ENERGY STAR will pilot a label for ENERGY STAR-qualified appliances that achieve higher levels of energy efficiency.

Under this system, consumers would have the ability to identify products that meet performance requirements of CEE tiered specifications with a “Save More” designation.

The “Save More” designation indicates that the product significantly exceeds ENERGY STAR minimum requirements and is eligible for an increased rebate.

For the pilot testing, “Save More” will only be available in select areas where CEE members are promoting a tiered program for appliances that includes financial incentives using CEE specifications.

“Having consistent performance requirements for ‘Save More’ was necessary for us to consider this concept,” explained EPA’s Maria Vargas, Brand Manager for ENERGY STAR. “The CEE specifications provide that consistency.”

Pilot programs are scheduled to be administered by Pacific Gas & Electric, San Diego Gas & Electric, Southern California Gas, BC Hydro and Efficiency Vermont.

Through these pilot programs, CEE members will be able to provide tiered incentives – consistent with CEE specifications – while utilizing the brand recognition, credibility and nationwide marketing of the ENERGY STAR program.

ENERGY STAR’s decision to go forward with the pilot programs came after months of discussion with the CEE Board Committee and after EPA conducted consumer research on alternative wording options.

“Our goal is to maintain an understanding of the ENERGY STAR brand while meeting the needs of program administrators,” explained Vargas. “We didn’t want to create a new mark because we felt it was important to make this an easy proposition for the consumer.”

Initially, the “Save More” designation will be used with appliances only.

“By the end of 2007, we should have most of the pilot results,” said Vargas. “We’re hoping that ‘Save More’ will continue to drive people to ENERGY STAR.”

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