How can I reduce standby power consumption in a smart home without compromising automation?

Standby power reduction in smart homes can be achieved by selecting devices compliant with the IEC 62301 standard, which defines measurement methods for standby power and sets a threshold of ≤1 W for networked equipment. Implementing Zigbee 3.0 or Thread protocols instead of Wi-Fi for sensor networks reduces per-node consumption from approximately 0.5 W to under 0.05 W. Centralized energy management systems utilizing load shedding algorithms can disconnect non-essential circuits during unoccupied periods while maintaining critical automation functions. The European Commission Regulation (EC) No 1275/2008, amended by (EU) 2023/826, further mandates that household electrical appliances must not exceed 0.5 W in off mode and 0.8 W in standby mode from May 2025.