California To Set Energy Restrictions For LCD, Plasma TVs Jan 18, 2009

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California lawmakers are working on a plan that will require makers of flat-screen televisions to market only the most energy efficient models beginning in 2011. But television makers say such regulations would hamper development and cause prices to increase for consumers. Also, some firms may be unable to develop energy saving televisions in time, which would drive consumers to purchase sets from outside of the state.

Energy regulators from the California Energy Commission argue that the annual amount of energy saved from using greener televisions could be enough to power more than 86,000 homes. The average household could save up to US$40 each year by using energy efficient set. Similar rules requiring refrigerators and other domestic appliances to be energy efficient have been in place for decades.

Televisions account for about 10% of the average Californian's monthly household electricity bill. LCD -- liquid crystal display -- sets reportedly use 43% more electricity, on average, than conventional tube TVs. And plasma TVs use more than three times as much power as old sets.

The plan is expected to be approved in 2009 and will be phased in over two years with a first tier taking effect on Jan. 1, 2011, and a more stringent, second tier on Jan. 1, 2013.

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