U.S. ENERGY STAR Program: The January 2026 Congressional Budget Confirmation and the March EPA-DOE MOA Transfer of Administration
Overview
The voluntary energy efficiency certification program "ENERGY STAR," established by EPA in 1992, faced an uncertain future when the Trump administration's 2025 budget proposal called for eliminating or privatizing the program. However, following strong requests from over 1,000 companies and industry organizations to continue the program, Congress passed and codified a $33 million fiscal year 2026 budget for the program in January 2026, confirming its continuation. Furthermore, on March 3, 2026, EPA and the Department of Energy (DOE) signed a 10-year memorandum of agreement (MOA) to fully transfer administration of the program from EPA to DOE. Following a 90-day transition period, restructuring toward integrated administration with the federal appliance efficiency standards program (EPCA) under DOE leadership has been underway since June 2026.
Enforcement Timeline
1992: The ENERGY STAR program is established under EPA administration
May 2025: EPA under the Trump administration considers eliminating or privatizing the program, prompting strong opposition from industry
January 2026: Congress passes and codifies a $33 million continuation budget for the program
March 3, 2026: EPA and DOE sign the 10-year MOA transferring program administration
June 2026: The 90-day transition process is completed, moving to DOE-led administration
Business Impact
For manufacturers shipping appliances, IT/office equipment, HVAC systems, and other products to the U.S. market, obtaining ENERGY STAR certification remains an essential requirement for federal procurement (FAR) and general market sales. While the program's continuation secures brand value, companies should note the change in practical procedures as administration transfers from EPA to DOE, with certification procedures, product registration databases, and technical standard updates now consolidating under a single DOE point of contact.