AT&T Seeks Energy Star Certification For Set-Tops

EPA Limits For U-verse TV Boxes Are 36% Less Than Typical Cable Set-Tops

By Todd Spangler -- Multichannel News, 5/14/2008 10:58:00 AM

AT&T is working to achieve Energy Star certification for its U-verse TV set-top boxes—supplied by Motorola and Cisco Systems—to meet the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s revised energy-efficiency guidelines for the voluntary program.

As of Jan. 1, 2009, all new cable, satellite, and telco set-top boxes that carry the Energy Star logo will need to be at least 30% more efficient than conventional models, the EPA announced last month.

AT&T spokeswoman Jenny Parker said all U-verse TV set-tops that have been deployed are already compliant with the Energy Star regulations for IPTV boxes, and that the company is now working with its suppliers to receive certification from the EPA.

Energy Star limits for IPTV set-top boxes are about 36% less than cable set-top box requirements. The maximum allowed for IPTV set-tops is 45 kilowatt hours per year, compared with 70 kilowatt hours per year for cable boxes.

According to AT&T, the lower power consumption is achieved in part because IPTV set-tops don't need tuners.

"We applaud AT&T for their commitment to deliver Energy Star-qualified set-top boxes to their AT&T U-verse TV customers," Robert Meyers, principal deputy assistant administrator for the EPA's Office of Air and Radiation, said in a prepared statement. "Their efforts will bring a new level of energy efficiency to home entertainment, helping households reduce greenhouse gas emissions and save money."