NCL’s statement on the Trump Administration’s efforts to eliminate energy efficiency standards for appliances 

Media Contact: Lisa McDonald, Vice President of Communication, 202-207-2829 

Washington, DC – The National Consumers League (NCL) is greatly disappointed by the Trump administration’s efforts to eliminate vital energy efficiency standards for household appliances, as referenced in Project 2025. These standards, which have been established over the past few decades, have played an integral role in reducing energy consumption, lowering utility bills, and helping consumers make sustainable choices. Rolling back these standards would directly harm consumers and the environment, leaving us more vulnerable in the face of the climate crisis.     

“These appliances likely conserve a significant amount of energy, and in this time of heightened climate challenges, we must take every step possible to make our appliances both safer and more energy-efficient—both of which are entirely achievable,” said Sally Greenberg, NCL CEO. “It’s essential that we continue to hold manufacturers accountable for producing appliances that not only protect our planet but also reduce the financial burden on consumers.”     

High-efficiency household appliances offer substantial benefits to the United States in terms of energy savings, economic advantages, and environmental protection. 

•  According to the Appliance Standards Awareness Project (ASAP), energy standards saved U.S. consumers $63 billion on utility bills in 2020 (ASAP, 2021). 

• The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that household appliances account for nearly 30% of residential electricity use (EIA, 2022). 

• The Business Council for Sustainable Energy (BCSE) found that federal appliance standards saved the U.S. nearly 680 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity in 2021, or 16% of total electricity generated that year—enough to power over 60 million homes for a year (BCSE, 2022 Sustainable Energy in America Factbook).

NCL calls for a renewed commitment to energy efficiency, which is a vital step towards achieving a more sustainable future. We urge policymakers to prioritize consumer protection, energy savings, and environmental responsibility by maintaining and strengthening energy efficiency standards.   

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About the National Consumers League (NCL)    

The National Consumers League, founded in 1899, is America’s pioneer consumer organization. Our mission is to protect and promote social and economic justice for consumers and workers in the United States and abroad. For more information, visit www.nclnet.org.