The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently published Version 5.0 of its ENERGY STAR set-top box specification. Requirements will take effect on January 1, 2017. Set-top boxes (STBs) are devices designed for the purpose of receiving television and related services from terrestrial, cable, satellite, broadband, or local networks.
Earlier this month, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) issued a pre-publication Federal Register notification, describing the first U.S. energy efficiency requirements for battery chargers (BC). The DOE has been working on BC efficiency requirements since its original proposed standard in early 2012.
California got one step closer to adopting a comprehensive energy efficiency standard for computers, monitors, and displays with its recent staff report publication, Revised Analysis of Computers, Computer Monitors, and Signage Displays.
In 2014, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency embarked on a new approach for ENERGY STAR recognition of smart thermostats, focusing on "demonstrated" consumer home energy savings. The agency is now working with stakeholders on the second draft of a new specification for a new product group called "Connected Thermostats" (CT).
Sometimes device evolution and new technology can blur traditional product definitions. This can make it challenging for agencies when deciding which devices to include in product-specific energy efficiency regulations.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is facing this issue with the convergence of traditional televisions and new displays designed more for viewing dynamic visual content than computer generated spreadsheets or word documents.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is moving ahead with the first program that drives towards improving energy efficiency in Level 1 and Level 2 Electric Vehicle Service Equipment (EVSE)1. As discussed in a 2015 Mr. Green blog, the EPA has identified a non-charging-state energy savings opportunity of up to 265 kWh per charger over 5 years since a majority of home chargers are in standby mode most of the day.
The first draft specification identifies distinct EVSE functions:
Earlier this month, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) issued a pre-publication of a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NOPR) on Energy Conservation Standards for General Service Lamps (GSLs).
A GSL is defined as any lamp having an ANSI base that is used in general lighting applications that:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is reaching out to industry stakeholders to better understand features that could be integrated into future home appliances over the next five years. The agency’s goal is to maintain an ENERGY STAR appliance program that continues to deliver on consumer expectations for efficiency and performance.
Last year, I wrote about the California Energy Commission's (CEC) proposed lamp (bulb) standard, projected to save residents and businesses more than $4 billion in energy costs over 13 years (see Mr. Green blog: California Energy Commission Illuminates Lamp Standard Proposal). Last week, the Commissioners voted to approve that standard, making it the U.S.'s first mandatory state lamp efficiency/quality regulations.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized its ENERGY STAR® version 7 Display program requirements, establishing new efficiency performance levels for computer monitors and signage displays. According to the EPA, version 7 requirements will result in savings of over $130M annually while reducing greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to 225K automobiles.
