Take the Energy Grinch Out of Home Electronic Gifts

December 13, 2007

Home electronics are a popular gift idea every holiday season. But their electricity use—even when they're turned 'off'—can really add up. To help you play Santa, without putting the Grinch in your friends' or family's monthly electric bill, the nation's electric utility companies are offering energy-saving advice to help you make smart choices about home electronics.

When shopping for a new piece of electronic equipment, you can find energy-efficient models by looking for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ENERGY STAR™ label.

"For instance," said Diane Munns, Edison Electric Institute’s Executive Director, Retail Energy Services., "an ENERGY STAR™ qualified TV uses about 30 percent less energy than one without the rating.  And an ENERGY STAR™ computer uses about 70 percent less electricity than other computers."

• Read the EEI news release.
• Visit www.energystar.gov for more information about ENERGY STAR™ certified home electronics.
• Download the free booklet, "More than 100 Ways to Improve Your Electric Bill."
• Visit www.getenergyactive.org for more information on electricity and energy efficiency.

© 2008 Edison Electric Institute