Samsung’s new line of New line of Luxia LED-backlit TVs, the Series 6000, 7000, and 8000 models, will use 40 percent less energy than typical fluorescent-backlit LCDs. The new LEDs TVs will available in 40-to-55-inch models, and an ultra-thin wall mount reduces the gap between the TV and wall to about .6 inches.

The 8000 and 7000 Series will also feature Samsung’s Internet@TV to give viewers access to the Yahoo! Widget Engine. The 6000 Series includes Samsung’s InfoLink RSS service, which displays news, sports, weather and stock info. The 8000 Series has a refresh rate of 240Hz, while the 7000 and 6000 Series have 120Hz refresh rate.

Panasonic touted its “Neo PDP” technology in a super high-efficiency 42-inch plasma TV and an ultra-thin 50-inch PDP just 8.8 mm (approximately 1/3 inch) in profilet. The 42-incher achieves triple luminance efficiency, while reducing the power consumption to 1/3 of the 2007 models, yet achieving the same brightness.

Panasonic is also showing a Neo LCD technology is integrated into a super energy-efficient 90-kWh-per-year 37-inch LCD panel. Panasonic says it has the lowest energy consumption of any LCD HDTV in the world, cutting the energy requirement almost in half compared to the previous model.

More energy efficiency is also coming to Blu-ray players. Panasonic’s 2009 Blu-ray players use Auto Power Stand-By, a function that automatically turns off the player when you return to TV operation using the Viera Link menu. The new BD60 consumes 16 percent less power in standby mode than last year’s model, the DMP-BD35.

Sony’s boasts that its new Eco Line of Bravia LCDs reduce power consumption by 40 percent. The VE-5 series, de this summer, features three models in 40-, 46- and 52-inch screen sizes. They use HCFL (Hot Cathode Fluorescent Lamps) that Sony says are far more efficient than traditional fluorescent backlights. The TVs meet the new Energy Star  specifications and have an Eco Switch that reduces vampire or standby power power to zero watts, as well as a presence sensor that can turn off the TV after someone leaves the room.

Sony is also showing OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diodes) display prototypes in 21- and 27-inch sizes at CES.

About the Author:
Steven Castle - Contributing Writer

Steven Castle is a writer, editor, and humorist who recently completed Filthy Rich Things, a savage satire on our thirst for success and wealth. He also is Electronic House's senior editor and co-founder of GreenTech Advocates.