of purchase material, product literature, and websites but may not be applied to products or product packaging. Failure to abide by these guidelines may result in loss of recognition. If your models meet the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023 criteria and are on the ENERGY STAR certified product list but are not yet featured as ENERGY STAR Most Efficient, or if you have any other questions, please contact MostEfficient@energystar.gov.
We look forward to working with you in 2023 to recognize your ENERGY STAR Most Efficient models.
Dear ENERGY STAR® CAC and HP partners:
EPA has finalized the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023 criteria for Central Air Conditioning and Heat Pumps (CAC-HP) and qualified models will be highlighted on the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient web page beginning January 1, 2023. This memo explains how you can have your models recognized.
In the interest of bringing more attention to these highly efficient models, EPA will be featuring ENERGY STAR Most Efficient models using its highly visited ENERGY STAR Product Finder. EPA is using certification data to recognize eligible models in the CAC-HP product category. To ensure recognition, models will need to meet the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient efficiency criteria, have 2 or more capacity stages, and meet 3 of the 6 installation criteria (or 2 of the 4 that apply to ductless units). All of this information can be confirmed automatically using your ENERGY STAR certification data, but please remember you must supply your certification body with information that confirms your model meets the installation criteria as the installation criteria are optional for ENERGY STAR certification but required for ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023 recognition.
Once you have a 2023 recognized model, EPA will share the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023 designation and usage guidelines. The ENERGY STAR Most Efficient designation is intended to be used on point of purchase material, product literature, and websites but may not be applied to products or product packaging. Failure to abide by these guidelines may result in loss of recognition. If your models meet the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023 criteria and are on the ENERGY STAR certified product list but are not yet featured as ENERGY STAR Most Efficient, or if you have any other questions, please contact MostEfficient@energystar.gov.
We look forward to working with you in 2023 to recognize your ENERGY STAR Most Efficient models.
Dear ENERGY STAR® CAC and HP partners:
EPA has finalized the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023 criteria for Central Air Conditioning and Heat Pumps (CAC-HP) and qualified models will be highlighted on the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient web page beginning January 1, 2023. This memo explains how you can have your models recognized.
In the interest of bringing more attention to these highly efficient models, EPA will be featuring ENERGY STAR Most Efficient models using its highly visited ENERGY STAR Product Finder. EPA is using certification data to recognize eligible models in the CAC-HP product category. To ensure recognition, models will need to meet the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient efficiency criteria, have 2 or more capacity stages, and meet 3 of the 6 installation criteria (or 2 of the 4 that apply to ductless units). All of this information can be confirmed automatically using your ENERGY STAR certification data, but please remember you must supply your certification body with information that confirms your model meets the installation criteria as the installation criteria are optional for ENERGY STAR certification but required for ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023 recognition.
Once you have a 2023 recognized model, EPA will share the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023 designation and usage guidelines. The ENERGY STAR Most Efficient designation is intended to be used on point of purchase material, product literature, and websites but may not be applied to products or product packaging. Failure to abide by these guidelines may result in loss of recognition. If your models meet the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023 criteria and are on the ENERGY STAR certified product list but are not yet featured as ENERGY STAR Most Efficient, or if you have any other questions, please contact MostEfficient@energystar.gov.
We look forward to working with you in 2023 to recognize your ENERGY STAR Most Efficient models.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Residential Electric Cooking Product Manufacturers and Other Interested Stakeholders:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing the ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Residential Electric Cooking Products Draft 1 Specification. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit comments to EPA no later than January 27, 2023. EPA will host a webinar on January 11, 2023 to discuss this Draft 1 specification.
ENERGY STAR is a voluntary partnership between government, businesses, and purchasers designed to encourage the manufacture, purchase, and use of efficient products to help protect the environment. Products that earn the ENERGY STAR label prevent greenhouse gas emissions by meeting strict energy efficiency guidelines set by EPA in consultation with stakeholders. To date:
- More than 90% of American households recognize the ENERGY STAR label,
- In 2020, more than 2000 manufacturers and 1900 retailers partnered with ENERGY STAR to make and sell millions of ENERGY STAR certified products across more than 75 residential and commercial product categories.
- More than 840 utilities, state and local governments, and nonprofits leverage ENERGY STAR in their efficiency programs, reaching roughly 97% of households in all 50 states. Nationwide, utilities invested $8.4 billion in energy efficiency programs in 2019.
- Since 1992, ENERGY STAR and its partners helped American families and businesses save 5 trillion kilowatt-hours of electricity, avoid more than $450 billion in energy costs, and achieve 4 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas reductions.
Electric cooking products are present in 60% of U.S. homes according to the 2020 Residential Energy Consumption Survey (RECS)1. EPA is launching the development of an ENERGY STAR specification for residential electric cooking products as momentum has rapidly built around the expansion of electric cooking, with city and state policymakers, manufacturers, and retailers eager for these products to grow their market presence. The ENERGY STAR program is well-positioned to support the market’s evolution towards efficient electric by raising consumer awareness, convening interested stakeholders, and recognizing innovation in this space. The efficiency level proposed in Draft 1 is 16% more efficient than the highest energy consuming electric cooking product evaluated by EPA. As such, the models recognized by this specification will reflect be recognizing the most efficient electric models, including induction, electric resistance, and coil, on the market.
Overview of Draft 1 Proposal
Key elements of the Draft 1 proposal include:
- Definitions and testing will be in accordance with 10 CFR 430, Subpart B, Appendix I1 - Uniform Test Method for Measuring the Energy Consumption of Conventional Cooking Products. In consultation with DOE, some definitions in the draft specification were adjusted for ENERGY STAR purposes consistent with the Agency’s intent to cover electric cooking products.
- Scope of the draft specification for residential electric cooking products includes electric ranges as well as standalone electric cooking tops.
- Certification criteria based on the Integrated Annual Energy Consumption (IAEC) (kWh/year)
Comment Submittal
EPA welcomes stakeholder input on the attached ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Residential Electric Cooking Products Draft 1 Specification. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit any comments to appliances@energystar.gov by January 27, 2023. By this same deadline, EPA will also accept additional data for any electric cooking top/range products tested to Appendix I1 to Subpart B of Part 430 - Uniform Test Method for Measuring the Energy Consumption of Conventional Cooking Products. Data used for purposes of setting specification levels do not need to be third-party certified.
All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Residential Electric Cooking Products Version 1.0 Product Development website unless the submitter requests otherwise.
Stakeholder Webinar
EPA will host a webinar on Wednesday, January 11, 2023, from 1:00pm – 3:00pm ET to address stakeholder comments and questions. Stakeholders interested in participating in this discussion should register here.
Please contact me at Crk.Tanja@epa.gov or 202-650-7522, Fabria Jno Baptiste (ICF) at Fabria.JnoBaptiste@icf.com or 571-842-4949, and Steve Leybourn (ICF) at Steve.Leybourn@icf.com or 202-862-1566 for questions or concerns. For questions about the test method, please contact Carl Shapiro, DOE, at Carl.Shapiro@ee.doe.gov.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Tanja Crk, Product Manager
ENERGY STAR
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Residential Electric Cooking Products Draft 1 Specification
ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Residential Electric Cooking Products Draft 1 Data & Analysis
1 U.S. Energy Information Administration, Office of Energy Demand and Integrated Statistics, Form EIA-457A of the 2020 Residential Energy Consumption Survey
Dear ENERGY STAR® CAC/HP Stakeholders:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to remind stakeholders that the effective date for the Version 6.1 ENERGY STAR Central Air Conditioner and Heat Pump specification is January 1, 2023. On this date, only products certified to Version 6.1 and submitted by EPA-recognized certification bodies (CBs) to EPA using the Version 6.1 web service will display on our list of certified models.
Please contact EPA at CACASHP@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specification. CBs should direct questions concerning the submittal of Version 6.1 certified Central Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps to Certification@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Commercial Food Service Equipment Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is updating test method references in select ENERGY STAR Commercial Food Service (CFS) equipment categories:
- Version 2.0 Commercial Hot Food Holding Cabinets (HFHC) specification, and
- Version 1.1 Commercial Coffee Brewers specification.
The current commercial HFHC and coffee brewer ENERGY STAR specifications reference outdated American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standard test methods. EPA is introducing amendments to the current ENERGY STAR specifications for these two separate product categories to align with the latest ASTM standards.
Based on a review of the specification and updated ASTM standard test methods for these two categories, EPA has determined that changes to the levels, certification criteria, or any other aspects of the Version 2.0 Commercial HFHC and Version 1.1 Commercial Coffee Brewers specifications as a result of the updated test method references are not necessary.
For the purposes of ENERGY STAR certification, commercial HFHCs and coffee brewers should be tested using ASTM Standard F2140-11 (2019), Test Method for Performance of Hot Food Holding Cabinets and ASTM Standard F2990-12 (2018), Test Method for Commercial Coffee Brewers, respectively, moving forward. Certifications based on previously accepted versions of these ASTM tests are not affected by this update. The updated specifications can be found here and here.
If you have comments or questions regarding these updates, please contact me at (202) 650-7522 and crk.tanja@epa.gov or Adam Spitz, ICF, at (916) 231-7685 and Adam.Spitz@icf.com.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Tanja Crk, Product Manager
ENERGY STAR Commercial Food Service
Dear ENERGY STAR® Computer Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder,
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is launching the Version 9.0 ENERGY STAR Computer specification. This Discussion Guide highlights an initial list of priority areas for this specification revision, key questions for stakeholders, and next steps in the revision process. EPA looks forward to working with stakeholders to develop the Version 9.0 specification that will recognize efficiency gains in the computer market. The deadline to provide comments on this Discussion Guide is January 27, 2023.
The Discussion Guide focuses on the following areas:
- Updated and new definitions
- Mode weightings
- P-score categorization / boundaries
- Revisions to adders
- Internal power supply efficiency
- Workstation metrics
Stakeholder suggestions on any other issues to be considered during the Version 9.0 specification revision process are welcomed, in particular on those topics raised in the Discussion Guide.
Comment Submittal
EPA welcomes stakeholder input on the attached Discussion Guide. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit any comments to computers@enegystar.gov by January 27, 2023 All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Product Development website unless the submitter requests otherwise.
Stakeholder Webinar
EPA will host a webinar to answer any questions on this discussion guide on January 12, 2023, from 1-3PM Eastern Time. Please register here if you plan on attending.
The exchange of ideas and information between EPA, industry, and other interested parties is critical to the success of ENERGY STAR. Specifications and meeting materials will be distributed via email and posted on the ENERGY STAR website. To track EPA’s progress on this specification, please visit the product development website.
Please contact me at Fogle.Ryan@epa.gov or 202-343-9153 or John Clinger at John.Clinger@icf.com or 215-967-9407 with questions or concerns. For any other computer server related questions, please contact computers@energystar.gov. Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Ryan Fogle
EPA Manager, ENERGY STAR for IT and Data Center Products
Enclosures
Discussion Guide
Dear ENERGY STAR® Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers Stakeholders:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to remind stakeholders that the effective date for the Version 5.0 ENERGY STAR Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers specification is December 22, 2022. On this date, only products certified to Version 5.0 and submitted by EPA-recognized certification bodies (CBs) to EPA using the Version 5.0 web service will display on our list of certified models.
Please contact EPA at cfs@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specification. CBs should direct questions concerning the submittal of Version 5.0 certified Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers to Certification@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Dear ENERGY STAR Set-Top Box Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder:
The purpose of this letter is to present a proposal from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to sunset the ENERGY STAR specification for set-top boxes. EPA recognizes the significant and long contribution of ENERGY STAR set-top box stakeholders and is committed to carefully considering all input. EPA requests feedback on this proposal no later than January 16, 2023.
Under certain circumstances, EPA makes the determination that an ENERGY STAR specification for a particular product category should be sunset rather than revised. Some or all of the following factors play into such a decision:
- Additional, cost-effective efficiency gains are not available or anticipated
- The market has evolved such that the product type is being discontinued
- Power use of ENERGY STAR certified products is no different from conventional products, hence, the program offers no clear energy efficiency differentiation.
Rationale for Proposed Sunset
As evidenced by the latest report from the Set-Top Box Energy Use Voluntary Agreement (VA) Annual Report for 2021, most of the pay TV service providers are proactively enabling consumers to watch video programming without the use of set-top boxes through their support of apps that can be used across various devices. Set-top box deployments decreased 31% from 2012 to 2021 and future projections indicate even a steeper decline. The majority of adults (54%) now watch video regularly on devices other than televisions, such as tablets, smartphones, and computers. Consistent with the above noted pay TV service provider actions, the latest trends show that consumers are moving away from set-top boxes with the emergence of Smart TVs that come pre-loaded with apps that eliminate the need for a set-top box. More than three quarters of American households now have at least one Smart TV, and Smart TVs now represent 57% of all TVs used in the US. Nearly all Smart TVs (86% in a recent study) are now used to access at least some video directly without a set-top box.
ENERGY STAR Program Background
In 2008 the set-top box was one of the biggest energy users in the American home. These devices, typically provided by cable, satellite, or phone companies, consumed 27 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity that year, as much as the entire state of Maryland. In that same year, EPA launched ENERGY STAR criteria that coupled rigorous energy saving specifications for set-top box hardware with new requirements for pay TV providers that wished to earn ENERGY STAR recognition for their devices. EPA called on pay TV providers to purchase and deploy ENERGY STAR set-top boxes or upgrade a large part of their deployed fleet to meet ENERGY STAR specifications -- driving demand for efficient boxes and ensuring consumer savings. In 2011, EPA raised the bar on requirements for both box makers and pay TV providers and did so again in 2014 and 2016.
To drive towards these greater efficiencies, EPA first focused on a number of technological hurdles to efficiency. This included the development of a fair and repeatable energy use test. The ENERGY STAR test procedure for this category was later codified into an industry-wide standard for testing set-top boxes under the Set-Top Box Energy Use Voluntary Agreement.
To address pre-existing barriers to energy efficiency, EPA worked through key industry standard development efforts to ensure standards prioritized efficiency including MOCA 2.0, DOCSIS, and the Open Cable standard. Whereas in the past it was perfectly acceptable for set-top boxes to be on 24 hours a day and for final industry standards for set-top box communication and data transmission to assume that the device was always on and operating at full power, industry now recognized that boxes should operate in a range of power states, and scale power based on the amount of activity the box is engaged in -- realizing big energy savings.
Using data gathered by the Natural Resources Defense Council, which sounded the alarm about the energy consumption of set-top boxes, EPA set efficiency criteria for a range of pay TV boxes. The Agency complimented its specification development work with partner recruitment efforts such that shipments of ENERGY STAR set-top boxes continued to grow. In 2009, 50% of set top boxes shipped to US costumers were ENERGY STAR certified. By 2011, this number grew to 62% and then 88% in 2012. ENERGY STAR and its leading partner companies, including: AT&T, DirecTV, Dish Network, EPB, Suddenlink, and Verizon as well as 14 manufacturers, were an early efficiency driver in the set-top box space, delivering enormous national dollar and greenhouse gas savings by dialing back the power use. Over the life of this ENERGY STAR specification, about 240 million ENERGY STAR set-top boxes were sold saving almost 140 tWh of electricity, and almost 100 million metric tons of greenhouse gases were avoided.
Proposed Timing
With the introduction and continuation of the Set-Top Box Energy Use Voluntary Agreement, which EPA believes will prevent backsliding, as well as the notable shift in the market to lower energy using alternatives to accessing content like smart TVs and content viewing on mobile phones, EPA now proposes to sunset the ENERGY STAR program for hardware and pay TV providers.
Proposed Milestones for Sunsetting the ENERGY STAR Set-Top Box Program
EPA proposes the following milestones associated with implementing this proposal:
- ENERGY STAR certified set-top box products and their manufacturers as well as ENERGY STAR Service Provider partners will continue to be recognized at www.energystar.gov until September 29, 2023.
- No new Partnership Agreements for the Set-Top Box program will be accepted by EPA as of March 31, 2023.
- No new certified product information for the Set-Top Box program will be accepted by EPA as of March 31, 2023.
- Manufacturers and Service Provider Partners must stop using the ENERGY STAR name and ENERGY STAR mark in association with all Set-Top Box products manufactured and services offered on or after September 29, 2023.
- To minimize the cost of labeling changes and be in compliance by September 29, 2023, manufacturers of Set-Top Box products are encouraged to remove ENERGY STAR references on Web sites or in other collateral materials as these materials are reprinted or changed in the coming months. Manufacturers are permitted to use up existing printed material, including packaging, in order to minimize waste.
Stakeholders are invited to comment on this proposal to sunset the ENERGY STAR Set-Top Box program. Any feedback or data you wish to share with EPA may be submitted via email to STBs@energystar.gov, no later than January 16, 2023. In closing, EPA appreciates the efforts of all set-top box stakeholders to advance a cleaner environment through the ENERGY STAR Program and applauds your success in moving the market towards greater energy efficiency.
Sincerely,
Ann Bailey, Chief
ENERGY STAR Labeling Branch
US Environmental Protection Agency
Dear ENERGY STAR Set-Top Box Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder:
The purpose of this letter is to present a proposal from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to sunset the ENERGY STAR specification for set-top boxes. EPA recognizes the significant and long contribution of ENERGY STAR set-top box stakeholders and is committed to carefully considering all input. EPA requests feedback on this proposal no later than January 16, 2023.
Under certain circumstances, EPA makes the determination that an ENERGY STAR specification for a particular product category should be sunset rather than revised. Some or all of the following factors play into such a decision:
- Additional, cost-effective efficiency gains are not available or anticipated
- The market has evolved such that the product type is being discontinued
- Power use of ENERGY STAR certified products is no different from conventional products, hence, the program offers no clear energy efficiency differentiation.
Rationale for Proposed Sunset
As evidenced by the latest report from the Set-Top Box Energy Use Voluntary Agreement (VA) Annual Report for 2021, most of the pay TV service providers are proactively enabling consumers to watch video programming without the use of set-top boxes through their support of apps that can be used across various devices. Set-top box deployments decreased 31% from 2012 to 2021 and future projections indicate even a steeper decline. The majority of adults (54%) now watch video regularly on devices other than televisions, such as tablets, smartphones, and computers. Consistent with the above noted pay TV service provider actions, the latest trends show that consumers are moving away from set-top boxes with the emergence of Smart TVs that come pre-loaded with apps that eliminate the need for a set-top box. More than three quarters of American households now have at least one Smart TV, and Smart TVs now represent 57% of all TVs used in the US. Nearly all Smart TVs (86% in a recent study) are now used to access at least some video directly without a set-top box.
ENERGY STAR Program Background
In 2008 the set-top box was one of the biggest energy users in the American home. These devices, typically provided by cable, satellite, or phone companies, consumed 27 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity that year, as much as the entire state of Maryland. In that same year, EPA launched ENERGY STAR criteria that coupled rigorous energy saving specifications for set-top box hardware with new requirements for pay TV providers that wished to earn ENERGY STAR recognition for their devices. EPA called on pay TV providers to purchase and deploy ENERGY STAR set-top boxes or upgrade a large part of their deployed fleet to meet ENERGY STAR specifications -- driving demand for efficient boxes and ensuring consumer savings. In 2011, EPA raised the bar on requirements for both box makers and pay TV providers and did so again in 2014 and 2016.
To drive towards these greater efficiencies, EPA first focused on a number of technological hurdles to efficiency. This included the development of a fair and repeatable energy use test. The ENERGY STAR test procedure for this category was later codified into an industry-wide standard for testing set-top boxes under the Set-Top Box Energy Use Voluntary Agreement.
To address pre-existing barriers to energy efficiency, EPA worked through key industry standard development efforts to ensure standards prioritized efficiency including MOCA 2.0, DOCSIS, and the Open Cable standard. Whereas in the past it was perfectly acceptable for set-top boxes to be on 24 hours a day and for final industry standards for set-top box communication and data transmission to assume that the device was always on and operating at full power, industry now recognized that boxes should operate in a range of power states, and scale power based on the amount of activity the box is engaged in -- realizing big energy savings.
Using data gathered by the Natural Resources Defense Council, which sounded the alarm about the energy consumption of set-top boxes, EPA set efficiency criteria for a range of pay TV boxes. The Agency complimented its specification development work with partner recruitment efforts such that shipments of ENERGY STAR set-top boxes continued to grow. In 2009, 50% of set top boxes shipped to US costumers were ENERGY STAR certified. By 2011, this number grew to 62% and then 88% in 2012. ENERGY STAR and its leading partner companies, including: AT&T, DirecTV, Dish Network, EPB, Suddenlink, and Verizon as well as 14 manufacturers, were an early efficiency driver in the set-top box space, delivering enormous national dollar and greenhouse gas savings by dialing back the power use. Over the life of this ENERGY STAR specification, about 240 million ENERGY STAR set-top boxes were sold saving almost 140 tWh of electricity, and almost 100 million metric tons of greenhouse gases were avoided.
Proposed Timing
With the introduction and continuation of the Set-Top Box Energy Use Voluntary Agreement, which EPA believes will prevent backsliding, as well as the notable shift in the market to lower energy using alternatives to accessing content like smart TVs and content viewing on mobile phones, EPA now proposes to sunset the ENERGY STAR program for hardware and pay TV providers.
Proposed Milestones for Sunsetting the ENERGY STAR Set-Top Box Program
EPA proposes the following milestones associated with implementing this proposal:
- ENERGY STAR certified set-top box products and their manufacturers as well as ENERGY STAR Service Provider partners will continue to be recognized at www.energystar.gov until September 29, 2023.
- No new Partnership Agreements for the Set-Top Box program will be accepted by EPA as of March 31, 2023.
- No new certified product information for the Set-Top Box program will be accepted by EPA as of March 31, 2023.
- Manufacturers and Service Provider Partners must stop using the ENERGY STAR name and ENERGY STAR mark in association with all Set-Top Box products manufactured and services offered on or after September 29, 2023.
- To minimize the cost of labeling changes and be in compliance by September 29, 2023, manufacturers of Set-Top Box products are encouraged to remove ENERGY STAR references on Web sites or in other collateral materials as these materials are reprinted or changed in the coming months. Manufacturers are permitted to use up existing printed material, including packaging, in order to minimize waste.
Stakeholders are invited to comment on this proposal to sunset the ENERGY STAR Set-Top Box program. Any feedback or data you wish to share with EPA may be submitted via email to STBs@energystar.gov, no later than January 16, 2023. In closing, EPA appreciates the efforts of all set-top box stakeholders to advance a cleaner environment through the ENERGY STAR Program and applauds your success in moving the market towards greater energy efficiency.
Sincerely,
Ann Bailey, Chief
ENERGY STAR Labeling Branch
US Environmental Protection Agency
Dear ENERGY STAR® Light Commercial HVAC Partners and Certification Bodies:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to remind stakeholders that the effective date for the Version 4.0 ENERGY STAR Light Commercial HVAC specification (finalized March 28, 2022) is January 1, 2023. On this date, only products certified to Version 4.0 and submitted by EPA-recognized certification bodies (CBs) to EPA using the Version 4.0 web service will display on our list of certified models.
Note that EPA has been notified that AHRI may have delays in certifying Light Commercial HVAC models to Version 4.0. To ensure a smooth transition to the new version on January 1st, please notify your EPA recognized certification body and EPA at certification@energystar.gov as soon as possible and no later than December 16, 2022 of your plans to ensure models are certified and listed by January 1, 2023.
Please contact EPA at LCHVAC@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specification. CBs should direct questions concerning the submittal of certified light commercial HVAC to Certification@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Light Commercial HVAC Partners and Certification Bodies:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to remind stakeholders that the effective date for the Version 4.0 ENERGY STAR Light Commercial HVAC specification (finalized March 28, 2022) is January 1, 2023. On this date, only products certified to Version 4.0 and submitted by EPA-recognized certification bodies (CBs) to EPA using the Version 4.0 web service will display on our list of certified models.
Note that EPA has been notified that AHRI may have delays in certifying Light Commercial HVAC models to Version 4.0. To ensure a smooth transition to the new version on January 1st, please notify your EPA recognized certification body and EPA at certification@energystar.gov as soon as possible and no later than December 16, 2022 of your plans to ensure models are certified and listed by January 1, 2023.
Please contact EPA at LCHVAC@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specification. CBs should direct questions concerning the submittal of certified light commercial HVAC to Certification@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Dear Energy Efficiency Program Sponsor or Other Interested Party:
The models listed below have been disqualified from the ENERGY STAR® program. The Disqualified Products List has been updated, and these models have been removed from the ENERGY STAR Qualified Products Lists:
LED Lamps
- Ascent Battery Supply, Duracell model LED11409F
- Bulbrite Industries, BULBRITE model LED9MR16FL35/75/927/D
- Bulbrite Industries, BULBRITE model LED9MR16FL35/75/930/D
- Bulbrite Industries, BULBRITE model LED9MR16NF25/75/927/D
- Bulbrite Industries, BULBRITE model LED9MR16NF25/75/930/D
- Bulbrite Industries, BULBRITE model LED9MR16SP15/75/927/D
- LEDVANCE, LLC, Sylvania model 41246
- Maxlite, MaxLite model 5G16.5DLED27/G2
Luminaires
- Current Lighting Solutions, LLC, Lumination™ LED Luminaire – LTM Series model LTM*DA1****930PQ******D**
- Current Lighting Solutions, LLC, Lumination™ LED Luminaire – LTM Series model LTM*DA1****935PQ******D**
- Current Lighting Solutions, LLC, Lumination™ LED Luminaire – LTM Series model LTM*DA1****940PQ******D**
- Current Lighting Solutions, LLC, Lumination™ LED Luminaire – LTM Series model LTMVDA113FL930PQJ1BLCKDXX
- Designers Fountain, Inc., Designers Fountain model LED21921-X
- Designers Fountain, Inc., Designers Fountain model LED21931-X
- Designers Fountain, Inc., Designers Fountain model LED22021-X
- Designers Fountain, Inc., Designers Fountain model LED22121-X
- Designers Fountain, Inc., Designers Fountain model LED22321-X
- Designers Fountain, Inc., Designers Fountain model LED22331-ORB
- Designers Fountain, Inc., Designers Fountain model LED22331-X
- Designers Fountain, Inc., Designers Fountain model LED22421-***
- Designers Fountain, Inc., Designers Fountain model LED22431-***
- Designers Fountain, Inc., Designers Fountain model LED22521-***
- Designers Fountain, Inc., Designers Fountain model LED22531-***
- Designers Fountain, Inc., Designers Fountain model LED32521-***
- Designers Fountain, Inc., Designers Fountain model LED32531-***
- EcoSense Lighting Co Ltd, Rise model F080-1S-HO-35-8-10-S-X-A
- EcoSense Lighting Co Ltd, Rise model F080-1S-HO-35-8-15-S-X-A
- EcoSense Lighting Co Ltd, Rise model F080-1S-HO-35-8-20-S-X-A
- EcoSense Lighting Co Ltd, Rise model F080-1S-HO-35-8-5-S-X-A
- EcoSense Lighting Co Ltd, Rise model F080-1S-HO-35-8-E1-S-X-A
- EcoSense Lighting Co Ltd, Rise model F080-1S-HO-35-8-E2-S-X-A
- EcoSense Lighting Co Ltd, Rise model F080-1S-HO-40-8-10-S-X-A
- EcoSense Lighting Co Ltd, Rise model F080-1S-HO-40-8-15-S-X-A
- EcoSense Lighting Co Ltd, Rise model F080-1S-HO-40-8-20-S-X-A
- EcoSense Lighting Co Ltd, Rise model F080-1S-HO-40-8-5-S-X-A
- EcoSense Lighting Co Ltd, Rise model F080-1S-HO-40-8-E1-S-X-A
- EcoSense Lighting Co Ltd, Rise model F080-1S-HO-40-8-E2-S-X-A
- EcoSense Lighting Co Ltd, Rise model F080-1S-HO-50-8-10-S-X-A
- EcoSense Lighting Co Ltd, Rise model F080-1S-HO-50-8-15-S-X-A
- EcoSense Lighting Co Ltd, Rise model F080-1S-HO-50-8-20-S-X-A
- EcoSense Lighting Co Ltd, Rise model F080-1S-HO-50-8-5-S-X-A
- EcoSense Lighting Co Ltd, Rise model F080-1S-HO-50-8-E1-S-X-A
- EcoSense Lighting Co Ltd, Rise model F080-1S-HO-50-8-E2-S-X-A
- Morris Products, MORRIS model 72252
- Morris Products, MORRIS model 72253
- SATCO/NUVO, Satco model S11712
- SATCO/NUVO, Satco model S11713
- SATCO/NUVO, Satco model S11714
- SATCO/NUVO, Satco model S11715
- Sunshine Lighting, MKS model 89296-MKS
- Sunshine Lighting, MKS model MKS/NDL/3H/12W/30K/**
- Sunshine Lighting, MKS model MKS/NDL/3H/12W/40K/**
- Sunshine Lighting, MKS model MKS/NDL/3H/12W/50K/**
- The Home Depot, World Imports model 9700-X
- The Home Depot, World Imports model 9701-X
- The Home Depot, World Imports model 9703-X
- The Home Depot, World Imports model 9704-X
- The Home Depot, World Imports model 9705-X
Please visit the Products Integrity Page for specific brands and model numbers, and email Enforcement@energystar.gov with any questions.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Residential Water Heaters Partners and Stakeholders:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to remind stakeholders that as of November 23, 2022, EPA-recognized certification bodies (CBs) are required to cease certification of new residential water heaters to the Version 4.0 specification and may only certify residential water heaters to the Version 5.0 specification. Certification bodies may continue submitting administrative modifications to existing residential water heaters certifications to the Version 4.0 specification until April 18, 2023. After this date, only water heaters certified to the Version 5.0 specification will appear on the ENERGY STAR website and certified products list.
CBs must notify EPA by November 23, 2022, of models certified to Version 4.0, but not yet submitted to EPA, along with information on when data will be submitted. Failure to do so will result in QPX blocking submissions of these products to EPA.
Please contact EPA at waterheaters@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specification. CBs should direct questions concerning the submittal of certified residential water heaters to Certification@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Commercial Refrigerator and Freezer and Other Interested Stakeholders:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is notifying stakeholders of the Agency’s intention to allow the use of a new safety standard when certifying products to the ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers specification. The update is the result of the completion of a new safety standard, UL/CSA 60335-2-89, that will ultimately replace UL 471, referenced in the ENERGY STAR specification. Specifically, for the purposes of ENERGY STAR certification, commercial refrigerators and freezers shall be in compliance with UL/CSA 60335-2-89 standard testing and/or UL471 until the UL/CSA 60335-2-89 effective date, September 29, 2024, at which time, only UL/CSA 60335-2-89 will be accepted for certification. The updated specification can be found here. Further, these changes do not impact current Version 5.0 and Version 4.0 certification status for the commercial refrigerator and freezer category.
Regarding Alternative Efficiency Determination Methods (AEDMs), the EPA supports ENERGY STAR certification of products, including commercial refrigerators and freezers, through an AEDM per 10 CFR 429.42(2). It is EPA’s expectation that verification test sample(s) be procured and tested according to the test method listed in the current specification.
If you have comments or questions regarding this update, please contact me at 202-650-7522 and Crk.Tanja@epa.gov or Adam Spitz, ICF, at 916-231-7685 and Adam.Spitz@icf.com. Unless concerns are raised, EPA will finalize and post the updated specification on December 1, 2022.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR.
Best Regards,
Tanja Crk, Product Manager
ENERGY STAR Commercial Food Service
Dear ENERGY STAR® Room Air Conditioner Brand Owners and Other Interested Parties,
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is sharing the Draft 2, ENERGY STAR Room Air Conditioner Version 5.0, as well as a draft Version 6.0 specification. EPA welcomes stakeholder input on these specifications; please provide written comments via email to appliances@energystar.gov no later than December 22, 2022. EPA will hold a stakeholder webinar on December 1, 2022 from 2 pm to 4 pm EST to discuss this draft with interested parties. Stakeholders interested in attending the webinar should register here.
In response to ENERGY STAR Room Air Conditioners Version 5.0, Draft 1, EPA received comments from stakeholders that were both supportive and concerned with the proposal. While the concerned stakeholders expressed support and understood the need for revising the ENERGY STAR specification, they indicated that the proposed changes are significant and that qualifying product for the 2024 cooling season timeframe would be challenging at the proposed levels. Additionally, numerous stakeholders expressed concern regarding selection of products should the Draft 1 levels take effect now. They proposed setting an interim specification, with another increase seeking additional savings after the DOE standard takes effect.
Consistent with these suggestions, EPA is releasing this Draft 2 Version 5.0 with somewhat eased levels, that would be in effect until DOE’s new federal minimum standards require compliance, as well as proposing levels for a Version 6.0 that would go into effect on the new federal standards compliance date. Key elements of Version 5.0, Draft 2 and Version 6.0 proposals include:
Revised Efficiency Criteria
EPA is proposing that to qualify for ENERGY STAR Version 5.0, room air conditioners within product classes 3-5b and 8-16 must be 35% more efficient than the 2014 minimum federal efficiency standards, whereas the proposed levels for product classes 1, 2, 6, and 7 remain the same as the levels proposed in Draft 1. Those levels are 19-28% more efficient than the current federal minimum standards.
For Version 6.0, EPA is proposing efficiency requirements that equal or outperform DOE’s new federal minimum standards by 10% for all product classes. Following this Draft 2 proposal, EPA will separate the two specifications and pause in the development of Version 6.0 until DOE finalizes the federal minimum standard. At that time, EPA will release a Draft 2 Version 6.0 that is informed by the DOE levels and timing.
Optional ‘Connected’ Criteria
EPA is proposing to simplify and eliminate the requirement for demand response testing and instead require compliance with either one of the two dominant demand response communications protocols, OpenADR 2.0B or with CTA-2045B. Furthermore, with the simplification of the connected criteria, EPA plans to discontinue the 5% energy use allowance for connected products.
Sound Performance Reporting
While many stakeholders expressed support for a sound performance reporting requirement, some stakeholders expressed concerns regarding inconsistencies in the way that sound pressure testing is conducted across test methods and manufacturers. As such, EPA will not be requiring sound pressure reporting for ENERGY STAR certification at this time but does encourage identification or development of a consensus industry standard for testing sound for these products.
Stakeholders are requested to provide any comments on the Version 5.0 Draft 2 and Version 6.0 specification no later than December 22, 2022. Please send comments via e-mail to appliances@energystar.gov. All comments received will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Room Air Conditioner Version 5.0 development page, unless the submitter specifically requests that comments remain confidential.
Please direct any specific questions to Katharine Kaplan at kaplan.katharine@epa.gov or (202) 343-9120 or Steve Leybourn at Steve.Leybourn@icf.com or (202) 862-1566.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR.
Sincerely,
Katharine Kaplan, Manager, Product Development and Product Administration
ENERGY STAR Labeled Products
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Room Air Conditioner Version 5.0, Draft 2, and Version 6.0 Specification
ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Room Air Conditioner Draft 2 Data & Analysis Package
Dear ENERGY STAR Stakeholders and Other Interested Parties:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to announce the newly revised ENERGY STAR Commercial Food Service (CFS) equipment sell sheets. The overview and individual equipment sell sheets are intended to market ENERGY STAR certified equipment. They are single page snapshots of savings potential broken out by energy, water (if applicable) and dollar savings. The sheets also provide helpful purchasing tips and links to other tools and resources!
The overview and individual sell sheets are provided below:
- ENERGY STAR CFS Equipment Savings Overview
- Commercial Dishwashers
- Commercial Fryers
- Commercial Griddles
- Commercial Hot Food Holding Cabinets
- Commercial Ice Makers
- Commercial Ovens
- Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers
- Commercial Steam Cookers
- Commercial Coffee Brewers
Otherwise, the individual sell sheets are available through the ENERGY STAR product pages. The overview sell sheet that includes savings, benefits, and incentive ranges for all nine CFS categories is available under the dealer/distributor resources on the CFS landing page: https://energystar.gov/cfs
For more information, please contact cfs@energystar.gov.
Dear ENERGY STAR Stakeholders and Other Interested Parties:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to announce the launch of the newly developed resource on Commercial Food Service Midstream Programs. With this resource energy efficiency program sponsors (EEPS) can review emerging best practices on program design, implementation, and evaluation based on the experiences of program sponsors and ENERGY STAR partners throughout the United States. The intent of this resource is two-fold:
- Encourage interested program implementers to take steps towards developing a midstream dealer/distributor-focused CFS incentive program.
- Facilitate conversation and information exchange between industry experts and program implementers interested in shifting to midstream.
You can find the CFS Midstream Programs page as a Utilities/Energy Efficiency Program Sponsor resource on the CFS landing page: https://energystar.gov/cfs
If you would like to learn more about midstream programs, please reach out to your regional account manager directly or through eeaccountmanager@energystar.gov.
Dear ENERGY STAR Stakeholders and Other Interested Parties:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to announce the newly revised ENERGY STAR Commercial Food Service (CFS) equipment sell sheets. The overview and individual equipment sell sheets are intended to market ENERGY STAR certified equipment. They are single page snapshots of savings potential broken out by energy, water (if applicable) and dollar savings. The sheets also provide helpful purchasing tips and links to other tools and resources!
The overview and individual sell sheets are provided below:
Otherwise, the individual sell sheets are available through the ENERGY STAR product pages. The overview sell sheet that includes savings, benefits, and incentive ranges for all nine CFS categories is available under the dealer/distributor resources on the CFS landing page: https://energystar.gov/cfs
For more information, please contact cfs@energystar.gov.
Dear ENERGY STAR Stakeholders and Other Interested Parties:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to announce the newly revised ENERGY STAR Commercial Food Service (CFS) equipment sell sheets. The overview and individual equipment sell sheets are intended to market ENERGY STAR certified equipment. They are single page snapshots of savings potential broken out by energy, water (if applicable) and dollar savings. The sheets also provide helpful purchasing tips and links to other tools and resources!
The overview and individual sell sheets are provided below:
Otherwise, the individual sell sheets are available through the ENERGY STAR product pages. The overview sell sheet that includes savings, benefits, and incentive ranges for all nine CFS categories is available under the dealer/distributor resources on the CFS landing page: https://energystar.gov/cfs
For more information, please contact cfs@energystar.gov.
Dear ENERGY STAR Stakeholders and Other Interested Parties:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to announce the newly revised ENERGY STAR Commercial Food Service (CFS) equipment sell sheets. The overview and individual equipment sell sheets are intended to market ENERGY STAR certified equipment. They are single page snapshots of savings potential broken out by energy, water (if applicable) and dollar savings. The sheets also provide helpful purchasing tips and links to other tools and resources!
The overview and individual sell sheets are provided below:
Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers
Otherwise, the individual sell sheets are available through the ENERGY STAR product pages. The overview sell sheet that includes savings, benefits, and incentive ranges for all nine CFS categories is available under the dealer/distributor resources on the CFS landing page: https://energystar.gov/cfs
For more information, please contact cfs@energystar.gov.
Dear ENERGY STAR Stakeholders and Other Interested Parties:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to announce the newly revised ENERGY STAR Commercial Food Service (CFS) equipment sell sheets. The overview and individual equipment sell sheets are intended to market ENERGY STAR certified equipment. They are single page snapshots of savings potential broken out by energy, water (if applicable) and dollar savings. The sheets also provide helpful purchasing tips and links to other tools and resources!
The overview and individual sell sheets are provided below:
Otherwise, the individual sell sheets are available through the ENERGY STAR product pages. The overview sell sheet that includes savings, benefits, and incentive ranges for all nine CFS categories is available under the dealer/distributor resources on the CFS landing page: https://energystar.gov/cfs
For more information, please contact cfs@energystar.gov.
Dear ENERGY STAR Stakeholders and Other Interested Parties:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to announce the newly revised ENERGY STAR Commercial Food Service (CFS) equipment sell sheets. The overview and individual equipment sell sheets are intended to market ENERGY STAR certified equipment. They are single page snapshots of savings potential broken out by energy, water (if applicable) and dollar savings. The sheets also provide helpful purchasing tips and links to other tools and resources!
The overview and individual sell sheets are provided below:
Otherwise, the individual sell sheets are available through the ENERGY STAR product pages. The overview sell sheet that includes savings, benefits, and incentive ranges for all nine CFS categories is available under the dealer/distributor resources on the CFS landing page: https://energystar.gov/cfs
For more information, please contact cfs@energystar.gov.
Dear ENERGY STAR Stakeholders and Other Interested Parties:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to announce the newly revised ENERGY STAR Commercial Food Service (CFS) equipment sell sheets. The overview and individual equipment sell sheets are intended to market ENERGY STAR certified equipment. They are single page snapshots of savings potential broken out by energy, water (if applicable) and dollar savings. The sheets also provide helpful purchasing tips and links to other tools and resources!
The overview and individual sell sheets are provided below:
Commercial Hot Food Holding Cabinets
Otherwise, the individual sell sheets are available through the ENERGY STAR product pages. The overview sell sheet that includes savings, benefits, and incentive ranges for all nine CFS categories is available under the dealer/distributor resources on the CFS landing page: https://energystar.gov/cfs
For more information, please contact cfs@energystar.gov.
Dear ENERGY STAR Stakeholders and Other Interested Parties:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to announce the newly revised ENERGY STAR Commercial Food Service (CFS) equipment sell sheets. The overview and individual equipment sell sheets are intended to market ENERGY STAR certified equipment. They are single page snapshots of savings potential broken out by energy, water (if applicable) and dollar savings. The sheets also provide helpful purchasing tips and links to other tools and resources!
The overview and individual sell sheets are provided below:
Otherwise, the individual sell sheets are available through the ENERGY STAR product pages. The overview sell sheet that includes savings, benefits, and incentive ranges for all nine CFS categories is available under the dealer/distributor resources on the CFS landing page: https://energystar.gov/cfs
For more information, please contact cfs@energystar.gov.
Dear ENERGY STAR Stakeholders and Other Interested Parties:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to announce the newly revised ENERGY STAR Commercial Food Service (CFS) equipment sell sheets. The overview and individual equipment sell sheets are intended to market ENERGY STAR certified equipment. They are single page snapshots of savings potential broken out by energy, water (if applicable) and dollar savings. The sheets also provide helpful purchasing tips and links to other tools and resources!
The overview and individual sell sheets are provided below:
Otherwise, the individual sell sheets are available through the ENERGY STAR product pages. The overview sell sheet that includes savings, benefits, and incentive ranges for all nine CFS categories is available under the dealer/distributor resources on the CFS landing page: https://energystar.gov/cfs
For more information, please contact cfs@energystar.gov.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder:
The purpose of this letter is to present a proposal from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to sunset the ENERGY STAR specifications for lamps, luminaires, and ceiling fan light kits. EPA recognizes the significant, decades long contributions of ENERGY STAR lighting stakeholders and is committed to carefully considering all input, particularly with respect to timing. EPA requests feedback on this proposal no later than January 6, 2023.
The ENERGY STAR label for lighting and the specifications associated with it have been an amazing success story. When the first specification launched in 1997, CFLs were about one percent of light bulb sales; they cost an average of $19 each; and they suffered from a bad performance reputation among consumers. Advances in bulb design combined with a range of efforts from dedicated stakeholders, and rigorous ENERGY STAR performance requirements set the stage for improved product quality, with an equally positive impact on the introduction and evolution of LED bulbs and fixtures. Over the past two decades, this public-private collaboration, with a focus on product quality, branding and consumer education, has transformed the market for efficient lighting and delivered significant benefit to consumers and the environment. Since 1998, EPA estimates that ENERGY STAR certified light bulbs and fixtures have saved a combined total of more than one trillion kWh of electricity. Today, the associated annual greenhouse gas savings are roughly equivalent to the carbon sequestered by over 140 million acres of forest.
Criteria for Sunsetting
Under certain circumstances, EPA makes the determination that an ENERGY STAR specification for a particular product category should be sunset rather than revised. Some or all of the following factors play into such a decision:
- Additional, cost-effective efficiency gains are not available or anticipated
- A standard exists or is forthcoming at the current ENERGY STAR level that will serve as a backstop so efficiency gains are maintained.
- The market has evolved such that the product type is being discontinued
For residential lighting products, EPA anticipates that, in addition to the backstop, upcoming new efficiency standards will capture the bulk of existing cost-effective efficiency gains.
Rationale for Proposed Sunset
On May 9, 2022, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) published final rules pertaining to definitions and standards for General Service Lamps, and their policy for the enforcement of the 45 lumen-per-watt backstop. Consistent with the definitions for covered products, the backstop and anticipated new standards cover the vast majority of the lamps on the U.S. market. Further, to the extent that a significant amount of luminaire and light kit certifications and shipments involve screw-based sockets, the lamp standards represent a new baseline and backstop for fixtures as well.
Utility programs have been a powerful driver for the uptake of ENERGY STAR certified lighting for two decades, delivering much needed long term energy savings to their customers through cost-effective rebates. EPA recognizes that the prevalence of utility lighting rebates has been an important consideration among manufacturers as they weigh the certification costs associated with earning the ENERGY STAR label. In recent years, utility programs have been declining in anticipation of forthcoming federal standards, and with the backstop triggered, the new baseline for lighting will make it difficult for utility programs to justify continuing their rebates. It is EPA’s understanding that some utility programs may continue to offer rebates on ENERGY STAR lighting through the end of 2023, and fewer may be able to continue offering free bulbs to income eligible customers through 2024.
Proposed Timing
Consistent with the anticipated phase down of utility rebate programs leveraging ENERGY STAR lighting, EPA proposes to sunset the ENERGY STAR label for lamps, luminaires, and ceiling fan light kits effective the end of 2024. The Agency expects to stop accepting new certifications for these products as of the end of 2023. EPA welcomes feedback on this timeline.
In light of the market considerations driving this sunset proposal, EPA also plans to remove lighting requirements from the ENERGY STAR specifications for ceiling fans and ventilation fans. These changes would be effective, in alignment with DOE’s backstop enforcement timeline, at the end of July 2023.
EPA values stakeholder feedback on this proposal. Stakeholders who have any questions or want to discuss their plans to discontinue labeling may contact lighting@energystar.gov. In closing, EPA appreciates the efforts of all lighting stakeholders to advance a cleaner environment through the ENERGY STAR Program and applauds your success in moving the market towards greater energy efficiency. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Taylor Jantz-Sell
ENERGY STAR Lighting Program Manager
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Dear ENERGY STAR® Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder:
The purpose of this letter is to present a proposal from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to sunset the ENERGY STAR specifications for lamps, luminaires, and ceiling fan light kits. EPA recognizes the significant, decades long contributions of ENERGY STAR lighting stakeholders and is committed to carefully considering all input, particularly with respect to timing. EPA requests feedback on this proposal no later than January 6, 2023.
The ENERGY STAR label for lighting and the specifications associated with it have been an amazing success story. When the first specification launched in 1997, CFLs were about one percent of light bulb sales; they cost an average of $19 each; and they suffered from a bad performance reputation among consumers. Advances in bulb design combined with a range of efforts from dedicated stakeholders, and rigorous ENERGY STAR performance requirements set the stage for improved product quality, with an equally positive impact on the introduction and evolution of LED bulbs and fixtures. Over the past two decades, this public-private collaboration, with a focus on product quality, branding and consumer education, has transformed the market for efficient lighting and delivered significant benefit to consumers and the environment. Since 1998, EPA estimates that ENERGY STAR certified light bulbs and fixtures have saved a combined total of more than one trillion kWh of electricity. Today, the associated annual greenhouse gas savings are roughly equivalent to the carbon sequestered by over 140 million acres of forest.
Criteria for Sunsetting
Under certain circumstances, EPA makes the determination that an ENERGY STAR specification for a particular product category should be sunset rather than revised. Some or all of the following factors play into such a decision:
- Additional, cost-effective efficiency gains are not available or anticipated
- A standard exists or is forthcoming at the current ENERGY STAR level that will serve as a backstop so efficiency gains are maintained.
- The market has evolved such that the product type is being discontinued
For residential lighting products, EPA anticipates that, in addition to the backstop, upcoming new efficiency standards will capture the bulk of existing cost-effective efficiency gains.
Rationale for Proposed Sunset
On May 9, 2022, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) published final rules pertaining to definitions and standards for General Service Lamps, and their policy for the enforcement of the 45 lumen-per-watt backstop. Consistent with the definitions for covered products, the backstop and anticipated new standards cover the vast majority of the lamps on the U.S. market. Further, to the extent that a significant amount of luminaire and light kit certifications and shipments involve screw-based sockets, the lamp standards represent a new baseline and backstop for fixtures as well.
Utility programs have been a powerful driver for the uptake of ENERGY STAR certified lighting for two decades, delivering much needed long term energy savings to their customers through cost-effective rebates. EPA recognizes that the prevalence of utility lighting rebates has been an important consideration among manufacturers as they weigh the certification costs associated with earning the ENERGY STAR label. In recent years, utility programs have been declining in anticipation of forthcoming federal standards, and with the backstop triggered, the new baseline for lighting will make it difficult for utility programs to justify continuing their rebates. It is EPA’s understanding that some utility programs may continue to offer rebates on ENERGY STAR lighting through the end of 2023, and fewer may be able to continue offering free bulbs to income eligible customers through 2024.
Proposed Timing
Consistent with the anticipated phase down of utility rebate programs leveraging ENERGY STAR lighting, EPA proposes to sunset the ENERGY STAR label for lamps, luminaires, and ceiling fan light kits effective the end of 2024. The Agency expects to stop accepting new certifications for these products as of the end of 2023. EPA welcomes feedback on this timeline.
In light of the market considerations driving this sunset proposal, EPA also plans to remove lighting requirements from the ENERGY STAR specifications for ceiling fans and ventilation fans. These changes would be effective, in alignment with DOE’s backstop enforcement timeline, at the end of July 2023.
EPA values stakeholder feedback on this proposal. Stakeholders who have any questions or want to discuss their plans to discontinue labeling may contact lighting@energystar.gov. In closing, EPA appreciates the efforts of all lighting stakeholders to advance a cleaner environment through the ENERGY STAR Program and applauds your success in moving the market towards greater energy efficiency. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Taylor Jantz-Sell
ENERGY STAR Lighting Program Manager
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Dear ENERGY STAR® Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder:
The purpose of this letter is to present a proposal from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to sunset the ENERGY STAR specifications for lamps, luminaires, and ceiling fan light kits. EPA recognizes the significant, decades long contributions of ENERGY STAR lighting stakeholders and is committed to carefully considering all input, particularly with respect to timing. EPA requests feedback on this proposal no later than January 6, 2023.
The ENERGY STAR label for lighting and the specifications associated with it have been an amazing success story. When the first specification launched in 1997, CFLs were about one percent of light bulb sales; they cost an average of $19 each; and they suffered from a bad performance reputation among consumers. Advances in bulb design combined with a range of efforts from dedicated stakeholders, and rigorous ENERGY STAR performance requirements set the stage for improved product quality, with an equally positive impact on the introduction and evolution of LED bulbs and fixtures. Over the past two decades, this public-private collaboration, with a focus on product quality, branding and consumer education, has transformed the market for efficient lighting and delivered significant benefit to consumers and the environment. Since 1998, EPA estimates that ENERGY STAR certified light bulbs and fixtures have saved a combined total of more than one trillion kWh of electricity. Today, the associated annual greenhouse gas savings are roughly equivalent to the carbon sequestered by over 140 million acres of forest.
Criteria for Sunsetting
Under certain circumstances, EPA makes the determination that an ENERGY STAR specification for a particular product category should be sunset rather than revised. Some or all of the following factors play into such a decision:
- Additional, cost-effective efficiency gains are not available or anticipated
- A standard exists or is forthcoming at the current ENERGY STAR level that will serve as a backstop so efficiency gains are maintained.
- The market has evolved such that the product type is being discontinued
For residential lighting products, EPA anticipates that, in addition to the backstop, upcoming new efficiency standards will capture the bulk of existing cost-effective efficiency gains.
Rationale for Proposed Sunset
On May 9, 2022, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) published final rules pertaining to definitions and standards for General Service Lamps, and their policy for the enforcement of the 45 lumen-per-watt backstop. Consistent with the definitions for covered products, the backstop and anticipated new standards cover the vast majority of the lamps on the U.S. market. Further, to the extent that a significant amount of luminaire and light kit certifications and shipments involve screw-based sockets, the lamp standards represent a new baseline and backstop for fixtures as well.
Utility programs have been a powerful driver for the uptake of ENERGY STAR certified lighting for two decades, delivering much needed long term energy savings to their customers through cost-effective rebates. EPA recognizes that the prevalence of utility lighting rebates has been an important consideration among manufacturers as they weigh the certification costs associated with earning the ENERGY STAR label. In recent years, utility programs have been declining in anticipation of forthcoming federal standards, and with the backstop triggered, the new baseline for lighting will make it difficult for utility programs to justify continuing their rebates. It is EPA’s understanding that some utility programs may continue to offer rebates on ENERGY STAR lighting through the end of 2023, and fewer may be able to continue offering free bulbs to income eligible customers through 2024.
Proposed Timing
Consistent with the anticipated phase down of utility rebate programs leveraging ENERGY STAR lighting, EPA proposes to sunset the ENERGY STAR label for lamps, luminaires, and ceiling fan light kits effective the end of 2024. The Agency expects to stop accepting new certifications for these products as of the end of 2023. EPA welcomes feedback on this timeline.
In light of the market considerations driving this sunset proposal, EPA also plans to remove lighting requirements from the ENERGY STAR specifications for ceiling fans and ventilation fans. These changes would be effective, in alignment with DOE’s backstop enforcement timeline, at the end of July 2023.
EPA values stakeholder feedback on this proposal. Stakeholders who have any questions or want to discuss their plans to discontinue labeling may contact lighting@energystar.gov. In closing, EPA appreciates the efforts of all lighting stakeholders to advance a cleaner environment through the ENERGY STAR Program and applauds your success in moving the market towards greater energy efficiency. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Taylor Jantz-Sell
ENERGY STAR Lighting Program Manager
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Dear ENERGY STAR® Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder:
The purpose of this letter is to present a proposal from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to sunset the ENERGY STAR specifications for lamps, luminaires, and ceiling fan light kits. EPA recognizes the significant, decades long contributions of ENERGY STAR lighting stakeholders and is committed to carefully considering all input, particularly with respect to timing. EPA requests feedback on this proposal no later than January 6, 2023.
The ENERGY STAR label for lighting and the specifications associated with it have been an amazing success story. When the first specification launched in 1997, CFLs were about one percent of light bulb sales; they cost an average of $19 each; and they suffered from a bad performance reputation among consumers. Advances in bulb design combined with a range of efforts from dedicated stakeholders, and rigorous ENERGY STAR performance requirements set the stage for improved product quality, with an equally positive impact on the introduction and evolution of LED bulbs and fixtures. Over the past two decades, this public-private collaboration, with a focus on product quality, branding and consumer education, has transformed the market for efficient lighting and delivered significant benefit to consumers and the environment. Since 1998, EPA estimates that ENERGY STAR certified light bulbs and fixtures have saved a combined total of more than one trillion kWh of electricity. Today, the associated annual greenhouse gas savings are roughly equivalent to the carbon sequestered by over 140 million acres of forest.
Criteria for Sunsetting
Under certain circumstances, EPA makes the determination that an ENERGY STAR specification for a particular product category should be sunset rather than revised. Some or all of the following factors play into such a decision:
- Additional, cost-effective efficiency gains are not available or anticipated
- A standard exists or is forthcoming at the current ENERGY STAR level that will serve as a backstop so efficiency gains are maintained.
- The market has evolved such that the product type is being discontinued
For residential lighting products, EPA anticipates that, in addition to the backstop, upcoming new efficiency standards will capture the bulk of existing cost-effective efficiency gains.
Rationale for Proposed Sunset
On May 9, 2022, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) published final rules pertaining to definitions and standards for General Service Lamps, and their policy for the enforcement of the 45 lumen-per-watt backstop. Consistent with the definitions for covered products, the backstop and anticipated new standards cover the vast majority of the lamps on the U.S. market. Further, to the extent that a significant amount of luminaire and light kit certifications and shipments involve screw-based sockets, the lamp standards represent a new baseline and backstop for fixtures as well.
Utility programs have been a powerful driver for the uptake of ENERGY STAR certified lighting for two decades, delivering much needed long term energy savings to their customers through cost-effective rebates. EPA recognizes that the prevalence of utility lighting rebates has been an important consideration among manufacturers as they weigh the certification costs associated with earning the ENERGY STAR label. In recent years, utility programs have been declining in anticipation of forthcoming federal standards, and with the backstop triggered, the new baseline for lighting will make it difficult for utility programs to justify continuing their rebates. It is EPA’s understanding that some utility programs may continue to offer rebates on ENERGY STAR lighting through the end of 2023, and fewer may be able to continue offering free bulbs to income eligible customers through 2024.
Proposed Timing
Consistent with the anticipated phase down of utility rebate programs leveraging ENERGY STAR lighting, EPA proposes to sunset the ENERGY STAR label for lamps, luminaires, and ceiling fan light kits effective the end of 2024. The Agency expects to stop accepting new certifications for these products as of the end of 2023. EPA welcomes feedback on this timeline.
In light of the market considerations driving this sunset proposal, EPA also plans to remove lighting requirements from the ENERGY STAR specifications for ceiling fans and ventilation fans. These changes would be effective, in alignment with DOE’s backstop enforcement timeline, at the end of July 2023.
EPA values stakeholder feedback on this proposal. Stakeholders who have any questions or want to discuss their plans to discontinue labeling may contact lighting@energystar.gov. In closing, EPA appreciates the efforts of all lighting stakeholders to advance a cleaner environment through the ENERGY STAR Program and applauds your success in moving the market towards greater energy efficiency. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Taylor Jantz-Sell
ENERGY STAR Lighting Program Manager
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Dear ENERGY STAR® Commercial Electric Cooktop Manufacturers and Other Interested Stakeholders:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing the ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Commercial Electric Cooktops Draft 1 Specification. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit comments to EPA no later than December 22, 2022.
Activities to Date
EPA initially launched this specification development effort with the publication of the Commercial Electric Cooktop Discussion Guide for the purpose of engaging with manufacturers and other interested stakeholders to further inform a potential ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 specification. The Agency hosted a webinar stakeholder meeting to discuss general topics outlined in the Discussion Guide, which included, in part, the test methodology for evaluating energy efficiency performance, production capacity (throughput), and scope of products for consideration under the ENERGY STAR specification.
Prior to releasing the discussion guide and hosting the webinar, EPA had been and continues to be involved with the refinement of the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standard test method development effort. The ASTM F1521-12 Standard Test Methods for Performance of Range Tops was ballot approved October 2022 and is slated for imminent publication through ASTM. The test forms the basis for the heat-up energy efficiency criterion for the ENERGY STAR commercial electric cooktops specification.
Overview of Draft 1 Proposal
The Draft 1 specification builds on the concepts and information presented in the discussion guide with the addition of proposed eligibility criteria. EPA addresses stakeholder comments submitted in response to the discussion guide in the associated comment matrix as well as the draft product specification.
Key elements of the Draft 1 proposal include:
- Cooking (Boil) Energy Efficiency (expressed as a percentage, %)
- American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) F-1521-12 (2022) Standard Test Methods for Performance of Range Tops
- Reporting requirements including: total number of hobs, maximum input rate per hob, diameter(s) of the individual hobs, heat-up time for each hob shall be reported from ambient to production-ready temperature, production capacity, and sub-category type (i.e., countertop, drop-in, and/or floor standing)
Data Assembly for Commercial Electric Cooktops
Data used to inform the Draft 1 specification was obtained through stakeholders, including Southern California Edison (SCE). While EPA believes that the current dataset is reasonably reflective of commercial electric cooktop energy performance, the Agency remains interested in obtaining additional data to incorporate in the performance requirement analysis. Data used for purposes of setting specification levels do not need to be third-party certified. Data that could enhance the EPA dataset include cooking (boil) energy efficiency for a variety of commercial electric cooktop models such as induction and non-induction electric units with more than 1-2 hobs.
Comment Submittal
EPA welcomes stakeholder input on the attached ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Commercial Electric Cooktops Draft 1 Specification. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit any comments to cfs@energystar.gov by December 22, 2022. EPA will also accept additional data for any electric cooktop products submitted by this same deadline.
All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Commercial Electric Cooktop Version 1.0 Product Development website unless the submitter requests otherwise.
Stakeholder Webinar
EPA will host a webinar on November 30, 2022, from 11:30am – 1:00pm ET to address stakeholder comments and questions. Stakeholders interested in participating in this discussion should register here.
Please contact me at Crk.Tanja@epa.gov or 202-650-7522 and Adam Spitz, ICF, at Adam.Spitz@icf.com or 916-231-7685 for questions or concerns.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Tanja Crk, Product Manager
ENERGY STAR for Commercial Food Service
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Commercial Electric Cooktop Draft 1 Specification
ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Commercial Electric Cooktop Draft 1 Specification Data Packet
ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Commercial Electric Cooktop Discussion Guide Comment Matrix
Dear ENERGY STAR® Audio/Video Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder,
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to share a first draft of the Version 4.0 ENERGY STAR Audio/Video specification. EPA monitors market and technology developments and reviews specifications regularly, looking for opportunities to recognize increased energy savings. The Agency sees an opportunity to improve the ENERGY STAR Audio/Video specification by referencing the latest industry standard test method that better reflects products that exist today and expanding scope to realize additional energy savings. EPA thanks stakeholders for their comments on the discussion guide, and engagement in subsequent conversations about improving the specification and test method.
Over the past few years, EPA and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) have worked alongside industry as part of the Consumer Technology Association’s (CTA) R3 Working Group 3 to develop an updated test procedure for audio/video products for use by the ENERGY STAR program. This newly completed test provides results that better represent the way products are likely to be used by consumers.
The proposals reflected in this draft of the specification are based on an analysis of 312 models in the ENERGY STAR V3.0 dataset, as well as limited product testing that EPA completed. The Agency seeks additional data from stakeholders to establish performance requirements noted as ‘TBD’ and to demonstrate the need to adjust levels that are proposed based on test results from the new CTA test method.
In addition to adopting the latest CTA/ANSI test method, EPA proposes the following changes in this Draft 1 specification:
- Definitions and Scope: EPA made minor updates to the definitions throughout the specification to harmonize with the CTA 2084-A test procedure. EPA also proposes a definition for Tower/ PA systems to provide guidance on acceptable configurations and clarifying the scope to establish energy efficiency requirements. The revised test method also allows for testing of battery powered devices and as such EPA proposes to include them in the scope of the specification.
- Rounding: EPA made editorial updates to the significant digits and rounding section to harmonize with other recently updated ENERGY STAR specifications.
- EPS requirements: EPA has revised the EPS requirements to level VI consistent with the U.S. federal energy conservation standards.
- Idle mode requirements: EPA proposes reducing the base allowance for Idle State power requirements based on data from the ENERGY STAR certified product list and welcomes stakeholder feedback, along with any data stakeholders can share to fine tune the requirements if needed. With the proposed criteria, EPA expects about a 40% improvement in terms of savings in Idle State across all Audio/Video product categories compared to the previous version of the specification.
- On mode requirements: EPA is proposing a reduction in the On Mode power allowance for Blu-Ray DVD from 10.5 W to 5.4 W. An analysis of EPA’s current dataset supports a healthy selection of products from a range of manufacturers that would qualify at this level. With the revised criteria, EPA expects a pass rate of 25% for DVD players and an overall 19% pass rate for optical disc players based on the On Mode requirements.
- Sleep mode requirements: EPA proposes to eliminate all the networking allowances in sleep mode as technology has rapidly evolved over the past decade and most products that have networking capability have demonstrated that they can meet the base allowance level.
- APD requirements: EPA proposes that Idle State power requirements be met irrespective of the APD timing default settings. This proposal is based on the fact that duty cycle data demonstrate significant savings potential given that a product typically spends an average of 146 hours in idle mode every year. Products used for Mass Notification and Emergency Communications Systems and those subject to ANSI/UL 2572 are exempt from this requirement.
- Products with Audio Amplification shipped without speakers: Prior to proposing efficiency requirements for products with audio amplification shipped without speakers in a forthcoming Draft 2 Specification, EPA seeks to enhance its dataset for these products such that it is more representative of the market and robust per the updated CTA-2084 test method. As such, EPA welcomes any new data generated per the CTA-2084 test method, as well as proposals on how to address energy use of these products most appropriately.
EPA will host a webinar to discuss and answer questions regarding the Draft 1 on Tuesday, November 15 from 1 to 3 PM Eastern Time. Please register here to attend. Again, stakeholders are encouraged to provide feedback and any relevant data for use in determining the ENERGY STAR performance levels no later than December 9, 2022 via e-mail to audiovideo@energystar.gov. The exchange of ideas and information between EPA, industry, and other interested parties is critical to the success of ENERGY STAR. To track EPA’s progress in revising the ENERGY STAR Audio/Video product specification, please visit the Audio/Video Version 4.0 product development webpage, which also hosts the previously published stakeholder comments regarding a Version 4.0 specification.
Please contact me at Kwon.James@epa.gov or (202) 564-8538, or Abhishek Jathar at ICF at Abhishek.Jathar@icf.com or (202) 862-1203, with any questions or concerns. For any general audio/video related questions, please contact audiovideo@energystar.gov. Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Best Regards,
James Kwon, EPA Product Manager
ENERGY STAR for Consumer Electronics
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Audio Video Version 4.0 Draft 1 Specification
Dear Energy Efficiency Program Sponsor or Other Interested Party:
The models listed below have been disqualified from the ENERGY STAR® program. The Disqualified Products List has been updated, and these models have been removed from the ENERGY STAR Qualified Products Lists:
Commercial Hot Food Holding Cabinets
- The Delfield Company (A division of Welbilt), Delfield model GAHRT2-S
Decorative Light Strings
- L & H Decoration, L & H Decoration model CLS, LHLS, LHLI, CLHLI, CLLH, CLTS, CC, LS, LI, SCZ, ICZ, CXCZ, CICZ, CLI, SZ, IZ, CSCZ, CICZ, CSZ, CIZ series
- L & H Decoration, L & H Decoration model LS350-2(0.04)-057
- L & H Decoration, L & H Decoration model LS370-2(0.04)-025
Dehumidifiers
- AlorAir Solutions Inc., ABESTORM model Guardian SN55
- AlorAir Solutions Inc., ABESTORM model Guardian SNS65
- AlorAir Solutions Inc., ALORAIR model Sentinel HD55
- AlorAir Solutions Inc., ALORAIR model Sentinel HDI65
- AlorAir Solutions Inc., BASEAIRE DAY YOUR CRAWL SPACE & BASEMENT model AirWerx 55
- AlorAir Solutions Inc., BASEAIRE DRY YOUR CRAWL SPACE & BASEMENT model AirWerx 65X
Luminaires
- Maxlite, MaxLite model 7.5MRGD927FL/JA8/G2
- Maxlite, MaxLite model 7.5MRGD927NF/JA8/G2
- Maxlite, MaxLite model 7.5MRGD930FL/JA8/G2
- Maxlite, MaxLite model 7.5MRGD930NF/JA8/G2
Ventilating Fans
- Electric Supply Depot, Inc., ESD-TECH model BF80L
- Electric Supply Depot, Inc., ESD-TECH model BF80LH
- Orbit Industries, Orbit model OE80RL
- Qingdao Xingbang, Fanstar model FSE80RVL
- S&P USA Ventilation Systems, LLC S&P model PCRL80F
Please visit the Products Integrity Page for specific brands and model numbers, and email Enforcement@energystar.gov with any questions.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Televisions Stakeholders:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to remind stakeholders that the effective date for the Version 9.0 ENERGY STAR Televisions Program Requirements is October 20, 2022. On this date, only products certified to Version 9.0 and submitted by EPA-recognized certification bodies (CBs) to EPA using the Version 9.0 web service will display on our list of certified models.
Please contact EPA at televisions@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specification. CBs should direct questions concerning the submittal of Version 9.0 certified Televisions to Certification@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program
Dear ENERGY STAR® Computer Server Partner, Certification Body, or Recognized Laboratory,
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been made aware of an update to the Standard Performance Evaluation Corporation® (SPEC) Server Efficiency Rating Tool® (SERT). For the purposes of ENERGY STAR certification, computer servers should be tested using SERT Version 2.0.6 moving forward. As has been the case with previous SERT updates during the life of the ENERGY STAR Computer Server program, test results already submitted through the certification process using a version of SERT EPA previously accepted are not affected by this update. In addition, testing that has already begun using Version 2.0.4 may be completed using that version if desired. This clarification memo can be found on the Computer Servers Version 3.0 Specification product development website.
The SERT Version 2.0.6 is a minor update following Version 2.0.5, which was previously in review for adoption but had not yet been formally adopted by EPA. The combined changes in Version 2.0.5 and Version 2.0.6 are included below and the results Version 2.0.6 produces are comparable to those produced by previous versions:
- Support for the latest ARM, Power, and x86 architectures
- Support for the PTDaemon 1.10.0 Interface
- Support for Java 17
- Various GUI optimizations
- Bug fixes
Please contact me at Fogle.Ryan@epa.gov or 202-343-9153 or John Clinger at John.Clinger@icf.com or 215-967-9407 with questions or concerns regarding this update. For any questions regarding certification to SERT Version 2.0.6, please contact certification@energystar.gov. For any other computer server related questions, please contact servers@energystar.gov. Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Ryan Fogle
EPA Manager, ENERGY STAR for IT and Data Center Products
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Dear ENERGY STAR® Partners and Stakeholders: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to announce final recognition criteria for ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023. This letter outlines the final criteria. These criteria will recognize the most efficient ENERGY STAR products in 2023 across 13 product categories: Air Source Heat Pumps and Central Air Conditioners, Ceiling Fans, Clothes Dryers, Clothes Washers, Computer Monitors, Consumer Refrigeration Products, Dehumidifiers, Dishwashers, Ductless Heat Pumps and AC, Geothermal Heat Pumps, Residential Windows and Sliding Glass Doors, Room Air Cleaners, Room Air Conditioners, and Ventilation Fans. Products that meet the 2023 criteria will deliver significant savings over a conventional product as noted below:
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*Note: In the case of appliances and HVAC equipment, energy use of a product that meets ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023 criteria is compared to the federal standard. |
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Overview of Comments on the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023 Proposals In light of an unexpected budget cut, EPA is finalizing limited updates to the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient criteria for 2023. Stakeholders shared feedback with EPA through 6 sets of written comments from 13 commenters. Commenters offered support for the proposed recognition criteria, as well as a select set of proposed adjustments that EPA summarizes and responds to in the comment response document. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) amends Section 25C federal income tax credits to allow credit for purchasing a skylight that meets the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient requirements, starting in 2023. EPA plans to issue a separate proposal to add ENERGY STAR Most Efficient skylight criteria in the next 60 days. ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023 Categories and Recognition Criteria Final criteria for ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023 are summarized below. In addition to meeting these performance requirements, products must be certified as ENERGY STAR by an EPA-recognized certification body. Additional detail for each product category is included in the recognition criteria documents available at www.energystar.gov/mostefficient. |
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ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023 Recognition beginning January 1, 2023. Shortly, EPA will begin distributing the 2023 ENERGY STAR Most Efficient designation to brand owners of eligible products. As a reminder, usage guidelines are available at Guidelines for Using the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient Mark. in the U.S. As such, EPA reminds partners that it is critical that they keep product availability information with their certification bodies current. will need to apply for recognition for all products new to ENERGY STAR Most Efficient in order for the Agency to verify that a product meets the recognition criteria outlined above. Since the recognition criteria have not changed, window products recognized in 2022 need not be resubmitted. EPA will distribute the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023 graphic along with instructions for obtaining it prior to January 1, 2023. It may not be factory-applied to products or product packaging. Failure to abide by these guidelines may result in loss of recognition. EPA will highlight recognized products on the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023 web page through December 31, 2023. We look forward to working with you to market ENERGY STAR Most Efficient products in 2023. Please e-mail mostefficient@energystar.gov with any questions. Ann Bailey, Director |
Dear ENERGY STAR® Commercial Ovens Partners and Stakeholders:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to remind stakeholders that as of August 29, 2022, EPA-recognized certification bodies (CBs) are required to cease certification of new commercial ovens to the Version 2.2 specification and may only certify commercial ovens to the Version 3.0 specification. Certification bodies may continue submitting administrative modifications to existing commercial ovens certifications to the Version 3.0 specification until January 12, 2023. After this date, only commercial ovens certified to the Version 3.0 specification will appear on the ENERGY STAR website and certified products list.
CBs must notify EPA by August 28, 2022, of models certified to Version 2.2, but not yet submitted to EPA, along with information on when data will be submitted. Failure to do so will result in QPX blocking submissions of these products to EPA.
Please contact EPA at cfs@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specification. CBs should direct questions concerning the submittal of certified commercial ovens to Certification@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Computer Server Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder,
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing the Draft 1, Version 4.0 Computer Server specification. The deadline to provide comments on this Draft 1 specification is September 9, 2022.
EPA released a Discussion Guide for stakeholder review and comment focused on updating definitions, the addition of storage “heavy” servers, and internal power supply efficiency. EPA has taken the feedback received from that Discussion Guide and incorporated this feedback into the Draft 1 specification. The Draft 1, Version 4.0 specification incorporates the following key elements.
Energy Criteria
Although 2020 market penetration for ENERGY STAR certified computer servers was 25%, improved chipsets have largely caught up to the ENERGY STAR specifications. As such, EPA is proposing more stringent ENERGY STAR criteria for server products. This proposal increases the stringency of the active efficiency criteria by 2-3 times over the previous levels with between 24-34% of products meeting the proposal in each bin. This includes smaller servers as well that are best suited for small businesses.
In addition, for storage “heavy” products, EPA is adding the definition for these products, but has not proposed active state criteria at this time due to a lack of data. As has been done for servers in the past, products may be certified and will be required to report the energy data so that the Agency can consider setting active state criteria in a future revision.
Internal Power Supply Criteria
EPA is proposing to create a four-tiered system for power supplies where power supplies at or above 750 watts are required to meet more stringent requirements than those below 750 watts which have maintained their requirements from Version 3.0. This is true for single and multi-output products.
Comment Submittal
EPA welcomes stakeholder input on the attached Draft 1, Version 4.0 specification. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit any comments to servers@energystar.gov by September 9, 2022. All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Product Development website unless the submitter requests otherwise.
Stakeholder Webinar
EPA will host a webinar to answer any questions on this discussion guide on August 16, 2022, from 1-3pm Eastern Time. Please register here if you plan on attending.
The exchange of ideas and information between EPA, industry, and other interested parties is critical to the success of ENERGY STAR. Specifications and meeting materials will be distributed via email and posted on the ENERGY STAR website. To track EPA’s progress on this specification, please visit the product development website.
Please contact me at Fogle.Ryan@epa.gov or 202-343-9153 or John Clinger at John.Clinger@icf.com or 215-967-9407 with questions or concerns. For any other computer server related questions, please contact servers@energystar.gov. Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Ryan Fogle
EPA Manager, ENERGY STAR for IT and Data Center Products
Enclosures
Draft 1, Version 4.0 specification
Data Savings and Analysis Package
Dear ENERGY STAR® Light Commercial HVAC Partners and Stakeholders:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to remind stakeholders that as of August 15, 2022, EPA-recognized certification bodies (CBs) are required to cease certification of new light commercial HVAC to the Version 3.1 specification and may only certify light commercial HVAC to the Version 4.0 specification. Certification bodies may continue submitting administrative modifications to existing light commercial HVAC certifications to the Version 4.0 specification until January 1, 2023. After this date, only light commercial HVAC certified to the Version 4.0 specification will appear on the ENERGY STAR website and certified products list.
CBs must notify EPA by August 14, 2022, of models certified to Version 3.1, but not yet submitted to EPA, along with information on when data will be submitted. Failure to do so will result in QPX blocking submissions of these products to EPA.
Please contact EPA at LCHVAC@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specification. CBs should direct questions concerning the submittal of certified light commercial HVAC to Certification@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Computer Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder,
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is finalizing an update to the ENERGY STAR Computer test method to allow certain products to ship without an external power supply included and to lay out how they should be tested. This change was requested by stakeholders due to changes in the way laptops are sold. The changes are reflected in the updated test method. Products that have been certified to Version 8.0 will not be affected by this change and will remain ENERGY STAR certified.
EPA received support from stakeholders for this change. One stakeholder commented that the allowance to ship without an external power supply and test using the revised method should not be limited to power supplies of 30W or less. For power supplies greater than 30W, EPA continues to have concerns, which are shared by some stakeholders, regarding the performance of products not using a power supply designed specifically for that product. As such, EPA has retained the 30W limit. However, EPA is willing to revisit stakeholder interest in this issue as part of the Version 9.0 specification revision process, which is scheduled to launch later this year.
Please contact me at Fogle.Ryan@epa.gov or 202-343-9153 or John Clinger, ICF, at john.clinger@icf.com or (215) 967-9407 with questions or concerns about this amendment. For other computer related questions, please contact computers@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Ryan Fogle
EPA Manager, ENERGY STAR for IT and Data Center Products
Enclosures:
Version 8.0 Final Specification Rev. July 2022 (includes updated test method)
Dear ENERGY STAR® Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers Partners and Stakeholders:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to remind stakeholders that as of August 6, 2022, EPA-recognized certification bodies (CBs) are required to cease certification of new commercial refrigerators and freezers to the Version 4.0 specification and may only certify commercial refrigerators and freezers to the Version 5.0 specification. Certification bodies may continue submitting administrative modifications to existing commercial refrigerators and freezers certifications to the Version 4.0 specification until December 21, 2022. After this date, only commercial refrigerators and freezers certified to the Version 5.0 specification will appear on the ENERGY STAR website and certified products list.
CBs must notify EPA by August 5, 2022, of models certified to Version 4.0, but not yet submitted to EPA, along with information on when data will be submitted. Failure to do so will result in QPX blocking submissions of these products to EPA.
Please contact EPA at cfs@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specification. CBs should direct questions concerning the submittal of certified commercial refrigerators and freezers to Certification@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Room Air Conditioner Brand Owners and Other Interested Parties,
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is sharing the ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Room Air Conditioner Draft 1 Specification. EPA welcomes stakeholder input on this Draft 1 specification; please provide written comments via email to appliances@energystar.gov no later than September 1, 2022. EPA will hold a stakeholder webinar on August 17, 2022 from 2 to 4 pm EST to discuss this draft with interested parties. Stakeholders interested in attending the webinar should register here.
EPA is proposing to revise the ENERGY STAR certified room air conditioners specification for multiple reasons. The ENERGY STAR market share has grown; in 2020 it was 54%, highlighting the opportunity to recognize a higher level of efficiency. Further, the Department of Energy (DOE) published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NOPR) to revise the federal efficiency standard for room air conditioners on April 7, 2022 with a proposal of levels that exceed those of the current ENERGY STAR requirements. Accordingly, EPA is proposing new efficiency criteria.
Key elements of the Version 5.0 Draft 1 proposal include:
Revised Efficiency Criteria
EPA is proposing that to qualify for ENERGY STAR, room air conditioners must be at least 19-50% more efficient than those meeting the 2014 minimum federal efficiency standards, depending on the product class. EPA estimates that room air conditioners that that meet the proposed ENERGY STAR specification will equate to an average national energy cost savings of over $85 million and prevent nearly 2.4 billion pounds of carbon emissions per year. As with all ENERGY STAR products, EPA is working with DOE on this ENERGY STAR revision and will ensure the revision is informed by that regulatory process.
Optional ‘Connected’ Criteria
EPA is considering revising optional connected criteria for room air conditioners. EPA is seeking to make the connected criteria both more useful to those interested in grid response from room air conditioners and less burdensome to test and meet for brand owners, which together should increase the number of connected products on the market. As such, EPA is proposing and/or seeking feedback on the following:
1. Connectivity protocols, and if brand owners would be open to EPA specifying compliance with specific protocols, and if this would be helpful for utilities and aggregators.
2. Evaluation of connectivity through the examination of documentation and product(s) information, and if this would lead to more connected recognition of more product lines by product brand owners.
3. Connected recognition of wider variety of room air conditioner models, and if this would make reliance on ENERGY STAR connected recognition more useful for utilities and aggregators.
In light of EPA’s current understanding of Demand Response (DR) programs and concerns EPA has received about the complexity of the connected criteria for room air conditioners, EPA is considering simplifying the connected criteria and associated test procedure. EPA believes that utilities have moved towards adopting demand response programs that are not product-specific, and EPA is not aware of any utilities with plans to include room air conditioner-specific demand response programs going forward.
Furthermore, EPA plans to discontinue the 5% energy use allowance for connected products. This change is based on multiple factors. The first, noted above, is the market shift away from product-specific DR programs. The second is an unintended consequence that EPA has observed from the current credit. EPA has not seen large numbers of ENERGY STAR models certified as connected while the models that do claim the credit are those that need the 5% credit to meet the efficiency criteria. Meanwhile, highly efficient models that are Smart or Wi-Fi capable are not being certified as Connected, working against the program’s intent to deliver both efficiency and performance.
Refrigerant Type Reporting
EPA is proposing a reporting requirement for the refrigerant type to allow consumers to easily identify products with lower-GWP refrigerants.
Sound Performance Reporting
Informed by stakeholders that increasing room air conditioner efficiency can be reasonably achieved by increasing fan speeds with a resulting effect on noise, EPA is proposing a reporting requirement for the indoor sound pressure performance at the lowest operational cooling level, which may be preferred by consumers sleeping or working in proximity to the units.
Stakeholders are requested to provide any comments on the Version 5.0 Draft 1 specification no later than September 1, 2022. Please send comments via e-mail to appliances@energystar.gov. All comments received will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Room Air Conditioner Version 5 development page, unless the submitter specifically requests that comments remain confidential.
Please direct any specific questions to Park.Ga-Young@epa.gov or (202) 564-1085, or Steve Leybourn at Steve.Leybourn@icf.com or (202) 862-1566.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR.
Sincerely,
Ga-Young Park
Product Manager for Appliances
ENERGY STAR Labeled Products
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Room Air Conditioner Draft 1 Specification
ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Room Air Conditioner Draft 1 Data & Analysis Package
Dear ENERGY STAR® Water Heater Brand Owner or Other Interested Party:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to distribute the Final Version 5.0 ENERGY STAR® Water Heater specification and the Final Version 1.2 ENERGY STAR Connected Residential Water Heaters Test Method to Validate Demand Response. EPA would like to thank the many stakeholders who have invested time and effort to contribute feedback that has informed this specification revision process. Version 5.0 requirements will be effective on April 18, 2023. All connected products should use the new version of the test method immediately.
Gas water heaters meeting this specification can save between $19 and $88 per year of average use, depending on the water heater type and capacity. Please see the accompanying data package for details. If all gas water heaters sold in the US met these criteria, the energy cost savings would grow to $28 billion per year, and 55 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions would be prevented.
This specification was developed through a process that included the release of a draft specification and holding individual meetings with numerous industry stakeholders to receive feedback. The themes from the Draft 1 comments were repeated in the latest comment period. EPA received comments asking for both lower and higher UEF levels from different stakeholders. Those calling for lower levels typically were in favor of no changes to the current Version 4.0 UEF levels, though some were interested in adding a higher tier recognition for products with a UEF above 1.00. Some commentors were only interested in slightly lower levels than proposed by EPA. Those calling for higher UEF criteria were typically asking for a level higher than 1.00, requiring a heat pump level of efficiency. EPA has retained the suggested levels for Further details and EPA’s responses can be found in the Final Draft Comment Response Matrix.
EPA made one change in the final specification, removal of NOx reporting requirements for all gas water heater types, which was our intention in the Final Draft. Numerous commentors requested we do so, typically citing added certification burden on manufacturers as a concern. While there were partners that appreciated NOx reporting, EPA does not believe it adds enough value to include.
EPA received extensive feedback both supporting and opposing the possibility of sunsetting gas products in the near future. Many stakeholders opposing sunsetting gas products cite EPA’s guiding principles, with specific comments made about the availability of units and the cost effectiveness of ENERGY STAR products after that change. Many stakeholders are interested in keeping the products available to consumers who may not financially be able to make the upgrades necessary for a heat pump water heater, and in maintaining existing utility programs that reference the ENERGY STAR certification for their program offerings. Some also challenged the conventional wisdom that electrification of water heating is the least costly path to decarbonization, which was the primary argument of those supporting the sunset. Those supporting the sunset referred to the urgency of decarbonization and to the Biden administration’s commitment to it.
Stakeholder comments, previous drafts of the specification, and related materials are available on EPA's ENERGY STAR website at www.energystar.gov/specifications. Click on the “View the Version 5.0 Development Process” link for Water Heaters.
Test Method to Validate Demand Response
The Final ENERGY STAR Connected Residential Water Heaters Test Method to Validate Demand Response, Version 1.2 remains unchanged from the final draft release of the document. EPA and DOE remain involved in the development a related industry document that may have an impact on the test method: proposed AHRI Standard 1430, Demand Flexible Water Heaters. AHRI, DOE, and EPA are committed to as much alignment as possible, and do not anticipate problems with achieving it. However, as the AHRI standard is not yet final, we have not changed the ENERGY STAR Test Method at this time. Once the standard is finalized, we will revisit alignment as needed.
Timeline and Next Steps
EPA shares Partners’ desire for a smooth transition from one ENERGY STAR specification to the next, so that consumers can expect ENERGY STAR labeled products to fully meet the latest requirements upon their effective date. With this in mind, EPA has established the following timeline:
- Effective immediately, manufacturers may elect to have their Certification Body (CB) certify their eligible products to the Version 5.0 requirements, including recognition as connected.
- As of November 23, 2023, CBs will be instructed to stop certifying new product submittals to Version 4.0. Note, however, that existing certifications will remain valid for purposes of ENERGY STAR qualification until April 18, 2023.
- Any water heater manufactured as of April 18, 2023, must meet Version 5.0 requirements to bear the ENERGY STAR mark. All certifications of products to the Version 4.0 specification will be invalid for purposes of ENERGY STAR qualification and the product finder will only include models certified to Version 5.0.
ENERGY STAR partnership as a manufacturer is limited to organizations that own and/or license a brand name under which they sell eligible products in the United States and/or Canada. Partnership is not available to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) that do not sell directly to consumers or end users. OEMs may certify products on behalf of the ENERGY STAR brand owners/licensees; however, the brand owner must be the ENERGY STAR partner associated directly with the certified product models, since only partners are authorized to use the ENERGY STAR certification mark.
EPA thanks stakeholders who provided feedback during the specification revision process and looks forward to working with you as you certify and market your energy-efficient water heaters. Please direct any questions regarding the specification and its timeline to Abigail Daken, EPA, at daken.abigail@epa.gov or (202) 343-9375, and Ned Bent, ICF, at ned.bent@icf.com, or (571) 842-4917. For marketing or webpage questions, please contact Nate Jutras at jutras.nathaniel@epa.gov or (202) 738-3515. For test procedure inquiries, please contact Julia Hegarty, U.S. Department of Energy, at julia.hegarty@ee.doe.gov or (240) 597-6737. Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Abigail Daken
EPA Product Manager, ENERGY STAR for HVAC and Connected
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Water Heaters Final Specification and Partner Commitments
ENERGY STAR Connected Residential Water Heaters Test Method to Validate Demand Response, Version 1.2
ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Water Heaters Final Draft Comment Response Matrix
ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Water Heaters Final Data Package
Dear ENERGY STAR® Partners and other Stakeholders:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to share both an update on ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2022 and proposed recognition criteria for 2023. Stakeholders are invited to provide written comments on these proposed criteria no later than August 15, 2022, to MostEfficient@energystar.gov.
ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2022
As of June 2022, 3308 models from 258 ENERGY STAR partners meet the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2022 recognition criteria. The number of models and partners per category is noted in the following table:
ENERGY STAR Most Efficient enjoys robust utility support and is leveraged by 37 energy efficiency program sponsors, serving over 8.4 million households (or roughly 23.2 million consumers). These rebate programs feature one or more product categories covered by ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2022 and reflect a diverse geographic spread, including one water utility in California.
ENERGY STAR Most Efficient is also leveraged for retailer incentives as part of the ENERGY STAR Retail Products Platform (ESRPP), an innovative, nationally coordinated, market transformation initiative. ESRPP retailers now represent 822 appliance storefronts in current program sponsors’ service areas. In 2022, there are 13 efficiency program sponsors participating in ESRPP currently serving nearly 15% of U.S. households.
EPA provides consumers with information about recognized products through a special view of the ENERGY STAR Product Finders. Consumers can now directly access ENERGY STAR Most Efficient models through a filter on the popular ENERGY STAR Products Finders and are also highlighted in the search results as having earned the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient recognition. In addition to highlighting ENERGY STAR Most Efficient models on the ENERGY STAR website, EPA is also sharing information on ENERGY STAR Most Efficient models with Amazon to be featured in their Climate Pledge Friendly program. The UPC codes recently added for all ENERGY STAR products currently enable the Amazon listings.
2023 Product Categories and Recognition Criteria
In light of an unexpected budget cut, EPA is pursuing a limited update of the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient criteria for 2023. EPA completed a review of the data associated with currently recognized models and found in all cases that the current criteria would adequately recognize the best of ENERGY STAR for another year. As such, EPA is extending the 2022 efficiency criteria into 2023 for ceiling fans, clothes washers, computer monitors, dehumidifiers, dishwashers, dryers, refrigeration products, room air conditioners, vent fans, and windows. EPA is proposing changes to the CAC/ASHP and geothermal heat pump criteria to ease the recognition processes. In response to sustained stakeholder interest and in service to consumers seeking ENERGY STAR Most Efficient products, EPA proposes to add recognition for room air cleaners in 2023. Televisions will not be recognized in 2023.
Ceiling Fans: EPA proposes to maintain the current criteria for ceiling fans into 2023. Savings offered by the current criteria are significant, 67% for a 52-inch fan, the most common size on the market.
Clothes Washers: No changes are proposed to the current criteria for clothes washer types. The ENERGY STAR Most Efficient list includes 20 base models from 6 brands, providing consumers with a good selection of models with superior energy and water efficiency.
Computer Monitors: EPA proposes to maintain the current criteria into 2023 as the number of models in the market is steady since the last update. Recognized models demonstrate significant energy savings and there has been no technology update due to the chip shortage.
Dehumidifiers: EPA proposes to maintain the current criteria for dehumidifiers into 2023. 227 portable models meet these rigorous criteria, offering consumers significant savings of 22% over conventional models. Nine whole-home dehumidifiers meet the criteria with a savings of 25% over conventional models.
Dishwashers: In light of the ongoing revision of the ENERGY STAR Dishwasher specification, EPA will maintain the current recognition criteria into 2023. Currently, the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient list includes 34 base models from 12 brands.
Dryers: No changes are proposed to the criteria for dryers. The ENERGY STAR Most Efficient list includes 30 base models from 8 brands, representing both heat pump and hybrid heat pump technologies. EPA encourages partners to complete optional fields for technology type when certifying products to make it easier for utilities to incentivize these technologies in the market.
Central Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps and Ductless Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps: EPA proposes to maintain the current criteria for CAC and Heat Pumps. The Agency will simplify the criteria to allow EPA to nominate products automatically from products certified to ENERGY STAR Version 6.1, eliminating the need for an application. The current criteria set in 2022 account for the revised ENERGY STAR specification, and reward certification to the V6.1 cold climate heat pump criteria. Inclusion of optional installation capabilities in Version 6.1 allows automatic recognition of units that meet the criteria as ENERGY STAR Most Efficient. The inclusion of compressor staging (single, dual, multi-stage, variable capacity) in QPX allows automatic recognition of dual and multistage units. EPA believes this change will ease participation in ENERGY STAR Most Efficient for partners.
Geothermal Heat Pumps: EPA also intends to move away from use of an application for Geothermal Heat Pumps for ENERGY STAR Most Efficient recognition. In light of the truly superior efficiency of these products, EPA proposes to recognize all models that meet the current ENERGY STAR criteria.
Refrigerators-Freezers and Freezers: EPA proposes to maintain the current criteria for refrigerators and freezers. There are 204 base models from 49 brands of standard size refrigerators, which represents 20% of the standard size market. For compact refrigerators, there are 44 base models from 24 brands that meet the proposed criteria representing 5% of the market. There are 12 upright freezer and chest freezer base models from 5 brands that meet the criteria.
Room Air Cleaners: EPA proposes to add Room Air Cleaners to the portfolio in 2023. EPA proposes this expansion due to the rich savings offered by this higher level of efficiency, 65% to more than 70%, over the level used in numerous state standards. There has been a tremendous growth in shipments over the past couple of years due to both COVID + wildfires making it more important to highlight greater efficiency for consumers. Lastly, stakeholders like the ESRPP have requested this expansion consistently in the last few years.
Room Air Conditioners: No changes are proposed for the current criteria for room air conditioners. Available models stayed steady from last year, and there are currently 13 base models from 6 brands meeting the proposed criteria, which represents 2% of the market.
Ventilating Fans: EPA proposes to maintain the 2022 criteria for ventilating fans into 2023. The current efficiency criteria are met by an appropriate subset of products, just 2.3% of HVI’s product list; however, a very small number of those fans are currently recognized as ENERGY STAR Most Efficient. This is due to a lack of reported data for the noise criteria as measured at 0.25 in wtg. static pressure for bathroom/utility fans. EPA encourages partners to submit this data and contact EPA with questions regarding how to do so.
Windows and Sliding Glass Doors: No changes are proposed for the 2023 residential window or sliding door recognition criteria. While high performance window products are widely available, they are still a relatively small slice of the total market. EPA will consider revising the criteria next year after the Version 7.0 Window, Door and Skylight specification is finalized.
The proposed ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023 criteria for the full suite of products is summarized below. In addition to meeting these recognition criteria, products must be certified as ENERGY STAR by an EPA-recognized certification body. Additional detail for each product category is included in the recognition criteria documents as well as the stakeholder slide deck accompanying this letter.
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[1] For purposes of this requirement, the manufacturer shall test the dryer according to the provisions in the DOE test procedure in 10 CFR 430, Subpart B, Appendix D2, but where the drying temperature setting can be chosen independently of the program, it shall be set to the maximum. At the time of certification, for each basic model the manufacturer shall report per this criteria section the energy performance (CEF), the cycle program name, the temperature setting, the dryness setting, as well as any settings enabled by default, and the time taken to complete the energy test cycle (as defined in the ENERGY STAR Version 1.1 specification, Section 5C).
EPA will provide additional information regarding the roll out of ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023 recognition with the finalization of these criteria.
In light of the minimal changes proposed to the 2023 ENERGY STAR Most Efficient criteria, EPA is distributing a slide deck that relays data associated with this year’s review rather than sharing this information via a stakeholder webinar. This document as well as the criteria documents can be found here. Please share written comments no later than August 15, 2022, with MostEfficient@energystar.gov. Unless the commenter asks otherwise, all comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient criteria development page. EPA plans to finalize these recognition requirements in the coming months.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Ann Bailey, Director
ENERGY STAR Product Labeling
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023 Proposals with Rationale
As you are likely aware the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) published its final rules pertaining to definitions and standards for General Service Lamps, and their policy for the enforcement of the 45 lumen-per-watt backstop.
The ENERGY STAR Program is currently processing the market implications of the new standard. Should EPA decide to go forward with a proposal to sunset or otherwise alter relevant ENERGY STAR specifications, we would do so through our usual open and transparent process with timing established in consultation with our partners. Given the prospect that utility rebate programs will still be running in 2023, we would not expect any such action to be effective before the end of next year.
Thank you for your support of ENERGY STAR.
For more information, visit: www.energystar.gov
Dear ENERGY STAR Small Network Equipment (SNE) Brand Owners and Other Interested Parties:
This letter serves as a reminder that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)'s sunset of the ENERGY STAR specification for SNE products takes effect July 13, 2022. All SNE partners must cease use of the ENERGY STAR name and ENERGY STAR mark in association with all SNE products, including on products, web pages, and other collateral materials as of this date.
EPA appreciates the efforts of SNE product partners to advance a cleaner environment through the ENERGY STAR Program and applauds your success in moving the market towards greater energy efficiency. Please send any questions to networking@energystar.gov. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Ann Bailey, Chief
ENERGY STAR Labeling Branch
US Environmental Protection Agency
Dear ENERGY STAR® Residential Dishwasher Partners or Other Interested Stakeholders,
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to share the Final Draft ENERGY STAR Version 7.0 Residential Dishwashers specification. EPA would like to thank the many stakeholders who have invested time and effort to contribute feedback that has informed this product specification process. The effective date for this ENERGY STAR Dishwashers specification will be July 6, 2023.
EPA appreciates stakeholders’ feedback on the Draft 2 specification. Responses to stakeholder comments are reflected in the final draft specification as well as in the accompanying Draft 2 Comment Response Matrix.
The Final Draft ENERGY STAR Version 7.0 Residential Dishwashers specification maintains the criteria proposed in Draft 2, including the proposed minimum energy and water efficiency requirements as well as a cleaning index threshold of 65. Given that the current ENERGY STAR market share for dishwashers is near 100%, instituting these changes is important to preserving the consumer value associated with the label. In recognition of simultaneous testing requirements associated with forthcoming changes to 10 CFR 430, Subpart B, Appendix C1 and ENERGY STAR, EPA has extended the transition period for Version 7.0 revision to 12 months.
Any final comments on the Version 7.0 Final Draft specification may be submitted no later than June 30, 2022 to appliances@energystar.gov. All comments received will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Residential Dishwashers Version 7.0 Specification Development webpage, unless the submitter specifically requests that their comments remain confidential.
Please contact Ga-Young Park, EPA, at Park.Ga-Young@epa.gov or (202) 564-1085, or Steve Leybourn, ICF, at Steve.Leybourn@icf.com or (202) 862-1566, with any questions or concerns about the specification. Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Best Regards,
Ga-Young Park
Product Manager for Appliances
ENERGY STAR for Residential Dishwashers
Dear ENERGY STAR® Televisions Stakeholders:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to remind stakeholders that as of June 2, 2022, EPA-recognized certification bodies (CBs) are required to cease certification of new Televisions to the Version 8.0 specification and may only certify Televisions to the Version 9.0 specification. Certification bodies may continue submitting administrative modifications to existing Television certifications to the Version 8.0 specification until October 20, 2022. After this date, only Televisions certified to the Version 9.0 specification will appear on the ENERGY STAR website and certified products list.
CBs must notify EPA by June 2, 2022 of models certified to Version 9.0, but not yet submitted to EPA, along with information on when data will be submitted. Failure to do so will result in QPX blocking submissions of these products to EPA.
Please contact EPA at televisions@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specification. CBs should direct questions concerning the submittal of certified televisions to Certification@energystar.gov
Dear ENERGY STAR® Computer Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder,
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing an update to the ENERGY STAR Computer test method to allow certain products to ship without an external power supply included and to lay out how they should be tested. This change was requested by stakeholders due to changes in the way laptops are sold. The changes will be reflected in an updated test method, and products that have been certified to Version 8.0 will not be affected by this change and will remain ENERGY STAR certified.
The changes made to the test method in Section 5.1.C (newly added) is as follows:
C) Notebooks and Slates/Tablets shall be tested using the external power supply (EPS) shipped with the product. If the UUT is designed with the intention of utilizing an EPS that is 30W or less, but does not include a pre-packaged EPS, then test the UUT as follows:
1) Test the UUT with an EPS sold and recommended by the manufacturer; or,
2) If the manufacturer does not recommend and EPS that it sells, test the UUT with an EPS recommended by the manufacturer in the manufacturer materials; or,
3) If the manufacturer does not recommend any EPS, test the UUT with an EPS that meets the parameters specified by the UUT manufacturer and minimally complies with the applicable Federal energy conservation standard. The input voltage shall be within ±1 percent of the UUT manufacturer specified voltage.
EPA welcomes stakeholder input on this proposed amendment. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit any comments to computers@energystar.gov by July 1, 2022. All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Product Development website unless the submitter requests otherwise.
The exchange of ideas and information between EPA, industry, and other interested parties is critical to the success of ENERGY STAR. Materials associated with this amendment are posted to the ENERGY STAR Product Development website.
Please contact me at Fogle.Ryan@epa.gov or 202-343-9153 or John Clinger, ICF, at john.clinger@icf.com or (215) 967-9407 with questions or concerns about this amendment. For other computer related questions, please contact computers@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Ryan Fogle
EPA Manager, ENERGY STAR for IT and Data Center Products
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Draft Test Method for Computers
Dear ENERGY STAR® Room Air Cleaner Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder,
This letter serves to inform stakeholders that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has updated the ENERGY STAR Version 2.0 Room Air Cleaners Specification. This update, which takes effect upon publication of this letter, adds a testing option for purposes of dust and pollen Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) reporting. Specifically, for reporting measured dust CADR and pollen CADR performance values, the average of tests on three units of the same model may be used. No changes have been made to testing and reporting of results for smoke CADR performance. The revised text adding this testing option is highlighted in attachment. Table 1.
In addition, EPA added a clarifying statement to the requirement for ozone emitting models. This clarification explicitly allows the use of test results from a Nationally Recognized Test Laboratory (NRTL) measured per UL 867 Ed. 5.0 to be used to confirm that a model meets this requirement to prevent the need for retesting ozone emissions. See 3.2.1 in attachment.
These updates do not impact models currently certified as ENERGY STAR. The updated specification and related materials are available on the ENERGY STAR Room Air Cleaners Version 2.0 Specification Development webpage.
Please contact Park.Ga-Young@epa.gov or (202) 564-1085, or Emmy Feldman, ICF, at Emmy.Feldman@icf.com or (202) 862-1145, with any questions or concerns about the specification. For any other questions pertaining to Room Air Cleaners, please contact roomaircleaners@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Best Regards,
Ga-Young Park
ENERGY STAR for Room Air Cleaners
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Room Air Cleaners Final Version 2.0 Program Requirements (Rev. May 2022)
Dear ENERGY STAR partners and stakeholders,
We are pleased to share with you a new report to Congress on the ENERGY STAR Program. This report highlights how the program has evolved and expanded since the 2009 realignment of responsibilities between the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy (DOE). The joint report was written in response to a request from Congress to review the 2009 EPA-DOE Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Improving the Energy Efficiency of Products and Buildings and the extent to which expected efficiencies for ENERGY STAR home appliances have been achieved. EPA and DOE find that the realignment of roles that resulted from the 2009 MOU facilitated program improvements to the benefit of American consumers, ENERGY STAR partners, including the appliance industry, and the environment. These improvements include:
- Nine ENERGY STAR appliance specification updates in order to keep product specifications up to date with a changing marketplace;
- Two new appliance product categories – residential clothes dryers and commercial clothes washers to the program to expand savings opportunities for consumers;
- The launch of the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient recognition program to highlight super-efficient products, including refrigerators, clothes washers, dishwashers, clothes dryers, room air conditioners, and dehumidifiers as part of an integrated effort to enable consumers to identify the top performing products;
- Revised test procedures for home appliances that reflect advancements in the home appliance market;
- Third-party certification to support the integrity of the ENERGY STAR label;
- A sophisticated, consumer-oriented ENERGY STAR Product Finder tool that leverages a single, integrated database of product testing results;
- Updated ENERGY STAR Products Program Strategy and Guiding Principles;
- A more effective consumer education strategy integrated across all product categories and coordinated nationally throughout the year, as well as an evolution in the design of utility rebate programs (i.e., the ENERGY STAR Retail Products Platform).
- The formalization of the product specification setting process into a standard operating procedure, providing additional transparency, clarity and increased stakeholder participation.
The ENERGY STAR Products Program has grown to include more than 75 product categories and to partner with 2,000 manufacturers, 1,850 retailers, 800 energy efficiency program administrators and others seeking to help consumers select products that can save them money and help protect the environment. Americans purchased more than 300 million products earning the ENERGY STAR label in 2018 with a market value of more than $100 billion. An average of 800,000 ENERGY STAR certified products was sold every day in 2018, bringing the total to more than 6 billion products sold since 1992. Since its inception, ENERGY STAR and its partners have helped American families and businesses save more than 4 trillion kilowatt-hours of electricity and achieve over 3.5 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas reductions, equivalent to the annual emissions of more than 750 million cars.
Thank you for the role you have played in the continued success of the ENERGY STAR program,
Ann Bailey, Chief
ENERGY STAR Products Labeling Branch
Dear ENERGY STAR® Light Commercial HVAC Brand Owner or Other Interested Party:
This letter serves to inform stakeholders that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has updated the ENERGY STAR Version 4.0 Light Commercial HVAC Specification.
As indicated in the March 28th release of the Version 4.0 specification, the Certified Cold Climate Light Commercial Heat Pumps energy efficiency criteria for Very Small CUHP Single Package and Split System, as well as Very Small VRF Air-Cooled Heat Pumps, required one additional stakeholder comment period until April 19. EPA received no comments on the cold climate proposal, and as a result, the criteria are unchanged in this revised final specification. The notebox in the previous version of the specification indicating the cold climate proposal was not yet finalized has now been removed and this update serves as notice that the full specification is final.
These Version 4.0 requirements will still be effective on January 1, 2023. The updated specification and related materials are available on the ENERGY STAR Light Commercial HVAC Specification Development webpage.
Please direct any questions to Abigail Daken, EPA, at daken.abigail@epa.gov or 202-343-9375, and Emmy Feldman, ICF, at emmy.feldman@icf.com or 202-862-1145. For test procedure inquiries, please contact Catherine Rivest, U.S. Department of Energy, at (202) 586-7335 or catherine.rivest@ee.doe.gov.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR.
Sincerely,
Abigail Daken, Product Manager
ENERGY STAR for HVAC
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Light Commercial HVAC Version 4.0 Specification Rev. April 2022
Specification Updates
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regularly updates ENERGY STAR product specifications. For every specification, product performance data submissions from partners are foundational to the process. Proposed efficiency levels tend to be based on the performance of existing certified models and data offered by manufacturers and other stakeholders during the specification development process. Establishing requirements that reflect the performance of the highest efficiency models available sometimes requires going beyond the data at hand and anticipating the market. To this end, EPA relies on insights shared by stakeholders and partners to help the Agency anticipate important trends in the market. For more information, you can view EPA’s ENERGY STAR specification Standard Operating Procedure on Revising or Establishing an ENERGY STAR Product Specification.
The following information includes some helpful reminders as you prepare for upcoming specification changes and manage your inventory of ENERGY STAR certified products. For more information regarding the ENERGY STAR specification process or additional CFS equipment updates, visit www.energystar.gov/productdevelopment. For milestones on these and other upcoming specification revisions in 2022, visit the ENERGY STAR Products Plan.
Recent and upcoming specification activities include:
- ENERGY STAR Final Version 3.0 Water Coolers Final Specification
The ENERGY STAR Final Version 3.0 Specification was published on June 23, 2021, and became effective March 23, 2022. Any water cooler manufactured as of March 23, 2022, must meet Version 3.0 requirements to bear the ENERGY STAR mark. All certifications of products to the Version 2.0 specification will be invalid for purposes of ENERGY STAR certification and the ENERGY STAR Product Finder will only include models certified to Version 3.0. After March 23, 2022, products placed under new contracts as ENERGY STAR should be certified to the Version 3.0 specification. For more information, please contact CFS@energystar.gov.
- ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers Final Specification
The ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers Final Specification was published on March 22, 2022, and will become effective on December 22, 2022. ENERGY STAR certified commercial refrigerators and freezers under the Version 5.0 specification will offer consumers, on average, energy savings of up to 24 percent. This specification establishes updated performance levels for a subset of product classes previously in scope, expands scope to include service over the counter and chef base classes, and aligns with current industry test methods, terms, and definitions. If all commercial refrigerators and freezers sold in the United States were ENERGY STAR certified to Version 5.0, the energy cost savings would grow to more than $200 million each year and more than 5 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions would be prevented. Please visit the Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers Specification Version 5.0 product development webpage to view all materials supportive of the specification revision process. For more information, please contact CFS@energystar.gov.
- ENERGY STAR Version 3.0 Commercial Ovens Final Specification
The ENERGY STAR Version 3.0 Commercial Ovens Final Specification was published on April 12, 2022, and will become effective on January 12, 2023. ENERGY STAR certified commercial ovens under the Version 3.0 specification will offer users, on average, energy savings of up to 30 percent. This specification establishes updated performance levels for a subset of product categories previously in scope, expands scope to include large electric combination ovens (≤ 40 pans), small electric combination ovens (≥ 3 pans), small gas combination ovens (≥ 5 pans), and electric 2/3-size combination ovens (with a pan capacity ≥ 3 and ≤ 5), and newly proposed water consumption criteria for combination ovens in steam and convection modes during cooking periods. If all commercial ovens sold in the United States were ENERGY STAR certified to Version 3.0, the energy cost savings would grow to nearly $250 million each year and more than 4.5 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions would be prevented. Please visit the Commercial Ovens Specification Version 3.0 product development webpage to view all materials supportive of the specification revision process. For more information, please contact CFS@energystar.gov.
- Electric Cooktops Version 1 Draft 1
As a reminder, the ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 Commercial Electric Cooktop Discussion Guide was released on February 24, 2021. The discussion guide highlighted specific topics, including the scope and test methodology for electric cooktop technology, including commercial induction products, not currently covered under the ENERGY STAR program. EPA expects to release a Draft 1 of the specification in Q2 of 2022. This product development webpage will host future specification drafts, comments, data packages, and responses to comments. For more information, please contact CFS@energystar.gov.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Oven Partners and Other Interested Stakeholders:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to share the Final Version 3.0 ENERGY STAR Commercial Ovens product specification. EPA would like to thank the many stakeholders who have invested time and resources to contribute feedback that has informed this specification revision process.
The Version 3.0 requirements will take effect on January 12, 2023. ENERGY STAR certified commercial ovens under the Version 3.0 specification will offer users, on average, energy savings of up to 30 percent. This specification establishes updated performance levels for a subset of product categories previously in scope, expands scope to include large electric combination ovens (≤ 40 pans), small electric combination ovens (≥ 3 pans), small gas combination ovens (≥ 5 pans), and electric 2/3-size combination ovens (with a pan capacity ≥ 3 and ≤ 5), and newly proposed water consumption criteria for combination ovens in steam and convection modes during cooking periods. If all commercial ovens sold in the United States were ENERGY STAR certified to Version 3.0, the energy cost savings would grow to nearly $250 million each year and more than 4.5 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions would be prevented.
This specification was developed through a process that included release of two draft specifications and a final draft specification, two webinars, multiple stakeholder meetings, and additional input from various industry stakeholders including manufacturers, utilities, and affiliated groups. Stakeholder comments, previous drafts of the specification, and related supporting materials are available on the commercial ovens product development webpage. One last comment was received on the final draft in support of the specification and can be found on this webpage. No changes were made from the final draft to the final specification.
Timeline and Next Steps:
EPA shares partners’ desire for a smooth transition from one ENERGY STAR specification to the next, so that consumers can expect ENERGY STAR labeled products to fully meet the latest requirements upon their effective date. With this in mind, EPA has established the following timeline:
- Effective immediately, manufacturers may elect to have their Certification Body (CB) certify their eligible products to the Version 3.0 requirements.
- On August 29, 2022, CBs will be instructed to stop certifying new product submittals to Version 2.2. Note, however, that existing certifications will remain valid for purposes of ENERGY STAR certification until January 12, 2023.
- Any commercial oven products manufactured as of January 12, 2023, must meet Version 3.0 requirements to bear the ENERGY STAR mark. All certifications of products to the Version 2.2 specification will be invalid for purposes of ENERGY STAR certification and CBs will only submit product models certified to Version 3.0 to EPA.
ENERGY STAR partnership as a manufacturer is limited to organizations that own and/or license a brand name under which they sell eligible products in the United States and/or Canada. Partnership is not available to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) that do not sell directly to consumers or end users. OEMs may certify products on behalf of the ENERGY STAR brand owners/licensees; however, the brand owner must be the ENERGY STAR partner associated directly with the certified product models, since only partners are authorized to use the ENERGY STAR certification mark.
EPA thanks stakeholders who provided feedback during the specification revision process and looks forward to working with you as you certify and market your energy-efficient commercial ovens. If you have any questions or concerns about the specification or partnership process, please contact me at Crk.Tanja@epa.gov or 202-650-7522 and Adam Spitz at Adam.Spitz@icf.com or 916-231-7685 with questions or concerns. For any other commercial ovens related questions, please contact cfs@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Tanja Crk, Product Manager
ENERGY STAR Commercial Food Service
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Version 3.0 Commercial Ovens Final Specification
ENERGY STAR Version 3.0 Commercial Ovens Final Data Package
Dear ENERGY STAR® Computer Server Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder,
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is launching the development of the Version 4.0 ENERGY STAR Computer Server specification. This Discussion Guide highlights an initial list of priority areas for this specification revision, key questions for stakeholders, and next steps in the revision process. EPA looks forward to working with stakeholders to develop the Version 4.0 specification that will recognize efficiency gains in the computer server market. The deadline to provide comments on this Discussion Guide is May 6, 2022.
The Discussion Guide focuses on the following areas:
- Updated and new definitions
- Potential treatment of Storage “heavy” Servers
- Revisions to the SERT tool
- Internal Power Supply Efficiency
Stakeholder suggestions on any other issues to be considered during the specification revision process are welcomed.
Comment Submittal
Stakeholders are encouraged to submit any comments to servers@energystar.gov by May 6, 2022. All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Product Development website unless the submitter requests otherwise.
Stakeholder Webinar
EPA will host a webinar to answer any questions on this discussion guide on April 19 from 1-3 PM Eastern Time. Please register here if you plan on attending.
The exchange of ideas and information between EPA, industry, and other interested parties is critical to the success of ENERGY STAR. Specifications and meeting materials will be distributed via email and posted on the ENERGY STAR website. To track EPA’s progress on this specification, please visit the product development website.
Please contact me at Fogle.Ryan@epa.gov or 202-343-9153 or John Clinger at John.Clinger@icf.com or 215-967-9407 with questions or concerns. For any other computer server related questions, please contact servers@energystar.gov. Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Ryan Fogle
EPA Manager, ENERGY STAR for IT and Data Center Products
Enclosures
Discussion Guide
Dear ENERGY STAR® Oven Partners and Other Interested Stakeholders:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing the ENERGY STAR Version 3.0 Commercial Ovens Final Draft Specification, which includes revisions responsive to stakeholder feedback to Version 3.0 Draft 2.
EPA received written and verbal feedback since the Draft 2 was released. The Agency provides responses in two locations: note boxes throughout the Version 3.0 Final Draft specification and the Version 3.0 Draft 2 comment matrix. Though leading specification revisions are highlighted below, stakeholders are encouraged to review the details in all supporting materials to the product specification including the Version 3.0 Final Draft data package and Version 3.0 Draft 2 comment matrix.
Changes Reflected in Version 3.0 Final Draft
- Criteria Levels: Based on the input provided by stakeholders in response to the proposed water consumption criteria for combination ovens in steam and convection modes during cooking periods, expressed in gallons per hour per pan (gal/hr/pan), the Agency has converted the units to gallons per pan (gal/pan). The specifics are outlined in the note boxes and Section 3.F. within the Final Draft specification.
Comment Submittal
EPA welcomes stakeholder input on the ENERGY STAR Version 3.0 Commercial Ovens Final Draft Specification. Any final comments can be sent to cfs@energystar.gov by March 28, 2022.
All product specification drafts including supporting documents are posted to the ENERGY STAR Commercial Ovens Version 3.0 Product Development website. Submitted stakeholder comments are also posted to this webpage unless the submitter requests otherwise.
Please contact me at Crk.Tanja@epa.gov or 202-650-7522 and Adam Spitz, ICF, at Adam.Spitz@icf.com or 916-231-7685 for questions or concerns.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Tanja Crk, Product Manager
ENERGY STAR Commercial Food Service
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Version 3.0 Commercial Ovens Final Draft Specification
ENERGY STAR Version 3.0 Commercial Ovens Final Draft Data Package
ENERGY STAR Version 3.0 Commercial Ovens Draft 2 Comment Matrix
Dear ENERGY STAR® Light Commercial HVAC Brand Owner or Other Interested Party:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to share the final ENERGY STAR Version 4.0 Light Commercial HVAC Specification with stakeholders. EPA would like to thank the many stakeholders who have invested time and effort to contribute feedback that has informed this specification revision process.
EPA revised this specification in response to the forthcoming increase in stringency of federal minimum efficiency requirements for HVAC equipment that will go into effect on January 1, 2023. As the 2023 requirements are more stringent than those posed by the current Version 3.1 specification, EPA sought to update the ENERGY STAR criteria for Light Commercial HVAC products in parallel.
Version 4.0 requirements will be effective on January 1, 2023. Light Commercial HVAC equipment certifying to ENERGY STAR under the Version 4.0 specification will offer a savings of more than 12% over a conventional model. If all Light Commercial HVAC products in the United States met these new requirements, the energy cost savings would grow to more than $3 billion each year and more than 125 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions would be prevented.
This specification was developed through a process that included the release of two draft specifications. Stakeholder comments, previous drafts of the specification, and related materials are available on the ENERGY STAR Light Commercial HVAC Version 4.0 Specification Development webpage.
EPA received only one comment in response to the Final Draft specification, which supported the IEER levels for commercial unitary air conditioners (CUACs) and commercial unitary heat pumps (CUHPs) and supported recognition of cold climate performance for very small CUHPs. In addition, the comment urged EPA to consider several additional changes in future specifications, which are addressed in the “Considerations for Future Revisions” section of the final specification.
EPA received no comments on the very small cold climate heat pump proposal, and we have included the criteria unchanged in the final specification. Given the difference between the first draft and the final draft for these criteria, EPA will wait until April 19 to consider them final. Any stakeholders with further comments may submit them to LCHVAC@energystar.gov until that time. All comments will be posted unless the submitter requests otherwise.
Timeline and Next Steps
EPA shares partners’ desire for a smooth transition from one ENERGY STAR specification to the next, so that consumers can expect ENERGY STAR labeled products to fully meet the latest requirements upon their effective date. With this in mind, EPA has established the following timeline:
- Effective immediately, manufacturers may elect to have their Certification Body (CB) certify their eligible products to the Version 4.0 requirements.
- As of August 15, 2022, CBs will be instructed to stop certifying new product submittals to Version 3.1. Note, however, that existing certifications will remain valid for purposes of ENERGY STAR qualification until January 1, 2023.
- Any Light Commercial HVAC product manufactured as of January 1, 2023, must meet Version 4.0 requirements to bear the ENERGY STAR mark. All certifications of products to the Version 3.1 specification will be invalid for purposes of ENERGY STAR qualification and the product finder will only include models certified to Version 4.0.
ENERGY STAR partnership as a manufacturer is limited to organizations that own and/or license a brand name under which they sell eligible products in the United States and/or Canada. Partnership is not available to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) that do not sell directly to consumers or end users. OEMs may certify products on behalf of the ENERGY STAR brand owners/licensees; however, the brand owner must be the ENERGY STAR partner associated directly with the certified product models, since only partners are authorized to use the ENERGY STAR certification mark.
Need for Amendment in the Next 12 Months
EPA expects to revisit this specification in the next 12 months but will avoid triggering recertification of products due to this amendment. Specifically, EPA expects to:
- Consider updating the specification to reference a single test method and one set of criteria (SEER2, EER2, and HSPF2),
- Review the criteria and revise the test method for small and large VRF products, based on anticipated DOE action, and
- Add cold climate recognition for unitary products.
Please direct any questions to Abigail Daken, EPA, at daken.abigail@epa.gov or 202-343-9375, and Emmy Feldman, ICF, at emmy.feldman@icf.com or 202-862-1145. For test procedure inquiries, please contact Catherine Rivest, U.S. Department of Energy, at (202) 586-7335 or catherine.rivest@ee.doe.gov.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR.
Sincerely,
Abigail Daken, Product Manager
ENERGY STAR for HVAC
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Light Commercial HVAC Version 4.0 Specification
Dear ENERGY STAR® Water Coolers Stakeholders:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to remind stakeholders that the effective date for the Version 3.0 ENERGY STAR Water Coolers Program Requirements (finalized June 23rd, 2021) is March 23rd, 2022. On this date, only products certified to Version 3.0 and submitted by EPA-recognized certification bodies (CBs) to EPA using the Version 3.0 web service will display on our list of certified models.
Please contact EPA at watercoolers@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specification. CBs should direct questions concerning the submittal of Version 3.0 certified Water Coolers to Certification@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Commercial Refrigeration Equipment Partners and Other Interested Stakeholders:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to share the Final Version 5.0 ENERGY STAR Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers product specification. EPA would like to thank the many stakeholders who have invested time and resources in an effort to contribute feedback that has informed this specification revision process.
The Version 5.0 requirements will become effective on December 22, 2022. ENERGY STAR certified commercial refrigerators and freezers under the Version 5.0 specification will offer consumers, on average, energy savings of up to 24 percent. This specification establishes updated performance levels for a subset of product classes previously in scope, expands scope to include service over the counter and chef base classes, and aligns with current industry test methods, terms, and definitions. If all commercial refrigerators and freezers sold in the United States were ENERGY STAR certified to Version 5.0, the energy cost savings would grow to more than $200 million each year and more than 5 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions would be prevented.
This specification was developed through a process that included release of a discussion guide, a draft specification, and the final draft specification, three webinars, stakeholder meetings, and additional input from various industry stakeholders including manufacturers, utilities, and affiliated groups. Stakeholder comments, previous drafts of the specification, and related materials are available on the commercial refrigerators and freezers product development webpage.
Comments received on the final draft and responses can be found in the accompanying comment response document. No changes were made from the final draft to the final specification that impact scope of eligible products or certification criteria under Sections 2 and 3, respectively. In response to a stakeholder request, EPA revised the ENERGY STAR definition for doors to include drawers. EPA has adopted Department of Energy’s (DOEs) definition for doors, which subsumes drawers, and includes it under Section 1.A.23. For additional clarity, the words ‘Doors or Drawers’ are removed from the chef base section in Table 1.
Timeline and Next Steps:
EPA shares partners’ desire for a smooth transition from one ENERGY STAR specification to
the next, so that consumers can expect ENERGY STAR labeled products to fully meet the latest
requirements upon their effective date. With this in mind, EPA has established the following
timeline:
- Effective immediately, manufacturers may elect to have their Certification Body (CB) certify their eligible products to the Version 5.0 requirements.
- On August 6, 2022 CBs will be instructed to stop certifying new product submittals to Version 4.0. Note, however, that existing certifications will remain valid for purposes of ENERGY STAR certification until December 22, 2022.
- Any commercial refrigeration products manufactured as of December 22, 2022, must meet Version 5.0 requirements to bear the ENERGY STAR mark. All certifications of products to the Version 4.0 specification will be invalid for purposes of ENERGY STAR certification and CBs will only submit product models certified to Version 5.0 to EPA.
ENERGY STAR partnership as a manufacturer is limited to organizations that own and/or license a brand name under which they sell eligible products in the United States and/or Canada. Partnership is not available to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) that do not sell directly to consumers or end users. OEMs may certify products on behalf of the ENERGY STAR brand owners/licensees; however, the brand owner must be the ENERGY STAR partner associated directly with the certified product models, since only partners are authorized to use the ENERGY STAR certification mark.
EPA thanks stakeholders who provided feedback during the specification revision process and looks forward to working with you as you certify and market your energy-efficient commercial refrigerators and freezers. If you have any questions or concerns about the specification or partnership process, please contact me at Crk.Tanja@epa.gov or 202-650-7522 and Adam Spitz at Adam.Spitz@icf.com or 916-231-7685 with questions or concerns. For any other commercial refrigerators or freezers related questions, please contact cfs@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR.
Best Regards,
Tanja Crk, Product Manager
ENERGY STAR Commercial Food Service
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers Final Specification
ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers Final Draft Comment Matrix
ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers Final Data Packet
Dear ENERGY STAR Partners and Industry Colleagues,
Building the Market for EV Chargers
Attention - Manufacturers of DC Fast Chargers
Completing Your Certification for “Connected” Recognition
Contact List
The past year was filled with exciting announcements, and positive market trends for EV adoption and EV charging infrastructure growth. As we expand our efforts to increase awareness around the benefits of energy efficient EV charging, we’re celebrating the following accomplishments from 2021:
- EPA finalized the ENERGY STAR Version 1.1 Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) specification to include DC fast chargers up to 350 kW in scope.
- We have been actively engaging with federal and state agencies and organizations to increase awareness and adoption of ENERGY STAR certified EV charging stations.
- Our list of qualified products added several new EVSE manufacturers, including ABB and Electrify America, and now includes 28 leading manufacturers, for a total of more than 200 unique Level 1 and Level 2 AC models carrying the ENERGY STAR label.
- We continue to engage with utilities across the country to increase awareness about the benefits of incorporating ENERGY STAR certified EV charging stations into their EV charging programs.
This newsletter provides a summary of these and other recent activities, and is a means to thank our partners for their participation and engagement in our efforts.
As always, please reach out to us at any time, either via evse@energystar.gov or the contacts listed at the end of this newsletter.
Sincerely,
Peter Banwell
Building the Market for Certified EV Chargers
Over the past several months, a number of utilities across the country have adopted ENERGY STAR certification as a requirement for participating in their rebate and incentive programs - highlighting energy efficiency and safety as key components of their programs.
|
Utility/Program Sponsor |
State |
| AEP SWEPCO | Louisiana, Texas |
| Public Service Company of Oklahoma | Oklahoma |
| Potomac Edison | Maryland |
| El Paso Electric | Texas |
| Snohomish PUD | Washington |
| Xcel Energy | Minnesota |
| Public Service Company of New Mexico (PNM) | New Mexico |
| Energy Trust of Oregon | Oregon |
In addition to utilities, EPA has been actively engaging with government agencies and organizations to increase awareness and share best practices related to ENERGY STAR certified EV charging stations. At the federal level, the General Services Administration (GSA) and the U.S. Department of Energy’s Vehicle Technologies Office and Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP), have incorporated ENERGY STAR as procurement requirements for their programs (visit the GSA and FEMP websites to learn more how requirements were incorporated). Similarly, the state of Maryland Green Purchasing Committee has adopted language to require AC EV chargers purchased by the Department of Government Services to be ENERGY STAR certified, while incorporating future requirements for the purchase of certified DC fast chargers as they become commercially available. Finally, the USGBC has included points in their LEED v4.1 Building Design and Construction rating system to recognize ENERGY STAR certified chargers in new constructions and major renovations.
Attention - Manufacturers of DC Fast Chargers:
If you have not already, it is time to begin the process of certifying DC EVSE to the ENERGY STAR DC EVSE specification! The DC EVSE requirements were finalized and in effect as of March 2021. The new requirements recognize the most efficient DC EV chargers on the market. The test method developed by EPA, with input from industry, accounts for product efficiency with numerous real-world variables, including charge rate, voltage, and temperature.
EPA has heard from manufacturers that are currently undergoing various stages of the certification process and a list of ENERGY STAR certified DC EVSE is expected to be available in Q2 2022.
ENERGY STAR certified DC EV chargers provide significant savings opportunities - but the benefits don't stop there! Recent consumer studies have shown that the ENERGY STAR logo is one of the most highly recognized and influential symbols consumers look for when making sustainable purchases. Other studies have shown that co-branding with the ENERGY STAR label can lead to increased web traffic where the logo is displayed, and can result higher adoption of energy efficient practices and customer satisfaction over time. Learn more at www.energystar.gov/partner_resources/awareness.
Utilities, states, and other organizations with infrastructure funding opportunities are interested in requiring and/or incentivizing ENERGY STAR certification for DC EVSE for participation in their programs. Certifying your DC EVSE now will demonstrate that your products are energy efficient, meet industry safety requirements, and ensure they can participate in programs that require ENERGY STAR.
In order to certify your DC charging stations, you will want to follow these steps (step #3 can be done simultaneously with #1 and #2):
- Confirm you are eligible by reviewing the ENERGY STAR Partner commitments and product specifications
- Complete a Partnership Application and Participation Form and send the forms to join@energystar.gov
- Contact an EPA-recognized laboratory and certification body. Products must be certified by an EPA-recognized Certification Body (CB). There are two options for testing DC EVSE: In-house laboratory testing and testing in a third-party EPA-recognize laboratory. More information on both of these options can be found on slides 17-19 in this presentation. A list of currently recognized Labs and CBs, and their contact information can be found here.
- Once the CB certifies a product, it will automatically be uploaded to the ENERGY STAR Qualified Product List (QPL).
Completing Your Certification for “Connected” Recognition
Utilities’ demand response programs are asking for networked EV chargers, and some are requiring that chargers meet EPA’s definition of “connected.” For example, Snohomish Public Utility District No. 1 and the Energy Trust of Oregon have requirements. To qualify for these incentives, manufacturers that had AC EV chargers certified as connected capable on the ENERGY STAR website will need to work with their certification body to update their listings to reflect if the charger meets our newly updated requirements. Please contact us for more information on this process at evse@energystar.gov.
What steps must manufacturers take to ensure that products are listed as connected functionality capable (including those products previously certified as connected capable under Version 1.0)?
Check if your EVSE meets the updated connected criteria in Section 3.10 of the final specification
Ask your EPA-recognized certification body to update the listing
Provide necessary documentation to the certification body to verify compliance
2021 – The Year of EVs
2021 was a breakthrough year for EVs, with several manufacturers announcing new EV models entering the market and big plans for vehicle electrification over the next decade.
Further, the passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) secured $5 billion in formula funding for states with a goal to build a national charging network, and $2.5 billion for communities and corridors to support rural charging, and increase EV charging access in disadvantaged communities.
With more EVs on U.S. roads, the benefits are becoming more compelling for a wider audience of manufacturers, policymakers, and drivers alike. Research studies and consumer data show that EV owners save on both fuel and vehicle maintenance costs, while contributing to significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, even after accounting for the emissions from electricity used for charging.
You can learn more about EV savings and best practices for EV charging in the Ask the Experts ‘Tips on Electric Vehicles and Chargers with ENERGY STAR’ linked below.
ENERGY STAR Ask the Experts | Products
What We've Been Up To...
You may be interested in the following updated resources highlighting ENERGY STAR EV chargers:
ENERGY STAR EV Chargers – Sample Procurement Language
Looking for rebates? Check out the EV incentive finder here.
Dear ENERGY STAR® EVSE Brand Owner, Certification Body, or Other Interested Party:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will be hosting a webinar on Thursday, April 7, 2022, from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM Eastern to discuss the ENERGY STAR Version 1.1 EVSE connected functionality criteria. EPA encourages all EVSE brand owners and certification bodies to attend. Please register for the webinar here.
EPA released the Version 1.1 EVSE Specification on March 31, 2021. This specification includes all current criteria for both AC and DC EVSE, as well as optional connected functionality criteria in Section 3.10. These connected criteria seek to identify products that provide consumer amenity and grid services through connection to other systems. EVSE that comply with these criteria are identified on the ENERGY STAR website as being ‘Connected Capable’.
The connected criteria were updated in the Version 1.1 Specification with the intention of making this designation more useful to utilities and other organizations. The updated criteria largely built upon the criteria in Version 1.0, with the addition of more prescriptive product capabilities. As a result of the changes to these criteria, brand owners that previously had AC EVSE certified as connected capable on the ENERGY STAR website prior to March 2021 need to work with their certification body to update their listings to reflect if the charger meets the updated requirements.
Since March 2021, when the Version 1.1 Specification took effect, EPA has received a number of inquiries from utilities requesting a list of products that meet the connected criteria. Upon speaking with several manufacturers, EPA realized there may be some confusion regarding the criteria. As a result, EPA is hosting this webinar to review the requirements, answer stakeholder questions, and encourage brand owners to certify their products as ‘Connected Capable’.
All materials related to the Version 1.1 Specification development effort (stakeholder comments, previous drafts of the specification and test method, etc.) are available on the ENERGY STAR Version 1.1 EVSE Specification Development webpage.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR.
Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that 93 U.S. manufacturing plants earned the agency’s ENERGY STAR certification in 2022. ENERGY STAR certified plants are verified to be among the most energy-efficient plants within their industries. Together, they prevented more than 5 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions from the industrial sector, which is responsible for nearly a third of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions.
"As these companies demonstrate, improving energy efficiency serves to confront climate change while strengthening our economy,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Manufacturing plants that reduce energy consumption as part of the transition to a zero-emissions future save money and create the resiliency needed for the long-term health of their operations, our economy, and our planet.”
Thanks to their superior energy performance over a single year, these plants avoided nearly 90 trillion Btus of energy consumption and prevented emissions equal to the annual energy use of nearly 650,000 American homes. Since the first plants were certified in 2006, ENERGY STAR certified plants have cumulatively saved manufacturers more than $7 billion on energy bills when compared to average-performing facilities.
Energy efficiency cuts energy waste and is an essential action for achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 for both the United States’ Long-Term Strategy and the sustainability of the manufacturing sector.
To assess energy performance, plants use EPA’s ENERGY STAR energy performance indicators (EPIs), or, in the case of petroleum refineries, the Solomon Associates Energy Intensity Index (Solomon-EII™) scoring system. Plants must score 75 or higher on these 100-point scales—indicating that they are more energy efficient than at least 75% of similar facilities nationwide—to be eligible for ENERGY STAR certification. ENERGY STAR certification is available for 20 manufacturing sectors, from cement and steel to glass and commercial bakeries.
All ENERGY STAR certified manufacturing plants in 2022:
*Represents first-time certification
Alabama:
Argos USA, Calera (cement manufacturing)
Georgia-Pacific, Brewton Containerboard & Bleached Board (integrated paper mill)*
Honda Development & Manufacturing of America, LLC, Lincoln (automobile assembly)
Honda Development & Manufacturing of America, LLC, Lincoln (automobile engine)
Tuscaloosa Organic Baking Co., LLC (commercial bread and roll baking)
Arizona:
Bimbo Bakeries USA, Inc., Phoenix (commercial bread and roll baking)
CalPortland, Rillito (cement manufacturing)
Drake Cement, LLC, Paulden (cement manufacturing)
Holsum Bakery of Tolleson, LLC (commercial bread and roll baking)
Mesa Organic Baking Co., Inc. (commercial bread and roll baking)
Salt River Materials Group, Clarkdale (cement manufacturing)
Arkansas:
Flowers Baking Co. of Batesville, LLC (commercial bread and roll baking)
California:
Ardagh Glass Inc., Madera (container glass manufacturing)
Bimbo Bakeries USA, Inc., Escondido (commercial bread and roll baking)
Bimbo Bakeries USA, Inc., San Luis Obispo (commercial bread and roll baking)
Bimbo Bakeries USA, Inc., Placentia (commercial bread and roll baking)*
Flowers Baking Co. of Modesto, LLC (commercial bread and roll baking)
J.R. Simplot Company, Helm (nitrogenous fertilizer)
Colorado:
GCC, Pueblo (cement manufacturing)
Mile Hi Companies, Denver (commercial bread and roll baking)
Rocky Mountain Bottle Company, Wheat Ridge (container glass manufacturing)*
Delaware:
AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals, Newark (pharmaceutical)
Florida:
CEMEX USA, Miami (cement manufacturing)
Flowers Baking Co. of Bradenton, LLC (commercial bread and roll baking)*
Titan America LLC, Medley (cement manufacturing)
Georgia:
Honda Development & Manufacturing of America, LLC, Tallapoosa (automobile transmission)
Illinois:
Marathon Petroleum Corporation, Robinson (petroleum refining)
TreeHouse Foods, Inc., South Beloit (cookie & cracker baking)
Indiana:
General Motors Company, Roanoke (automobile assembly)
Honda Development & Manufacturing of America, LLC, Greensburg (automobile assembly)
Klosterman Baking Company, Morristown (commercial bread and roll baking)
PepsiCo, Indianapolis Gatorade Hotfill Facility (juice production)
Tate & Lyle, Lafayette (corn refining)
Iowa:
Bimbo Bakeries USA, Inc., Dubuque (commercial bread and roll baking)
Koch Fertilizer Ft. Dodge, LLC (nitrogenous fertilizer)*
Kentucky:
Bimbo Bakeries USA, Inc., London (commercial bread and roll baking)
TreeHouse Foods, Inc., Princeton (cookie & cracker baking)
Louisiana:
ExxonMobil Fuels & Lubricants, Baton Rouge (petroleum refining)
Flowers Baking Co. of New Orleans, LLC (commercial bread and roll baking)
Marathon Petroleum Corporation, Garyville (petroleum refining)
Maine:
Lepage Bakeries Park Street, LLC, Lewiston (commercial bread and roll baking)*
Michigan:
AbbVie, Wyandotte (pharmaceutical)
General Motors Company, Flint (automobile assembly)*
Minnesota:
Bimbo Bakeries USA, Inc., Fergus Falls (commercial bread and roll baking)
Flint Hills Resources, Pine Bend (petroleum refining)
Lamb Weston/RDO Frozen, Park Rapids (frozen fried potato processing)
Marathon Petroleum Corporation, Saint Paul Park (petroleum refining)
Mississippi:
Georgia-Pacific, New Augusta (pulp mill)
North Carolina:
Bimbo Bakeries USA, Inc., Gastonia (commercial bread and roll baking)
Nebraska:
Koch Fertilizer Beatrice, LLC (nitrogenous fertilizer)
New Jersey:
AbbVie, Branchburg (pharmaceutical)
Ardagh Glass Inc., Bridgeton (container glass manufacturing)
Nevada:
Flowers Baking Co. of Henderson, LLC (commercial bread and roll baking)
New York:
Bimbo Bakeries USA, Inc., Olean (commercial bread and roll baking)
Bimbo Bakeries USA, Inc., Auburn (commercial bread and roll baking)
TreeHouse Foods, Inc., Tonawanda (cookie & cracker baking)
Ohio:
Bimbo QSR Ohio, LLC. – Airport, Zanesville (commercial bread and roll baking)*
Bimbo QSR Ohio, LLC. – Eastpointe, Zanesville (commercial bread and roll baking)
Honda Development & Manufacturing of America, LLC, Anna (automobile engine)
Honda Development & Manufacturing of America, LLC, East Liberty (automobile assembly)
Honda Development & Manufacturing of America, LLC, Marysville (automobile assembly)
Honda Development & Manufacturing of America, LLC, Russells Point (automobile transmission)
Klosterman Baking Company, Cincinnati (commercial bread and roll baking)
Klosterman Baking Company, Springboro (commercial bread and roll baking)
Marathon Petroleum Corporation, Canton (petroleum refining)
Oklahoma:
Koch Fertilizer Enid, LLC (nitrogenous fertilizer)
Oregon:
Dave’s Killer Bread, Inc., Milwaukie (commercial bread and roll baking)
Pennsylvania:
Bimbo Bakeries USA, Inc., Reading (commercial bread and roll baking)
O-I, Brockway (container glass manufacturing)*
Puerto Rico:
Merck & Co., Inc., Las Piedras (pharmaceutical)
South Carolina:
Argos USA, Harleyville (cement manufacturing)
South Dakota:
GCC, Rapid City (cement manufacturing)
Tennessee:
Beiersdorf North America, Cleveland (pharmaceutical)
Buzzi Unicem USA, Chattanooga (cement manufacturing)
Crown Bakeries, Dickson (commercial bread and roll baking)
Crown Bakeries, Nashville (commercial bread and roll baking)
Nissan North America, Decherd (automobile engine)
Nissan North America, Smyrna (automobile assembly)
Tate & Lyle, Loudon (corn refining)
Texas:
AbbVie, Waco (pharmaceutical)
ExxonMobil Fuel & Lubricants, Beaumont (petroleum refining)*
Flowers Foods, Inc., El Paso (commercial bread and roll baking)
Flowers Baking Co. of Houston, LLC (commercial bread and roll baking)
Flowers Baking Co. of Tyler, LLC (commercial bread and roll baking)
Utah:
Bimbo Bakeries USA, Inc., Salt Lake City (commercial bread and roll baking)
TreeHouse Foods, Inc., Odgen (cookie & cracker baking)
Virginia:
Flowers Baking Co. of Norfolk, LLC (commercial bread and roll baking)
Titan America LLC, Troutville (cement manufacturing)
Washington:
Bimbo Bakeries USA, Inc., Kent (commercial bread and roll baking)*
Marathon Petroleum Corporation, Anacortes (petroleum refining)
Wisconsin:
Bimbo Bakeries USA, Inc., Milwaukee (commercial bread and roll baking)
Bimbo Bakeries USA, Inc., La Crosse (commercial bread and roll baking)
Wyoming:
J.R. Simplot Company, Rock Springs (nitrogenous fertilizer)*
About the ENERGY STAR Industrial Program
Since 2006, the ENERGY STAR Industrial Program has annually certified manufacturing plants for performing within the top 25% of energy performance in their industries nationwide. More than 230 plants have achieved this distinction since 2006. For more information, see: ENERGY STAR plant certification. For a list of all certified plants, see: ENERGY STAR Certified Building and Plant Locator. To learn more about how EPA and industry work together, see: Industrial Energy Management.
About ENERGY STAR
ENERGY STAR® is the government-backed symbol for energy efficiency, providing simple, credible, and unbiased information that consumers and businesses rely on to make well-informed decisions. Thousands of industrial, commercial, utility, state, and local organizations—including about 40 percent of the Fortune 500®—rely on their partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to deliver cost-saving energy efficiency solutions. Since 1992, ENERGY STAR and its partners helped American families and businesses avoid more than $450 billion in energy costs and achieve 4 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas reductions. More information about the impacts of ENERGY STAR can be found at: ENERGY STAR Impacts.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to share the 2022 ENERGY STAR Products Specification Development Plan. The ENERGY STAR Product Labeling Program identifies and promotes products that reduce greenhouse gas emissions by meeting the highest energy efficiency specifications across more than 75 product categories. Each year, EPA identifies ENERGY STAR product specifications that warrant revision. When resources allow, the Agency also considers new product categories to add to the portfolio. EPA weighs many considerations when flagging specifications for revision, including market penetration of ENERGY STAR certified models, changes in Federal minimum efficiency standards, and technological advancements. New product categories must deliver meaningful national savings while maintaining their intended performance and efficiency must be able to be tested and verified.
In 2021, EPA completed revisions to ENERGY STAR specifications for residential water heaters, central air conditioning and air source heat pumps, water coolers, and small network equipment as well as expanded the scope in ENERGY STAR specifications for residential clothes washers and refrigerators, imaging equipment, and electric vehicle supply equipment.
In 2022, EPA plans to make progress on revisions across 15 product types through its traditional open and transparent specification development process. The Agency also plans to initiate specifications for two new product types. You will find the 2022 ENERGY STAR Products Specification Development Plan as well as Quarterly Updates to this plan on the ENERGY STAR Partner Resources page.
Thank you for your support of ENERGY STAR. If you have any questions about this plan, please contact me, Katharine Kaplan, at kaplan.katharine@epa.gov and (202) 343-9120.
Katharine Kaplan
Manager, ENERGY STAR Product Development and Program Admin
Dear ENERGY STAR® Brand Owner or Other Interested Party:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing the final ENERGY STAR Emerging Technology Award criteria for a new 2022 product category: Adaptive Commercial Refrigeration Equipment. This award will recognize self-contained commercial refrigeration products using variable speed compressors with sensor-driven control systems capable of capacity modulation.
After reviewing input from stakeholders, EPA has maintained the criteria presented in the initial draft that EPA released on January 12th. All documents associated with the development of the Adaptive Commercial Refrigeration Equipment criteria can be found on the ENERGY STAR Emerging Technology for Industry Stakeholders webpage.
Award Application Process
Manufacturers with products that meet the award criteria may immediately begin submitting the necessary documentation to emergingtech@energystar.gov for EPA review. Award-winning products will be recognized upon determination that all award criteria have been satisfied. Note that multiple products are eligible for the award. All recognized, award-winning products will be listed on energystar.gov at Adaptive Commercial Refrigeration Equipment.
2021 Residential Induction Cooking Tops Category
This letter also serves as notice that EPA is extending recognition of the 2021 award category – Residential Induction Cooking Tops – into 2022. No changes to the criteria have been made for 2022. The performance criteria and list of award-winning products can be found at Residential Induction Cooking Tops.
If you have any questions about either award, the criteria development process, or marketing and promotion of award-winning products, please contact me, Peter Banwell, at banwell.peter@epa.gov and (202) 343-9408, or Emmy Feldman at emmy.feldman@icf.com and (202) 862-1145.
Sincerely,
Peter Banwell
Senior Manager, ENERGY STAR Product Marketing
Enclosures:
Final Criteria for Adaptive Commercial Refrigeration Equipment
Dear ENERGY STAR® Light Commercial HVAC Brand Owner or Other Interested Party:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to present the ENERGY STAR Version 4.0 LCHVAC Final Draft specification for stakeholder review. While most elements of the specification will be finalized promptly, there are a few that will require additional review and thus will be completed in the near future, as noted below and in note boxes in the specification. Stakeholders may submit comments to EPA on this Final Draft no later than March 3.
Background
EPA is revising this specification in response to the forthcoming increase in stringency of federal minimum efficiency requirements for HVAC equipment that will go into effect on January 1, 2023. As the 2023 requirements are more stringent than those posed by the Version 3.1 specification, it is critical that the ENERGY STAR criteria for LCHVAC products receive an update in parallel. EPA therefore intends for Version 4.0 to take effect by January 1, 2023.
Need for amendment in the next 12 months
In several areas noted below EPA will need to revisit this specification in the next 12 months. EPA will seek to avoid triggering recertification of products due to future amendments.
Summary of Changes from Draft 1
EPA appreciates the thoughtful comments and extensive discussions on Draft 1 from a variety of stakeholders. Given new insight arising from these interactions, EPA has made extensive updates to the proposal from the Draft 1. There is more information on these and other changes in note boxes throughout the specification as well as in the comment response document.
- Very Small Unitary and VRF products: EPA appreciates stakeholder support for including these products within the scope of this specification. We have updated the proposal to align with the ENERGY STAR Version 6.1 Central Air Conditioner and Heat Pump specification requirements and have provided equivalent criteria in terms of both SEER, EER, and HSPF, and SEER2, EER2, and HSPF2. We have clarified that manufacturers may use either set of criteria (and the associated test methods) for certification to Version 4.0. In the next 12 months, in response to DOE actions, EPA will consider updating the specification to reference a single test method.
- Small and Large Commercial Unitary Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps: EPA has revised the proposed IEER, EER, and COP at 47°F requirements in light of new information about changes in the market by the time this specification is effective in 2023. In addition, many stakeholders provided feedback about how levels relate to each other for sub-classes of equipment, and EPA took this into account in this proposal. The updated criteria reflect the balance of energy savings, product cost, and product availability that EPA recognizes with the ENERGY STAR mark.
- Gas/Electric Packaged Units: Amid uncertainty about how much savings capacity adjustment can provide for commercial equipment, EPA has eased the gas efficiency proposal to require at least two stages of heating, one of which can be the compressor-based heating a heat pump provides.
- Small and Large VRF Products: The proposed levels have been adjusted slightly to reflect feedback about the additional challenge large systems face meeting EER requirements, and to allow synergy with other entities on cold climate recognition (see below). EPA anticipates reviewing the levels for these products and revising the test method in the next 12 months based on anticipated DOE action.
- Cold Climate Recognition: The proposed criteria have been revised extensively based on conversations with a variety of stakeholders. The criteria reflect a conclusion that COP at low ambient temperature is more important than capacity for VRF systems, and capacity maintenance is more important for unitary systems.
Accordingly, capacity maintenance has been removed from the VRF criteria. In addition, the proposal has been adjusted to align more closely with products advertised by manufacturers and proven in the field as capable of cold climate performance, providing purchasers the best balance of affordability and efficiency. To this end, EPA has reduced COP requirements at 47°F and removed EER requirements. In addition, we have raised IEER with the understanding that products meeting other requirements for recognition will also meet this IEER. However, if a lower IEER requirement would allow less expensive units that also have excellent low ambient performance to enter the market, EPA may consider using the Draft 1 IEER requirement. EPA welcomes feedback on this point. Overall, this proposal will also allow better synergy with the Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships (NEEP) cold climate VRF specification, as drafted.
We have decided to delay cold climate recognition for unitary products in order to consider possible levels more thoroughly without delaying finalization of the rest of the specification. In addition, several other entities are working on cold climate specifications for unitary equipment, and this will allow coordination with them. EPA expects to add criteria within a year.
For very small units, EPA proposes alignment with the cold climate criteria in the ENERGY STAR Version 6.1 Central Air Conditioner and Heat Pump specification. Demonstration of low ambient performance would ideally be the same as in that specification as well, however, the misalignment of test method timing makes that challenging. We have referenced the proposed B1 amendment and propose allowing a second pathway to demonstrate low ambient performance relying on the equivalency with residential models (single phase) recognized as cold climate heat pumps. The proposed DOE regulation already accounts for using tests of single-phase units to derive ratings of equivalent 3-phase models for rated values, so adding this path for the low ambient performance should allow recognition with minimal test burden. We expect to finalize these criteria slightly after the rest of the specification, and thus welcome stakeholder feedback on this proposal until March 24.
Comment Submittal Process
Any stakeholder that wishes to provide feedback on this proposal may submit written comments for EPA consideration to LCHVAC@energystar.gov by March 3. Comments on cold climate criteria for very small units will be accepted until March 24. All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR LCHVAC Product Development website unless the submitter requests otherwise.
Please direct any questions to Abigail Daken, EPA, at daken.abigail@epa.gov or 202-343-9375, and Emmy Feldman, ICF, at emmy.feldman@icf.com or 202-862-1145. For test procedure inquiries, please contact Catherine Rivest, U.S. Department of Energy, at (202) 586-7335 or Catherine.Rivest@ee.doe.gov.
Sincerely,
Abigail Daken, Product Manager
ENERGY STAR for HVAC
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Light Commercial HVAC Version 4.0 Final Draft Specification
ENERGY STAR Light Commercial HVAC Version 4.0 Draft 1 Comment Response Document
ENERGY STAR Light Commercial HVAC Version 4.0 Data Package
ENERGY STAR Partners and Interested Stakeholders,
Recently, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the launch of the ENERGY STAR Home Upgrade, a series of high-impact, efficient electric home improvements that can be made as equipment needs to be replaced. Designed to ensure clean and energy efficient technologies are within reach of every American home, the ENERGY STAR Home Upgrade provides the market with a tangible, credible framework that is flexible enough to offer a promising formula for success.
A central resource for this new initiative is an interactive web-tool that lays out the value of an ENERGY STAR Home Upgrade and helps consumers navigate the process with buying guidance, information on financial incentives, and links to qualified contractors. To learn more about the ENERGY STAR Home Upgrade interactive web-tool, visit https://www.energystar.gov/homeupgrade
EPA introduced the ENERGY STAR Home Upgrade during last year’s ENERGY STAR Products Partner Meeting through a series of webinars. The first, “The ENERGY STAR Home Upgrade (Part 1 of 3): An Overview”, introduced the ENERGY STAR Home Upgrade and provided an in-depth look at associated tools and resources, including the ENERGY STAR Home Upgrade web tool. The second webinar, “The ENERGY STAR Home Upgrade (Part 2 of 3): Making the ESHU Work for You” focused on why ENERGY STAR partners should leverage this new initiative to achieve deep reductions in energy use. The third and final webinar in the series, “The ENERGY STAR Home Upgrade (Part 3 of 3): Scaling the Home Energy Upgrade: How Can We Get There Equitably?”, brought together innovators and change makers in the field of energy efficiency financial tools to share insights on ways we can reach all Americans. All three webinars are available on the ENERGY STAR Products Webinar Series web page.
EPA looks forward to working with our partners to make the ENERGY STAR Home Upgrade a success! If you’d like to discuss or learn more about this exciting new initiative, please contact Dan Lawlor at Lawlor.Daniel@epa.gov. Thank you for your support of ENERGY STAR.
Dear ENERGY STAR® TV Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to share the ENERGY STAR Final Version 9.0 TVs Specification. EPA would like to thank the many stakeholders who have invested time and effort to contribute feedback that has informed this specification revision process.
Version 9.0 requirements will become effective on October 20, 2022. Televisions certifying for ENERGY STAR under the Version 9.0 specification will offer consumers a savings of more than 34% over a conventional model. This specification:
- Requires use of the ANSI/CTA-2037-C test method which utilizes camera equipment to measure light averaged across the entire screen during dynamic video play, resulting in a new metric called Dynamic Luminance
- Establishes performance-based criteria to encourage more efficient product design through the adoption of efficient components (e.g., LEDs, films, power supplies, etc.) and energy saving features (e.g., local dimming)
- Evaluates TV performance in three different preset picture settings
- Evaluates standby power in a more typical network environment (e.g., multicast traffic on the network) and with smart wake features enabled to encourage efficient integration with smart speakers and mobile device casting applications
If all televisions in the United States met these new requirements, the energy cost savings would grow to more than $1.8 billion each year and more than 27 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions would be prevented.
This specification was developed through a process that included release of three draft specifications and one limited topic proposal, along with multiple stakeholder meetings and input from stakeholders. Stakeholder comments, previous drafts of the specification, and related materials are available on the ENERGY STAR Televisions Version 9.0 Specification Development webpage.
EPA received several stakeholder comments in response to the Final Draft specification:
- Several stakeholders supported the Version 9.0 requirements, noting that the updated criteria will be more representative of average consumer use of the latest television technology. Specifically, stakeholders supported the revised HCR definition and alignment with the ANSI/CTA-2037-C test method.
- One stakeholder suggested reviewing additional HCR model data to determine if the HCR adjustment factor should be reduced. EPA reviewed the full data set of 12 HCR models, which demonstrated a 25% pass rate of HCR-capable TVs. Based on this data, EPA believes the adjustment factor reflects the intention to recognize the top-performing HCR models.
- A stakeholder proposed the use of weighted On Mode metrics that factor in the typical usage of each preset picture setting based on recent survey data. EPA appreciates this additional information and understands the merits of this suggestion to improve representativeness of how the TV is being used. However, this suggestion warrants further research and investigation. EPA included this in the Considerations for Future Revisions section of the specification.
EPA also summarizes these comments and the Agency’s responses in the enclosed comment response document. EPA has made modest clarifying edits to the final specification to ensure consistency with the final ANSI/CTA-2037-C test method.
Timeline and Next Steps
EPA shares partners’ desire for a smooth transition from one ENERGY STAR specification to the next, so that consumers can expect ENERGY STAR labeled products to fully meet the latest requirements upon their effective date. With this in mind, EPA has established the following timeline:
- Effective immediately, manufacturers may elect to have their Certification Body (CB) certify their eligible products to the Version 9.0 requirements.
- As of June 2, 2022, CBs will be instructed to stop certifying new product submittals to Version 8.0. Note, however, that existing certifications will remain valid for purposes of ENERGY STAR qualification until October 20, 2022.
- Any television manufactured as of October 20, 2022, must meet Version 9.0 requirements to bear the ENERGY STAR mark. All certifications of products to the Version 8.0 specification will be invalid for purposes of ENERGY STAR qualification and the product finder will only include models certified to Version 9.0.
ENERGY STAR partnership as a manufacturer is limited to organizations that own and/or license a brand name under which they sell eligible products in the United States and/or Canada. Partnership is not available to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) that do not sell directly to consumers or end users. OEMs may certify products on behalf of the ENERGY STAR brand owners/licensees; however, the brand owner must be the ENERGY STAR partner associated directly with the certified product models, since only partners are authorized to use the ENERGY STAR certification mark.
Please contact me at (202) 564-8538 or Kwon.James@epa.gov, or Emmy Feldman at (202) 862-1145 or Emmy.Feldman@icf.com, with questions.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR.
Best Regards, James Kwon, EPA Product Manager
ENERGY STAR for Consumer Electronics
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Final Version 9.0 Televisions Specification
ENERGY STAR Final Version 9.0 Televisions Data Package
ENERGY STAR Version 9.0 Televisions Final Draft Specification Comment Response Document
Dear ENERGY STAR® Data Center Storage Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder,
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is finalizing the amendments to the ENERGY STAR Data Center Storage specification, which expands the marketing requirements for data center storage products. Products certified to Version 2.0 will not need to be retested to maintain their ENERGY STAR certification.
EPA did not receive any formal comments in response to the Draft Version 2.1 amendment. As such, the criteria remain unchanged in the final amended specification. With the new requirements included in Version 2.1, customers will be able to consistently access key efficiency information for ENERGY STAR products from brand owner websites including which family members are ENERGY STAR certified, what COMs are made available for the product, and the minimum power supply that is provided with the product. EPA notes that while currently certified products will not need to be retested to maintain their ENERGY STAR certification, EPA strongly encourages partners to make this information available for currently certified products as soon as possible.
Please contact me at Fogle.Ryan@epa.gov or 202-343-9153 or John Clinger, ICF, at John.Clinger@icf.com or (215) 967-9407 with questions or concerns. For any other Data Center Storage related questions, please contact storage@energystar.gov. Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Ryan Fogle
EPA Manager, ENERGY STAR for IT and Data Center Products
Dear ENERGY STAR® Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers Partners and Other Interested Stakeholders:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing the ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers Final Draft Specification, which includes revisions responsive to stakeholder feedback to Version 5.0 Draft 1.
EPA received feedback via written feedback and during a webinar hosted on September 1, 2021. The Agency provides responses in two locations: note boxes throughout the Version 5.0 Final Draft specification and the Draft 1 comment matrix. Though leading specification revisions are highlighted below, stakeholders are encouraged to review the details in all supporting materials to the product specification including the Version 5.0 Final Draft data package and Version 5.0 Draft 1 comment matrix.
Changes Reflected in Version 5.0 Final Draft
- Definitions: For further clarification on eligible equipment, EPA has proposed the addition of the following new definitions in the Final Draft Version 5.0 specification:
- Undercounter
- Worktop
- Criteria Levels: In light of improvements to our Vertical Closed Solid Self-Contained Low Temperature (VCS.SC.L) dataset, which now excludes LAPT and discontinued models, EPA has included less stringent criteria for these classes in the Final Draft. In addition, the Chef Base Self-Contained Medium (CB.SC.M) dataset and the Chef Base Self-Contained Low Temperature (CB.SC.L) dataset now include additional models that were not available during Draft 1 development. In light of this new data, the criteria for both CB.SC.M and CB.SC.L have been eased from the criteria proposed in Draft 1.
- Test Methods: Stakeholders affirmed that chef bases may be tested using 10 CFR Part 431 Subpart C Appendix B.
Comment Submittal
EPA welcomes stakeholder input on the ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers Final Draft Specification. Any final comments can be sent to cfs@energystar.gov by February 16, 2022. EPA will accept additional data for preparation tables and buffet tables beyond this deadline and encourage stakeholders to use the previously issued data assembly template for these categories.
All product specification drafts including supporting documents are posted to the ENERGY STAR Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers Version 5.0 Product Development website. Submitted stakeholder comments are also posted to this webpage unless the submitter requests otherwise.
Please contact me at Crk.Tanja@epa.gov or 202-650-7522 and Adam Spitz, ICF, at Adam.Spitz@icf.com or 916-231-7685 for questions or concerns.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Tanja Crk, Product Manager
ENERGY STAR Commercial Food Service
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers Final Draft Specification
ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers Final Draft Data Packet
Dear ENERGY STAR® Residential Dishwasher Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder,
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to share the ENERGY STAR Version 7.0 Residential Dishwasher Draft 2 specification. EPA encourages stakeholders to provide comments on this draft via email to appliances@energystar.gov by February 24, 2022. There will be a webinar on February 16, 2022 to discuss this Draft 2 specification. The comment period has been extended to accommodate webinar scheduling.
EPA appreciates stakeholders’ feedback on the Draft 1 specification. EPA’s responses to stakeholder feedback are reflected in the accompanying Draft 1 Comment Response Matrix. Highlights of key changes in the Draft 2 specification are summarized below, and the rationale for these proposed changes are discussed in note boxes throughout the specification.
First, EPA is maintaining the proposed revisions to the minimum energy and water efficiency requirements for residential dishwashers proposed in Draft 1. The current ENERGY STAR market share is near 100%, which showcases the need for more stringent criteria for the program to recognize leadership products in efficiency.
Additionally, instead of referencing cleaning index as part of the specification’s scope, and in light of DOE’s Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for the test procedure for dishwashers, EPA is including the per-cycle cleaning index for the normal cycle for ENERGY STAR certification. The inclusion of the per-cycle cleaning index is consistent with EPA’s commitment to ensuring that the label is associated with products that deliver energy efficiency without compromising performance.
While EPA continues to support the connected criteria for ENERGY STAR certified dishwashers, EPA is removing the connected adder to the maximum for Annual Energy Consumption for demand response capable residential dishwashers. EPA believes the consumer value of connected appliances remains and that the market will reward the best implementations. Further, with diminishing returns for efficiency for dishwashers, providing a connected adder is not in the best interest of the consumer.
Stakeholders are requested to provide any comments on the Version 7.0 Draft 2 specification no later than February 24, 2021. Please send comments via e-mail to appliances@energystar.gov. All comments received will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Residential Dishwashers Version 7.0 Specification Development webpage, unless the submitter specifically requests that his or her comments remain confidential.
Please contact Ga-Young Park, EPA, at Park.Ga-Young@epa.gov or (202) 564-1085, or Steve Leybourn, ICF, at Steve.Leybourn@icf.com or (202) 862-1566, with any questions or concerns about the specification. Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Best Regards,
Ga-Young Park
Product Manager for Appliances
ENERGY STAR for Residential Dishwashers
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Residential Dishwashers Version 7.0 Draft 2 Specification
ENERGY STAR Residential Dishwashers Version 7.0 Draft 1 Comment Response Matrix
Dear ENERGY STAR® CAC/HP Brand Owner or Other Interested Party:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is sharing the final ENERGY STAR Central Air Conditioner and Heat Pump Version 6.1 specification. As amended, the specification supports more effective deployment of the ENERGY STAR label for central AC and heat pumps, in light of additional information stakeholders shared.
EPA received several comments on the Version 6.1 Draft and has adjusted the amendment in response. A summary of comments and responses is available in the comment response matrix. In particular:
- EPA is retaining the EER2 requirements as outlined in Version 6.0, preserving both the simplicity of the specification and the peak demand benefits that are important to stakeholders in warmer regions.
- Based on information about new, lower cost, variable speed split systems entering the market, EPA will not require units to meet the installation criteria for certification. Instead, the Agency will distinguish combinations that meet the criteria on the ENERGY STAR product finder, similar to the “connected” designation. EPA remains convinced that air conditioners and heat pumps that provide aid to installers and raters are needed in the market, but seeks to avoid disadvantaging new variable speed units at this critical time for the advancement of that technology. While we have retained the term “installation criteria” for the specification, we intend to work with stakeholders to identify a more appropriate term to identify the units that offer these features for consumers and installers.
- In addition, the installation criteria have been further clarified based on a series of very helpful detailed conversations with brand owners. In residential use, it is not expected that cooling will be needed with outdoor temperatures under 65ºF (relevant to requirement a). Furthermore, defrost mode need not be tested in addition to other tests (relevant to requirement f). Lastly, EPA has updated language about the test mode (requirement d) to reflect that the maximum speed may not be the most appropriate for testing particularly in units with “boost” capability.
Products certified from this point forward should use Version 6.1.
All materials related to the Version 6.1 specification development process are available on EPA’s ENERGY STAR Version 6 CAC/HP product development page. Please direct any specific questions to Abigail Daken at EPA, Daken.Abigail@epa.gov or 202-343-9375 and Morganne Blaylock at ICF, morganne.blaylock@icf.com or 202-862-2952. Please direct questions about test methods to Catherine Rivest at DOE, Catherine.Rivest@ee.doe.gov or 202-586-7335.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Abigail Daken
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
ENERGY STAR HVAC Program
Dear ENERGY STAR® Central Air Conditioner and Air Source Heat Pump Stakeholders:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to remind stakeholders that as of January 1, 2022, EPA-recognized certification bodies (CBs) are required to cease certification of new Central Air Conditioners and Air Source Heat Pumps to the Version 5.0 specification and may only certify Central Air Conditioners and Air Source Heat Pumps to the Version 6.0 specification. EPA also expects the Version 6.1 specification (modified in light of new market information) to be available in early January, at which time new products should be certified to that version. Certification bodies may continue submitting administrative modifications to existing Central Air Conditioners and Air Source Heat Pumps certifications to the Version 5.0 specification until January 1, 2023. After this date, only Central Air Conditioners and Air Source Heat Pumps certified to the Version 6.0 specification will appear on the ENERGY STAR website and certified products list.
CBs must notify EPA by December 31, 2021 of models certified to Version 5.0, but not yet submitted to EPA, along with information on when data will be submitted. Failure to do so will result in QPX blocking submissions of these products to EPA.
Please contact EPA at cacashp@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specification. CBs should direct questions concerning the submittal of certified Central Air Conditioner and Air Source Heat Pumps to Certification@energystar.gov.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Small Network Equipment Stakeholders:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to remind stakeholders that as of January 13, 2022, EPA-recognized certification bodies (CBs) are required to cease certification of new small network equipment (SNE) products to the Version 1.0 specification. Certification bodies may continue submitting administrative modifications to existing small network equipment (SNE) product certifications to the Version 1.0 specification until July 13, 2022. Brand owners must stop using the ENERGY STAR name and ENERGY STAR mark in association with all small network equipment (SNE) products on and after July 13, 2022.
Additionally, no new promotional materials for small network equipment (SNE) products (printed and electronic) that use the ENERGY STAR mark may be produced after January 13, 2022. Brand owners are permitted to use up existing printed material, including packaging, to minimize waste.
Please reference EPA's Small Network Equipment Products Sunset Decision Memo for more details, and contact EPA at networking@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specification.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
SHEMS News: First Certification & More
ENERGY STAR SHEMS First Certification
Congratulations to Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE) for being the first to successfully complete the ENERGY STAR Smart Home Energy Management Systems certification process! The first ENERGY STAR SHEMS partner is bringing innovative energy saving smart home technology to 200 Baltimore Gas and Electric customers through their Connected Home and Small Business Demonstration, a 2020-2021 pilot study in Annapolis. Their platform gives users tools to control lights, thermostats, and outlets for energy savings. Learn more at about BGE’s ENERGY STAR SHEMS package through the ENERGY STAR Qualified Product List (QPL). You can learn more about their program by contacting BGE’s Sam duPont at samuel.dupont@bge.com.
-SHEMS RESOURCES
- Past Webinars
- Frequently Asked Questions for Energy Efficiency Programs
- Key Product Criteria
- Version 1.1 specification
- SHEMS Specification Clarifications
“BGE is proud to be a leader in showing how our industry can optimize AMI network investments and smart technology to provide our customers with cutting edge tools that allow a greater degree of control over their energy usage and costs.”
-Alex Núñez, BGE senior vice president of Strategy & Regulatory Affairs
Your System May Be Close to a SHEMS! Can Your System . . .
1.Control an ENERGY STAR certified Smart Thermostat?
2.Control either a smart light switch (standby power ≤ 0.5 W) that can report energy, or an ENERGY STAR certified smart lighting product?
3.Connect to a smart plug, outlet, power strip, home energy monitor, smart breaker panel, or other device (standby power ≤ 1.0 W) that controls miscellaneous loads or reports circuit-level energy use data?
4.Control a smart water heater add-on controller?
5.Detect room, apartment, or home occupancy based on a non-battery-powered occupancy sensor (may be integrated in other devices) or with two battery operated occupancy detectors?
6.Provide energy saving tips?
7.Report estimated or actual energy use of connected devices in a dwelling to the user?
8.Perform a demand response event on at least one smart device?
9.Allow a user to integrate with a utility time of use program?
10.Aggregate 6 months of system data from ≥ 30 installations with devices from questions 1-3?
Ready to take the next step? Visit our SHEMS for Partners page to learn more. Contact smarthomesystems@energystar.gov to learn more.
NEWS YOU CAN USE
Interest in smart home devices to save energy on the rise amidst pandemic
According to Parks Associates data, 20% of US broadband households report that COVID-19 has increased their interest in smart energy solutions that can help them manage their energy use, cost, and comfort. Forty-three percent of US broadband multifamily households owned at least one smart home device in 2020. This reflects a nearly 50% increase since 2019, likely driven by increasing consumer interest and the advantages of smart home technology to building managers looking to save energy. Read more
Likewise, 34% of single-family households have installed at least one smart home device, with 23% owning 3 or more devices. Read more.
Energy is top of mind for likely smart home adopters
A recent E Source survey found that residents of single-family homes of ages 18-34 are most likely to purchase smart home devices in the coming year. These customers are most interested in smart technologies that provide energy insights, savings, home security improvements, and automation. Read more.
ENERGY STAR SHEMS On The (Virtual) Road
Taylor Jantz-Sell, U.S. EPA, was featured in an Executive Spotlight as part of the Parks Associates 2021 Smart Energy Summit. The Q&A was part of the “Energy Management Platforms: Accelerating Growth” track of the summit. Check out the session recap here.
Taylor Jantz-Sell also presented on the ENERGY STAR SHEMS Program in the 2021 National Home Performance Conference’s “Smart on Smart Workshop: Products, People, Policy and Possibilities.”
RECOGNIZED SHEMS CERTIFICATION BODIES
- UL Verification Services: Joseph Getner, Joseph.W.Getner@ul.com
Looking forward to helping our future get energy smart together! Have SHEMS insights to share from a pilot or research? Please contact SmartHomeSystems@energystar.gov or Taylor Jantz-Sell at jantz-sell.taylor@epa.gov.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Data Center Storage Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder,
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is sharing proposed changes to the Version 2.0 ENERGY STAR Data Center Storage Specification, which expands the marketing requirements for data center storage products. EPA welcomes stakeholder input on this proposal, which will be reflected in a Version 2.1 specification once final. These proposed changes will apply to products certified after Version 2.1 is finalized. While currently certified products will not need to be retested to maintain their ENERGY STAR certification, EPA strongly encourages partners to make this information available for currently certified products as soon as possible.
EPA has engaged with stakeholders since the release of the Version 2.0 Data Center Storage specification regarding the verification procedures for this uniquely complicated product type. Recognizing that operators have access to real-time power and temperature data from each product via Data Center Information Management (DCIM) software, this allows them to manage IT hardware and observe when individual units fall outside of expected operating parameters. EPA has concluded that the presence of this DCIM software combined with certification data provides a high level of transparency regarding performance. EPA has also learned that there would be benefit in providing customers with additional information on ENERGY STAR products. In many cases, key efficiency information is missing from brand owner websites or not provided to customers. As such, EPA will require that product websites clearly indicate those elements of the product family that are ENERGY STAR certified, what COMs are made available for the product, and the minimum power supply that is provided with the product. EPA believes these pieces of information will allow stakeholders to provide more transparency to their customers. Discussions with stakeholders and a review of the market affirm that no other changes to this specification are warranted at this time. This requirement is noted in Section 3.5.8 excerpted below.
3.5.8 Report the web link to the following product information made clearly visible on partner primary marketing and/or product summary websites:
i. Identification of configurations within a model line that are included in the ENERGY STAR certified product family;
ii. COMs available for the product;
iii. Minimum power supply efficiency offered within the product family (preferably as an 80 Plus equivalent statement).
Stakeholders may submit any comments on this Version 2.1 specification to storage@energystar.gov by December 16, 2021. All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Product Development website unless the submitter requests otherwise.
The exchange of ideas and information between EPA, industry, and other interested parties is critical to the success of ENERGY STAR. Specifications and meeting materials will be distributed via email and posted on the ENERGY STAR website. To track EPA’s progress on this specification, please visit the data center storage product development website.
Please contact me at Fogle.Ryan@epa.gov or 202-343-9153 or John Clinger, ICF, at John.Clinger@icf.com or (215) 967-9407 with questions or concerns. For any other Data Center Storage related questions, please contact storage@energystar.gov. Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Ryan Fogle
EPA Manager, ENERGY STAR for IT and Data Center Products
Please visit here for important correspondence from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concerning the dishwasher final recognition criteria for ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2022. On the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2022 Criteria Development web page, you will find the final recognition criteria document and the EPA cover memo.
Please contact MostEfficient@energystar.gov with any questions.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR.
Dear ENERGY STAR® TV Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to share the ENERGY STAR Version 9.0 TVs Final Draft Specification. This Final Draft contains changes made in response to written comments received regarding the Draft 2 specification, the Limited Topic Proposal (LTP), and to account for the continued progress made towards finalizing the Consumer Technology Association’s CTA-2037C: Determination of Television Set Power Consumption test procedure, which is referenced by the specification.
These changes are highlighted in noteboxes throughout the specification and outlined below. Stakeholders may submit written comments on this Final Draft by December 22, 2021.
Overview of the Final Draft Specification
EPA received generally positive feedback regarding the approach and criteria levels proposed by the Draft 2 specification. Several stakeholders expressed support for the following aspects of the Draft 2:
- Standby-Active Mode Power requirement of 1 W,
- Average On Mode Power approach, which allows manufacturers added flexibility in programming Preset Picture Settings (PPS) so long as On Mode requirements are met on average, and
- The introduction of lower luminance thresholds for certification, which allow manufacturers to set default backlight levels however they wish while eliminating the incentive to provide overly dim settings to meet criteria.
As such, EPA maintained these proposals for this Final Draft.
In response to the Limited Topic Proposal (LTP) published in September 2021, regarding the High-Contrast-Ratio (HCR) adjustment factor, EPA received feedback requesting additional clarification for the definition of an HCR Display included in the specification. As such, the definition for an HCR Display included in this Final Draft contains the requirement that the display must be capable of controlling pixels individually, which is an integral factor in their ability to offer such high contrast ratios.
Also in response to the LTP, EPA received feedback and data regarding the proposed value of the HCR adjustment factor. EPA has retained the proposed AFHCR value of 1.12 for this Final Draft specification. Testing data used to develop the value proposed in the LTP indicated that the current value of 1.12 will allow only the most efficient HCR-capable models to earn certification.
Testing data submitted in response to the LTP indicates that some of the most recently developed HCR Display models would be able to meet requirements with a smaller adjustment factor. The observed increases in efficiency between this sample of adjacent model years support EPA’s belief that there are readily available means by which manufacturers can increase efficiency and reinforces the viewpoint that by making ENERGY STAR certification obtainable for these products, there is an incentive for manufacturers to do so. Additionally, these models observed to meet requirements after some redevelopments are significantly more efficient than comparable models that have not been updated, which supports the notion that the models that have been engineered to perform well above the baseline should be recognized. EPA has maintained the 1.12 value as further restriction of the adjustment factor risks making certification unobtainable for the most efficient HCR-capable models, thus eliminating the incentive to increase efficiency.
Finally, EPA acknowledges that the CTA-2037C: Determination of Television Set Power Consumption test procedure referenced in the Draft 2 is now complete and available to the public for reference. Included in this Final Draft are several amendments to calculation methodologies that follow the changes made to CTA-2037C between the time of Draft 2’s publication and finalization of the test procedure.
Feedback
Stakeholders are invited to provide any comments on the Version 9.0 Final Draft Specification no later than December 22, 2021. Please send comments via e-mail to televisions@energystar.gov. All comments received will be posted to the Version 9.0 TVs Specification development webpage, unless the submitter specifically requests that his or her comments remain confidential.
Please contact me at (202) 564-8538 or Kwon.James@epa.gov, or Emmy Feldman at (202) 862-1145 or Emmy.Feldman@icf.com, with questions or to share feedback for this effort.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR.
Best Regards,
James Kwon, EPA Product Manager
ENERGY STAR for Consumer Electronics
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Televisions Version 9.0 Final Draft Specification
Dear ENERGY STAR® Imaging Equipment Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder,
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is finalizing an amendment to the ENERGY STAR Imaging Equipment (IE) specification. This amendment provides updated criteria for professional imaging equipment and will be reflected as Version 3.2. Products that have been already certified to Version 3.0 and Version 3.1 will not be affected by this change and will remain ENERGY STAR certified with no further action required.
EPA received multiple comments on the Version 3.2 proposal. One commenter requested that EPA ease the proposed Ready Mode Power requirement for professional imaging equipment. However, the proposed 900 W limit has been retained for Version 3.2 as EPA has observed that products with a variety of features (e.g., speed, color-capability, etc.) are able to readily meet this requirement. The commenter also indicated that the dataset used to form the Version 3.2 criteria included a few products that realize high speed duplex productivity via two serially connected engines. Subsequent analysis has shown that the proposed criteria is not appropriate for products of this type as their heightened performance appears to require a significant amount of additional energy. As such, and because a larger dataset of these models is not currently available to inform criteria, dual-engine products have been excluded from the scope of this Version 3.2 specification.
Finally, a commentor informed EPA that some models used to inform the proposed criteria were equipped with a digital-front-end (DFE) during testing and expressed concern that the proposed criteria may not properly account for the additional energy they require to provide enhanced performance (e.g., speed, resolution, etc.). It is critical to ensure that these products do not appear to be more efficient because they receive the benefits of a DFE without needing to report the additional energy required to enable them. After analysis of the impact of DFE energy on the current dataset, EPA believes that the previously proposed criteria remain appropriate when DFE energy is simply summed with the energy of the main product and has retained the proposed criteria in this Version 3.2 Final specification. EPA has provided instruction in the specification on how to incorporate DFE energy for units tested with a DFE equipped.
Please contact me at Fogle.Ryan@epa.gov or 202-343-9153 or Cody Niblett, ICF, at Cody.Niblett@icf.com or (202) 862-1245 with questions or concerns about the specification. For other imaging equipment related questions, please contact imagingequipment@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Ryan Fogle
EPA Manager, ENERGY STAR for IT and Data Center Products
Enclosures:
Version 3.2 Specification
Dear ENERGY STAR® Central AC/Heat Pump Partner or Other Interested Party:
With this letter, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing amendments to the recently completed Version 6.0 ENERGY STAR CAC/HP specification. These amendments will be reflected in a Version 6.1, which will be effective upon completion. Products certified to Version 6.0 will not be affected.
Since finalizing the Version 6.0 revisions in March, EPA received substantial additional feedback that altered our understanding of the current market and the extent to which the Version 6.0 requirements reflect the performance of an adequate selection of ASHP models in the market. In particular, that in several cases we had chosen capabilities less widespread in the market than we had intended. In addition, we learned that some of the criteria for cold climates prevented less expensive units that have performed well and meet specific needs from being recognized with the cold climate designation. The proposed amendment includes the following changes:
- Lower EER requirements for multi-capacity air conditioners and heat pumps, which provide additional comfort and efficiency through other means, such as higher SEER and HSPF values, and meeting the V6.1 installation criteria.
- For Cold Climate Heat Pumps, removed EER requirements and reduced HSPF requirements for ducted heat pumps.
- Clarified several installation criteria and allowed systems to get credit for a test mode in addition to measurement of specific quantities as installed.
More details on each of these changes are available in the specification. EPA welcomes conversation with stakeholders about this proposal. In addition, we encourage written stakeholder input on the proposed Version 6.1 ENERGY STAR CAC/HP Product Specification. Please submit any comments to cac-ashp@energystar.gov by November 23, 2021.
All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Product Development website unless the submitter requests otherwise.
Please direct any specific questions to Abigail Daken at EPA, Daken.Abigail@epa.gov, or 202-343-9375 and Cody Niblett, Cody.Niblett@icf.com or (202) 862-1245. Please direct test procedure questions to Catherine Rivest at DOE, Catherine.Rivest@ee.doe.gov or (202) 586-7335.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Abigail Daken
EPA Manager, ENERGY STAR HVAC Program
Dear ENERGY STAR® Partners and Stakeholders:
This is a reminder that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released the ENERGY STAR Version 3.0 Commercial Ovens Draft 2 Specification on October 14, 2021. EPA will host a stakeholder webinar to present details of the specification and address stakeholder questions on Thursday, November 4, 2021, from 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM EDT. To participate in the meeting, please register here by November 3, 2021.
Visit and bookmark the Commercial Ovens Specification Version 3.0 product development website to view all specification drafts and supplemental materials including data packets, comments, responses to comments, and webinar slides. Comments for Draft 2 are due December 2, 2021, and may be submitted to cfs@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Light Commercial HVAC Brand Owner or Other Interested Party:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to present the ENERGY STAR LCHVAC Draft 1 specification for stakeholder review. EPA plans to hold a webinar on November 16th from 12pm-2pm ET to discuss the Draft 1 specification in greater detail. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit comments on this Draft to EPA no later than December 13, 2021.
Background
EPA begins this specification revision in response to the forthcoming increase in stringency of federal minimum efficiency requirements for HVAC equipment that will go into effect on January 1, 2023. As the 2023 requirements are more stringent than those posed by the Version 3.1 specification, it is critical that the ENERGY STAR criteria for LCHVAC products receive an update in parallel. EPA therefore intends for Version 4.0 to take effect by January 1, 2023.
Proposal Summary
To ensure that that ENERGY STAR continues to distinguish the top performing products in terms of energy efficiency while supporting national decarbonization goals, the Version 4.0 Draft 1 specification proposes the following changes and identifies other areas for further discussion:
- Scope: EPA proposes to bring units with a cooling capacity below 65,000 Btu/h into the scope of this Version 4.0 specification after they were previously removed from scope for Version 3.0. This proposal is based on manufacturer feedback indicating that the market would be best served by an ENERGY STAR specification that offers certification to these products. EPA has however been unable to find updated installation cost and energy usage data to suggest whether payback times for these units has improved. As such, EPA welcomes the submission of data regarding the purchase, installation, and/or energy costs of these units. The performance criteria proposed for these products aligns with associated CEE Tier 2 criteria levels.
- Performance Criteria: EPA proposes higher IEER and EER requirements for Central Air Conditioner (CAC) products and higher IEER, EER and COP at 47°F requirements for Air-Source Heat Pump (ASHP) products. The stringency of these criteria recognizes those products that clearly perform at a level above the 2023 federal minimum efficiency requirements. EPA does not propose a change to the criteria for VRF mini-split systems as DOE is currently reviewing the test method and federal standard applicable for such products.
- Cold Climate Recognition: EPA proposes recognizing ASHP and VRF mini-split products meeting cold climate performance requirements with an “ENERGY STAR Cold Climate” label. EPA believes that capacity maintenance at low temperatures is a critical component to cold climate performance because if a product cannot maintain capacity, it is likely to become undersized for the intended application. As such, the criteria put emphasis on a product’s ability to maintain heating capacity at very low ambient temperatures while also retaining a high COP. EPA does however seek industry insight into the whether a moderately increased COP at low temperatures is more influential than capacity maintenance on annual energy costs.
- Gas/Electric Packaged Units: EPA proposes that the gas furnace included in a Gas/Electric Packaged Product must have 3 or more capacity stages. This is intended to incentivize the use of multi-capacity heating technologies that are known to provide energy and cost savings.
- Connected Criteria: EPA does not propose criteria that would lead to a “Connected” designation for LCHVAC products due to an understanding that demand response and energy management programs for commercial units are typically implemented by a building management system (BMS) as opposed to the unit itself. As EPA recognizes that a unit’s ability to communicate with building occupants, utilities, and other equipment may lead to additional energy and cost savings, the Agency seeks industry insight into what, if any, open source communication protocols are being used for LCHVAC products.
Comment Submittal Process
Stakeholders are encouraged to provide written comments for EPA consideration to LCHVAC@energystar.gov by December 13, 2021. All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR LCHVAC Product Development website unless the submitter requests otherwise.
Stakeholder Meeting
EPA plans to host a stakeholder webinar on November 16th from 12pm-2pm to discuss the Draft 1 specification and address initial stakeholder comments and questions. Stakeholders interested in participating in this discussion should RSVP here.
Please direct any questions to Abigail Daken, EPA, at daken.abigail@epa.gov or 202-343-9375, and Cody Niblett, ICF, at cody.niblett@icf.com or 202-862-1245. For test procedure inquiries, please contact Ashley Armstrong, U.S. Department of Energy, at (202) 586-6590 or Ashley.armstrong@ee.doe.gov.
Sincerely,
Abigail Daken, Product Manager
ENERGY STAR for HVAC
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Light Commercial HVAC Version 4.0 Draft 1 Specification
ENERGY STAR Light Commercial HVAC Version 4.0 Draft 1 Data and Analysis
Dear ENERGY STAR® Televisions Brand Owner or Other Interested Party,
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released the ENERGY STAR Version 9.0 TVs Limited Topic Proposal on September 9, 2021, with an original comment deadline of October 7. In light of stakeholder requests for an extension on submitting comments, EPA is now extending the comment period deadline to October 21. The dataset of High Contrast Ratio TV models used to inform the Limited Topic Proposal can be found on the ENERGY STAR Televisions product development website.
Stakeholders can provide written comments for EPA consideration to Televisions@energystar.gov. All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Televisions product development website unless the submitter requests otherwise.
Sincerely,
James Kwon, Product Manager
ENERGY STAR for Consumer Electronics
Dear ENERGY STAR® Water Coolers Stakeholders:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to remind stakeholders that as of October 13, 2021, EPA-recognized certification bodies (CBs) are required to cease certification of new Water Coolers to the Version 2.0 specification and may only certify Water Coolers to the Version 3.0 specification. Certification bodies may continue submitting administrative modifications to existing Water Cooler certifications to the Version 2.0 specification until March 23, 2022. After this date, only Water Coolers certified to the Version 3.0 specification will appear on the ENERGY STAR website and certified products list.
CBs must notify EPA by October 27, 2021 of models certified to Version 2.0, but not yet submitted to EPA, along with information on when data will be submitted. Failure to do so will result in QPX blocking submissions of these products to EPA.
Please contact EPA at watercoolers@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specification. CBs should direct questions concerning the submittal of certified Water Heaters to Certification@energystar.gov.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Water Heater Partner or Other Interested Party:
With this letter, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to share the first draft of the ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Residential Water Heaters specification. As anticipated at the close of the ENERGY STAR Version 4.0 specification revision, which made the requirements for electric products more stringent, EPA is now proposing more stringent criteria for gas-fired storage and instantaneous water heaters. No changes are proposed for electric products and Version 4.0 will still take effect as planned January 5, 2022.
Consistent with the Biden Administration’s commitment to decarbonization, EPA is proposing significant increases in the criteria for gas-fired water heaters, while allowing them to remain in scope as familiarity with electric alternatives grows. The ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Residential Water Heaters Draft 1 specification reflects changes to ensure ENERGY STAR gas-fired criteria represent the most energy efficient technology. The proposed gas-fired storage water heater level could be met with developments in technologies like gas heat pump water heaters. The gas-fired instantaneous water heater proposed criteria reflect differentiation within the market and improve consumer payback for these models.
EPA had maintained Energy Factor (EF) criteria as an option for the certification of products sold only in Canada, as well as Thermal Efficiency (TE) criteria for products on the residential market with input rates between 75,000 and 100,000 Btu per hour, and up to 100 gallons storage volume. Natural Resources Canada has confirmed that maintaining two sets of criteria is no longer necessary. As such, all efficiency requirements for in this specification will be made with the Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) or Solar Uniform Energy Factor (SUEF) metrics.
Calculated savings associated with the proposed criteria are 80 therms ($81) per year for gas-fired water heaters under 55 gallons, 45 therms ($46) per year for gas-fired water heaters 55 gallons or greater, and 31 therms ($31) per year for gas-fired instantaneous water heaters. The national electric savings potential for gas-fired storage and instantaneous water heaters is over 5,000 million therms, or over 27 MMT CO2e.
EPA will hold a webinar to discuss the proposed criteria and test method on October 13 from 12:00 pm 2:00 pm ET; please RSVP here for the specification webinar. We encourage stakeholder feedback on the ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Residential Water Heater Draft 1 specification. Please submit any comments to WaterHeaters@energystar.gov by November 11, 2021. Based on current circumstances, this comment period has been extended to 6 weeks.
All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Water Heaters Version 5.0 Product Development website unless the submitter requests otherwise.
Please direct any specific questions to Abigail Daken at EPA, Daken.Abigail@epa.gov or 202-343-9375, and Morganne Blaylock at ICF, Morganne.Blaylock@icf.com or 202-862-2952.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Abigail Daken
EPA Manager, ENERGY STAR HVAC Program
Dear ENERGY STAR® Computer Server Partner, Certification Body, or Recognized Laboratory,
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been made aware of an update to the Standard Performance Evaluation Corporation (SPEC) Server Efficiency Rating Tool (SERT). For the purposes of ENERGY STAR certification, computer servers should be tested using SERT Version 2.0.4 moving forward. As has been the case with previous SERT updates during the life of the ENERGY STAR Computer Server program, test results already submitted through the certification process using a version of SERT EPA previously accepted are not affected by this update. This clarification memo can be found on the Computer Servers Version 3.0 Specification product development website.
The SERT Version 2.0.4 is a minor update, and the results it produces are comparable to those produced by previous versions and will not negatively impact comparison of products. The update includes the following changes:
- Support for the latest ARM processors from Ampere, Fujitsu, and Marvell
- The PTDaemon 1.9.2 Interface in order to control power analyzers and temperature sensors
- Support for Java 15
- ISO compliance report links on SERT JVM Options website
- Various GUI optimizations
Please contact me at Fogle.Ryan@epa.gov or 202-343-9153 or John Clinger at John.Clinger@icf.com or 215-967-9407 with questions or concerns regarding this update. For any questions regarding certification to SERT Version 2.0.4, please contact certification@energystar.gov. For any other computer server related questions, please contact servers@energystar.gov. Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Ryan Fogle
EPA Manager, ENERGY STAR for IT and Data Center Products
Programs utilizing the ENERGY STAR specification will benefit from increased energy savings along with optional grid-connected functionality established by the latest Version 4.0 ENERGY STAR Water Heater Specification.
Bigger savings: The savings associated with this specification revision are significant. An electric heat pump water heater earning the ENERGY STAR label will save consumers $315 a year on average with a typical sized water heater. If all electric water heaters sold in the US met ENERGY STAR requirements, the energy cost savings would grow to $8 billion per year, and 150 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions would be prevented.
Innovative Technologies: Version 4.0 offers the option for products to be recognized as connected with a tested ability to shift electrical load for grid stability without sacrificing consumer performance. Version 4.0 also recognizes the importance that split system models and 120V options play in growing the market for efficient water heating products.
Timeline: Early certification using Version 4.0 is available today for eligible water heaters, including recognition as connected. All water heaters that carry the ENERGY STAR mark will be required to meet Version 4.0 on January 5, 2022.
Learn more about Version 4.0 Water Heater Specification
Dear ENERGY STAR® Televisions Brand Owner or Other Interested Party,
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is revising the ENERGY STAR Televisions specification and most recently published the Version 9.0 Draft 2 specification for review and comment on April 22, 2021. In response to stakeholder feedback on the Draft 2 and subsequent further discussions with stakeholders, EPA is proposing changes to aspects of the On Mode criteria that relate to the High Contrast Ratio (HCR) capabilities of some display technologies. EPA is now releasing a limited topic proposal to provide stakeholders an opportunity to comment on the proposed changes before releasing a Version 9.0 Final Draft specification. Comments on this limited topic proposal may be submitted no later than October 7, 2021.
Stakeholder Comments Regarding the Version 9.0 Draft 2 HCR Criteria
EPA received public comments from several stakeholders in response to the Version 9.0 Draft 2 specification. They can be found on the ENERGY STAR Televisions Version 9.0 product development webpage. Comments regarding the proposed HCR criteria can be condensed into two main considerations:
- EPA should more clearly specify the technical characteristics that a TV must possess to qualify for the HCR Adjustment Factor so that the risk of certification bodies incorrectly designating models is reduced.
- EPA should monitor TV technology development to ensure that no new display technology makes the HCR Adjustment Factor unnecessary and reevaluate the current value of the HCR Adjustment Factor to confirm that it reflects an aspirational level.
EPA also received test data measured per a recent draft of CTA-2037C, the test procedure specified for use in the Version 9.0 specification, for an additional five OLED TV models from two stakeholders. CTA-2037C was near completion at the time of reference and no subsequent changes to the procedure affect the relevance of this data. Considering this feedback and the submitted data, EPA is proposing refinements to the definition of an HCR Display and the value of the HCR Adjustment Factor through this limited topic proposal.
Proposed Definition Refinement
A TV must meet the definition of an HCR Display as outlined in the Version 9.0 specification to qualify for the HCR Adjustment Factor. The definition for an HCR Display was presented in the Draft 2 specification as follows:
A display where pixels emit no light when displaying a pure black color, thus yielding a contrast ratio of infinity:1 when comparing these pixels against those that do emit light.
According to several stakeholders, this assertion of an infinity-to-1 contrast ratio has been a heavily debated marketing claim. EPA thus proposes the following definition for an HCR Display to reduce the possibility of a Certification Body incorrectly designating whether the HCR Adjustment Factor should be applied:
A display where pixels emit no light when displaying a pure black color.
EPA believes that this simplified definition for an HCR Display eliminates the possibility of marketing materials influencing a Certification Body’s decision to apply the HCR Adjustment factor. After brief research into the display technologies available today (e.g., LCD, OLED, etc.), EPA has been able to easily determine those that are able to disable individual pixels and thus project no light when displaying a pure black color on-screen.
Proposed Changes to the HCR Adjustment Factor
The value of the HCR Adjustment Factor as presented in Draft 2 varies depending on the viewable screen area of the TV being evaluated. This relationship is defined by the following equation:
HCR Adjustment Factor Value= 0.4588×Area0.138
The analysis leading to Draft 2 indicated that there was no available TV model meeting the definition of an HCR Display that could meet the On Mode criteria without some allowance. EPA then developed the HCR Adjustment Factor with the intention of providing HCR TVs with an On Mode efficiency target that encourages demonstrable efficiency improvements.
In response to the Draft 2 specification, EPA received On Mode testing data for an additional five OLED TVs, all of which would qualify for the HCR Adjustment Factor. These models all have a screen size (diagonal) of 65 inches. Analysis of this data confirms the idea that models meeting the definition of an HCR Display will not be able to meet requirements without some allowance but updates EPA’s understanding of the size of the adder that would be needed to allow any OLED models to earn ENERGY STAR certification.
Per Draft 2, the proposed value of the HCR Adjustment factor with a 65 inch diagonal screen size is 1.29 or 29%. This means that an HCR TV of this size would be able to meet On Mode Power requirements while using 29% more On Mode Power on average than a non-HCR TV with the same diagonal screen size and measured dynamic luminance. However, the data from the five newly submitted TVs indicates that all five models were within 20% of the requirement. The performances of these five TVs with respect to the proposed On Mode Power requirements are outlined below:
|
Model |
O3 |
O4 |
O5 |
O6 |
O7 |
|
% Over the Proposed On Mode Power Requirement |
12% |
15% |
20% |
16% |
18% |
*For example: O3 was measured to use 12% more W than allowed by the proposed On Mode Power requirement
This data demonstrates that the Adjustment Factor proposed in Draft 2 does not fulfill its intended purpose of recognizing the most efficient HCR models. Further investigation indicates that an explanation for this overestimation is likely the absence of information regarding High Dynamic Range (HDR) picture settings from the dataset that informed Draft 2 – TVs with individual pixel control are especially efficient in an HDR picture setting when compared to LCD TVs because they achieve a black color by turning off a pixel rather than using a filter. By using data for only Standard Dynamic Range (SDR) picture settings, the models in the Draft 2 dataset did not capture this benefit and the added energy need was skewed high. This review of the referenced dataset against the newly submitted data also suggests that the correlation between viewable screen area and needed allowance is not as strong as previously indicated.
As such, EPA proposes a universal HCR Adjustment Factor of 1.12 allowing the very top-performing HCR-capable TVs to qualify while encouraging significant efficiency improvements for most HCR TVs to meet these On Mode requirements. This requirement would be presented in the Version 9.0 Final Draft specification as:
Comment Submission
Stakeholders are encouraged to provide written comments for EPA consideration to Televisions@energystar.gov by October 7, 2021. EPA also invites stakeholders to submit any data taken per CTA-2037C relevant to the Adjustment Factor value proposed by this document. All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Televisions product development website unless the submitter requests otherwise.
Please contact me at (202) 564-8538 or Kwon.James@epa.gov, or Cody Niblett at (202) 862-1245 or
Cody.Niblett@icf.com, with questions or to share feedback for this effort.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR.
Sincerely,
James Kwon, EPA Product Manager
ENERGY STAR for Consumer Electronics
Dear ENERGY STAR® Stakeholder:
The 2020 Unit Shipment Data Summary Report has been posted to the ENERGY STAR Unit Shipment Data webpage. This report includes aggregate shipments provided by ENERGY STAR brand owner partners and estimated market share for ENERGY STAR products included in the data collection effort. Despite fluctuations in the market resulting from the COVID pandemic, ENERGY STAR shipments remained strong in 2020.
If you have any questions about the summary report, please contact Kathleen Vokes, EPA, at vokes.kathleen@epa.gov or Katie Veasey, ICF, at unitshipmentdata@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Kathleen Vokes
ENERGY STAR Program Integrity
Dear ENERGY STAR® Partner and Stakeholder:
This is a reminder that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released the ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers Draft 1 Specification on August 11, 2021.
Comments are due September 22, 2021 and may be submitted to cfs@energystar.gov. EPA will host a stakeholder webinar to present details of the specification and address stakeholder questions on Wednesday, September 1, 2021, from 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM EDT. To participate in the meeting, please register here by August 31, 2021.
Visit and bookmark the Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers Specification Version 5.0 product development webpage to view the draft 1 specification, stakeholder comments to the discussion guide, and additional documents related to the specification including a data packet as well as a data assembly template for preparation and buffet tables. All Version 5.0 specification revision documents will be posted to this webpage.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Commercial Food Service Partner and Stakeholder:
The Ask the Experts blog features informational posts on energy efficiency topics in the form of How-To, Did You Know, Q&A, and Innovation & Tech categories. The second CFS Ask the Experts blog, How to Reduce Refrigeration Energy Costs in Commercial Kitchens, was published August 2021 in conjunction with the publication of the ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers Draft 1 Specification. The article includes an overview of commercial refrigeration maintenance tips, energy savings, and common component rebates. Stakeholders are encouraged to share the article broadly to promote your partnership with ENERGY STAR and educate your customers on the benefits of energy efficiency. We encourage you to check out other Ask the Experts posts and continue to stay up-to-date to learn tips for purchasing, promoting, and selling ENERGY STAR certified products.
If you have any questions or suggestions for future CFS Ask the Experts topics, please email CFS@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your support of ENERGY STAR.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Stakeholder:
This is a reminder that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2022 Proposed Criteria on July 8th. Comments are due August 19th, 2021 and may be submitted to mostefficient@energystar.gov.
All comments received will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2022 criteria development webpage, unless the submitter specifically requests that their comments be treated otherwise.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Commercial Refrigerators Partners and Other Interested Stakeholders:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing the ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers Draft 1 Specification. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit comments to EPA no later than September 22, 2021. EPA acknowledges the stakeholders who reviewed the discussion guide, participated in the associated webinars, and contributed verbal and written comments in preparation for this draft 1 product specification. Responses to your comments are included in the discussion guide comment matrix and in relevant note boxes throughout this draft specification.
Based on the 2019 ENERGY STAR Unit Shipment and Market Penetration Summary Report, ENERGY STAR certified commercial refrigerators and freezers currently represent approximately 46% of the market. This high level of overall ENERGY STAR market share presents an opportunity to revise the specification to ensure it continues to recognize top-performing products in existing categories and continues to deliver meaningful energy savings over conventional models. The current ENERGY STAR Commercial Refrigerator and Freezer Version 4.0 Specification took effect on March 27, 2017. The Agency reviewed the refrigerator and freezer categories and determined that vertical closed solid self-contained medium temperature (VCS.SC.M) and vertical closed solid self-contained low temperature (VCS.SC.L) categories had higher market penetration and presented the most significant savings opportunity relative to the remaining products in scope. Therefore, EPA proposes amended levels to those two commercial refrigerators and freezers categories in this Draft 1 specification. EPA believes the criteria proposed in this Draft 1 specification will offer significant energy savings relative to standard products in the marketplace.
The primary objectives of this revision are to expand the scope to include self-contained low and medium temperature chef bases, self-contained medium temperature service over counter products, and revise the maximum daily energy consumption for two current categories, VCS.SC.M and VCS.SC.L. These and other changes are summarized below and explained in the note boxes throughout the Draft 1 specification.
- Scope: EPA proposes to expand the scope of this specification to include the following products: chef base self-contained medium temperature (CB.SC.M), chef base self-contained low temperature (CB.SC.L), and service over counter self-contained medium temperature (SOC.SC.M).
- Criteria Levels: To continue recognizing the most efficient refrigerators and freezers in the market, EPA proposes revisions to the VCS.SC.M and VCS.SC.L categories. Revisions to these categories offer an opportunity for further energy savings.
- Test Methods: Based on stakeholder feedback, chef bases and service over counter products can be tested using 10 CFR Part 431 Subpart C Appendix B, and data used in analyses were obtained using that standard. Standard references for total volume and total display area are under 10 CFR 431.63.
- Reporting Requirements: In numerous product categories, the ENERGY STAR program highlights refrigerants in the consumer-facing Product Finder. More than 1,000 certified commercial refrigerators currently report refrigerant information. The ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Commercial Refrigerator and Freezer Draft 1 Specification formalizes this practice by including a refrigerant type reporting requirement.
Further, EPA recognizes the buffet and preparation tables as a potential category to include in scope at a later time and provides a data assembly template with the Draft 1 Version 5.0 product specification. As soon as EPA has a viable dataset for these products, EPA could propose ENERGY STAR levels. Interested parties are encouraged to share data to support this data assembly effort by September 22, 2021.
Comment Submittal
EPA welcomes stakeholder input on the attached ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers Draft 1 Specification. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit any comments to cfs@energystar.gov by September 22, 2021. EPA will also accept additional data for chef bases and service over counter products submitted by this same deadline.
All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Product Development website unless the submitter requests otherwise.
Stakeholder Webinar
EPA will host a webinar on September 1, 2021, from 4:00-5:30 EDT to address stakeholder comments and questions. Stakeholders interested in participating in this discussion should register here by August 31, 2021.
Ask the Experts
In conjunction with the publication of this ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers Draft 1 Specification, the EPA is also releasing the second CFS Ask the Experts blog post, entitled How to Reduce Refrigeration Energy Costs in Commercial Kitchens. The article provides an overview of maintenance tips, energy savings, and common component rebates. Stakeholders are encouraged to share the article broadly to promote your partnership with ENERGY STAR and educate your customers on the benefits of energy efficiency.
Please contact me at Crk.Tanja@epa.gov or 202-566-1037 and Jasmin Melara, ICF, at Jasmin.Melara@icf.com or 202-862-2950 for questions or concerns.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Tanja Crk, Product Manager
ENERGY STAR Commercial Food Service
Dear ENERGY STAR® Residential Refrigerator and Freezer Manufacturers, Cooler Manufacturers, and Other Interested Parties:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to share the ENERGY STAR Version 5.1 Consumer Refrigeration Products Final specification. This amendment expanded the scope to include coolers, a type of miscellaneous refrigeration product that includes wine coolers and beverage centers. This update does not affect currently certified products. Manufacturers may certify coolers meeting the requirements of this amendment immediately upon this publication.
Recognizing the differentiation in the market and potential for savings, EPA pursued this amendment to highlight efficiency leaders in coolers using ENERGY STAR. ENERGY STAR coolers have the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 1.185 billion lbs CO2e by saving 760 million kWh. Additionally, EPA updated definitions to align with DOE and changed the name of the specification to be inclusive of residential refrigerators, refrigerator-freezers, freezers, and miscellaneous refrigeration products.
Most stakeholder-submitted comments agreed with EPA’s scope expansion, criteria, and updated definitions. Some stakeholders disagreed with EPA’s decision to not extend the connected credit to demand response capable coolers. Several years of experience working to incent connected functionality has demonstrated the constructive role the ENERGY STAR program can play increasing demand through recognition and influencing improved implementation through our specifications. EPA intends to continue these efforts while phasing out the use of credits to preserve the consumer value ENERGY STAR represents in terms of energy savings. All comments received are summarized in the comment response matrix, which also includes the Agency’s responses. EPA thanks stakeholders for their comments on this amendment.
All materials related to this amendment are posted on the ENERGY STAR Consumer Refrigeration Products Version 5 development page. Please direct any specific questions to Ga-Young Park, EPA, at Park.Ga-Young@epa.gov or (202) 564-1085, and Morganne Blaylock, ICF, at Morganne.Blaylock@icf.com or (202) 862-2952.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR.
Sincerely,
Ga-Young Park
Product Manager for Appliances
ENERGY STAR Labeled Products
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to remind stakeholders that as of July 26, 2021, EPA-recognized certification bodies (CBs) are required to cease certification of new Water Heaters to the Version 3.0 specification and may only certify Water Heaters to the Version 4.0 specification. Certification bodies may continue submitting administrative modifications to existing Water Heater certifications to the Version 3.0 specification until August 9, 2021. After this date, only Water Heaters certified to the Version 4.0 specification will appear on the ENERGY STAR website and certified products list.
CBs must notify EPA by July 25, 2021 of models certified to Version 3.0, but not yet submitted to EPA, along with information on when data will be submitted. Failure to do so will result in QPX blocking submissions of these products to EPA.
Please contact EPA at waterheaters@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specification. CBs should direct questions concerning the submittal of certified Water Heaters to Certification@energystar.gov.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Stakeholder:
This is a reminder that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2022 Proposed Criteria on July 8th. Comments are due August 19th, 2021 and may be submitted to mostefficient@energystar.gov.
EPA will host a stakeholder webinar to present details of the 2022 Proposed Criteria and address stakeholder questions on Thursday, July 29, 2021 from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Eastern Time. If you wish to attend this meeting, please register here.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Audio/Video Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder,
Over the past few years, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) have worked alongside industry as part of the Consumer Technology Association’s (CTA) R3 Working Group 3 to develop an updated test procedure for audio/video products for use by the ENERGY STAR program. This newly completed test provides results better representing how products are likely to be used by consumers. EPA is pleased to call for the use of this test in association with the ENERGY STAR Audio/Video Version 4.0 specification. With this letter, EPA re-launches the Version 4.0 specification revision and announces its effort to assemble data using CTA-2084A: Test Methods for Determining Audio/Video Products Energy Efficiency for the purpose of developing the Draft 1 specification. EPA will consider all energy performance data received by September 2, 2021.
Data Assembly
The Agency is not proposing performance levels for Version 4.0 at this time but is assembling data to inform doing so. Using the enclosed Data Assembly Form, stakeholders are invited to submit test data for their current models taken per the CTA-2084A: Test Methods for Determining Audio/Video Products Energy Efficiency test procedure for inclusion in the dataset by September 2, 2021. After analysis of submitted data, the Agency anticipates releasing draft requirements for stakeholder review and comment in early October 2021. Please note that for data assembly purposes, data submitted to EPA is not required to undergo third party certification.
An Updated Test Procedure
Several of the more significant updates to historic testing approach as presented by the CTA-2084A test procedure are outlined below:
- Input Signal: EPA and industry have researched various input signals and tested the 1 kHz signal used for Version 3.0 against several noise signal types to determine which type is most useful for characterizing a device’s power consumption across typical listening volumes. This research has indicated that pink noise signals, such as the CTA-2034 noise signal with a 12dB crest factor as defined in ANSI/CTA-2034 Section 8.1.1, would better simulate practical audio amplifier performance because they present a more realistic workload with a wide spectrum of frequencies. As such, the CTA-2034 pink noise signal is prescribed for use in CTA-2084A.
- Maximum Undistorted Power (MUP) Measurement: EPA received feedback from stakeholders that the previous approach to electrically testing products with at 1/8th of the product’s MUP will not fully exercise each channel in a multi-channel system. Furthermore, if one or more of the channels is not fully exercised, then the total measured input power may be below 20 W and the Version 3.0 specification states that there are no efficiency requirements for products with an input power below 20 W. The CTA-2084A test procedure addresses these issues by requiring that all channels be connected and tested simultaneously. Similarly, for multi-component systems, all components that are shipped together as part of the product are considered to be part of a single product and tested together.
- Efficiency Measurements: To better understand how products perform throughout the range of volume settings that consumers may decide to employ and again address the issue that a 1/8th MUP signal may not fully exercise all channels, CTA-2084A instructs that:
- For products that ship with a speaker, products shall be tested at 10 equally spaced volume levels throughout its entire volume range. Furthermore, testing is to be completed with a sound pressure level meter to determine the decibel output of a product and enable the creation of efficiency metrics based on projected sound; and
- For products that do not ship with speakers, recording of electrical efficiency measurements (output power versus input power) is to take place at up to 20 equally spaced intervals throughout the products entire volume range.
- Idle State: Two distinct Idle States are understood to be commonplace for audio products. This updated test procedure accounts for both:
- Where there is no input signal, but the volume is set to a nonzero volume; and
- Where there is an active input signal, but the volume is set to zero.
Scope Expansion
In recent years, audio products with integrated displays, commonly referred to as Smart Displays, have rapidly increased in popularity. CTA-2084A includes provisions for testing both the audio and display features of these products so that their energy consumption characteristics may be better understood and compared to similar products without a display. As these new products are intended to be covered by the scope of the Audio/Video product category, EPA invites manufacturers to also submit data on such.
Again, stakeholders are encouraged to provide completed Data Assembly Forms for use in determining the Draft 1 performance levels no later than September 2, 2021. Please send completed forms via e-mail to audiovideo@energystar.gov. The exchange of ideas and information between EPA, industry, and other interested parties is critical to the success of ENERGY STAR. To track EPA’s progress in revising the ENERGY STAR Audio/Video product specification and, please visit the Audio/Video Version 4.0 product development webpage, which also hosts the previously published stakeholder comments regarding a Version 4.0 specification that formed the starting point for development of the CTA-2084A test procedure.
Thank you for taking the time to review this data assembly invitation and pre-draft overview of the CTA-2084A test procedure, which EPA was proud to develop alongside CTA’s industry members. Please contact me at Kwon.James@epa.gov or (202) 564-8538, or Cody Niblett at ICF at Cody.Niblett@icf.com or (443) 944-4149, with any questions or concerns. For any audio/video related questions, please contact audiovideo@energystar.gov. Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Best Regards,
James Kwon, EPA Product Manager
ENERGY STAR for Consumer Electronics
Dear ENERGY STAR® Commercial Dishwashers Stakeholders:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to remind stakeholders that the effective date for the Version 3.0 ENERGY STAR Commercial Dishwashers Program Requirements is July 27, 2021. On this date, only products certified to Version 3.0 and submitted by EPA-recognized certification bodies (CBs) to EPA using the Version 3.0 web service will display on our list of certified models.
Please contact EPA at cfs@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specification. CBs should direct questions concerning the submittal of Version 3.0 certified Commercial Dishwashers to Certification@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to share both an update on ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2021 and proposed recognition criteria for 2022. Stakeholders are invited to provide written comments on these proposed criteria no later than August 15, 2021 to MostEfficient@energystar.gov.
ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2021
As of June 2021, 3,361 models from 203 ENERGY STAR partners meet the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2021 recognition criteria. The number of models and partners per category is noted in the following table:
| Product Category | Models | ENERGY STAR Partners |
| Ceiling Fans | 268 | 18 |
| Central Air Conditioners and Air Source Heat Pumps | 247 | 10 |
| Clothes Dryers | 23 | 7 |
| Clothes Washers | 48 | 6 |
| Compact Freezers (new) | 11 | 5 |
| Compact Refrigerators (new) | 98 | 23 |
| Computer Monitors | 384 | 25 |
| Dehumidifiers | 175 | 27 |
| Dishwashers | 101 | 9 |
| Freezers | 4 | 2 |
| Furnaces | 159 | 7 |
| Geothermal Heat Pumps | 611 | 10 |
| Refrigerators | 540 | 44 |
| Room Air Conditioners | 16 | 4 |
| Ventilating Fans | 166 | 22 |
| Windows and Sliding Glass Doors | 510 | 46 |
| Total* | 3361 | 203 |
*Total ENERGY STAR partners that meet the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2021 recognition criteria are calculated by removing duplicate partners that may appear in more than one product category. Therefore, unlike the Total Models count, the total ENERGY STAR Partners count does not represent the sum of its column.
ENERGY STAR Most Efficient enjoys robust utility support and is leveraged by 29 energy efficiency program sponsors, serving over 7 million households (or roughly 18.5 million consumers). These rebate programs feature one or more product categories covered by ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2021 and reflect a diverse geographic spread, including two water utilities in California.
ENERGY STAR Most Efficient is also being leveraged for retailer incentives as part of the ENERGY STAR Retail Products Platform (ESRPP), an innovative, nationally coordinated, market transformation initiative. ESRPP retailers now represent more than 75% of the appliance market, with 935 stores in current program sponsors’ service areas. In 2021, there are 15 efficiency program sponsors participating in ESRPP currently serving nearly 16% of U.S. households. The ESRPP is striving for large-scale market participation – serving more than 30% of the US population – a key milestone in the ESRPP vision to transform the market for energy efficient consumer products.
EPA provides consumers with the information they need about recognized products. In addition to highlighting ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2021 products, our website includes images of models, as well as real-time information on retail pricing and where to locate and buy these models. Super-efficient compressors, available in select ENERGY STAR Most Efficient refrigerators, are also recognized via the ENERGY STAR Emerging Technology award. Currently, 19 models from four different brands have received the Emerging Technology Award for advanced adaptive compressors with use of low global warming potential refrigerants and foams.
2022 Product Categories and Recognition Criteria
The proposed recognition criteria for 2022 are based on an analysis of currently certified ENERGY STAR models and the engineering analysis the Department of Energy (DOE) conducts for covered products. This analysis indicates that for many categories, existing recognition criteria remain reflective of the “best of the best.” As a result, EPA is extending the 2021 efficiency criteria into 2022 for clothes washers, dehumidifiers, dryers, furnaces, geothermal heat pumps (GHP), vent fans, and windows. EPA has proposed revised criteria for boilers, central air conditioners and heat pumps, ceiling fans, computer monitors, refrigerator-freezers, and room air conditioners. EPA will release a proposal for dishwashers in the coming months. Televisions will not be recognized in 2022.
Ceiling Fans: EPA proposes to update the criteria for all ceiling fans to recognize differentiation that has emerged in the market now that the industry has adjusted to the new Federal minimum efficiency criteria. The proposed levels apply to all standard, hugger, and low-mount high-speed small diameter fans, and approximately 6% of all fans certified by DOE meet the proposed level. These fans offer approximately 67% savings over a DOE minimum efficiency fan. EPA welcomes feedback on the proposal, specifically if there are product categories or advanced features that offer excellent overall energy performance but that would not meet the proposed criteria. To support such comments, stakeholders are encouraged to share available data on the energy saving advantages of these categories and/or advanced features.
Clothes Washers: EPA proposes to maintain the current Most Efficient 2021 criteria for all clothes washer types. The ENERGY STAR Most Efficient list includes 18 base models from 6 brands, providing consumers with a good selection of models with superior energy and water efficiency.
Computer Monitors: EPA proposes to update the Most Efficient criteria to recognize more efficient models that have emerged in the market since EPA last updated the criteria in 2020. 10% of ENERGY STAR models meet the proposed Most Efficient criteria for 2022, for an average savings of 30% over conventional models.
Dehumidifiers: EPA proposes to maintain the current Most Efficient recognition criteria into 2022. 130 portable models meet these rigorous criteria, offering consumers significant savings of 22% over conventional models. 8 whole-home dehumidifiers meet the criteria with a savings of 25% over conventional models.
Dishwashers: In light of the ongoing revision of the ENERGY STAR Dishwasher specification, EPA will make a determination on proposed changes to the Most Efficient criteria in the coming months.
Dryers: EPA proposes to maintain the Most Efficient 2021 criteria. The ENERGY STAR Most Efficient list includes 19 base models from 8 brands, representing both heat pump and hybrid heat pump technologies. EPA encourages partners to complete optional fields for technology type and refrigerant when certifying products to make it easier for utilities to incentivize these technologies in the market.
Central Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps and Ductless Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps:
EPA proposes changes to the criteria for central air conditioners and heat pumps, in line with the Version 6.0 specification revision. Overall, the efficiency criteria continue to recognize a select group - less than 1% of the AHRI listings - of extremely efficient products with features facilitating quality installation and maintenance. The system status and messaging criteria have been updated to require that products must meet three out of six listed installation criteria, as is required for Version 6.0 products. Two additional changes have been proposed to the system status and messaging criteria – a requirement that a product must store the past ten (10) faults until they are cleared, and that a product must have the capability to directly contact a service professional when a fault arises, given the consumer permits the communication. These two criteria are in line with capabilities seen on recent Most Efficient applications and provide clarity on the features required.
The efficiency criteria for single packaged heat pumps were raised so that the levels are in line with the Version 6.0 criteria for that product category. EPA has also added a category for Most Efficient Cold Climate heat pumps. Cold climate heat pumps will be required to meet the Version 6.0 criteria, including the low ambient temperature criteria, in addition to the system status and messaging criteria, to be recognized as Most Efficient. For ductless air conditioners and heat pumps, no changes are proposed beyond the system status and messaging criteria.
As new products may choose to certify to Version 6.0 early with the Appendix M1 test method and criteria that will be effective in 2023, EPA has provided equivalent levels in both Appendix M and Appendix M1 metrics. ENERGY STAR central air conditioners and heat pumps currently certified to Version 5.0 may add Most Efficient 2022 recognition if they meet the criteria. Note that after January 1, 2022, all new products certified to ENERGY STAR must do so under Version 6.0 and via the Appendix M1 pathway.
Geothermal Heat Pumps: EPA proposes to maintain the current criteria for geothermal heat pumps, with small changes to the system status and messaging criteria. The current criteria continue to recognize a select group of extremely efficient products (3.9% of the AHRI list) with features facilitating quality installation and maintenance. Geothermal heat pumps are exempt from the installation criteria, but new applications for Most Efficient will need to comply with the additional requirements for length of fault history and communication with a service professional.
Furnaces: EPA also proposes to maintain the current requirements for furnaces as the AFUE requirement offers great differentiation, is aligned with CEE Tier 3, and a small subset of products are recognized - just 1.6% of all products. New applications for Most Efficient will need to comply with the additional requirements for length of fault history and communication with a service professional.
Boilers: EPA will recognize boilers as ENERGY STAR Most Efficient in 2022. The proposed level was selected to recognize gas-fired heat pump boilers and is aligned with the Consortium for Energy Efficiency’s Advanced Tier for residential gas boilers. EPA has referenced the CSA ANSI Z21.40.4 Performance Testing and Rating of Gas-Fired, Air Conditioning and Heat Pump Appliances, understanding that the standard is under revision. Once the standard is available for testing, boilers will be able to be recognized as Most Efficient 2022. Information on the development and timing of this test method would be appreciated. Partners should note that the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) measured by this test method is not directly comparable to the AFUE measured by the federal test method for residential boilers.
Refrigerators-Freezers: EPA proposes to revise the criteria for side-by-side, bottom freezer, and compact refrigerator product types in 2022 to greater than or equal to 30% above the Federal Minimum. Currently available refrigerator technologies such as innovative refrigerants and advanced variable speed compressors as well as improvements in the manufacturing techniques and materials for insulation yield significant efficiency improvements. There are 37 base models from 18 brands that are able to meet the proposed criteria for side-by-side and bottom freezers, which is represents 6% of the market for these product types. For compact refrigerators, there are 52 base models from 23 brands that meet the proposed criteria and represents 5% of the market. While there is currently strong ENERGY STAR Most Efficient representation among top freezer models, EPA is not proposing to move the level, as they remain the lowest energy consuming standard-size refrigerator-freezers.
Room Air Conditioners: EPA proposes to revise the recognition criteria to greater than or equal to 35% better than the Federal Standard in 2022. Available models doubled from last year and there are currently 14 base models from 6 brands meeting the proposed criteria, which represents 3% of the market.
Televisions: Due to the ongoing revision of the ENERGY STAR Version 9.0 specification for televisions, EPA is not proposing ENERGY STAR Most Efficient criteria for 2022.
Ventilating Fans: EPA has maintained the 2021 criteria for ventilating fans. The current efficiency criteria are met by an appropriate subset of ENERGY STAR products; however, a very small number of those fans are currently recognized as ENERGY STAR Most Efficient. This is due to a lack of reported data for the noise criteria as measured at 0.25 in wtg. static pressure for bathroom/utility fans. EPA encourages partners to submit these data and contact EPA with questions regarding how to do so. EPA continues to monitor range hoods but has not seen sufficient differentiation to propose Most Efficient recognition for them.
Windows and Sliding Glass Doors: No changes are proposed for the 2022 residential window or sliding door recognition criteria. While high performance Most Efficient window products are widely available, they are still a relatively small slice of total market with 494 window product lines and 16 sliding glass door product lines recognized.
The proposed ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2022 criteria for the full suite of products are summarized below. In addition to meeting these recognition criteria, products must be certified as ENERGY STAR by an EPA-recognized certification body. Additional detail for each product category is included in the recognition criteria documents accompanying this letter.
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Category |
ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2022 Recognition Criteria |
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Boilers |
AFUE 120% or higher, per ANSI Z21.40.4 Performance Testing and Rating of Gas-Fired, Air Conditioning and Heat Pump Appliances |
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Ceiling Fans |
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Clothes Washers* |
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Ducted Central Air Conditioners and Air Source Heat Pumps |
System status and messaging capabilities, installation criteria, variable capacity
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Dehumidifiers* |
Product must meet the following applicable minimum Integrated Energy Factor (IEF)2:
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Ductless AC and Heat Pumps* |
Products must meet the following cooling and heating performance levels: 20 SEER, 12.5 EER, 10 HSPF (Heat pumps only); system status and messaging capabilities, installation criteria, variable capacity. |
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Geothermal Heat Pumps* |
System status and messaging capabilities; variable capacity except water-to-water models.
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Computer Monitors |
Total Energy Consumption (ETEC) in kilowatt-hours per year shall be calculated as follows:
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Dryers* |
Products must meet the applicable energy performance requirements shown in the table below, as determined by 10 CFR Part 430 Subpart B Appendix D2, unless noted otherwise.
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Furnaces* |
AFUE 97% or higher; system status and messaging capabilities. |
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Refrigerator-Freezers and Freezers |
Product must have an Annual Energy Consumption (AEC) of less than or equal to 637 kWh per year. |
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Room Air Conditioners |
Product must have a Combined Energy Efficiency Ratio (CEER) that is greater than or equal to 35% better than the DOE Federal Minimum Standard. |
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Ventilating Fans* |
Bathroom/utility fans: Efficacy at high speed (cfm/W): ≥10 |
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Residential Windows and Sliding Glass Doors* |
U-factor ≤ 0.20 in all Zones |
*Proposed criteria carried over from 2021 for these categories with no changes.
EPA will provide additional information regarding the roll out of ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2022 recognition with the finalization of these criteria.
EPA will hold a stakeholder webinar on July 29, 2021 from 1:00-3:00pm EDT to discuss the proposed 2022 recognition criteria. To participate in this webinar, please register here by July 29th.
Please share written comments no later than August 15, 2021 with MostEfficient@energystar.gov. EPA plans to finalize these recognition requirements in the coming months.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Ann Bailey, Director
ENERGY STAR Product Labeling
Dear ENERGY STAR® Smart Thermostat Partner or Other Interested Party:
With this letter, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) welcomes your input on the enclosed ENERGY STAR Version 2.0 Smart Thermostats Discussion Guide prior to developing and releasing a Draft Version 2.0 Specification. EPA will also host a webinar on July 26, 2021, to seek input from stakeholders on topics outlined below. Please submit your feedback and any relevant data to connectedthermostats@energystar.gov by August 09, 2021.
Background
The ENERGY STAR program helps businesses and individuals save money and protect the environment by identifying products with superior energy efficiency. EPA monitors market and technology developments and reviews specifications regularly, looking for opportunities to recognize increased energy savings. EPA sees an opportunity to improve the ENERGY STAR Connected (Smart) Thermostat specification through updates and expand scope to realize additional energy savings.
Discussion Guide Summary
The Discussion Guide highlights multiple topics for further discussion which are summarized below. More details regarding these topics as well as specific questions are included in the Discussion Guide.
- Updated terminology: EPA believes that ‘Smart Thermostats’ is a consumer recognized classification and hence proposes to begin referring to the product category as ENERGY STAR Smart Thermostats with all stakeholders.
- Revisions to the Specification Metrics: EPA is evaluating the opportunity to improve the submission-to-submission stability of metrics along with improving the correlation between metrics and energy savings through metered data. In addition, EPA is considering a more even weighting across the different climate zones which would yield a metric more relevant to percent savings for every homeowner in the US.
- Specification criteria changes: EPA is considering updating the demand response requirements and seeks information on product families to ensure that ENERGY STAR can distinguish more efficient models for a range of purchasers. EPA is also interested in understanding the impact of broadband connectivity on savings.
- Expansion and clarification of scope: EPA seeks feedback on the viability of expanding the scope of the ENERGY STAR specification to include additional product types. EPA also seeks to clarify the scope during the development of Version 2.0 such that all partners are clear on product types covered by this specification.
- Software updates: Provided with this Discussion Guide is a list of major software updates. Stakeholders are requested to test the software on their data, review documentation and provide feedback on the same.
Comment Submittal
Stakeholders are encouraged to provide written comments for EPA consideration to connectedthermostats@energystar.gov by August 09, 2021. All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Smart Thermostats Product Development website unless the submitter requests otherwise.
Stakeholder Meeting
EPA will host a stakeholder webinar on July 26, 2021 from 1 to 3 pm EST to review the Discussion Guide and address initial stakeholder comments and questions. Stakeholders interested in participating in this discussion should register here by July 25, 2021.
Please direct any questions specific to the connected criteria to Abigail Daken at EPA, Daken.Abigail@epa.gov, or 202-343-9375, Abhishek Jathar at ICF, Abhishek.Jathar@icf.com or 202-862-1203.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Dear ENERGY STAR® Water Cooler Brand Owner or Other Interested Party:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to distribute the ENERGY STAR Version 3.0 Water Cooler Final Specification. EPA would like to thank the many stakeholders who have devoted time and effort to informing this specification revision process. Version 3.0 requirements will be effective March 23, 2022.
This specification revision has the potential to deliver significant savings. Over its lifetime, a water cooler certifying to ENERGY STAR under this specification could save up to $378 in energy costs. If all water coolers sold in the US met these criteria, the energy cost savings would grow to over $250 million per year and 4.5 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions would be prevented.
This specification was developed through a process that included release of a discussion guide and three draft specifications, along with multiple stakeholder meetings. This final specification not only raises the bar on energy efficiency but includes updates that will help consumers select the best water cooler for their use. The Version 3.0 will differentiate conditioned storage hot and cold as well as hot, cook, and cold water coolers based on their capacity, creating distinct categories for high-traffic locations like offices or commercial spaces and low-capacity environments like homes or small offices. The specification also adds reporting of energy consumption during and after hot and cold water draws, giving a more complete picture of a product’s energy consumption.
Stakeholder comments, previous drafts of the specification, and related materials are available on EPA's ENERGY STAR website at www.energystar.gov/specifications. Click on the “View the Version 3.0 Development Process” link for Water Coolers.
Timeline and Next Steps
EPA shares partners’ desire for a smooth transition from one ENERGY STAR specification to the next, so that consumers can expect ENERGY STAR labeled products to fully meet the latest requirements upon their effective date. With this in mind, EPA has established the following timeline:
- Effective immediately, manufacturers may elect to have their Certification Body (CB) certify their eligible products to the Version 3.0 requirements.
- As of October 13, 2021, CBs will be instructed to stop certifying new product submittals to Version 2.0. Note that existing certifications will remain valid for purposes of ENERGY STAR certification until March 23, 2022.
- Any water cooler manufactured as of March 23, 2022, must meet Version 3.0 requirements to bear the ENERGY STAR mark. All certifications of products to the Version 2.0 specification will be invalid for purposes of ENERGY STAR certification and the product finder will only include models certified to Version 3.0. After March 23, 2022, products placed under new contracts as ENERGY STAR should be certified to the Version 3.0 specification.
ENERGY STAR partnership as a manufacturer is limited to organizations that own and/or license a brand name under which they sell eligible products in the United States and/or Canada. Partnership is not available to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) that do not sell directly to consumers or end users. OEMs may certify products on behalf of the ENERGY STAR brand owners/licensees; however, the brand owner must be the ENERGY STAR partner associated directly with the certified product models, since only partners are authorized to use the ENERGY STAR certification mark.
EPA thanks the many stakeholders who provided feedback during the specification revision process and looks forward to working with you as you certify and market your energy-efficient water coolers. Please direct any specific questions to Tanja Crk, EPA, at Crk.Tanja@epa.gov or 202-566-1037, and Julia Hegarty, ICF, at julia.hegarty@icf.com or 202-862-1163.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Tanja Crk, Product Manager
ENERGY STAR Commercial Food Service, Vending, and Water Coolers
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Version 3.0 Water Cooler Final Specification
ENERGY STAR Version 3.0 Water Cooler Final Data Package
ENERGY STAR Version 3.0 Water Cooler Final Draft Comment Response Matrix
The purpose of this letter is to present a proposal from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to sunset the ENERGY STAR specification for Small Network Equipment (SNE) products. Relevant background and the rationale for sunsetting are provided below. The Agency requests feedback on this proposal no later than June 22, 2021.
ENERGY STAR SNE Products Background
Recognizing the potential to advance energy efficiency in this ubiquitous product, EPA began working with stakeholders in 2009 and through a multi-year, engaged process developed both the first test method to evaluate efficiency and the first recognition program for leadership in efficiency. The ENERGY STAR SNE product specification was introduced in 2013 with the intention to increase energy efficiency primarily in the home and small office networking space. These products were of interest due to their 24/7 activity and large sales. EPA developed a specification to recognize SNE products that were efficient when connected to a network and passing minimal traffic, the most common operating condition in residential environments.
Rationale for Proposed Sunset SNE
Under certain circumstances, EPA makes the determination that an ENERGY STAR specification for a particular product category should be sunset rather than revised for one or more of these reasons:
- A standard exists or is forthcoming at the current ENERGY STAR level that will serve as a backstop so efficiency gains are maintained.
- Additional, cost-effective efficiency gains are not available or anticipated.
- The market has evolved such that the product type is being discontinued.
The Small Network Equipment Voluntary Agreement (VA), designed to serve as a back stop, was introduced in 2015 leveraging the ENERGY STAR Test Method for Small Network Equipment as well as the program’s definitions and structure to set minimum levels that all signatories commit to meeting. The VA has been signed by all major internet providers, estimated to provide approximately 60% of SNE products to the market with continued growth expected.
In addition, a recent review showed that the opportunity for further efficiency gains beyond ENERGY STAR’s current requirements may be constrained by the energy needs associated with product features that are valued by consumers. In particular, we anticipate the industry will be evolving products to accommodate functionality such as increased range, speed, and the ability to support more clients. EPA will, however, continue to monitor the SNE landscape and will revisit this decision if the technology or market changes and significant energy savings become available.
Proposed Milestones for Sunsetting the ENERGY STAR for SNE Products
EPA proposes the following milestones associated with implementing this proposal:
- Existing certifications of ENERGY STAR SNE products will remain valid until July 13, 2022.
- Certification Bodies will be instructed to stop certifying new product submittals as of January 13, 2022.
- No new promotional materials for SNE products (printed and electronic) that use the ENERGY STAR mark may be produced after January 13, 2022. Brand owners are permitted to use up existing printed material, including packaging to minimize waste.
- Brand owners must stop using the ENERGY STAR name and ENERGY STAR mark in association with all SNE products manufactured on or after July 13, 2022.
- To minimize the cost of labeling changes and be in compliance by July 13, 2022, brand owners of SNE products are encouraged to remove ENERGY STAR references on Web sites or in other collateral materials as these materials are reprinted or changed.
Stakeholders are invited to comment on this proposal to sunset the ENERGY STAR for SNE products. Any feedback or data you wish to share with EPA may be submitted via email to networking@energystar.gov, no later than June 22, 2021. All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR SNE page, unless the stakeholder requests otherwise.
Sincerely,
Ryan Fogle
EPA Manager, ENERGY STAR for IT and Data Center Products
Dear ENERGY STAR Smart Home Energy Management Systems stakeholders:
In the interest of helping stakeholders navigate the new ENERGY STAR Smart Home Energy Management Systems specification and certify their SHEMS, EPA is sharing a few clarifications. Have a question? Please contact smarthomesystems@epa.gov.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR.
Dear ENERGY STAR® CFS Partner or Other Interested Party,
The purpose of this announcement is to provide clarification to the referenced American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) F1920-20 Standard Test Method for Performance of Rack Conveyor Commercial Dishwashing Machines for ENERGY STAR certification purposes.
As a reminder, EPA finalized the ENERGY STAR Version 3.0 Commercial Dishwashers product specification on October 27, 2020, which goes into effect July 27, 2021. Since publication of this specification, EPA was notified of an oversight in the latest F1920 standard test method revision that may impact certification eligibility for certain commercial dishwashers.
Section 10.8.3. of F1920-20, which falls under the Washing Energy Performance Test, states: “Confirm that the minimum wash tank temperature is above the manufacturer’s recommended setting.” Similar guidance was revised during the last iteration of the F1696-20 Standard Test Method for Energy Performance of Stationary-Rack, Door-Type Commercial Dishwashing Machines, but retained in F1920-20. Consistent with other referenced ASTM standards, Section 10.8.3 of F1920-20 should have been amended from “minimum” to “average.”
Considering this was an oversight during the last revision of the ASTM F1920 standard, and the guidance language was not updated to reflect this change, EPA will accept a deviation from the current guidance language in Section 10.8.3. of F1920-20 for eligible commercial rack conveyor dishmachines. If the UUT maintains an “average” wash tank temperature above the manufacturer’s recommended setting during the period of test, that is deemed acceptable for purposes of ENERGY STAR certification.
EPA has notified ASTM that this temporary deviation is allowed and is reflected in a notebox under Section 4. Test Requirements in the final ENERGY STAR Version 3.0 Commercial Dishwashers product specification available here. An amendment to the F1920-20 standard is anticipated in a subsequent iteration. At which time, EPA will lift this temporary deviation allowance, along with publication of an amended Version 3.0 specification announcement.
Note that any ENERGY STAR commercial dishwasher model certified under this temporary deviation shall be verified to the same specification deviation upon verification testing, if nominated.
If you have any questions regarding this deviation allowance, please reach out to cfs@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Tanja Crk, Product Manager
ENERGY STAR Commercial Food Service
Dear ENERGY STAR® Stakeholder:
This is a reminder that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released the ENERGY STAR Version 9.0 TVs Draft 2 Specification on April 22, 2021. Comments are due June 3, 2021 and may be submitted to televisions@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Partners and Stakeholders:
Yesterday, Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan joined other members of the Biden cabinet to announce new initiatives supporting a whole of government approach to efficient decarbonization of U.S. buildings. In outlining EPA’s commitment, Administrator Regan emphasized the importance of partnership programs, highlighting recent updates to the ENERGY STAR specifications for CAC/ASHPs and water heaters, as well as the expansion of the ENERGY STAR EVSE specification to cover DC fast chargers.
We look forward to continuing our important work, together, to advance an economy-wide transition to the efficient technologies that are critical in the fight against climate change.
See EPA press release here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/through-public-private-partnerships-epa-helps-advance-efficiency-and-reduce-emissions
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Dear ENERGY STAR® Residential Refrigerator and Freezer Manufacturers, Cooler Manufacturers, and Other Interested Parties:
EPA welcomes stakeholder input on this proposed amendment. Given the current circumstances, EPA is allowing extra time for ENERGY STAR comments. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit any comments to appliances@energystar.gov by June 23, 2021. All comments received will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Version 5 Consumer Refrigeration Products specification development webpage unless the submitter requests otherwise. Ga-Young Park |
This is a reminder that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released the ENERGY STAR Version 9.0 TVs Draft 2 Specification on April 22nd. Comments are due June 3rd, 2021 and may be submitted to televisions@energystar.gov.
EPA will host a stakeholder webinar to present details of the Draft 2 specification and address stakeholder questions on Tuesday, May 11, 2021 from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Eastern Time. If you wish to attend this meeting, please register here.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR
Dear ENERGY STAR® Imaging Equipment Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder,
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing an update to the ENERGY STAR Imaging Equipment (IE) specification to add criteria for professional imaging equipment. This proposal is based on data gathered per the Version 3.0 professional imaging equipment test method. Products that have been certified to Version 3.0 and Version 3.1 will not be affected by this change and will remain ENERGY STAR certified.
Over the past year, EPA has had ongoing discussions with stakeholders regarding appropriate criteria for differentiating professional imaging equipment. As part of these discussions, several manufacturers have tested their products per the Version 3.0 professional imaging equipment test method and submitted resulting data to EPA for consideration. After analyzing these data, EPA proposes to amend the ENERGY STAR criteria to incorporate new professional imaging efficiency metrics for active mode and ready mode, the two modes with the greatest effect on the overall energy consumption of these products. This proposal includes separate active mode criteria for color and monochrome products. Further, EPA has proposed levels that enable products of a variety of speeds to qualify.
EPA welcomes stakeholder input on this proposed amendment. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit any comments to imagingequipment@energystar.gov by June 1, 2021. All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Product Development website unless the submitter requests otherwise.
The exchange of ideas and information between EPA, industry, and other interested parties is critical to the success of ENERGY STAR. Materials associated with this amendment are posted to the ENERGY STAR Product Development website.
Please contact me at Fogle.Ryan@epa.gov or 202-343-9153 or Cody Niblett, ICF, at Cody.Niblett@icf.com or (202) 862-1245 with questions or concerns about this amendment. For other imaging equipment related questions, please contact imagingequipment@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Ryan Fogle
EPA Manager, ENERGY STAR for IT and Data Center Products
Enclosures:
Draft, Version 3.2 Specification
Dear ENERGY STAR® Room Air Cleaner Partner, Certification Body, or Recognized Laboratory,
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been made aware of a 2020 update to the ANSI/AHAM AC-1 test procedure for measuring the performance of Room Air Cleaners. As a result, EPA is updating the referenced test procedure, for use in measuring the cigarette smoke Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) and operating power to determine certification for ENERGY STAR Room Air Cleaners, to the updated 2020 version of the ANSI/AHAM AC-1 test method.
For the purposes of ENERGY STAR certification, room air cleaners should be tested using ANSI/AHAM AC-1-2020 moving forward. Currently certified products are not affected. This update will be reflected in Table 2 of the specification (as shown below).
Please contact Park.Ga-Young@epa.gov or (202) 564-1085, or Emmy Feldman, ICF, at Emmy.Feldman@icf.com or (202) 862-1145, with any questions or concerns about the specification. For any other questions pertaining to Room Air Cleaners, please contact roomaircleaners@energystar.gov.
Ga-Young Park
Product Manager for Appliances
ENERGY STAR Labeled Products
Dear ENERGY STAR® TV Partner or Other Interested Stakeholder:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to share the ENERGY STAR Version 9.0 TVs Draft 2 Specification, which includes revisions in response to stakeholder feedback on Draft 1. Stakeholders are encouraged to provide feedback on this Draft 2 by June 3, 2021. In addition, EPA will host a stakeholder webinar to present details of the Draft 2 specification and address stakeholder questions on Tuesday, May 11, 2021 from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Eastern Time. If you wish to attend this meeting, please register here.
In response to Draft 1, EPA received several sets of written comments as well as verbal feedback during a webinar hosted on September 30, 2020. The Agency has made a number of adjustments to the specification as a result. These changes and EPA’s rationale for them are highlighted in noteboxes throughout the specification and outlined below. Additionally, EPA’s responses to stakeholder feedback are reflected in the Draft 1 comment response document.
Version 9.0 Test Procedure
Since publishing the Draft 1 specification, EPA has begun to work with stakeholders in the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) R4 Working Group 13 to develop the CTA-2037C: Determination of Television Set Power Consumption and Average Luminance test procedure that is based on the same approach to measuring TV power and projected luminance as the additional test procedures outlined in Draft 1. As such, and as long as the working group continues to make timely progress towards the finalization of CTA-2037C, the Agency intends to reference it for use in this specification. This will allow ENERGY STAR to align with the industry accepted approach to measuring TV efficiency and reduce the test burden of having an additional test method.
EPA has continued to monitor the development of an updated approach to testing with an Automatic Brightness Control (ABC) feature enabled. At this time, the procedure as presented in the forthcoming CTA-2037C has been developed to the extent that the Agency feels it appropriate to include ABC-enabled metrics in Version 9.0. EPA believes that this will reinforce the Agency’s support of a well-programmed version of the ABC feature and allow for ENERGY STAR criteria to better reflect how TVs are typically used.
EPA developed the specification levels based on a dataset of TVs tested in accordance with the Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA) test method being used as the starting point for developing CTA-2037C. EPA understands that as the CTA-2037C test procedure continues to be developed, some changes are likely to be made to the test method that may impact power measurements. As changes are made, the Agency will reevaluate the criteria presented in this specification to determine whether corresponding modifications to the specification levels are necessary.
Updated Dataset
The dataset used to inform Draft 1 criteria has been replaced with an updated dataset for Draft 2. The Draft 2 dataset includes 41 2020-2021 model year TVs. This assortment of TVs represents 10 manufacturers and a wide range of screen sizes, display technologies, and native resolutions of TVs available in the market today. Additionally, the data in this dataset were obtained through testing per the current iteration of the forthcoming CTA-2037C test procedure. This ensures that to the furthest extent possible, that the criteria presented in this Draft 2 reflect how TVs are expected to perform when tested for purposes of certification.
Updated Certification Criteria
With a new dataset, EPA set out to assess whether the criteria presented in Draft 1 continued to provide a fair level of stringency across TV size bins, native resolutions, and display technologies. As such, Draft 2 includes the following updates in approach towards On Mode and Standby Mode criteria:
- To provide manufacturers more flexibility in designing each Preset Picture Setting (PPS), Draft 2 has replaced the On Mode Power requirements prescribed for each PPS with an On Mode Power Requirement that averages the power across the applicable PPSs. As such, the criteria evaluate a TV’s overall efficiency instead of the efficiency of individual settings.
- Draft 2 proposes that PPSs with ABC enabled by default test with ABC enabled. For PPSs with ABC enabled, EPA developed corresponding metrics that take the average dynamic luminance and power at several illuminance conditions to represent the PPS in calculating the power limit. EPA believes this will incentivize the persistence of a well-implemented ABC function across PPSs.
- To give manufacturers more freedom to program their brightness settings however they believe will deliver the best viewing experience while ensuring that ENERGY STAR in not providing an incentive to do otherwise, Draft 2 proposes the use of luminance thresholds to determine compliance with the specification. Essentially, if the dynamic luminance of a PPS is measured or calculated to be below the applicable threshold, the On Mode Power used to determine compliance will be the interpolated power value at the luminance threshold. It is important to note that manufacturers may still set their TV default settings to luminance values below the threshold and be eligible for ENERGY STAR, but compliance will be assessed assuming the product is at or above the luminance threshold.
- In order to apply comparable stringency for models with an atypical resolution (e.g., 2k) or a resolution below 4K (e.g., 720p vs. 1080p), Draft 2 proposes a universal adjustment factor equation based on screen resolution instead of separate equations for specific screen resolutions, as was proposed in Draft 1.
- EPA has updated the approach towards TVs classified to receive the High Contrast Ratio (HCR) adjustment factor. This update broadens the applicability of the adjustment factor to beyond just 4K models and includes a new definition for what is considered an HCR TV to appropriately account for current and future technologies that offer this feature to receive the adjustment factor.
- Draft 2 proposes to lower the Standby-Active, Low Mode Power requirement from 2 W to 1 W. The current dataset shows that while the industry average is higher, several manufacturers have been able to configure their TVs to remain well below 1 W in this mode.
Upcoming Webinar
The exchange of ideas and information between EPA, industry, and other interested parties is critical to the success of ENERGY STAR. Stakeholder participation is key to the ENERGY STAR specification development process and is strongly encouraged. EPA plans to hold a webinar on Tuesday, May 11, 2021 from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Eastern Time to discuss the Version 9.0 Draft 2 specification. To participate in this webinar, please register here to attend.
Feedback
Given the current circumstances, EPA is extending the normal comment period deadline to allow stakeholders to provide any comments on the Version 9.0 Draft 2 Specification no later than June 3, 2021. Please send comments via e-mail to televisions@energystar.gov. All comments received will be posted to the Version 9.0 TVs Specification development webpage, unless the submitter specifically requests that his or her comments remain confidential. Stakeholder engagement is vital to the ENERGY STAR program and EPA looks forward to further work with stakeholders in the development of the TVs Version 9.0 specification.
Please contact me at (202) 564-8538 or Kwon.James@epa.gov, or Emmy Feldman at (202) 862-1145 or Emmy.Feldman@icf.com, with questions or to share feedback for this effort.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR.
Best Regards,
James Kwon, EPA Product Manager
ENERGY STAR for Consumer Electronics
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Version 9.0 TVs Draft 2 Specification
ENERGY STAR Version 9.0 TVs Draft 2 Data Package
ENERGY STAR Version 9.0 TVs Draft 1 Comment Response Document
Dear ENERGY STAR® Clothes Washer Manufacturers, ENERGY STAR Clothes Dryer Manufacturers, and Other Interested Parties,
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is finalizing the ENERGY STAR Version 8.1 Clothes Washer specification. This amendment expands the scope to enable combination all-in-one washer-dryers with air-only drying to earn the ENERGY STAR. This update does not affect currently certified products. Manufacturers may certify combination all-in-one washer-dryer products meeting the requirements of this amendment immediately upon this publication.
With this amendment, EPA both expanded the scope of the ENERGY STAR Clothes Washer specification to include combination all-in-one washer-dryers with air-only drying products and established tailored ENERGY STAR requirements for this special product type. Combination all-in-one washer-dryers must meet the relevant ENERGY STAR washer criteria and ENERGY STAR dryer criteria (excluding the cycle time requirement) and will be listed as certified on the ENERGY STAR Clothes Washer Product Finder. Combination all-in-one washer-dryer products will continue to be listed as an excluded product type under the ENERGY STAR Clothes Dryer specification.
All stakeholder-submitted comments agreed with EPA’s overall proposal. These comments are summarized in the comment response document, along with the Agency’s responses. EPA thanks stakeholders for their comments in support of this amendment.
All materials related to this amendment are posted on the ENERGY STAR Clothes Washer Version 8 development page. Please direct any specific questions to Ga-Young Park at Park.Ga-Young@epa.gov or (202) 564-1085, or Steve Leybourn at Steve.Leybourn@icf.com or (202) 862-1566.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR.
Sincerely,
Ga-Young Park
Product Manager for Appliances
ENERGY STAR Labeled Products
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Version 8.1 Clothes Washer Final Specification
ENERGY STAR Version 8.1 Clothes Washer Draft Specification Comment Response Document
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to distribute the Final Version 4.0 ENERGY STAR® Water Heater specification and the Final ENERGY STAR Test Method to Validate Demand Response. EPA would like to thank the many stakeholders who have invested time and effort to contribute feedback that has informed this specification revision process. Version 4.0 requirements will be effective on January 5, 2022.
The savings associated with this specification revision are significant at the product level and nationally. Electric water heaters under 55 gallons certifying to the new requirements will save consumers $315 a year, on average. If all electric water heaters sold in the US met these criteria, the energy cost savings would grow to $8 billion per year, and 150 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions would be prevented. In addition, this revision offers the option for products to be recognized as connected, with a tested ability to shift electrical load for grid stability without sacrificing consumer performance.
This specification was developed through a process that included release of two draft specifications, along with multiple stakeholder meetings and input from stakeholders. Several themes from Draft 1 comments were repeated in the latest comment period, including requests to require a physical CTA-2045 port on all connected water heaters. EPA also received suggestions about the levels proposed for the new split and 120V product classes. Further details and EPA’s responses can be found in the Final Draft Comment Response Matrix.
EPA made two changes in the final specification. The first is a clarification to the definition for split system water heaters, to specify that these products must include a tank that is supplied or specified by the manufacturer and rated with the product. This change to the definition is in line with the intent of the current specification and previously proposed drafts, which excluded add-on heat pump units. EPA also amended the definition of a “loss of connectivity” event based on stakeholder concerns that the previous definition and test method was not applicable to water heaters with an OpenADR 2.0b implementation. The change to the specification language and test method will allow for products with either protocol to meet the requirements for loss of connectivity.
In addition, EPA received extensive feedback about the maintain the current levels for gas-fired water heaters. While some stakeholders supported EPA’s choice, the majority commented that the current levels do not reflect ENERGY STAR guiding principles, and the wide choice of labeled models will mislead consumers and manufacturers about the environmental impact of their choices. EPA understands these concerns and plans to revisit gas water heaters with a proposal later this year.
Stakeholder comments, previous drafts of the specification, and related materials are available on EPA's ENERGY STAR website at www.energystar.gov/specifications. Click on the “View the Version 4.0 Development Process” link for Water Heaters.
Test Method to Validate Demand Response
The Final Test Method to Validate Demand Response includes a minor change to the testing of loss of connectivity, aligned with the change in the specification. It is otherwise unchanged.
Timeline and Next Steps
EPA shares Partners’ desire for a smooth transition from one ENERGY STAR specification to the next, so that consumers can expect ENERGY STAR labeled products to fully meet the latest requirements upon their effective date. With this in mind, EPA has established the following timeline:
- Effective immediately, manufacturers may elect to have their Certification Body (CB) certify their eligible products to the Version 4.0 requirements, including recognition as connected.
- As of July 26, 2021, CBs will be instructed to stop certifying new product submittals to Version 3.0. Note, however, that existing certifications will remain valid for purposes of ENERGY STAR qualification until January 5, 2022.
- Any water heater manufactured as of January 5, 2022, must meet Version 4.0 requirements to bear the ENERGY STAR mark. All certifications of products to the Version 3.0 specification will be invalid for purposes of ENERGY STAR qualification and the product finder will only include models certified to Version 4.0.
ENERGY STAR partnership as a manufacturer is limited to organizations that own and/or license a brand name under which they sell eligible products in the United States and/or Canada. Partnership is not available to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) that do not sell directly to consumers or end users. OEMs may certify products on behalf of the ENERGY STAR brand owners/licensees; however the brand owner must be the ENERGY STAR partner associated directly with the certified product models, since only partners are authorized to use the ENERGY STAR certification mark.
EPA thanks stakeholders who provided feedback during the specification revision process and looks forward to working with you as you certify and market your energy-efficient water heaters. Please direct any questions regarding the specification and its timeline to Abigail Daken, EPA, at daken.abigail@epa.gov or (202) 343-9375, and Julia Hegarty, ICF, at julia.hegarty@icf.com or (202) 862-1163. For marketing or webpage questions, please contact Nate Jutras at jutras.nathaniel@epa.gov or (202) 738-3515. For test procedure inquiries, please contact Catherine Rivest, U.S. Department of Energy, at Catherine.Rivest@ee.doe.gov or (202) 586-7335. Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Abigail Daken, Product Manager
ENERGY STAR for HVAC
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Version 4.0 Water Heaters Final Specification and Partner Commitments
ENERGY STAR Connected Residential Water Heaters Test Method to Validate Demand Response
ENERGY STAR Version 4.0 Water Heaters Final Draft Comment Response Matrix
ENERGY STAR Version 4.0 Water Heaters Final Data Package
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to distribute the ENERGY STAR® Version 6.0 Central Air Conditioner and Heat Pump (CAC/HP) Final Specification and the ENERGY STAR Cold Climate Heat Pump Final Controls Verification Procedure (CVP). EPA would like to thank the many stakeholders who have devoted time and effort to informing this specification revision process. Version 6.0 requirements will be effective January 1, 2023, although EPA encourages early certification.
This specification revision has the potential to deliver significant savings. Over its lifetime, a central air conditioner certifying to ENERGY STAR under this specification could save $800 in household energy costs, and a heat pump could save up to $2000. If all central air conditioners and heat pumps sold in the US met these criteria, the energy cost savings would grow to $3 billion per year and 105 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions would be prevented. In addition, this revision offers the option for products to be recognized as connected, providing expanded ability to respond to grid needs with minimal impact to consumers.
This specification was developed through a process that included release of a discussion guide, three draft specifications and two limited topic proposals, along with multiple stakeholder meetings. Several themes were repeated throughout the process, including industry concerns with the burden of preparing to comply with the 2023 Federal minimum efficiency standards and test method as well as California refrigerant standards. As a result, EPA has aligned the effective date of the Version 6.0 specification with the effective date of the new Federal standards.
Stakeholder comments, previous drafts of the specification, and related materials are available on EPA's ENERGY STAR website at www.energystar.gov/specifications. Click on the “View the Version 4.0 Development Process” link for Central Air Conditioners or Heat Pumps.
Translation to EER2
From comments and discussions with stakeholders, EPA understands that the proposed translation of EER to EER2 may not be accurate for high efficiency products. In the absence of better information, EPA has maintained the proposed EER2 criteria, but encourages partners to share any test data they may have to support a lower EER2 criteria that would be equivalent to the 12.5 EER criteria. Should a better understanding of the conversion arise, EPA will revise the EER2 criteria before 2023 when that metric is required.
Installation Capabilities
As proposed in the Limited Topic Proposal on Installation Criteria, EPA has limited the applicability of the installation criteria to variable capacity products only. This decision allows for a wider set of products to meet the Version 6.0 criteria, while encouraging products with advanced controls and communicating software to improve installation quality. EPA has also made small adjustments to some features based on conversations with stakeholders.
Controls Verification Procedure
The final version of the CVP includes changes from the draft that are in line with stakeholder feedback. As the CVP will not be required for new certifications until January 1, 2022, EPA encourages stakeholders to report any substantive issues with the CVP so that it may be improved as appropriate, but the Agency believes the procedure accomplishes the goal of confirming cold climate heat pump operation under native controls in its current form.
Timeline and Next Steps
EPA shares partners’ desire for a smooth transition from one ENERGY STAR specification to the next, so that consumers can expect ENERGY STAR labeled products to fully meet the latest requirements upon their effective date. In addition, the Appendix M1 test method and associated metrics will become effective on January 1, 2023. With this in mind, EPA has established the following timeline:
• Effective immediately, manufacturers may elect to have their Certification Body (CB) certify their eligible products to the Version 6.0 requirements, including recognition as connected and the ENERGY STAR Cold Climate Heat Pump label. These certifications can be made according to the current Appendix M test method and associated metrics until January 1, 2022.
• As of January 1, 2022, CBs will be instructed to stop certifying new product submittals to Version 5.0. Note, however, that existing certifications will remain valid for purposes of ENERGY STAR qualification until January 1, 2023. Beginning on January 1, 2022, early certifications to Version 6.0 must be made according to the Appendix M1 test method and associated metrics.
• Any CAC/HP manufactured as of January 1, 2023, must meet Version 6.0 requirements to bear the ENERGY STAR mark. All certifications of products to the Version 5.0 specification will be invalid for purposes of ENERGY STAR qualification and the product finder will only include models certified to Version 6.0. Products that certified early using the Appendix M compliance pathway must submit data according to the Appendix M1 test method by this date.
ENERGY STAR partnership as a manufacturer is limited to organizations that own and/or license a brand name under which they sell eligible products in the United States and/or Canada. Partnership is not available to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) that do not sell directly to consumers or end users. OEMs may certify products on behalf of the ENERGY STAR brand owners/licensees; however the brand owner must be the ENERGY STAR partner associated directly with the certified product models, since only partners are authorized to use the ENERGY STAR certification mark.
EPA thanks the many stakeholders who provided feedback during the specification revision process and looks forward to working with you as you certify and market your energy-efficient central air conditioners and heat pumps. Please direct any questions regarding the specification and its timeline to Abigail Daken, EPA, at daken.abigail@epa.gov or (202) 343-9375, and Julia Hegarty, ICF, at julia.hegarty@icf.com or (202) 862-1163. For marketing or webpage questions, please contact Dan Lawlor at Lawlor.Daniel@epa.gov or (202) 564-8561. For test procedure inquiries, please contact Catherine Rivest, U.S. Department of Energy, at Catherine.Rivest@ee.doe.gov or 202-586-7335. Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Abigail Daken, Product Manager
ENERGY STAR for HVAC
Enclosures:
Final Version 6.0 ENERGY STAR CAC-HP Specification
Final Version 6.0 ENERGY STAR CAC-HP Data Package
Final Controls Verification Procedure
Final Draft Version 6.0 and CVP ENERGY STAR CAC-HP Comment Response Matrix
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) invites you to participate in its next installment of the commercial food service (CFS) webinar series!
This webinar series occurs monthly and covers a range of topics which highlight strategies to leverage the ENERGY STAR logo, tools, and resources, ENERGY STAR partner success stories, and more! The April webinar will spotlight another EPA voluntary program, the Green Power Partnership, and opportunities to leverage both programs.
Webinar information:
Title: Spotlight on EPA’s Green Power Partnership
Date and Time: Tuesday April 13; 1 PM – 2 PM EDT
Please register for the webinar here.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Green Power Partnership (GPP) was established in 2001. The goal of the GPP is to protect human health and the environment by increasing organizations’ voluntary green power use. The program provides technical assistance to organizations as they either start or expand their green power use. The GPP also provides public recognition and promotion for companies and other organizations that use green power. In return for technical assistance and recognition, Partners commit to using green power for all, or a portion, of their annual electricity consumption.
This webinar will:
- Celebrate this year’s Earth Day theme by introducing partners and stakeholders to EPA’s Green Power Partnership program and the combined benefits of energy efficiency and green power
- Demonstrate how other organizations have leveraged both ENERGY STAR and the Green Power Partnership program to meet their clean energy goals
Questions may be directed to CFS@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your support of ENERGY STAR
Dear ENERGY STAR® Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) Brand Owner or Other Interested Party:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to share the Final ENERGY STAR Version 1.1 EVSE Specification. EPA would like to thank the many stakeholders who have invested time and effort to contribute feedback that has informed this specification revision process. These Version 1.1 requirements will become effective immediately. EPA will host a webinar on Thursday, April 8, 2021 from 3 – 4 PM Eastern Time to outline the process for certifying DC EVSE and answer any stakeholder questions. Please register for the webinar.
With this Version 1.1, EPA expanded the scope of the ENERGY STAR EVSE specification to include DC charging products. This updated specification establishes requirements to recognize the most efficient DC-output products. Due to the potential for DC chargers to increase the range of EVs and the efforts to establish EV charging corridors for cross-country EV transportation, there has been an increase in demand for this product type. Adding DC charging stations to the ENERGY STAR scope will bring additional value to stakeholders by recognizing the safe and efficient models with the ENERGY STAR label.
This specification was developed through a multi-year process that began with the development of a test method to ensure there was a repeatable and appropriate procedure for testing DC-output EVSE for energy efficiency. The test method development process included the release of a discussion guide, two working session memos, and three draft test methods, along with multiple stakeholder meetings and input from stakeholders. EPA then began to develop energy efficiency criteria for DC-output EVSE with the release of two draft specifications. Stakeholder comments, previous drafts of the specification and test method, and related materials are available on the ENERGY STAR Version 1.1 EVSE Specification Development webpage.
Feedback on the Final Draft Specification
EPA received a few stakeholder comments in response to the Final Draft specification. These comments are summarized in the enclosed comment response document, along with the Agency’s responses. EPA made modest updates to the Final specification in response to these comments:
- EPA removed the term ‘portable’ from describing DC-output EVSE with integrated batteries that cannot be disabled, as a stakeholder noted it would inadvertently prevent equipment that have integral batteries that are intended to be installed from claiming a battery management system allowance.
- EPA received stakeholder feedback that the requirement to report compliance with ISO-15118 was vague and other standards should also be considered. EPA updated the reporting requirement to emphasize advanced energy management functionality, while ensuring that ENERGY STAR program requirements are durable enough to evaluate these protocols as they evolve over time. As a result, the criteria will allow for reporting of additional protocols beyond ISO 15118, such as SAE J1772, IEC 61851-1, CHAdeMO 2.0, that are being leveraged by the EV charging industry to enable smart charging.
- Stakeholders requested that EPA allow for flexibility in the frequency allowed during testing to the ENERGY STAR DC-output EVSE Test Method to accommodate testing in in-house testing laboratories that may not be located in the United States. EPA has updated the AC-input supply requirements in the final ENERGY STAR DC-output EVSE Test Method (now marked revised as of March 2021) to allow testing at either 50 or 60 Hz, although it is still preferred that the unit be tested at the highest rated voltage and frequency combination listed.
Testing and Certifying DC-output EVSE for ENERGY STAR
Manufacturers should pursue testing through a third party testing laboratory, or enroll an in-house laboratory as a witnessed or supervised manufacturer test laboratory through a recognized Certification Body to begin testing and certifying products to the ENERGY STAR DC-output EVSE criteria. Currently UL Verification Services Inc., TUV SUD America, Inc., and Intertek Testing Services NA are recognized Certification Bodies for EVSE with approved W/SMTL programs. All EPA recognized test labs and certification bodies for EVSE can be found here.
Again, EPA will be hosting a webinar to outline the process for certifying DC EVSE on Thursday, April 8, 2021 from 3 – 4 PM Eastern Time. Please register for the webinar.
ENERGY STAR partnership as a manufacturer is limited to organizations that own and/or license a brand name under which they sell eligible products in the United States and/or Canada. Partnership is not available to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) that do not sell directly to consumers or end users. OEMs may certify products on behalf of the ENERGY STAR brand owners/licensees; however, the brand owner must be the ENERGY STAR partner associated directly with the certified product models, since only partners are authorized to use the ENERGY STAR certification mark.
Please contact me at (202) 564-8538 or Kwon.James@epa.gov, or Emmy Feldman at (202) 862-1145 or Emmy.Feldman@icf.com, with questions or to share feedback for this effort.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR.
Best Regards, James Kwon, Product Manager
ENERGY STAR for EVSE
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR EVSE Version 1.1 Final Specification
ENERGY STAR EVSE Version 1.1 Final Test Method
ENERGY STAR EVSE Version 1.1 Final Draft Specification Comment Response Document
ENERGY STAR® Spring HVAC Newsletter
Change the World. Start with ENERGY STAR.
Earth Day
Smart Thermostat Best Practices Guide
HVAC Guide
HVAC Fact Sheets
Session Descriptions
Presentation Decks
New ENERGY STAR Initiatives in HVAC Markets
EPA is expanding efforts in the HVAC product category and developing new tools, resources, and campaigns for partners. In this session, EPA presented tools and resources, including a dynamic new customer facing ENERGY STAR HVAC Guide as well as describe future promotional plans for this category (with an emphasis on heat pumps). They also discuss updates on the ENERGY STAR HVAC Specification 6.0 revision process.
Helpful Links for Partners
- Product Finder
- Rebate Finder
- Federal Tax Credit Information
- Smart Thermostat Infographic
- Mini Split Heat Pump Fact Sheet
- Air Source Heat Pump Fact Sheet
- How to Choose the Right Sized Window AC
- How to Keep Your HVAC System Working Efficiently
- Are There Tax Credits for Energy Efficient Upgrades?
ENERGY STAR is the simple choice for energy efficiency.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Brand Owner or Other Interested Party:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing the final ENERGY STAR Emerging Technology Award criteria for a new 2021 product category: Residential Induction Cooking Tops. With this letter EPA is also extending the 2020 product category, Refrigerators with Advanced Adaptive Compressors, for another year.
After reviewing input from stakeholders, EPA has maintained the criteria presented in the initial draft that EPA released on January 13th. All documents associated with the development of the Residential Induction Cooking Tops criteria, including stakeholder comments and the U.S. Department of Energy’s response regarding the use of the referenced test procedure, can be found on the ENERGY STAR Emerging Technology for Industry Stakeholders webpage.
Award Application Process
Manufacturers with products that meet the Award criteria may immediately begin submitting the necessary documentation to emergingtech@energystar.gov for EPA review. Award-winning products will be recognized upon determination that all Award criteria have been satisfied. Note that multiple products are eligible for the Award. All recognized, Award-winning products will be listed on energystar.gov on the list of ENERGY STAR Emerging Technology Award winners for Residential Induction Cooking Tops.
2020 Refrigerators with Advanced Adaptive Compressors Category
This letter also serves as notice that EPA is extending recognition of the 2020 Award category – Refrigerators with Advanced Adaptive Compressors – into 2021. No changes to the criteria have been made for 2021. The performance criteria and list of award-winning products can be found on the Advanced Adaptive Compressors webpage.
If you have any questions about the Award, the criteria development process, or marketing and promotion of Award-winning products, please contact me, Peter Banwell, at banwell.peter@epa.gov and (202) 343-9408, or Emmy Feldman at emmy.feldman@icf.com and (202) 862-1145.
Sincerely,
Peter Banwell
Senior Manager, ENERGY STAR Product Marketing
Enclosures:
Final Criteria for Residential Induction Cooking Tops
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to remind stakeholders that the effective date for the Version 2.0 ENERGY STAR Data Center Storage Program Requirements is March 15, 2021. On this date, only products certified to Version 2.0 and submitted by EPA-recognized certification bodies (CBs) to EPA using the Version 2.0 web service will display on our list of certified models.
Please contact EPA at storage@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specification. CBs should direct questions concerning the submittal of Version 2.0 certified Data Center Storage products to Certification@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Stakeholders:
With this letter, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing an ENERGY STAR Commercial Electric Cooktops Discussion Guide. The purpose of this discussion guide is to engage with manufacturers and other interested stakeholders to further inform a potential ENERGY STAR Version 1.0 specification for the commercial electric cooktop product category. During the comment period, the Agency will host a webinar to discuss the questions and general topics outlined in the discussion guide.
EPA reviewed existing research and engaged with manufacturers and other stakeholders. The initial formal notification of this effort was presented during a meeting of the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Committee F26 on Food Service Equipment on October 28, 2020. Upon initial suggestion, EPA’s proposal received broad support and the Agency is encouraging further input from industry in response to this proposed expansion covering this product category.
Discussion Guide Summary
The discussion guide highlights multiple topics for further discussion which are summarized below. More details regarding these topics as well as specific questions are included in the discussion guide.
- Scope: Develop ENERGY STAR specification scope definitions and terminology for the new equipment classes not currently covered under the ENERGY STAR program.
- Test Methodology: Reference the forthcoming revised ASTM F1521 Standard Test Methods for Performance of Range Tops leveraging energy performance testing and available data to set ENERGY STAR minimum efficiency criteria.
Comment Submittal
Stakeholders are encouraged to provide written comments for EPA consideration to cfs@energystar.gov no later than Wednesday, April 7, 2021.
As a reminder, all submitted comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR product development website unless the submitter specifically requests their respective comments remain confidential.
Stakeholder Meetings
EPA plans to host a stakeholder webinar on March 17, 2021 to cover topics outlined in the discussion guide. Stakeholders interested in participating in these discussions may register here.
Please contact me at Crk.Tanja@epa.gov or 202-566-1037 and Brian Ward, ICF, at Brian.Ward@icf.com or (224) 622-4068 with questions or concerns. For any commercial food service equipment related questions, please contact CFS@energystar.gov.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Tanja Crk, Product Manager
ENERGY STAR Commercial Food Service
Enclosures:Commercial Electric Cooktops Version 1.0 Discussion Guide
Dear ENERGY STAR® Commercial Dishwashers Stakeholders:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would like to remind stakeholders that as of March 11, 2021, EPA-recognized certification bodies (CBs) are required to cease certification of new Commercial Dishwashers to the Version 2.0 specification and may only certify Commercial Dishwashers to the Version 3.0 specification. Certification bodies may continue submitting administrative modifications to existing Commercial Dishwashers certifications to the Version 2.0 specification until July 27, 2021. After this date, only Commercial Dishwashers certified to the Version 3.0 specification will appear on the ENERGY STAR website and certified products list.
CBs must notify EPA by March 10, 2021 of models certified to Version 2.0, but not yet submitted to EPA, along with information on when data will be submitted. Failure to do so will result in QPX blocking submissions of these products to EPA.
Please contact EPA at commercialdishwashers@energystar.gov with any questions regarding the specification. CBs should direct questions concerning the submittal of certified Commercial Dishwashers to Certification@energystar.gov.
Dear ENERGY STAR® Smart Home Energy Management Systems Partner or Other Interested Party:
With this letter, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is finalizing an amendment to the ENERGY STAR specification for Smart Home Energy Management Systems (SHEMS), to clarify lighting vacation mode requirements and expand flexibility in meeting lighting device requirements. These changes do not impact the eligibility of SHEMS that meet the original requirements to certify to the specification.
Please contact Taylor Jantz-Sell at (202) 343-9042 or Jantz-Sell.Taylor@epa.gov and Théo Keeley-LeClaire at (571) 373-5471 or Theo.Keeley-LeClaire@icf.com with any specific questions or concerns.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Taylor Jantz-Sell & Abigail Daken
Co-Leads, ENERGY STAR Smart Home Energy Management Systems
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Smart Home Energy Management Systems Version 1.1 Specification
ENERGY STAR SHEMS Updates
Since releasing the ENERGY STAR specification for Smart Home Energy Management Systems (SHEMS), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) received valuable feedback leading the team to propose further clarification and flexibility through an amendment, Version 1.1. The changes allow service providers that prefer to control lighting loads through smart switches to participate, enabling additional device and system design options to be eligible for the ENERGY STAR certification. SHEMS meeting the original requirements (published in September 2019) will continue to be eligible for certification.
For more information you can review the Version 1.1 announcement.
Learn about certifying a SHEMS package using the ENERGY STAR SHEMS Checklist or check out the SHEMS for Partners page.
SHEMS RESOURCES
Certification Bodies
- UL Verification Services: Joseph Getner, Joseph.W.Getner@ul.com
News You Can Use
Smart Home Energy Solutions Gain Traction With Users
According to Parks Associates data, 11% of US broadband households own at least one smart light bulb and 9% own a smart plug or adapter module. This reflects an additional 3% of US broadband households adopting each device type since 2018. Read more
Energy Management Drives Smart Home Appeal
In a recent E Source consumer survey, saving energy and money through optimization emerged as the top two most appealing benefits of smart home systems (Figure 1). The survey also found that incentives such as rebates may be more effective than online marketplaces and other strategies in encouraging customers to purchase smart home technology from their energy utility. Members of the E Source Technology Assessment Service can find many more details in the new report US utility customers’ preferences for smart home technologies.
Figure 1: Most appealing benefits of smart home systems
Source: E Source. Survey respondents showed a clear preference for energy savings when considering benefits from smart home systems. Utilities are ideally suited to help customers realize these benefits.
According to E Source DSMdat (a database of over 6,000 utility demand side management and renewable energy programs throughout North America), there are more than 20 utilities currently offering incentives for customers to acquire smart home technology and systems (excluding programs that offer rebates for individual devices like smart thermostats), and E Source expects that number to increase once ENERGY STAR-qualified SHEMS become available on the market and energy and demand savings are demonstrated. Finally, more than 50 utilities currently have online marketplaces where they’re promoting and selling smart devices, and many of those utilities may also be likely to consider creating rebates or incentives for ENERGY STAR-qualified SHEMS going forward to promote adoption. Contact Essie Snell at essie_snell@esource.com for more information on E Source’s smart home research.
ENERGY STAR SHEMS On The (Virtual) Road
Upcoming
Save the date! Taylor Jantz-Sell, U.S. EPA, will be featured in an Executive Spotlight as part of the Parks Associates 2021 Smart Energy Summit. The Q&A is part of the “Energy Management Platforms: Accelerating Growth” track and will take place on February 24, 2021 at 12:45pm ET.
Past
The 2020 ENERGY STAR Products Partner Meeting was held virtually from October 27-29 and featured dedicated SHEMS content in two sessions:
- SHEMS Pilots Update: The latest updates from utilities and supporting service providers that are conducting pilots and programs that intersect with the ENERGY STAR smart home energy management systems specification. Speakers discussed key insights on automated energy savings and consumer engagement and education from pilots across the country. Insights touched on segmentation from low income to multi-family and covered successful leveraging of partnerships and utility marketplaces.
- SHEMS Pitch Party: Looking for innovative new ideas in the smart home energy management space? Review this series of short pitches covering topics from integration with distributed energy resources to messaging strategies for security and consumer privacy. Speakers included service providers working toward ENERGY STAR certification, device manufacturers, and researchers.
Your Smart Home System May Be Closer To An ENERGY STAR SHEMS than you think
If you operate a smart home system and can answer “yes” to all ten questions below you’re probably ready to start certifying your smart home system! Just review the current specification and data collection template to see all the detailed requirements and contact an ENERGY STAR recognized certification body to get started! If you have any questions, contact smarthomesystems@energystar.gov. Please note that the checklist is based on the proposed Version 1.1 specification.
Can Your System . . .
Control an ENERGY STAR certified Smart Thermostat?
Control either a smart light switch (standby power ≤ 0.5 W) that can report energy, or an ENERGY STAR certified smart lighting product?
Connect to a smart plug, outlet, power strip, home energy monitor, smart breaker panel, or other device (standby power ≤ 1.0 W) that controls miscellaneous loads or reports circuit-level energy use data?
Control a smart water heater add-on controller?
Detect room, apartment, or home occupancy based on a non-battery-powered occupancy sensor (may be integrated in other devices) or with two battery operated occupancy detectors?
Provide energy saving tips?
Report estimated or actual energy use of connected devices in a dwelling to the user?
Perform a demand response event on at least one smart device?
Allow a user to integrate with a utility time of use program?
Aggregate 6 months of system data from ≥ 30 installations with devices from questions 1-3?
Looking forward to helping our future get energy smart together! Have SHEMS insights to share from a pilot or research? Please contact SmartHomeSystems@energystar.gov or Taylor Jantz-Sell at jantz-sell.taylor@epa.gov.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to announce the final recognition criteria for Dishwashers for ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2021 and to inform stakeholders that televisions will not be recognized as ENERGY STAR Most Efficient in 2021. This letter outlines the final criteria for dishwashers and summarizes EPA’s rationale with regard to TVs.
Please note that the criteria for 13 other product categories, which were finalized on September 2, 2020, are unchanged, and they and the dishwasher criteria can be found at www.energystar.gov/mostefficient.
ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2021 Dishwasher Recognition Criteria
The Final 2021 Most Efficient criteria for dishwashers require an annual energy use of <240 kWh/yr and water consumption of <3.2 gallons per cycle for standard-sized models. Products must also meet a per cycle Cleaning Index of a minimum of 70 for each test cycle (heavy, medium, and light).
Dishwashers that meet the 2021 criteria will deliver 67 kWh/yr in annual savings, equivalent to 22% above the Federal Minimum and 387 gal/yr in annual water savings, 36% over the Federal Minimum, as compared to a conventional product.
EPA received two sets of comments on the dishwasher proposal. One commenter provided support for the proposed criteria for dishwashers for 2021, stating that the rationale EPA provided for both products is consistent with their understanding of ENERGY STAR Most Efficient.
A second commenter proposed that EPA discontinue recognition of dishwashers as ENERGY STAR Most Efficient and expressed concern with the abbreviated process used to develop Most Efficient criteria. Additionally, this commenter stated its opposition to the cleaning performance criteria and reporting for Most Efficient dishwashers because of its concern with repeatability and reproducibility of the cleaning performance test procedure.
ENERGY STAR Most Efficient identifies and advances cutting-edge efficiency among products otherwise eligible for the ENERGY STAR label. Annual reviews and revisions help to ensure that ENERGY STAR Most Efficient criteria stay current, consistent with the expectations of early-adopters, which are the intended audience.
In response to concern regarding the inclusion of minimum cleaning criteria, EPA notes that as a voluntary program, ENERGY STAR is successful only as long as consumers have a positive association with the label. On occasion, requirements are added to prevent trade-offs between efficiency and performance. The need to ensure performance takes on added significance in context of ENERGY STAR Most Efficient where the levels are more stringent. In regard to concerns relating to the cleaning performance test procedure, EPA and DOE view the test procedure as having acceptable repeatability and reproducibility. EPA has seen a growth in the number of Most Efficient dishwasher models from 2019 to 2020 – from 101 to 116 models, demonstrating partner interest in this category. As such, EPA will maintain the cleaning performance minimum for Most Efficient criteria for dishwashers.
Pausing ENERGY STAR Most Efficient Criteria for TVs in 2021
EPA proposed that TVs not be recognized as ENERGY STAR Most Efficient in 2021. EPA received one set of comments supporting this decision and none arguing against it. EPA recently launched the Version 9.0 specification development process which proposes use of performance-based criteria to encourage more efficient product design through the adoption of efficient components and energy saving features. The Version 9.0 varies significantly from the Version 8.0 approach, which was the basis for the Most Efficient criteria since 2019. As a result of this proposed deviation from the current specification, and since these Version 9.0 criteria are not yet complete, EPA will not recognize TVs as Most Efficient in 2021.
ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2021 Recognition
ENERGY STAR certified products meeting ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2021 requirements are highlighted at www.energystar.gov/mostefficient. EPA will follow this letter with distribution of the 2021 ENERGY STAR Most Efficient designation to brand owners of eligible products. As a reminder, usage guidelines are available on the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2021 Criteria page. As new products are certified, EPA will invite partners to augment their product listing with the following:
- A product image. Product images can be in any common format (jpg, png, or gif), should include only one product – do not include other people and objects – be a minimum of 250 pixels wide, and for best results, be on a single-color background, preferably white;
- A product description for use on the web page (i.e., key features and functionalities). The first 50 words will be displayed beside the product photo on the web page; additional text will link to a separate web page; and
- The name of retail stores or online distributors where the product is available for consumer purchase. This information helps provide price and store location information to consumers on the web page.
To ensure the greatest utility of the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient webpage to consumers, EPA will only highlight products that are currently available for sale in the U.S. As such, EPA reminds partners that it is critical that they keep product availability information with their Certification Bodies current.
The ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2021 designation is intended for use at point-of-sale on point-of-purchase materials, product literature, and websites. It may not be factory-applied to products or product packaging. Failure to abide by these guidelines may result in loss of recognition. EPA will highlight recognized products on the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2021 web page through December 31, 2021.
We look forward to working with you to market ENERGY STAR Most Efficient products in 2021. Please e-mail mostefficient@energystar.gov with any questions. Thank you for your support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Ann Bailey, Director
ENERGY STAR Product Labeling
Dear ENERGY STAR® Clothes Washer Manufacturers, ENERGY STAR® Clothes Dryer Manufacturers, and Other Interested Parties,
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is presenting a draft amendment to the ENERGY STAR Clothes Washers specification to expand the scope to enable combination all-in-one washer-dryers with air-only drying to earn the ENERGY STAR. Expanding the scope of the specification will allow consumers who seek these types of products to find those that deliver the best in energy efficiency.
To support this scope expansion, EPA proposes the addition of multiple definitions and edits to the scope exclusion list as highlighted in yellow below. Further, EPA is adding language to the certification criteria specifying that, in addition to meeting relevant washer criteria, combination all-in-one washer-dryers must meet the ENERGY STAR dryer criteria applicable for the product type it best matches if it were a stand-alone dryer. The proposal specifies any connected allowance may be applied to either the clothes washer criteria or the dryer criteria, but not both and exempts the dryer from the maximum dry-time requirement. This amendment to the clothes washer specification, when final, will be published as ENERGY STAR Version 8.1 Clothes Washers specification. Manufacturers will be able to certify products meeting the new definition immediately upon publication, and currently certified products will not be affected.
Stakeholders may provide comments to EPA on these proposed changes no later than April 2, 2021.
Key Proposed Definitions Edits
Combination All-in-One Washer-Dryer: A consumer product that meets the definition of a Residential Clothes Washer and Electric Clothes Dryer or Gas Clothes Dryer, which cleans and dries clothes in a single tumble-type drum; a drying cycle can be performed independently without first performing a wash cycle.
a.Combination All-in-One Washer-Dryer with Air-Only Drying: A Combination All-in-One Washer-Dryer that uses circulated air (without the use of water) to cool and condense moisture from the dryer process air, during the dry cycle.
b.Combination All-in-One Washer-Dryer with Water-Cooled Drying: A Combination All-in-One Washer-Dryer that uses tap water to cool and condense moisture from the dryer process air, during the dry cycle.
Proposed Changes to the Excluded Products List
Excluded Products: The following products are not eligible for ENERGY STAR certification:
i. Products with a primary clothes washer drum volume of less than 1.6 cubic feet
ii. Products configured in any way other than a front- or top-loading design
iii.Combination All-in-One Washer-Dryers with Water-Cooled Drying
iv. Residential Clothes Washers with Heated Drying Functionality
v. Commercial Clothes Washers with a clothes container volume larger than 8.0 cubic feet
vi. Commercial Clothes Washer with top-loading design
Additional Certification Criteria for Combination All-In-One Washer-Dryers:
1. Product shall meet the requirements in this specification and also meet the requirements in Sections 3 and 5 of the ENERGY STAR Eligibility Criteria for Clothes Dryers applicable for the product type it best matches if it were a stand-alone dryer. Combination all-in-one washer-dryers are exempt from the 80-minute maximum cycle time requirement in Section 3.A of the ENERGY STAR dryer specification.
Additional Connected Criteria for Combination All-In-One Washer-Dryers:
a. A product meeting the definition of a clothes washer and the definition of a clothes dryer may only apply the Connected Allowance if:
i. the product meets the criteria in Section 4 of this specification,
ii. the product meets the criteria in Section 4 of the ENERGY STAR Eligibility Criteria for Clothes Dryers,
iii. certified using the ENERGY STAR Clothes Washer Test Method to Validate Demand Response (TBD), and
iv. is certified using the ENERGY STAR Clothes Dryer Test Method to Validate Demand Response (TBD).
b. Any connected allowance may be applied only once (i.e., either 𝐼𝑀𝐸𝐹𝐴𝑑𝑑𝑒𝑟_𝐶𝑜𝑛𝑛𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑒𝑑 in Equation 2 of this specification or 𝐶𝐸𝐹𝐴𝑑𝑑𝑒𝑟_𝐶𝑜𝑛𝑛𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑒𝑑 in Equation 1 of the ENERGY STAR Eligibility Criteria for Clothes Dryers must be set to zero).
Any comments on this proposal may be submitted by April 2, 2021 to appliances@energystar.gov. The draft specification and related materials are available on the clothes washers product development webpage. Please direct any specific questions to Ga-Young Park, EPA, at Park.Ga-Young@epa.gov or (202) 564-1085 and Steve Leybourn at ICF, Steve.Leybourn@icf.com or (202) 862-1566.
Thank you for your continued support of ENERGY STAR.
Sincerely,
Ga-Young Park
Product Manager for Appliances
ENERGY STAR Labeled Products
Dear ENERGY STAR® Water Heater Brand Owner or Other Interested Party:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to distribute the Final Draft Version 4.0 ENERGY STAR® Water Heater specification and the Final Draft ENERGY STAR Test Method to Validate Demand Response. Stakeholders may submit comments on the final draft to EPA no later than March 4, 2021. EPA plans to finalize this Version 4.0 Water Heater specification and the Test Method to Validate Demand Response before the second quarter of 2021.
With the Version 4.0 revision, EPA seeks to recognize a variety of products that have both excellent efficiency and advanced design features, including those products with demand response and connected capabilities. In light of stakeholder feedback to the Draft 1 specification, this draft incorporates some changes to recognize a variety of efficient water heating technologies. As for all revisions, products may certify to the new version as soon as it is final, and products currently certified remain so throughout the 9-month transition period.
Final Draft Summary
The Final Draft Version 4.0 includes changes from the Draft 1 proposal that are in line with stakeholder feedback. In accordance with stakeholder recommendations, EPA has defined two new product subcategories – split-system heat pump water heaters and 120-volt integrated heat pump water heaters. Based on stakeholder feedback, these products will be unable to meet the criteria for electric storage water heaters as proposed in the Draft 1 specification. Because split-system and 120-volt products are well-suited to installations for which integrated 240 volt products would not be appropriate, EPA is proposing separate less stringent criteria to recognize these new categories.
EPA has also raised the efficiency criteria proposed for > 55 gallon heat pump water heaters to a Uniform Energy Factor of 3.30, thereby setting a single level for 240-volt integrated heat pump water heaters of all tank sizes. This change was suggested by several stakeholders who confirmed that currently certified products not meeting the more stringent level are being phased out and replaced by more efficient models. Thus, EPA does not expect this change will impact product availability.
No major changes are proposed to the Connected Criteria. More details regarding all changes described above are included in note boxes throughout the specification document.
Test Method to Validate Demand Response
The Final Draft Test Method to Validate Demand Response includes changes from the Draft 2 proposal that are in line with stakeholder feedback.
In accordance with stakeholder recommendations, DOE and EPA amended the test method to provide explicit instruction on the time to wait to establish that a loss of connectivity has occurred and how to verify that the water heater accurately reports when it is heating water. DOE and EPA also amended the criteria for determining when a water heater has fully finished heating water. Finally, DOE and EPA made a slight adjustment to the curtailment request to more closely align with how the request will be sent in the field.
More details regarding the changes described above are included in note boxes throughout the test method document.
Comment Submittal Process
Stakeholders may provide written comments for EPA consideration to WaterHeaters@energystar.gov by March 4, 2021. All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Water Heaters Product Development website unless the submitter requests otherwise.
Please direct any specific questions to Abigail Daken, EPA, at daken.abigail@epa.gov or (202) 343-9375, and Julia Hegarty, ICF, at julia.hegarty@icf.com or (202) 862-1163. For test procedure inquiries, please contact Catherine Rivest, U.S. Department of Energy, at Catherine.Rivest@ee.doe.gov or 202-586-7335. Thank you for taking the time to review these Final Draft documents. I look forward to continuing working with you.
Sincerely,
Abigail Daken, Product Manager
ENERGY STAR for HVAC
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Final Draft Version 4.0 Water Heaters Specification
ENERGY STAR Final Draft Connected Residential Water Heaters Test Method to Validate Demand Response
ENERGY STAR Draft 1 Version 4.0 Water Heaters Comment Response Matrix
ENERGY STAR Final Draft Version 4.0 Water Heaters Data Package
Dear ENERGY STAR® Smart Home Energy Management Systems Partner or Other Interested Party:
With this letter, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is presenting a draft amendment to the ENERGY STAR specification for Smart Home Energy Management Systems (SHEMS), to clarify lighting vacation mode requirements and expand flexibility in meeting lighting device requirements. The proposed updates do not impact the eligibility of SHEMS that meet the original requirements to certify to the specification.
Vacation Lighting Mode Requirement
Certified Smart Home Energy Management Systems are required to provide a feature that operates lighting minimally at night or while the user is away. Based on feedback, EPA has further clarified the intent that service providers have flexibility in naming and deploying this feature. This feature is not intended to add lighting load to any lower energy away modes that a service provider may provide, but simply to offer a low energy option for users who like to leave a light on while away. Proposed updates to the Version 1.0 specification are highlighted with bold text below.
Section 4.1:
The SHEMS shall perform the following services:
G) Provide a vacation, nighttime safety, leave a light on, nightlight, or similarly identified mode to automate lighting load to operate one or multiple lights minimally at night or while away, using no more than 0.03 kWh per day while the feature is activated. This feature must be available to the user but need not be enabled by default and should not be a part of a default vacation mode if that setting does not operate lights.
Note: service providers may ensure that lighting energy does not exceed 0.03 kWh per day either by collecting lighting energy consumption data from connected devices or by limiting runtime based on the rated wattage of a given bulb.
Connected Lighting Device Requirement
EPA has heard from many service providers about market demand and preferences for controlling lighting load at the switch. In response, EPA is proposing to allow a pathway for SHEMS relying on smart switches to earn certification, as outlined below in bold. EPA strongly encourages service providers pursuing this option to select switches compatible with ENERGY STAR dimmable lighting for optimal energy savings and consumer experience. Making this change will accommodate service providers and consumers that prefer smart switches for reasons such as permanence; ease of installation in new construction; similarity to existing lighting controls; added flexibility in choosing communications protocols; power reliability; and lower overall standby power for lighting loads. EPA has also added the word “product” and clarified the definition of ENERGY STAR Certified Smart Lighting Product to address present and potential future device options.
Section 4.3 A):
Any package marketed as an ENERGY STAR certified SHEMS shall include the following devices. (Note: since actual installations may vary, only those installations that include the required devices will be analyzed as part of the compliant population.)
b) At least two connected lighting devices, consisting of:
· Two ENERGY STAR certified smart lighting products;
· One ENERGY STAR certified smart lighting product and one lighting load control device capable of measuring lighting load; or
· Two lighting load control devices capable of measuring lighting load. Service providers using this option are strongly encouraged to select lighting load control devices compatible with ENERGY STAR certified dimmable lighting.
Please feel free to contact us with questions and submit any comments to smarthomesystems@energystar.gov by February 18.
All comments will be posted to the ENERGY STAR Product Development Webpage unless the submitter requests otherwise.
Please contact Taylor Jantz-Sell at (202) 343-9042 or Jantz-Sell.Taylor@epa.gov and Théo Keeley-LeClaire at (571) 373-5471 or Theo.Keeley-LeClaire@icf.com with any specific questions or concerns.
Thank you for your continued support of the ENERGY STAR program.
Sincerely,
Taylor Jantz-Sell & Abigail Daken
Co-Leads, ENERGY STAR Smart Home Energy Management Systems
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Enclosures:
ENERGY STAR Smart Home Energy Management Systems Draft Version 1.1 Specification
The ENERGY STAR® Emerging Technology Award is given to innovative technologies that meet rigorous performance criteria to reduce energy use and lower greenhouse gas emissions, without sacrificing features or functionality. The Award provides forward-thinking, environmentally conscious consumers and end users with a tool to identify and purchase cutting-edge technologies that offer energy savings and help to reduce their carbon f