To gain an Energy Star rating, TVs next year must be 40 percent more efficient than standard models. The new requirements take effect May 1, 2010.
The new requirements call for TVs to use less energy when turned on, as well as to curb power associated with downloading program guide data. Energy Star-rated TVs also will have to meet a certain level of brightness for satisfactory viewing, according to a press release.
If all TVs sold in the U.S. were to meet the new standard, a total of $2.5 billion in energy could be saved a year, with a corresponding annual reduction of greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to that emitted by about 3 million cars.
The larger the TV, the bigger the energy savings, according to EPA. For instance, the new requirements for 46- and 50-inch models will deliver about 50 percent savings over conventional models that are the same size. Here is a link to the specifications.
Retailers and consumers can expect steady improvements in energy savings for all electronics. EPA is hoping to ensure that with a Sept. 24 meeting in Chicago for Energy Star electronics partners.
The point of the meeting is bring together retailers, manufacturers and utilities to learn about upcoming Energy Star electronics programs, as well as to share their ideas on how to advance energy efficiency and market the products.
