Recommendations for Adapting the TV Policy Approach for Computer Monitors and Digital Signage Displays

The Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA) contracted with Pacific Crest Labs (PCL) to conduct a study on the energy performance of computer monitors and digital signage displays (DSDs). This study extends the regulatory and testing framework, originally developed for televisions, to arrive at a unified approach to regulating all three display types under common test methods and metrics.

PCL conducted laboratory testing and dataset analysis to determine how a dynamic-luminance-centered approach can be expanded from televisions to computer monitors and DSDs. The study examined Active Mode efficiency drivers including panel technology, dynamic light source dimming, color gamut, contrast ratio, and refresh rate, as well as Non-Active Mode power consumption across standby configurations ranging from simple infrared wake to smart wake and hands-free voice activation.

The study estimates that electronic displays consume approximately 582 TWh per year globally (about 2% of global electricity), with long-term achievable savings of 63 TWh per year from targeted efficiency and standby policies—representing $7.5 billion in reduced electricity costs annually and 31 metric tons of CO₂ reductions. The report concludes with recommendations on scope, test methods, and metrics for computer monitors, DSDs, and televisions, including proposals for Non-Active Mode limits and Active Mode efficiency metrics that account for screen-average luminance, screen area, and resolution. These findings can support the development of display efficiency standards that extend beyond televisions to capture savings across all major display technologies.