The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued more stringent specification requirements for computer monitors receiving the Energy Star label this week.

The new rules are the fifth revision of the specs governing computer monitors, but now also includes digital picture frames and large commercial displays measuring up to 60 inches diagonal.

The specifications for smaller displays under 30 inches goes into effect Oct. 30. The rules for larger displays typically used in museums, restaurants or bars take effect Jan. 1, 2010. Large displays represent 70 percent of the energy savings potential in this category. But digital picture frames represent a growing wave of opportunity to save energy: The 9.3 million digital frames shipped in 2008 are forecast to double by 2015. The EPA estimates there are about 150 million monitors in operation in the U.S., split between homes and offices.  

Energy Star qualified products are, on average, 20 percent more energy efficient than their conventional counterparts. Americans would enjoy $1 billion in energy savings every year if all displays sold in the country met the new requirements. It typically aims for 25 percent compliance in all categories.

More than 40,000 individual product models from 50 product categories and more than 2,000 manufacturers meet Energy Star requirements.

The EPA will release its newest set of specifications for computers in July.

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