ENERGY STAR is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). It was created to help consumers save money and to protect the environment through energy efficient products and practices.

In 1992, the EPA introduced ENERGY STAR as a voluntary labeling program designed to identify and promote energy-efficient products to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Computers and monitors were the first labeled products. The ENERGY STAR label is now on more than 50 product categories including major appliances, office equipment, lighting and home electronics. The EPA has also extended the label to cover new homes and commercial and industrial buildings.

The typical household spends $1,900 a year on energy bills. With ENERGY STAR, you can save up to 30%--more than $600 per year-- with similar savings of greenhouse gas emissions without sacrificing features, style or comfort. ENERGY STAR helps you to be an energy smart shopper.

When looking for new household products, shop for ones that have earned the blue ENERGY STAR label. They meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the EPA and DOE.

Source: http://www.energystar.gov