Overview
The ENERGY STAR Computers Test Reporting Template (TRT) is the standardized spreadsheet that manufacturers use to submit test data for laptops, desktops, workstations and allinone systems seeking ENERGY STAR certification. The template consolidates performance, powermeasurement, and configuration information into a single, auditable file that EPA reviewers can evaluate against the programs technical specifications.
Purpose of the Template
- Uniformity: Guarantees that every submitter reports the same data points in the same format.
- Traceability: Links each data record to a specific test laboratory, test method, and product configuration.
- Compliance verification: Allows EPA and thirdparty auditors to verify that the product meets the ENERGY STAR efficiency thresholds.
- Transparency: Makes the underlying data publicly available after certification, supporting consumer confidence.
Template Structure
The current version (released March2024) is provided as an Excel workbook with three worksheets:
- Cover Sheet basic product identification and certification intent.
- Test Data Sheet detailed measurements for each configuration.
- Summary Sheet calculated ENERGY STAR metrics and compliance statements.
Each worksheet contains locked cells that protect calculated fields and guidance rows that should be deleted before submission.
Key Fields and Their Meaning
| Field (Sheet) | Description | Typical Values / Units |
|---|---|---|
| Model Number (Cover) | Manufacturers model identifier. | Alphanumeric string |
| Brand (Cover) | Company name as it appears on the product label. | Text |
| Form Factor (Cover) | Desktop, Laptop, Workstation, AIO. | Predefined list |
| Test Lab ID (Test Data) | Threeletter code of the accredited laboratory. | e.g., TSC, TML |
| Configuration ID (Test Data) | Unique identifier for each hardware configuration tested. | Autogenerated numeric |
| Processor Model (Test Data) | Exact CPU model and stepping. | Intel i712700H, AMDRyzen76800U |
| Graphics Solution (Test Data) | Integrated, discrete, or hybrid GPU details. | NVIDIARTX3050Ti, IntelIrisXe |
| Power at 0% Utilization (Test Data) | Measured power draw when the system is idle (no user activity). | Watts (W) |
| Power at 100% Utilization (Test Data) | Measured power when the CPU is running a recognized benchmark at maximum load. | Watts (W) |
| Average Power (Test Data) | Weighted average of power over the test cycle used for ENERGY STAR calculations. | Watts (W) |
| Battery Capacity (Test Data Laptops) | Design capacity of the internal battery. | Whr |
| Battery Runtime (Test Data Laptops) | Measured time the system operates on battery under the standard usage scenario. | Hours (h) |
| Power Supply Efficiency (Test Data) | Measured efficiency at 20% and 100% load according to IEC 62301. | Percentage (%) |
| Calculated EFactor (Summary) | Ratio of performance to power, used for the ENERGY STAR rating. | Dimensionless |
| Compliance Statement (Summary) | Manufacturersigned declaration that the product meets or exceeds ENERGY STAR thresholds. | Text |
Submission Process
After completing the template, manufacturers must follow these steps:
- Validate the workbook using the embedded macro this checks for missing or outofrange data.
- Save the file as
.xlsxand generate a PDF version of the Cover Sheet for recordkeeping. - Upload the file through the ENERGY STAR Partner Portal, attaching the lab certification report.
- EPA reviewers may request additional clarification; responses should be provided within ten business days.
- Upon acceptance, the product receives an ENERGY STAR certification ID and appears in the public product list.
Note: Submissions that contain redflagged values (e.g., idle power > 5W for desktops) are automatically routed for retesting.
Best Practices for Accurate Reporting
- Use an accredited laboratory. Only labs listed on the ENERGY STAR Lab Accreditation page are accepted.
- Document every configuration. Even minor variations in RAM, storage or GPU must be represented as separate rows.
- Run tests at the manufacturerspecified default settings. Powersaving features must be enabled as shipped.
- Include temperature and ambient conditions. All measurements should be taken at 23C2C.
- Keep a changelog. When revising the template for a new product version, note the date, lab ID and reason for change.
- Validate calculations. Crosscheck the automatically generated EFactor against manual calculations to catch spreadsheet errors.
