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There is a famous quote by astronaut John Glenn "As I hurtled through space, one thought kept crossing my mind: Every part of this capsule was supplied by the lowest bidder."

While top quality products aren't always, or even usually, the least expensive, there is often good reason for that. ENERGY STAR® is an international symbol of energy efficiency that identifies products that meet or exceed a prescribed level of energy efficiency, and in many cases, overall quality as well. Most appliances and many electronics have ENERGY STAR approved options.

How to take action

  • Look for the ENERGY STAR label. When you are shopping for appliances, electronics, windows, lighting, or heating/cooling equipment, seek out ENERGY STAR selections. Sometimes the price tag is a little higher, but in most cases, the energy savings will soon make up for it. If you aren't sure if something is ENERGY STAR, ask the retailer, or visit online.
  • Do not confuse ENERGY STAR with EnerGuide. A product's EnerGuide rating tells you how much energy it will use, while ENERGY STAR ensures it is among the most efficient in its class.
  • Ask your retailers to carry ENERGY STAR models. Many already do, but letting your retailers know that this is important to customers will help make these products more accessible.

Why it makes a difference

  • In Canada, products qualify as ENERGY STAR based on this guiding principle: "… significant energy savings and greenhouse gas emission reductions that can be realized on a national basis."
  • ENERGY STAR qualified products use less energy to do the same job as non-ENERGY STAR models, thereby saving energy, which can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the major cause of climate change. They also help reduce other pollutants that contribute to problems such as urban smog and acid rain.
  • The energy savings from ENERGY STAR products save you money.
  • There are often federal or provincial incentives for purchasing ENERGY STAR products. As well, BC Hydro frequently offers ENERGY STAR related rebates and incentives.

For more information

  • Natural Resources Canada Office of Energy Efficiency offers a complete explanation of ENERGY STAR ratings and products.
  • Look here to find the ENERGY STAR criteria for applicable product types.

Last Modified: Sep 2, 2010

 

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