It takes 140 TWh of energy to power the world's personal computers each year, with monitors accounting for up to 35 percent of a desktop computer’s total energy consumption. Personal computing products account for a large share of all energy consumed by information and communication technologies, which are responsible for approximately two percent of total global CO2 emissions.

Preliminary SEAD Initiative analysis found that increasing the efficiency of computers in SEAD economies could, by 2030, save 45 TWh of energy annually. These savings would avoid the need for approximately 15 medium-sized power plants and reduce annual CO2 emissions by 40 million tons.

To date, more than 40 economies around the world have developed minimum efficiency standards or labeling programs for computers.

SEAD Global Efficiency Medal

The 2013 SEAD Global Efficiency Medal competition recognized the world's most energy efficient computer monitors from around the world.


The SEAD Initiative conducts technical and policy research to support the development of ambitious energy efficiency policies and programs for computers and computer displays
