Re:Tough call (Score 1)

I know the argument that you're trying to set up here between a slightly more expensive, but more energy efficient product, and a cheaper but less efficient product. However, the difference in price between LCDs and plasmas is neglible, when compared based on equivalent size and resolution. If you find cheap plasmas, they tend to be lower resolution (720p/1080i), while LCDs sold now are all 1080p. In fact, the most expensive HDTVs you'll find in the consumer market are Pioneer Kuros, which are plasma.

Moreover, your argument of the equivalent aspect ratio for a 5 foot HDTV and a 19inch TV if one adjusts viewing distance isn't relevant, because what one typically cares about is the detail that one can make out in that picture. I don't think you'll find a high def (certainly not 1080p) 19 inch TV, which is available on the larger sets.

Lastly, power availability is more of an issue for the energy grid during peak hours i.e. normal business hours. If your average TV viewer is at work at that time, then the impact of TVs to the grid is minor.