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Energy Performance Standards

Definition

Energy performance standards are regulations that establish minimum levels of efficiency for appliances, equipment, vehicles, or buildings. These standards aim to reduce overall energy consumption and promote the use of more efficient technologies.

Analogy

Imagine if there were speed limits for appliances and vehicles based on their fuel efficiency. Energy performance standards work similarly by setting benchmarks that appliances and other devices must meet in order to ensure they don't waste excessive amounts of electricity.

Related terms

ENERGY STAR Certification: ENERGY STAR is a program that certifies products (such as appliances) that meet high-energy performance standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS): RPS are policies implemented at the state level that require utilities companies to obtain a certain percentage of their electricity from renewable sources.

Green Building Certification (LEED): LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. It is a certification program that recognizes buildings for meeting specific sustainability and energy efficiency criteria.