"EPA Retreats From Plans To End The Energy Star Program"

"WASHINGTON — Lee Zeldin, the administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, has quietly retreated from plans to eliminate Energy Star, a popular program whose iconic blue labels help consumers choose energy-efficient dishwashers, refrigerators and other home appliances.

In a rare shift, Zeldin is reconsidering his announcement from May that he would end the program, which triggered intense pushback from business leaders and congressional Republicans, according to four people briefed on the matter who were not authorized to discuss it publicly.

Shortly after Zeldin said he would eliminate Energy Star, the EPA renewed four contracts with ICF, a consulting firm that helps administer the program, according to federal records. One contract was renewed through September 2030. The company did not respond to requests for comment."

Maxine Joselow and Lisa Friedman report for the New York Times November 2, 2025.