The numbers were simply astronomical. AT&T announced that the vampire power[1] from the cell phone charger – the same one I disgracefully leave plugged in – could actually brew three to four million cups of coffee a day. Or less importantly, provide power to 24,000 homes. The math geek in anyone rebels, of course, but it turns out no one left out a decimal nor was it a mistake. The tiny footnote at the bottom of the press release explained:
1Energy saving calculations based on the following assumptions by AT&T: 277 million wireless users in U.S., minimum one phone per user; user charges device 3 to 4 times per week for 8 hours; 80% of users leave charger plugged in wall socket; average charger wastes 170 mW (0.17 watts) when idle.
When we think in terms of numbers, everybody over 9 has a cell phone these days. The majority of us leave our chargers plugged in, admittedly very poor energy manners. Beyond the shame, we need to think cumulatively. Energy conservation is also like dieting. It only works when we make the right small choices every day, even holidays. No matter how tiny one’s personal contribution, it is the combination of all our little indulgences that continue to fuel global warming.
Our parents said things like, “Turn out the light!” Now it’s our turn to lovingly command, “Unplug your charger, the microwave, the computer,” et cetera.
Fortunately, innovation may soon help us with our power-sloppy behaviors. AT&T is using sensors to shut off power when a cell phone is not plugged into the charger. Their Dallas office has announced their newest product, the Zero Charger, will not create phantom loads. In other words, unless your phone is plugged into the unit and actively charging, it will not draw even a miniscule amount of power off the grid. In fact, the AT&T Zero Charger has achieved a 5-star energy rating. The Zero Charger will cost no more than the current one it replaces, which I find delightfully responsible on the part of AT&T. It goes on sale in May and will be available nationally at any AT&T retail outlet or online at www.wireless.att.com.
Before then we still have time to power a home or two merely by unplugging our chargers, and while we’re at it, turn off the power strips, unplug the Playstation… you get the gist.
Further reading:
