We hear about the saving and the wasting of energy all the time. It seems like we don’t actually pay attention until it affects us in the real world. Which is how this light switch helps. Peter Russo and Brendan Wypich of Stanford University developed the SmartSwitch, a light control with tactile feedback that helps you “see” how much energy is already being used, whenever you try to flick the switch.

If the total energy consumption in the house is low, the SmartSwitch is easy to flip. But if the consumption is higher, the SmartSwitch is physically harder to flip, thanks to a brake pad within the mechanism. The idea is that people will use this tactile feedback to decide if they really really need that light on or not. And it gives users a physical interaction with how much they are using.

LG just announced the launch of it’s new LG LH30FD LCD HDTV series. The LCDs will come in three sizes, 47 inch, 42 inch and 32 inches and will feature rich finishes to compliment home interiors.

The interesting thing is that they are being promoted as energy saving devices with up to 70% reduction of power consumption when using the LCD’s unique power saving modes. No other specs yet or the pricing, but they will likely hit the Korean markets first.

If you are concerned about how much energy you are using, but are forgetful and need some encouragement, this little switch will give you a visual representation of how much energy you are using. The switch lights up only a little when you’re not using much energy and it shines brighter when you’re wasting too much.

What with energy being invisible, it’s easy to waste more then you intend to. So a visual reminder is just the thing. Not many other details on this one for the moment. Like how much of your house this will take care of, etc. It might be good if it were vocal though, “Turn off some lights you wasteful pig. What did you buy me for if you aren’t going to listen to me.” Nagging always gets things done after all, as any married person knows.