Christine Hertzog’s smart grid library is really a project worthy of recognition and a great resource for those of us who want to know more about smart grids and the future of energy distribution. In addition to the smart grid library (available in E and print forms), Christine’s blog is really engaging on a wide variety of energy issues and we here are BIG fans. A recent entry raises the very salient issues facing the EPA/DOE joint Energy Star Program, and I really recommend that you read about why CONSUMERS NEED 3rd PARTY TESTING and OVERSIGHT!!!!:
“Many people in the USA are familiar with the Energy Star ratings that appear on many devices that consume electricity. We like to feel good that we’re buying a product that has been tested and rated to exacting standards that help the environment. The Energy Star program guidelines state that only the top 25% of products in any one category can earn this special rating for energy efficiency. Energy Star is a great concept, but the reality is a bit different. Currently, companies test their own products, under their own conditions, to report on their energy use. For example, some refrigerator manufacturers tested their products’ energy use with the ice-makers turned off. Is that really the most common mode of operation? I don’t think so. Does self-certification serve the public interest? Not in these situations, and when big money is involved, verification of compliance with standards becomes critical. ”
How many times do we need to make the same mistakes?…Okay- Im going to get on my solar water heating horse for one sentence to point out that the Solar Rating and Certification Corporation independently tests and certifies all solar water systems eligible for incentives in the US, cutting out a LOT of the bunk…Anyway, we love Christine’s work and highly recommend adding the Smart Grid Dictionary to your library if you are in the energy industry, are an engineer, an activist, enthusiast, environmentalist, solar nerd, or all-of-the-above like us.
Essential Reference
