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How ENERGY STAR Works The EPA and DOE use a systematic framework to: (1) assess the feasibility for applying the label to a product category; (2) develop performance specifications that must be met in order to earn the label; and (3) reassess performance specifications as market conditions change. This process relies on rigorous market, engineering, and pollution savings analyses as well as input from industry and other stakeholders. To ensure that the ENERGY STAR label remains an effective consumer tool, the EPA/DOE relies on technical expertise and performance-based specif icat ions t hat ident if y energ y eff icient products, the use of which results in reasonable financial return w it hout sacrif icing product performance or features. It is the EPA/DOE's goal to utilize ENERGY STAR specifications only for those product categories where it is clear that the energy savings potential of a product will translate into tangible energy savings when the product is placed in a home or building. To determine feasibility for any new ENERGY STAR product category and the corresponding performance-based specifications, the EPA/DOE follows a set of key guidelines. It is important to note that these guidelines are not applied rigidly since there are many factors – known and unknown – that impact energy use and efficiency. However, they provide direction during an iterative process to achieve the desired balance among the key principles. Energy Savings Nationwide When ever y thing is considered, the EPA/DOE seeks to identif y product categories that can contribute significant energ y savings nationwide. To determine optimum energ y sav ings potential, the EPA/DOE collects extensive data and ana lyzes a variet y of factors, including, but not limited to the following: •Number of products sold nationwide and their widespread availability. •Market growth rates. •Amount of energy used by product in various power modes as appropriate (e.g., active, sleep, and standby/ off power modes). •The product's typical usage pattern (i.e., amount of time spent in each of the various modes of operation). •Amount of energy that may be saved through the application of different technologies, operating procedures or design practices. •Appl icable i ndust r y sta nda rds and legislation that may affect a product's energy consumption and availability. •Extent to which potential energy s av i n g s m ay b e i mp a c t e d by insta llation practices or system interactions. •P r o d u c t p e r f o r m a n c e c a n b e maintained or enhanced with increased energy efficiency. Utilizing these and other criteria, the EPA/DOE seeks to maintain the ENERGY STAR label as an attractive purchasing tool for a broad array of consumers. This is accomplished by ensuring that the label is not only a credible symbol for energy efficiency, but that it is one also found on products with features and performance in demand by consumers. This event will feature informative programming with some of the industry's leaders in fireproofing, high-temperature, and other protective coatings. Bring on the Heat 2013 is Sponsored by: GMA Garnet Group • Apache Industrial Services • Carboline Co. • Isolatek International • International Paint Alfred Miller Contracting Co. • Sherwin-Williams • PPG Protective & Marine Coatings Microtherm Thermal Insulation Solutions • PK Industrial • Mascoat • Dampney Write in Reader Inquiry #311 34 CoatingsPro g January 2013 Effective Marketing Tool Because of its credibility in the marketplace, ENERGY STAR is also an effective marketing tool that may convey a promotional advantage to businesses and/ or consumers that use it. As such, the EPA/DOE is careful not to favor one manufacturer over others by designating a proprietary technology or unique design approach when developing the performance attributes of an ENERGY STAR product specification. To ensure that specifications are such that more than one manufacturer