After coming under fire recently for anointing fake products with Energy Star labels, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Energy (DOE) announced plans Wednesday to strengthen the certification process.
Previously the EPA and DOE relied on an automated system to certify products as energy efficient. Manufacturers must now submit a full battery of lab reports for individual EPA review. The EPA said it will begin accepting new Energy Star applications by the end of the week.
By the end of the year, the EPA and DOE will further fortify the program by requiring the lab results to come from an approved lab.
Energy Star will continue its enforcement practice of testing products that are already on store shelves to ensure they meet the program's requirements.
Read more about the Government Accountability Office study that uncovered Energy Star's weaknesses in the May issue of InsideCounsel, coming soon.
