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Increased Gadget Use Offsetting Efficiency Improvements

by Peter Mychalcewycz on May 15, 2009 at 06:02 AM


Thanks to tech goodies like cell phones, TV's, and computers, our modern world is more connected than ever -- but does our unquenchable desire for round-the-clock access come with a price that's greater than a dollar sign? The International Energy Agency (IEA), according to Reuters, would say yes.

The IEA believes that demand for tech gadgets is undoing efficiency gains in other areas of energy consumption. That means that, for every air conditioner we make more efficient, there's another more power-hungry TV hitting the market. The IEA is urging governments to draft efficiency standards that account for the rapid development of hot industries -- such as smart phones or plasma televisions -- since IEA told Reuters that the energy used by household electronic devices may triple by 2030.



Thankfully, IEA analyst Paul Waide told Reuters that current energy consumption rates can be stabilized, despite the increase in demand. The idea is simple: People should pay attention as consumers, and select the most efficient products available.

Well, that certainly sounds reasonable to us. Don't forget that when you opt for more efficient electronics, you're not only saving the world -- you're saving money as well. [From: Reuters]

Tags: efficiency, energy, environment, iea, top

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