Everyone is gaming. From racing to role playing, the whole family is powering up.  

Playing on a gaming console?  

Avoid streaming media on your gaming system—it uses 15 times more energy than your digital media player and four times more energy than a traditional cable box or satellite. 

Don’t wait to update! Some software updates can help lower your gaming energy use by over 65%. 

Here are some more tips to help you save energy: 

• Review console settings: Adjust in-game graphics settings to find the right balance between performance and energy usage. Lowering graphics quality can significantly reduce power consumption and may make your computer cooler as well.
• Check your power supply: For best efficiency and value, look for an 80 Plus-rated power supply that is gold level, according to PC Magazine. An 80 Plus rating guarantees that the power supply will achieve a minimum of 80% efficiency. Here are some that meet the criteria: 
  • Thermaltake Toughpower 750W 
  • SegotepGM850 
  • EVGA 500 GD
• Unplug your console: Set your computer to turn off when you’re away from the keyboard—or if you aren’t going to use your console for a while, simply unplug it. If using a PC, schedule software updates during the day while you’re using your computer in other ways. 
• Use an advanced power strip: Watch for accessories that may still be plugged in and draining energy. Purchasing an advanced power strip from our Online Marketplace can help control your energy consumption.
• Turn off your controllers: Some consoles allow you to turn off controllers after a set time of inactivity. If that’s not an option, simply turn off your controllers when you stop playing.  

See how small changes can add up to big savings. Learn more at SaveWithPPL.com.   

Video and copy sources 

• Lawrence Berkeley National Lab 
• Entertainment Software Association 
• EnergyStar.gov