What's Happening?
The Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Energy Star Awards were canceled in 2025 following a decision by the Trump administration to restructure the agency. Despite this, the American Bakers Association (ABA) is actively lobbying Congress to continue
funding the Energy Star program. Rasma Zvaners, vice president of government relations at ABA, highlighted the association's efforts, which include a letter sent to congressional committees by ABA and 29 other organizations. This letter emphasizes the program's value to American manufacturing and urges Congress to maintain its support. The House and Senate Appropriation Committees have passed fiscal year 2026 EPA funding language that includes support for the Energy Star program, but full congressional approval is still pending. The ABA had previously collaborated with the EPA to develop energy management tools for the baking industry, but these efforts are currently on hold.
Why It's Important?
The Energy Star program is a critical initiative for promoting energy efficiency across various industries, including manufacturing, real estate, and retail. Its potential discontinuation could have significant implications for businesses that rely on its guidelines to reduce energy consumption and costs. The ABA's advocacy underscores the program's importance in helping companies achieve energy savings and improve environmental performance. If Congress fails to approve continued funding, it could lead to increased operational costs for businesses and hinder efforts to reduce carbon emissions. The situation also reflects broader policy shifts under the new administration, which has been issuing executive orders and announcements that suggest changes in climate and clean energy policies.
What's Next?
The future of the Energy Star program hinges on congressional approval of the EPA's fiscal year 2026 funding. If approved, the program could continue to support energy efficiency initiatives across industries. However, if funding is not secured, businesses may need to seek alternative methods to achieve energy savings. The ABA and other stakeholders are likely to continue their advocacy efforts to ensure the program's survival. Additionally, the new administration's focus on streamlining environmental permitting processes may influence future energy and environmental policies.
