Abstract www.emf.ethz.ch ' 3_offer ' study_article
Wireless charging
For this report, wireless inductive charging stations for small electronic devices were investigated for their energy consumption and EMF emissions. Two technical standards exist, Qi and AirFuel. The first is dominant in the market. Wireless charging requires more energy than comparable wired charging. During active charging, the energy efficiency from the socket to the charging module of the end device is in the range of 50-60 %, while for wired charging it is around 75 %.
In stand-by mode, wireless charging stations consume more energy than mains adapters left plugged in.
Consumption is particularly high when the terminal is left on the console after charging.
In the worst case, more is needed for stand-by operation than for charging the battery.
Assuming 100 % penetration of the technology in the household sector, the annual additional electricity consumption of wireless charging compared to conventional charging would amount to about 30 GWh.
Wired is more efficient. Eth Zurich is neutral. All those who do not care.
