(Planet Ark 18 Jun 09) The European Commission and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have set new standards for office appliances which could save the equivalent of one year electricity consumption in Ireland.

The new specifications for computers and imaging equipment such as printers and copiers will come into effect from July 1, the Commission, the executive arm of the European Union said in a statement on Wednesday.

The move is expected to save 22 Terrawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity over the next four to six years.

The standards are set under the Energy Star certification program for energy efficient consumer products developed by the EPA and the U.S. Department of Energy.

Devices such as computers, kitchen and buildings appliances bearing the Energy Star logo are said to save 20-30 percent energy on average.

The new standards for computers and imaging equipment are expected to save 18TWh and 4TWh, respectively, in the EU alone for purchases over the next three years, the Commission said.

Planet Ark 18 Jun 09: EU and U.S. set energy standards for office equipment