ENERGY STAR Gets the Spotlight

With more companies going green, and more consumers relying on environmental certifications in selecting products, the ENERGY STAR product labeling program has gained increasing importance but also realized some growing pains. A recent report by the US Government Accountability Office (GAO) indicates that the ENERGY STAR product certification process is vulnerable to fraud and abuse. In response to the report, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy (DOE) are collaborating on a number of aggressive enhancements to the ENERGY STAR product labeling program. These enhancements include more direct management of the ENERGY STAR qualification process, revising ENERGY STAR specifications more frequently, imposing significant new verification testing requirements, and a first-ever DOE enforcement initiative on Energy Star and energy efficiency standards. This panel will bring together representatives from the EPA and DOE who can explain the recent developments, joined by commentators who will discuss the impacts to energy efficiency and the roles of consumers, investors, and the manufacturing bottom line.

Speakers:

• Roger Martella, Partner, Sidley Austin LLP, moderator
• Ann Bailey, Acting Division Director, Climate Protection Partnership Division, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
• Shannon Baker-Branstetter, Policy Analyst, Consumers Union Scott Harris, General Counsel, U.S. Department of Energy (invited)
• Kevin Messner, Vice President, Government Relations, Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers

May 13, 2010, 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM (Speaking will begin promptly at 12:15 PM). To reserve, e-mail mcmurrin@eli.org. Please reserve by May 11. There is no charge for ELI members to attend or participate by teleconference, but you must RSVP.