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In India leading computer vendors such as Hewlett-Packard (HP), Dell and Acer are aiming to turn green & become more eco-friendly. The vendors are adopting ‘green computing’ in a major way. Apart from rolling out energy-efficient computers made from recyclable materials, the vendors are launching recycling programmes in India to reduce e-waste.

Analysts feel green computing could become the next growth driver at a time when market watchers like IDC have projected that there could be a drop in PC sales in India this year. Since green computers consume much less energy and reduce the total cost of ownership, the vendors feel their latest initiatives will boost sales amidst the slowdown.

Interestingly, the government is also coming up with energy efficiency standards for computers. Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) secretary Saurabh Kumar said the organization is already collecting data to come up with the standards by March 2010. “Initially, we will come up with energy standards for desktops and monitors, and eventually for laptops,” he said.

“Corporates are, for sure, seeing the benefits of cost savings. However, the consumer segment is yet to wake up to green computing,” said Acer India chief marketing officer S Rajendran. The BEE labeling is expected to fill that gap and create consumer awareness about energy efficient computers.

HP has just rolled out a notebook battery replacement programme in India. Dell, too, is betting on green computing to drive growth. Apart from innovations in the product line, Dell and HP have rolled out recycling programmes in India for safe disposal of old equipment in an environment responsible manner. Dell is even innovating packaging by making them from sustainable material. HP’s design centre in India is working on developing several such products.

At a time when companies are reducing costs, energy efficient computers & servers will find more acceptances. It makes business sense for enterprises and consumers since these products enable huge savings on power bills throughout the product’s lifecycle.