If you assume nothing has changed since 2010 then, sure. In reality, the Energy Star program changed their certification process that went into effect the following year - https://www.energystar.go.jp/news/news2010/pdf/etv_faq_20110.... A subsequent GAO report commended the pace of progress in implementing these changes. There have been many several changes to the program including a certification for new homes and apartments that was launched last year.

But of course, there is always a chance that this program was sunset to prevent waste, fraud, and abuse since the current head of the executive branch is notoriously anti-fraud.

You should really look up how much the program costs vs how much it saves consumers each year.

You read one comment on Hacker News about a potential flaw in the system and that changed your mind? It doesn’t seem like you really gave it much thought before or thought about the other effects.

Many comments on Hacker News don’t strictly adhere to the rules and aren’t removed. Should they just shut down all of the moderation?

No, I read an article in a comment in Hacker News about how the program was potentially theoretically worthless until at least 2010. If the companies themselves are self-certifying I don't understand where any amount of money went - hopefully at least spot checks to keep them honest.

You can't base your opinions on 1 or 2 instances of failure.You have to look at the statistics. Most corps aren't out to fool the system. Most will abide by energy star guidelines. That's much better than cancelling the whole program. Instances like this show where it can be approved, and not that "we should throw out the baby with the bathwater"