As we wait for the next program to encourage us to buy Energy Star rated appliances, the New York Times comes out with a story that says an Energy Department audit shows that the agency may not be properly tracking manufacturers who slap on the label.

The report says that manufacturers are allowed to self label on washing machine, refrigerators and diswashers. The label is suppose to insure that the products meet energy efficiency standards. Those manufacturers that make light bulbs and windows are required to get independent verification of efficiency.

The Energy Department is looking into the matter. Hopefully the authorities will figure this out before the stimulus money gets handed out.

The state is now working out the details of how to distribute the $5.4 million it will get. Will it add to the money companies such as BGE hand out for buying energy efficient appliances or add more kinds of products? They aren't yet sure.

Rebate money is expected to be available by the end of this year or early next year.

To read a story I wrote about the program click here.