ENERGY STAR

ENERGY STAR is a national, voluntary program sponsored and developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).  ENERGY STAR helps businesses, governments, schools and individuals protect the environment through superior energy efficiency.

Want to get invovled?  You can 'Change the World, Start with ENERGY STAR.'  Join millions of Americans by taking small, individual steps that make a big difference in the fight against global warming.  Take the pledge!

The ENERGY STAR Change a Light Campaign is a national challenge to encourage every American to help change the world, one light — one energy-saving step — at a time. You can show your commitment by pledging to replace at least one light in your home with one that has earned the ENERGY STAR.

The government’s ENERGY STAR label on lighting means you're getting a product that is superior in energy efficiency. ENERGY STAR qualified compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) use 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and last 6–10 times longer. You'll save energy and money, and reduce the greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global climate change. Protect the environment of today and tomorrow — start by changing a light!

Need help figuring out which bulbs to use and where?  Check out the new ENERGY STAR 'Choose a Light Guide.'

The average household does almost 400 loads of laundry each year, consuming about 13,500 gallons of water.  By selecting a 2007 ENERGY STAR qualified washing machine instead of a traditional clothes washer, you will save money, time, the environment and make your clothes last longer!

ENERGY STAR qualified homes are independently verified to be at least 30 percent more energy efficient than homes built to the 1993 national Model Energy Code. These savings are based on heating, cooling, and hot water energy use and are typically achieved through a combination of:

• building envelope upgrades
• high performance windows
• controlled air infiltration
• upgraded heating and air conditioning systems
• tight duct systems 
• upgraded water-heating equipment.

These features contribute to improved home quality and homeowner comfort, and to lower energy demand and reduced air pollution. ENERGY STAR also encourages the use of energy-efficient lighting and appliances, as well as features designed to improve indoor air quality.  Homes that have earned the ENERGY STAR meet the EPA’s performance guidelines for energy efficiency and receive third party verification from an accredited organization.

Does an energy-efficient home cost more?
No. An ENERGY STAR qualified new home actually costs less because you will spend less on your new home's utility bill each month. These energy savings can more than offset any increase in mortgage payments needed for the improved energy features and can result in a positive monthly cash flow. Further, ENERGY STAR financing partners offer special mortgage packages for buyers of ENERGY STAR qualified new homes.

Ask your builder or contractor about ENERGY STAR!

ENERGY STAR products are the same or better than standard products, only they use less energy. To earn the ENERGY STAR, they must meet strict energy efficiency criteria set by the US Environmental Protection Agency or the US Department of Energy.

Since they use less energy, these products save you money on your electricity bill and help protect the environment by causing fewer harmful emissions from power plants. And you get the features and quality you expect.

Current list of ENERGY STAR partners in Kentucky

John Davies
Phone: (502) 564-7192
Fax: (502) 564-7484
E-mail: John.Davies@ky.gov