The US government Evironmental Protection Agency issued its Energy Star requirements for computer servers saying those with the badge will be 30 percent more energy efficient than standard servers.

The agency said: "If all servers sold in the United States meet this new specification, energy cost savings would grow to $800 million per year and prevent greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those from more 1 million vehicles.

To qualify servers will include: Efficient power supplies that generate less waste heat, reducing the need for excess air conditioning in the facilities where they are housed;

Improved power quality, which provides building-wide efficiency benefits;

Capabilities to measure real time power use, processor utilization, and air temperature, which improves manageability and lowers total cost of ownership;

Advanced power management features to save energy across various operating states;

A power and performance data sheet for purchasers that standardizes key information on energy performance, features and other capabilities.

More information at http://www.energystar.gov/datacenters