It might not be at the level of health-care reform, but the U.S. Department of Energy's March 19 announcement that it will begin verifying manufacturers' energy-use figures for six major household appliances represents real change in Washington. Going back to our October 2008 investigative report "Energy Star Has Lost Some Luster," Consumer Reports has argued for increased independent, third-party verification of energy-use declarations.

In the coming months, the Energy Department and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will spot-test the energy-consumption figures for 200 different Energy Star-qualified freezers, refrigerators, washing machines, dishwashers, water heaters, and room air conditioners. Eventually, the federal government will require all products seeking the Energy Star qualification to receive third-party verification.

"Consumers have long trusted the Energy Star brand for products that will save them energy and save them money," said Cathy Zoi, the Department of Energy's assistant secretary for energy efficiency and renewable energy, in a press release. "The steps we're taking now will further strengthen and improve the program, building on the results that consumers have come to expect."

The Department of Energy has removed the Energy Star qualification from appliances, as we reported in January in a matter related to several LG and LG-made refrigerators.