Topic: Energy Star

Energy Voices Energy efficiency means lower utility bills, less mortgage risk

The risk of mortgage default is one-third lower for people with energy efficient homes, according to a recent study. Energy efficient homes can save up to $250 per month, Alic writes, an amount that for many households could be the difference between foreclosure and mortgage repayment.

Saving Money Would you switch to LED light bulbs if they were half price?

One of the main drawbacks to energy-saving LEDs is the high upfront cost. But as cheaper versions creep into the market, is it time to make the shift?

Energy Voices Spending cuts: What does the sequester mean for energy? (+video)

Spending cuts will hit a wide range of energy programs starting Friday, unless a deal is reached to avert the sequester. What do the spending cuts mean for fossil fuels and renewables?

Change Agent How renewable energy is rescuing US schools from budget cuts

Educators across the country are finding millions of dollars in savings through cheap and simple forms of renewable energy. Since 2003, one school district has cut more than $7 million in energy costs. That equates to 45 teaching positions.

Saving Money Winter is coming. Eight ways to prepare your home.

Cold weather is on the way, and a home that isn't prepared can turn into a frigid money pit. Here are 8 cheap ways to winterize your home and save on your energy bill. 

Tax deductions: Here are five for homeowners

Tax deductions for homeowners go way beyond interest on a mortgage. There are tax deductions for mortgage insurance and even energy-efficient improvements.

What can be done to create jobs? Six leading ideas.

The job market has shown some very welcome signs of improvement lately, but it still has a long way to go before approaching something Americans would call normal. Here’s a look at some of the proposed solutions out there. 

Six steps to choosing the best refrigerator

If you’ve had the pleasure of purchasing an appliance within the last 10 years you’re probably aware that things are not as simple as they once used to be. While technology has made many things in our lives easier, choosing the best refrigerator among hundreds of similar models isn’t one of them. Family size and lifestyle are only a few of the factors that influence a purchase. That said, armed with the right information and knowing what questions to ask can ease the process of finding the best refrigerator: 

Do 'green buildings' come with a higher price tag?

The initial cost may be higher, but if the price of electricity in your area is high, energy efficient construction is a smart financial move

Will smart-phone friendly mileage stickers help car buyers make smarter choices?

The EPA's next generation of mileage labels are smart-phone friendly and were designed to give consumers more ways to compare the efficiency and pollution levels of vehicles of all engine types.

Home heating 101: six cold facts on staying warm this winter

Winter weather has arrived. Blizzards in Minneapolis, subfreezing temperatures in Buffalo, N.Y., and cold weather spreading into places like Atlanta. With the rush of arctic-type conditions, how much will it cost this winter to stay warm? Here are six cold facts on staying warm.

Energy-efficient homes, courtesy of federal tax credit

An expiring tax credit is pushing homeowners to boost energy efficiency. Can it work for you?

A home made green and lean

Eco-aware rehabber finds that doing right by the earth is cost-effective, too.

Maytag dishwashers recall: Is repair or rebate the best deal?

As part of the Maytag dishwashers recall, customers can get a free repair or a rebate for a new dishwasher. The best deal depends on what you have and where you live.

Want to save money on a green home renovation? Hire a HERS rater.

The best say to save money on a green home renovation is to hire a knowledgeable HERS rater.

Obama's Homestar program: Energy retrofits could take a while

President Obama announced a $6 billion Homestar program to fund energy-efficient retrofits of US homes. But most contractors will need training to achieve the program's loftier goals.

Obama's 'Cash for Caulkers' boosts energy efficiency

As President Obama boosts energy efficiency through Cash for Caulkers, home weatherization will receive rebates.

MN appliance rebate gets overwhelming response. Get ready for your state's rebate program.

Minnesotans flocked to the MN appliance rebate. Check here to see when your state's appliance-rebate program starts.

Energysavers.gov offers cash for more-efficient appliances

Patterned after 'cash for clunkers,' the Energysavers.gov program has allocated $300 million in rebates for consumers who buy Energy Star-rated appliances.

Green building comes of age

Competition, oil prices, and concerns about global warming have caused the '70s fad to go mainstream. Is green building finally coming of age?

Green building comes of age

Competition, oil prices, and concerns about global warming have caused the '70s fad to go mainstream. Is green building finally coming of age?

Taking aim at energy-sucking TVs

EPA sets new guidelines for efficiency that will rise through 2012.

Sprint, Samsung announce plans to sell a biodegradable phone

Earth Talk: The most energy-efficient way to heat a cup of water

When choosing among the microwave or a gas or electric stove top, the answer may surprise you.