O2 launches energy efficient mobile phone charger

Described as the first product of its kind to be launched by a UK network, the O2 Universal Charger claims to cut energy consumption by up to 70 per cent compared to standard mobile phone chargers and comes with inter-changeable leads, making the charger compatible with Nokia, Samsung and Sony Ericsson devices.

Using a power control system, the O2 charger cuts power when the battery is fully charged, even if the charger is left switched on in a socket.

Its maker says heat loss from the charger, another source of energy inefficiency in standard mobile chargers, has also been eliminated.

Research by 02 shows that a typical mobile phone charger wastes over 2.8 KWh of energy per year, With an estimated 73 million mobile phones in the UK, this adds up to over £30 million in wasted energy annually, according to the network operator.

It is estimated that there are currently in excess of 100 million mobile phone chargers in the UK.

“People are becoming increasingly concerned about the impact products are having on the environment and with mobile the single biggest impact is the energy used in charging,” said Ronan Dunne, ceo, Telefónica O2 UK. “The O2 Universal Charger offers customers a simple yet effective way of reducing the environmental impact of their phones and reduces the waste associated with charger disposal.”

The charger meets strict energy efficient guidelines of the US Energy Star rating, a voluntary label, identifying to consumers appliances that meet certain standards regarding energy efficiency.

O2’s Universal Charger is now available from all UK O2 stores priced £14.99. Additional connection cables are available for £4.99.

02 said the base unit of the Universal Charger will be compatible with BlackBerry and iPhone in early 2009.