The Networked Devices Task Group (NDTG) is a platform for international cooperation between governments, experts and industry to develop innovative solutions to the challenge of increasing energy consumption by networked devices. The term “networked devices” refers to a range of technologies, from computers and televisions to white goods, integrated home networks and smart grids and meters. While network enabled devices and systems have enormous potential to deliver diverse efficiencies across many sectors and services, the energy consumption of networked devices – especially when they are not in use but are in standby mode – is growing quickly (IEA, 2015).

The NDTG aims to minimise network standby energy consumption and to reduce the energy wastage that results from the connectivity of networked devices. As such, it also aims to support the energy efficient delivery of the many benefits that can arise from the network connection of devices.

The NDTG contributes to work under the G20 Energy Efficiency Action Plan and is part of the overarching mission of the Super-Efficient Equipment and Appliance Deployment initiative (SEAD).

Membership

Leading members: the United Kingdom and the International Energy Agency.
Participants: Australia, Canada, China, the European Union, Germany, Republic of Korea, Russia, Turkey and the United States.

Recent developments

In 2015 the NDTG brought together 300 governments and private sector organisations as part of a new “Connected Devices Alliance”, which:

• agreed to work collaboratively to maximise network-enabled energy savings and minimise energy consumption from all networks / network‑connected devices;
• defined a set of voluntary definitions, design principles and policy principles for participating countries; and
• established a centre of excellence and an awards scheme to support and promote future initiatives in the field.