Set-Top Boxes: Opportunities and Issues in Setting Efficiency Standards

July 2004

ABSTRACT

The potential exists for substantial energy savings from more efficient set-top boxes (STBs), including digital TV converter boxes, cable boxes, and satellite receivers/tuners. Much of this potential is driven by the scheduled conversion to digital broadcasting in 2007, which will require analog television sets to use some type of set-top box (either a digital converter box, or a digital cable box or satellite tuner that also serves as a converter) to display programming. The growing interest in digital cable and satellite programming and their expanding services also presents an opportunity for new policies and programs to curtail the energy consumption of STBs.

This report presents findings and savings estimates from research into the rapidly evolving market for STBs. Topics covered include descriptions of various STBs and related technologies; a summary of the STB market; estimates of current and future STB energy use; descriptions of current program activity in the United States and abroad targeting STBs; options for minimum-efficiency standards for STBs; and an analysis of the potential savings from STB standards. Recommendations for mandatory minimum-efficiency standards on STBs are outlined along with suggestions for improving voluntary labeling programs.

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15pp., 2004, $16.00, A041