So in essence the EU is driving innovation - to manufacture devices that do more, with the same amount of energy. Doing more with less pretty much sounds like a big part of the definition of what innovation should be and honestly feels like the way to go.

The industry's concern is clearly more focused on their ability to milk profits than offering the best product possible for the end consumer. Many may disagree, but I find it rather unfortunate that not all countries have regulatory bodies protecting and driving consumer's best interests (as well as environmental interests). In many places the main concerns seem to be oriented towards the protection of profits and corporate interests.

The current 8k lineup doesn't offer better energy efficiency because it was never high on the priorities list of manufacturers, not because its impossible. The article clearly acknowledges that consumption is high and that there are ways to reduce it and Samsung seems to be saying it is doable.

There are known limitations with the current materials and processes and I guess that is precisely why the drive should've been put towards true innovation.

As a consumer I'm perfectly happy to wait a year or 2 before there are 8k options available with reasonable power consumption - after all it really is in my own best interest to do so.