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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Energy Input Labeling?

Energy Input Labeling (EIL) reports the amounts and sources of energy used to produce a good or service.

How is Energy Input Labeling different from other types of energy labeling?

Energy Input Labeling reports energy used for production, rather than energy efficiency or energy contained by the product.

Does Energy Input Labeling report all of the energy used for production?

Ultimately, Energy Input Labeling should report all of the energy used in production, including energy used for components and supplies purchased by the firm. However, often it is not possible to ascertain all of this information. Therefore Energy Input Labeling often will only report energy inputted by the firm itself. In this case, labeling should be for Energy Added Inputs and should be clearly marked so.

How accurate is Energy Input Labeling?

If the EIL Standards [downloadable pdf] are followed, then the reported energy added inputs should be "in the ball park"or well within an order of magnitude. Energy Input Labeling is still new, experimental and voluntary, and allowances should be made for good-faith inaccuracies at this time. In addition, it is intended for EIL to be practicable for small businesses. Therefore, the Standards sacrifice some accuracy for simplicity to encourage wider adoption.

Who Can Use Energy Labeling?

Any firm or individual that produces a good or service can use Energy Input Labeling to calculate and label the energy inputs into their products.

Is Energy Input Labeling required by law?

Energy Input Labeling is generally not required by law, although there may be specific exceptions. For most producers, Energy Input Labeling is purely voluntary, but it can be a good way for producers to examine and reduce energy costs as well as a way to distinguish their business and products in the eyes of consumers.

Is Energy Input Labeling certified?

Energy Input Labeling is not presently certified. Produces can use whatever methodology the desire. However, producers are urged to follow the posted EIL Standards, unless they are already using a superior methodology.

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