Going Greener with DLP
Is there actually such a thing as a Green HDTV?  No.  Most LCD and plasma HDTV’s consume nearly four times as much power as the smaller televisions that most people buy to replace them.  There is, however, a greener alternative in the form of DLP televisions. 

DLP televisions are only available in big-screen sizes, not really a problem since most HDTV purchasers are blocking off a wall to use for their viewing pleasure.  DLP televisions use rear-projection digital light processing in order to provide a clearer picture.  A 60 inch DLP television consumes only 250 watts, where its LCD and plasma cousins would use 400-500 watts for the same tasks.

Mercury Bulbs
Detractors of the DLP televisions argue that they use mercury bulbs, which present an obvious problem when they need to be disposed of.  Samsung has come up with an LED bulb for use in DLP televisions, which further reduces the energy requirements of the DLP and makes disposal of the bulbs much more environmentally friendly.

Energy Star Revising HDTV Ratings
Current Energy Star ratings only measure the amount of power used when a television is in “standby” mode, or more commonly what is known as “off”.  They have been made to see the light in this obvious debacle and starting November 2008, Energy Star ratings on televisions will go up to where they should be – when the set is actually in use.  Having this kind of information front and center will allow consumers to make more discerning choices, regardless of the technology that they choose.

Tags: DLP television, green television, HDTV, LCD, mercury bulbs, plasma

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