Standby Power: Building a Coherent International Policy Framework

Lloyd Harrington, Energy Efficient Strategies
Hans-Paul Siderius, SenterNovem
Mark Ellis, International Energy Agency

Keywords

Abstract

With the advent of electronic equipment, energy consumption has become more prevalent when products are not in use. Such products are now ubiquitous in the residential and commercial sectors and collectively they consume significant electricity when not performing their main function (non-active or standby modes). Standby is a difficult policy area as the range of possible equipment types is enormous. With increasing product complexity, the number and type of standby modes is also increasing.

The IEA has coordinated action towards a 1 watt goal which has been formally adopted by Australia and Korea through mandatory requirements. Japan has included standby into some of its Top Runner levels. Europe is investigating a horizontal standby requirement under the Ecodesign directive and has issued a draft implementing measure. The IEA has set up a new implementing agreement on energy efficiency and standby power is a key annex. The IEC has issued a committee draft revision of IEC62301 which includes a framework of mode definitions as well as some improvements to the overall test methodology which will be critical for accurate quantification of standby.

A horizontal approach based on a power allowance for specified functions is likely to be the key. But there are unresolved issues such as scope and ensuring that any such requirements do not create perverse changes in product design such as the removal of low power modes from the product design. Careful investigations and close consultation with industry are required to resolve these matters.