Trump administration plans to end Energy Star program for home appliances

In a major policy shift, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, under the Trump administration, is planning to dismantle the Energy Star program. This long-standing initiative is known for promoting energy-efficient appliances through its recognizable blue label. Internal documents and anonymous sources reveal that the EPA’s Office of Atmospheric Protection (which oversees Energy Star) is set to be dissolved. The move has sparked concern among environmental advocates and lawmakers, who argue the program has saved billions in energy costs and significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

In addition to the structural changes within the EPA, the future of federal tax credits tied to Energy Star standards is also uncertain. Currently, home builders can access incentives for constructing homes that meet Energy Star criteria, and homeowners can receive credits for energy efficiency upgrades, including the installation of certified doors, windows, and skylights. These credits were introduced under President Biden’s 2022 climate law, but their continuation is unclear as congressional Republicans seek to roll back those subsidies.

While the EPA frames this change as an operational improvement, many see it as a step back from long-standing efforts to promote energy efficiency.

Read the full article from The Washington Post here :

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