In the areas of information and communication technology and consumer electronics, the ongoing networking process is an increasingly important element from the point of view of energy efficiency.

Constantly improving communication options, especially those being opened up via the Internet, are driving the market and the development of related technologies at a very high pace. To an increasing extent, entertainment media (music, video, games, etc.) can also be called up via the Internet, where interaction also takes place. This means that consumer electronics and information technology will eventually merge completely and devices in private households will be permanently online. Consequently, low standby consumption will be of the utmost importance. As a result of rapid technological developments, an ever increasing quantity of devices is being brought onto the market. This means that it will also be essential to attach sufficient importance to consumption in "on" mode.

As a result of networking and new cost-effective technologies, the home automation segment is growing in importance. It permits energy management within the private household (turning down heating at night, opening/closing of blinds and shutters when required, turning lights on and off when required, etc.), and thus saves electricity as well as fossil energy. But the components of home automation systems also consume electricity.  It is therefore essential to ensure that energy-efficient systems are brought onto the market and put into operation.