apartment therapy changing the world, one room at a time

Over the years, California has pioneered similar tough standards for appliances, home insulation and food service equipment that eventually were adopted by the federal government and promoted to consumers with utility rebate programs.

"I think this is basically doable," said Energy Commission member Arthur Rosenfeld, an international leader for more than three decades in finding ways to save energy by boosting the efficiency of household appliances.

"Refrigerators and air conditioner manufacturers have grown up with standards, and, now, they are generally considered successes." he said. "But this is a new wrinkle for the TV industry."

Of course, those in the electronics industry aren't reacting favorably to the proposal, worrying about the laws stifling sales in an already tight market. But like the auto industry, we think the equivalent of the Prius will lead the way out of this crossroads (though us tech junkies are looking more for the equivalent of the Tesla) by offering energy efficiency and the recognizable performance/comforts of existing product. Because we note with energy availability being strained, both the consumer and the market needs to recognize we might not have enough electricity to go around to power everyone's 60" screen.

What do you think?