Over 90% energy savings achieved with solid-state street lights developed by Japanese company

Strategies Unlimited forecasts the LED lighting market to have a CAGR of 28% from 2008-2012, but many challenges remain.

Approximately US$2 million per year is expected to be available to labs for new awards under this call, funded over multiple government fiscal years.

Philips has unveiled its 2009 LCD TV range with an emphasis on high-end models boasting internet access, new EPG and menu systems, and power-saving LED technology.

LG Electronics plans to keep spending to develop new products despite a "tough" 2009, unveiling a partnership with YouTube and a dozen new TVs in the midst of the severe economic downturn.

Sony's new 20x super-zoom camera uses a more powerful processor so it can eliminate noise, capture 10 frames per second, record 1080p HD video, and merge pictures for panoramic shots just by whipping the camera around.

Japan-based electronics titan Hitachi is likely to scale back its TV business in Mainland China in a planned business reorganization, disclosed sources familiar with the matter on March 2.

Japan's exports plunged 45.7% in January compared with a year ago to hit the lowest figure in 10 years, official figures have shown. Imports exceeded exports by 952.6 billion yen (US$9.9 billion). It is the largest gap since records began in 1980. Demand for Japanese cars in particular dropped by 69%. Trade in electronics and other goods has also slumped as global economies and consumer spending contract, pushing Japan deeper into recession.

Amid mounting environmental concerns, TV manufacturers are racing to make energy-efficient sets, with some now launching "eco" branded TVs.