What does "Energy Star compliant" mean?

To be Energy Star compliant, a product must meet standards set by energy regulators relating to energy efficiency, according to the Energy Star website. The Energy Star standards promote energy-efficient products that minimize the production of greenhouse gas emissions.

An Energy Star compliant sticker on an appliance means the product offers significant energy savings over similar products without Energy Star certification. Regulators occasionally revise Energy Star standards when federal minimum efficiency standards change or when issues arise in the test procedures. Products that do not go through and pass the Energy Star certification process cannot legally label themselves Energy Star compliant.