Energy and cost savings from LED-backlit LCD TVs not communicated to consumers

SANTA CLARA, USA: According to an analysis in the DisplaySearch Q2’11 Quarterly TV Design and Features Report, brands are missing an opportunity to market LED-backlit LCD TVs based on cost savings. Analysis of electricity and TV prices together with power consumption data reveals modest payback times for low-energy TVs. There is a strong case for consumers to choose LED-backlit sets when replacing their TV, given the energy savings advantages.

DisplaySearch investigated whether the cost savings from lower energy consumption outweigh the increased purchase price of LED-backlit LCD TVs. In comparing CCFL and LED-backlit 40” LCD TVs, basic configurations and Energy Star certified, LED-backlit sets were found to have lower life-cycle costs, under reasonable lifetime assumptions, even in the US. The payback time for an entry-level LED-backlit TV is under four years in California, and under two years in Europe.

Paul Gray, DisplaySearch Director of TV Electronics Research, noted: “The benefits are clear, and it is surprising that TV set makers do not market this advantage. Consumers are attuned to fuel consumption in cars, and our Global TV Replacement Study showed they are equally mindful of electricity usage when choosing a TV. When compared to 3D, the survey revealed far heavier consideration for energy consumption than 3D.”

In the DisplaySearch Global TV Replacement Study, research was carried out on over 1,000 people per country. In most countries, lower power emerged as a stronger purchase motivator than LED backlights, but the connection between the two is not being made. Set makers seem to be failing to establish the connection or make the case for power, and thus cost savings, in their LED-backlit products.