BBC: "New EU energy rules for TVs and other household gadgets"

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"European Union rules will oblige new networked devices such as modems and internet-connected televisions to switch themselves off when not in use.

"Many gadgets are connected to the internet 24/7, using 25-100 watts while their owners sleep.

"But new devices sold from Thursday will fall to sleep, using a trickle of power when they are not in use.

"The European Commission said the move would save an average household about £32 a year.

"The change is part of the EU's Ecodesign initiative, which aims to cut costs, improve competitiveness and reduce carbon emissions."