Energy Star

“…there are millions of Americans who want to make the right choices, who want to help this nation become less dependent on foreign sources of crude oil, who want this nation to be a nation that has a reliable energy source, and who want to do their part when it comes to purchasing in the marketplace. And Energy Star is a great way for the federal government to enter into a partnership with consumer product producers that says, this is the latest, this is the best.”


Remarks by the President to Department of Energy employees, Department of Energy, Washington, D.C.,
June 28, 2001

Increasing energy efficiency is a win-win for American businesses – Lower energy costs lead to more profits, and greater efficiency helps to protect the environment. For small businesses, the cost savings and efficiency gains can be especially dramatic. Simple changes and strategies can cut energy costs by more than 25 percent, and the Small Business Administration, working with others in and out of government, is here to help small businesses achieve these savings.

 

The Federal Government helps small businesses increase their energy efficiency through the ENERGY STAR for Small Business Program, an effort tailored to meet the special needs of small business owners. ENERGY STAR, a joint program of the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy, is completely voluntary and provides free technical support and expertise.

 

Getting started is easy. Visit the ENERGY STAR for Small Business Web site to learn more about the program and about how every small business can benefit. Financing options are available.

 

Frequently Asked Questions for small business:

 

Q: How much can a small business save through the ENERGY STAR for Small Business Program?

A: Depending on the characteristics of your business and the resulting energy savings plan, cuts in energy costs of more than 25 percent are typical. The ENERGY STAR for Small Business Program experts can help design an efficiency upgrade that quickly pays for itself and then offers long-term savings.

 

Q: What’s the first step in taking advantage of the ENERGY STAR for Small Business Program?

A: The first step is easy—Whenever possible, choose goods and equipment that carry the ENERGY STAR logo. This indicates that the product meets efficiency standards and can deliver savings to your business. You can find out more by calling ENERGY STAR’s technical hotline at 1-888-STAR-YES or by visiting the online products page and store locator. You can also take advantage of the “Putting Energy Into Profits: ENERGY STAR for Small Business Guide” and Tech Tips located online.

 

Q: How can my business join the ENERGY STAR for Small Business Program?

A: You can become a partner in the ENERGY STAR for Small Business Program by completing the online registration. Doing so will allow you to receive free technical support, information, awards eligibility, and a free copy of “Putting Energy into Profits” for your small business.

 

Other useful sources of information for small businesses:

 

Going Green — A Piece of Cake

Going Green Can Save You Green

 

The Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy provides information about the latest in alternative and energy-saving technology, including biomass and biofuels, solar power, wind power, advanced vehicles, and hydrogen fuel cells.

 

Energysavers.gov, a joint effort by the Department of Energy, the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Housing and Urban Development, provides information to help you save energy in your home, business, vehicle, or industrial plant.