Old Energy Labels Retired: Mandatory Ones Take Over
Published Date: 1/15/2026
Rule
Summary
The Department of Commerce is officially ending its old voluntary energy label program for household appliances because a newer, mandatory EnergyGuide label run by other agencies already does the job better. This change clears up confusion, cuts out duplicate rules, and takes effect on January 15, 2026. Appliance makers and shoppers will now rely solely on the EnergyGuide labels to compare energy use and save money.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
EnergyGuide Becomes Sole Appliance Label
On January 15, 2026, the Department of Commerce removed its voluntary appliance labeling program (15 CFR part 9). You as a shopper will now rely solely on the mandatory EnergyGuide labels administered by the Department of Energy and the Federal Trade Commission to compare appliance energy use and save money.
Voluntary Label Program Removed for Manufacturers
Effective January 15, 2026, the Department of Commerce removed 15 CFR part 9, ending its voluntary energy labeling program for household appliances that was created in 1973. Appliance manufacturers no longer have a Commerce-run voluntary labeling option and will instead operate under the mandatory EnergyGuide program administered by the Department of Energy and the Federal Trade Commission, which streamlines regulations and eliminates duplicate requirements.
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