What does EER stand for in the context of energy efficiency?

EER stands for Energy Efficiency Ratio, which is a metric used to evaluate the energy efficiency of cooling systems, particularly air conditioners and heat pumps. The EER is calculated by dividing the cooling output (measured in BTUs) by the energy input (measured in watt-hours) at a specific outdoor temperature, generally at 95°F. This ratio provides a clear indication of how effectively a system uses electricity to produce cooling, enabling consumers to compare the efficiency of different models. An EER value helps consumers make informed decisions by selecting appliances that will consume less energy, thereby lowering energy costs and reducing environmental impact.

The other options, while they might sound relevant, do not accurately define EER in the context of energy efficiency. Energy Efficiency Regulation and Energy Efficiency Review are not standardized metrics, and Energy Emission Rate pertains to a different aspect of energy consumption, focusing more on emissions rather than efficiency. Thus, the correct answer provides a specific, quantitative measure used in the industry to gauge performance.