This article describes the Energy Star program.

For list of Apple products that are Energy Star compliant see article 12345: " Energy Star: Registered Apple Products "

Energy Star is a voluntary Environmental Protection Agency program that sets energy use ceilings on computer products. The Energy Star program seeks to identify and promote the use of energy efficient computer equipment to reduce energy use and thereby reduce pollution.

Computers, monitors and printers can meet Energy Star program requirements by always using less power than a specified amount or by going into a low-power or "sleep" state. Printers must also go to a low-power state within a period of time defined by performance category. All computers, monitors and printers that meet these specifications can display the Energy Star logo.

Apple was one of three original companies contacted by the EPA to help design the Energy Star program and has consistently been an enthusiastic supporter of the program. Apple's goal is to make Energy Star products available across the entire Macintosh product line as quickly as possible.

Many Apple products already meet Energy Star specifications. Other Apple products can meet Energy Star specifications with the addition of third-party devices which shut off power when the product is not being used.

Energy Star Specifications

Computers and monitors must be able to go to a low-power state either after a period of inactivity or at a predetermined time selected by the user. For computers, the low-power state can be activated with software that must be specified by the computer manufacturer. This low-power state is defined as drawing 30 watts or less of power. If the monitor is included in the computer casing and isn't powered directly from a wall outlet, the entire system may qualify by drawing 60 watts or less of power.

Printers must be able to go to a low-power state either after a period of inactivity or maintain a low level of power consumption. For printers that enter a low power state, the printer must activate a low-power state within the times listed below.