I changed 5 TV settings to significantly reduce my electric bill (and why they work) – ZDNet

Energy Efficiency in Modern Televisions: A Sustainable Development Perspective

Introduction

Modern televisions consume significantly less energy compared to models from a decade ago, reflecting advancements in power-efficient display technologies. This improvement aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), by promoting energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact.

Energy Consumption Comparison

According to Perch Energy, older televisions typically incur annual energy costs of approximately $54, whereas newer LED-backlit and OLED TVs reduce this to about $32 per year. This reduction is largely due to the enhanced efficiency of LED and OLED technologies, supporting SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) through technological innovation.

EnergyGuide Ratings and ENERGY STAR Certification

When purchasing new televisions, consumers are advised to consult the EnergyGuide label and ENERGY STAR ratings. These labels provide reliable metrics for comparing energy efficiency among TV models, fostering informed choices that contribute to SDG 12.

• EnergyGuide ratings range from A (most efficient) to G.
• Smart TVs with ratings of D or E are considered highly efficient.
• ENERGY STAR-certified TVs are at least 25% more energy-efficient than comparable models.

Although energy-efficient TVs may have higher upfront costs, the long-term savings in energy consumption support economic sustainability and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).

Practical Settings to Enhance Energy Efficiency

1. Lower Brightness

   Reducing screen brightness can decrease power consumption and improve viewing comfort. Many modern TVs feature automatic brightness control (ABC) that adjusts brightness based on ambient light, aligning with SDG 7 by optimizing energy use.

2. Set a Sleep Timer

   Utilizing sleep timers or standby modes to power down TVs after periods of inactivity prevents unnecessary energy use, contributing to SDG 13 (Climate Action) by lowering carbon footprints.

3. Turn Off Screen When Streaming Music

   Disabling the screen during audio-only streaming reduces energy consumption, supporting responsible energy use under SDG 12.

4. Power Down Completely

   Using power strips to fully disconnect TVs and peripherals eliminates standby power consumption, further reducing energy waste and supporting SDG 7.

Impact of Picture Quality on Energy Use

OLED TVs offer superior energy efficiency due to their pixel-level lighting control, which allows individual pixels to turn off during dark scenes. This technology reduces power consumption compared to traditional LCDs that require constant backlighting, advancing SDG 9 through innovation.

However, higher resolution screens, such as 4K, consume more energy due to increased pixel counts. Consumers should assess their viewing habits to balance energy use with quality needs, promoting sustainable consumption patterns consistent with SDG 12.

Summary of Energy Efficiency Benefits

• Newer TVs are generally more energy-efficient, reducing electricity consumption and costs.
• OLED technology represents the most energy-efficient display option currently available.
• ENERGY STAR-certified TVs consume at least 25% less energy than conventional models.
• Larger screen sizes typically increase power consumption, though advancements have mitigated this impact.
• Replacing very old TVs can lead to energy savings, but environmental impacts of disposal and manufacturing should be considered, emphasizing SDG 12.

Conclusion

Adopting energy-efficient televisions and optimizing their settings contribute significantly to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by reducing energy consumption, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, and promoting responsible consumption. Consumers are encouraged to consider both technological features and usage habits to maximize energy savings and support global sustainability efforts.

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

1. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
   • The article focuses on energy efficiency of modern TVs, energy consumption reduction, and the use of energy-saving technologies such as ENERGY STAR certification and OLED technology.
2. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
   • It discusses reducing energy use through better consumption habits (e.g., adjusting brightness, sleep timers) and choosing more efficient products, which aligns with sustainable consumption.
   • It also mentions considering the environmental impact of disposing of old TVs and manufacturing new ones.
3. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • By promoting energy efficiency and reduced power consumption, the article indirectly supports efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with electricity generation.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

1. SDG 7 Targets
   • 7.3: By 2030, double the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency.
   • 7.1: Ensure universal access to affordable, reliable, and modern energy services (implied through promoting energy-efficient technologies).
2. SDG 12 Targets
   • 12.2: Achieve the sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources.
   • 12.5: Substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling, and reuse (implied in consideration of environmental impact of disposing old TVs).
3. SDG 13 Targets
   • 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into policies and planning (implied through energy-saving measures reducing emissions).

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

1. Energy consumption of TVs (kWh/year)
   • The article mentions average annual power consumption of TVs (e.g., 55 kWh/year for new TVs, 0.4 watts in standby mode).
   • This can be used as an indicator of energy efficiency improvements (SDG 7.3).
2. EnergyGuide and ENERGY STAR ratings
   • Ratings from A to G and ENERGY STAR certification (requiring 25% more efficiency) serve as measurable indicators of product energy efficiency.
3. Adoption rate of energy-efficient TVs
   • Implied by the discussion on newer TVs being more efficient and consumers choosing OLED or ENERGY STAR-certified models.
4. Reduction in electricity costs
   • Annual energy cost savings (e.g., from $54 to $32) can be an indirect indicator of improved energy efficiency and responsible consumption.
5. Waste reduction and recycling rates
   • Although not explicitly quantified, the article implies the importance of considering the environmental impact of disposing of old TVs, relevant to SDG 12.5 indicators.

4. SDGs, Targets and Indicators Table

Source: zdnet.com