Japanese gadget sales for energy-efficient products have helped lift the struggling Japanese economy, in thanks to a Japanese government program to offer incentives to consumers who go green.

Specifically, the government created a new "eco-point" system that gives consumers valuable "eco-points" -- good towards future purchases and trade-ins of older products -- which has caused a 50 percent increase in electronics sales the week after the program publicly launched.

The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry said electronics sales last week increased 30 percent compared to the same time in 2008.  Furthermore, Gfk Marketing Services Japan indicated flat-panel TV sales increased 60 percent in the May 18-24 week compared to 2008.

Japan hopes its eco-point system will help the second largest economy in the world rebound from struggles related to the struggling global economy.  The government has reduced taxes on some gas-electric vehicles, while making some completely tax-free when purchased.  The Honda Insight and Toyota Prius are exploding in popularity in Japan, as both companies hope to continue to sell good numbers for the green vehicles.

There has been a broader push for manufacturers to develop greener products, as the companies are finally responding.  Many products launched now are promoted as being more eco-friendly, using less power and being better for the environment.

Government also are working together to try and create guidelines how to further convince companies and consumers to go green.  The International Partnership for Energy Efficiency Cooperation (IPEEC) will catalog each participating nation's current energy efficiency policies so they can be further reviewed in the future.   

"There's been a growing desire for international collaboration on energy efficiency," said David Rogers, U.S. Department of Energy Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Director.  "[The IPEEC] fills a gap in international collaboration at the decision maker level."

The IPEEC also will share ideas behind efficiency standards, marketing, and other similar interests, the group said in a press statement.