Hidden Energy drain: Stand-by Mode Costs Households Up to €80 Annually
Rome, Italy – A seemingly insignificant habit – leaving devices on stand-by – is quietly inflating electricity bills for households across Italy. Consumption simulations reveal that appliances in stand-by mode, even with just a single LED illuminated, can collectively add up to an annual cost of between €50 and €80, comparable to the energy use of a small appliance.
The issue isn’t individual devices,but their cumulative effect. Modern homes often contain ten to twenty devices constantly drawing power, even when not in use - televisions, modems, gaming consoles, microwaves with digital displays, and battery chargers are common culprits. Eliminating this “invisible” consumption represents a cost-free energy recovery possibility.
Experts recommend simple solutions to mitigate stand-by power waste: grouping devices on power strips with switches for easy shut-off, and utilizing timer-equipped sockets or smart plugs to automatically cut power during off-peak hours. A dedicated evening routine of switching off devices can translate into annual savings equivalent to a “mini paycheck,” according to the report.
