Glossary · Energy, bills & ratings
ENERGY STAR Most Efficient
Also called: Most Efficient designation · Most Efficient 2025 · Most Efficient mark
A yearly ENERGY STAR designation for the top-performing certified products in a category, a step above regular ENERGY STAR.
What it means
Each year ENERGY STAR publishes stricter criteria for selected categories such as heat pumps, windows, dehumidifiers and appliances, and products that meet them carry the Most Efficient mark for that year. It's a shortcut to the best available efficiency, though price and fit for your home still matter.
Why it matters in an audit
Some programs have required it, including the US window tax credit that ended after 2025, so check your program's rules.