Should Consumer Electronics Products Carry Energy Labeling?

FTC is seeking public comment on whether it should require energy use disclosures for televisions and other consumer electronic products.

March 10, 2009 — Are you interested in seeing energy efficiency labeling on consumer electronics products, such as televisions, computers, cable or satellite set-top boxes, stand-alone digital video recorders, and pc monitors?

The FTC has approved an advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPR) under the Appliance Labeling Rule for publication in the Federal Register. As detailed in the notice, Section 325 of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 provides the Commission with the authority to develop and implement energy labeling rules for consumer electronic products, including televisions. Through the ANPR, the FTC is seeking public comment on whether it should require energy use disclosures for televisions and other consumer electronic products, such as personal computers, cable or satellite set-top boxes, stand-alone digital video recorder boxes, and personal computer monitors.

Specifically, the notice describes current energy labeling requirements, presents the FTC’s new authority for consumer electronic products labeling, and requests comments on issues such as the need for labeling; energy use data; reports, studies, or research on labeling; test procedures; format, content, and placement of labels; potential retailer role in labeling; Internet disclosures; comparative information; and reporting requirements. The notice also describes how comments, which must be received by May 14, 2009, may be submitted to the Commission.

Read the notice here.

Source: Federal Trade Commission press release.

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