EC, EPA Set Energy Efficiency Standards for Computer Displays

October 30, 2009 // Published as a news service by IHS

The new criteria, which are effective immediately, include computer monitors and pertain to displays with a viewable diagonal screen size of less than 30 inches.

The specifications are expected to save about nine terawatts of electricity during the next five years in the European Union (EU) alone as a result of purchases over the next three years. The savings will be achieved over the lifetime of the products, typically over a period of four to five years.

First created as a key U.S. energy savings program in 1992, ENERGY STAR is now part of the EU's strategy to better manage energy demand, contribute to security of energy supply and mitigate climate change.

The new technical specifications for displays were jointly developed by EU member states, the EPA and stakeholders from around the world.

New energy savings criteria for other office equipment categories are expected be added to the EU-U.S. ENERGY STAR program soon.

"ENERGY STAR is a good example of successful energy efficiency cooperation with the U.S., delivering concrete energy and CO2 savings worldwide, while saving citizens' and enterprises' money. The new criteria are an important step towards our energy efficiency and climate protection targets ," said EC Energy Commissioner Andris Piebalgs.

For more information, see the EU's ENERGY STAR web site.

Source: European Commission (EC).