energy star program: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, Technical, Governmental, Commercial
Quick answer
What does “energy star program” mean?
A voluntary program established by the US Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy that sets standards for energy-efficient consumer products and buildings.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A voluntary program established by the US Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy that sets standards for energy-efficient consumer products and buildings.
A widely recognized international symbol and certification mark for energy efficiency, applied to appliances, electronics, lighting, and structures that meet or exceed stringent performance criteria. It also refers to the initiative's framework, including partnerships with manufacturers, retailers, and builders.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term originates from the US government; therefore, it is most frequently used in American contexts. In the UK and EU, analogous schemes exist (e.g., EU Energy Label), but 'Energy Star' is still understood, particularly for electronics and in global corporate contexts. The spelling remains American ('program', not 'programme').
Connotations
In the US: Strongly positive, associated with government-backed reliability, cost savings, and environmental responsibility. In the UK/EU: Recognized but may be seen as a specific American standard among other regional ratings.
Frequency
High frequency in US technical, environmental, and consumer reporting contexts. Lower frequency in everyday UK English, except in international business or specific tech industries.
Grammar
How to Use “energy star program” in a Sentence
The [APPLIANCE] is part of the Energy Star program.[MANUFACTURER] participates in the Energy Star program.Look for the Energy Star label on [PRODUCT].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “energy star program” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- [Not applicable as a verb]
American English
- [Not applicable as a verb]
adverb
British English
- [Not applicable as an adverb]
American English
- [Not applicable as an adverb]
adjective
British English
- We only stock Energy Star-approved monitors in our UK data centres.
American English
- All federal buildings are required to purchase Energy Star-qualified products.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Our new line of office equipment is fully compliant with the Energy Star program, which reduces operational costs and appeals to ESG investors.
Academic
The study analyzed the market penetration and energy savings impact of the Energy Star program since its inception in 1992.
Everyday
When we bought the new washer, we made sure it had the Energy Star label to save on our electricity bill.
Technical
The unit must achieve a score of 75 or higher on the ENERGY STAR 1–100 scale to be eligible for certification.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “energy star program”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “energy star program”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “energy star program”
- Using lowercase ('energy star program') when it is a proper noun. Writing 'Energy Star Program' with every word capitalized is also common but the standard is 'Energy Star program'. Confusing it with other eco-labels like 'Energy Guide' or 'LEED'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it covers a wide range including electronics, lighting, heating and cooling equipment, commercial buildings, and even new homes.
It is jointly administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).
Yes, the program has partners in several countries like Canada, Japan, Switzerland, and the EU, though local efficiency labels may be more prominent.
Yes, compared to standard models without the certification, it is independently certified to use significantly less energy while providing the same or better performance.
A voluntary program established by the US Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy that sets standards for energy-efficient consumer products and buildings.
Energy star program is usually formal, technical, governmental, commercial in register.
Energy star program: in British English it is pronounced /ˈenədʒi stɑː ˈprəʊɡræm/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈenərdʒi stɑːr ˈproʊɡræm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[Not applicable as a branded term]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a star (★) shining on your utility bill, making it smaller. Energy + Star = A star-rated program for saving energy.
Conceptual Metaphor
CERTIFICATION IS A SEAL OF APPROVAL; EFFICIENCY IS A MEASURABLE GRADE.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary purpose of the Energy Star program?