The U.S. Energy Department is seeking information to better understand the emerging smart technology market, including any energy efficiency trends in smart appliances and commercial equipment. Recognizing the investments in innovative products, the department said that the request for information will ensure that the department does not hamper innovation in the process of setting efficiency standards. The move comes after the U.S. District Court for Northern District of California ruled in February that the department unlawfully stalled energy efficiency standards finalized under the Obama administration, in a win for environmental groups and 11 states that filed the lawsuit. Those rules were estimated to save consumers and businesses $8.4 billion over 30 years. Last year, the department sought information about market-based approaches to revise the conservation program, after putting several efficiency standards on hold. Comments are due within 60 days.