Flat screen TVs have been all the rage since their debut, and according to the Los Angeles Times, the sales of them are growing by 4 million a year. While they make watching TV a more enjoyable experience, they fail when it comes to energy efficiency. Compared to the larger, bulkier units, flat screens use 43 percent more energy. Since more people are trading in their old TVs for flat screens, there is a concern about what this transition is doing to the power grids in California.

In order to prevent flat screen TVs from using up a large chunk of the energy in California, the state has proposed a plan that would make these TVs more efficient. The plan would go into effect in 2011, and it would require retailers to sell only the most energy-efficient flat screens. Not only would this reduce the amount of energy being used by TVs, but it would also benefit consumers since their electric bills would be less. However, along with the benefits come disadvantages too.

Although there would be a couple years for manufacturers to prepare for this change, there is worry among them that they would not be able to meet this strict requirement within the time allotted. In an already troubled economy, this could create more job loss and failure among businesses. In addition, consumers might find ways around these restrictions by purchasing the energy draining TVs through Amazon or Ebay. Even though these inefficient TVs would not be available in California, residents can still buy out of state.

The state is aware of these issues and has divided the plan into two phases, which would occur over a two-year period. When implementing any plan, there will be obstacles and changes may need to be made. However, in the larger picture, if the plan succeeds, there is potential to preserve energy (approximately the amount used to power 86,400 homes annually).

California is known for their strict regulations when it comes to preserving and protecting the environment, and their efforts may encourage other states to strive higher and challenge themselves for the better.