Audio Video News

The Federal Trade Commission will require TVs to have EnergyGuide labels at the retail level.

The yellow and black labels will be similar to those used on other household appliances. According to a press release, the purpose is to enable TV buyers to "have more information about the energy use of different models."

Consumers can also find energy-efficient TV models listed on the Energy Star site. Energy Star is a voluntary federal program.

The FTC first sought comments on the subject in March 2009 and recently voted 4-0 to announce the requirement. Further comments will be sought through May 14, 2010 on "the need for these labels; how the energy usage of televisions should be determined; the location, format, and content of energy disclosures; and the timing of the proposed labeling requirements. The agency is not proposing labeling requirements for other consumer electronics at this time, but seeks further comment on test procedures and other issues," says the press release.

One positive comment emerged from the Consumer Electronics Association, an outfit not known for automatically rubberstamping government initiatives. "Energy use disclosures are positive for consumers, who benefit from information at the point of purchase, as well as electronics manufacturers, which are making significant improvements in energy efficiency of televisions and other consumer electronics products," said Douglas Johnson, CEA senior director of technology policy.

See FTC press release, notice (PDF), and CEA press release.