Calif. advances tough energy requirements for flat-screen TVs, angering electronics retailers

Calif. advances tough flat-screen energy standards

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — California energy regulators are moving forward with a plan that could ban the sale of the most power-hungry televisions in the state.

The California Energy Commission on Friday released what it hopes will be nation’s first energy standards for flat-screen TVs. A final vote on the regulation is expected in November.

If the commission passes the new rules, beginning in 2011, California retailers would be able to sell only TVs that meet the guidelines of the voluntary federal Energy Star program.

A commission spokeswoman says at least 850 models already meet the standards.

Industry officials say the standards could limit consumer choice, drive shoppers to the Internet and cost the state millions in tax revenue and thousands of jobs.