The Trump administration is reportedly planning to eliminate the Energy Star program, a cornerstone of North American energy efficiency initiatives since 1992. The move could create significant challenges for Canada, where the Energy Star label is widely relied upon to identify energy-efficient products and buildings.
Though administered by Natural Resources Canada since 2001, Energy Star Canada operates in partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), using U.S. standards, testing, and certification. Observers warn the U.S. exit could leave Canada scrambling to independently support and update standards for over 80 product types.
Sarah Riddell of Efficiency Canada says Energy Star’s recognizable label simplifies energy efficiency for consumers, helping Canadians cut utility bills and greenhouse gas emissions. In 2022 alone, over 3,500 Canadian homes were Energy Star certified, averaging 20% more efficiency than other new builds.
Canada may retain some capacity to continue the program independently, particularly for categories where it already sets its own standards. However, access to the U.S.-run Energy Star Portfolio Manager—a vital tool for tracking building efficiency and used in over 40,000 Canadian buildings—could be jeopardized.
Natural Resources Canada says it is currently assessing the implications. Meanwhile, concerns rise over how green rebate programs, LEED certification, and consumer guidance will function without a unified Energy Star framework.
Source: Swifteradio.com
