Energy Consumption and Efficiency in Electronic Devices

With the rapid advancement of technology, the number of electronic devices used in our homes and workplaces has significantly increased. This rise has led to higher energy consumption and growing environmental impacts. In this context, making conscious choices regarding the energy consumption and efficiency of electronic products is essential, both economically and environmentally.
Energy efficiency refers to the ability of a device to perform its function while consuming the least possible amount of energy. It allows the same level of performance with lower energy usage, reducing energy waste. Energy efficiency plays a critical role in lowering carbon emissions, decreasing energy costs, and promoting the sustainable use of energy resources.
Electronic devices are categorized according to their energy efficiency using various labeling systems. In the European Union, energy labels grade devices from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), helping consumers make informed decisions about energy performance.
Additionally, the ENERGY STAR label identifies products that meet specific energy efficiency standards. This label enables consumers to easily recognize energy-saving products.
Energy Consumption of Electronic Devices in Türkiye
In Türkiye, household energy consumption has been increasing with the widespread use of electronic devices. In 2022, the total final energy consumption of households reached 1,287,738 terajoules. A significant portion of this consumption came from electrical appliances and electronic devices.
According to data from the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, Türkiye’s electricity consumption increased by 3.8% in 2024 compared to the previous year, reaching 347.9 TWh. The growing number of electronic devices in homes significantly contributes to this rise.
Electricity consumption in Europe has been steadily declining over the past 15 years. Events such as the 2008 financial crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the recent energy crisis have all contributed to this trend. However, the rising energy demand of data centers could increase Europe’s electricity demand by up to 30%.
In 2022, over 41% of Europe’s electricity came from renewable sources—a significant step forward for energy efficiency and sustainability.
In 2020, 3.3 billion tech devices in U.S. households consumed approximately 176 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity. This accounted for 12% of residential energy use and 4.5% of the nation’s total electricity consumption. Transitioning to energy-efficient devices could reduce household energy use by 25% to 30%.

Benefits of Choosing Energy-Efficient Electronic Products
1. Economic Savings
Energy-efficient devices use less electricity, leading to significant reductions in energy bills. For example, ENERGY STAR-certified devices can consume 10% to 50% less energy than standard models.
2. Reducing Environmental Impact
Lower energy consumption leads to reduced use of fossil fuels and lower carbon emissions, making it an essential part of the fight against climate change.
3. Sustainable Use of Energy Resources
Energy efficiency ensures the optimal use of existing energy resources, enhances energy security, and reduces dependence on energy imports.
Labels and Indicators to Watch for When Buying Electronics
When purchasing electronic products, it is important to look for the following labels and indicators:
• Energy Label (A–G Scale): Shows the energy efficiency of the device. A-rated products are the most efficient, while G-rated ones are the least.
• ENERGY STAR Label: Marks products that meet specific energy-saving criteria.
• Energy Consumption Value (kWh): Indicates the annual energy consumption in kilowatt-hours, helping estimate yearly energy costs.
The energy efficiency of electronic devices is crucial for both individual savings and environmental sustainability. Energy labels and classification systems allow consumers to make informed choices. By opting for energy-efficient products, we can reduce energy costs and minimize environmental impact.