Appliances in Montana To Undergo Major New Change

BUTTE, MT - Appliances across Montana—and the standards that govern them—may be entering a new era as the federal government signals plans to overhaul or eliminate a key energy efficiency program.

Get our free mobile app

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is reportedly moving to defund or restructure the Energy Star program, a voluntary certification that has guided appliance efficiency standards for over three decades.

What Is Energy Star?

First introduced in 1992, the Energy Star program is a government-backed symbol for energy efficiency, managed by the EPA.

It provides performance ratings for major home appliances, electronics, lighting, and commercial equipment. According to the program’s website, Energy Star has helped consumers and businesses save more than $500 billion in energy costs since its inception.

The logo has become a widely recognized marker, though its visibility doesn’t always translate to consumer recognition.

The Federal Shift

Recent reports from the Associated Press suggest the Energy Star offices could be eliminated or significantly restructured under proposed budget changes.

The move is part of broader discussions on rolling back various environmental and consumer regulations established over the past several decades.

If the Energy Star program is dissolved or cut back, there could be long-term implications for how appliances are labeled, tested, and marketed nationwide, including in Montana.

Impact on Montana Appliance Market

Despite the federal changes, appliance retailers in Montana do not anticipate an immediate impact on sales or consumer behavior.

Bruce Moore, sales manager at Eklund’s Appliance and Mattress in Great Falls, noted that Energy Star ratings are not a major factor for everyday buyers.

He explained that while Energy Star is important for government contracts and commercial buyers that follow strict procurement standards, the typical retail customer is rarely concerned with energy efficiency ratings.

Looking Ahead

While the proposed cuts may not immediately impact sales in Montana, the long-term effects could be more pronounced. Energy Star has also been used by utility companies, building contractors, and state programs to set rebate eligibility and energy code standards.

If the program is eliminated, states and manufacturers may need to develop or adopt new efficiency standards. This could affect the design, cost, and regulation of appliances sold in Montana and across the country.

For now, Montana retailers are continuing business as usual—but the regulatory landscape for appliances may be headed for substantial change.