Currect me if I'm wrong but I believe that current PC processors don't actually run x86 anymore, incoming x86 commands are translated into another architecture (RISC I believe). They descided to stick with the installed x86 userbase instead of going for better product (this has happened before). Anyway, even if the architecture was still x86 limited heat gains would be seen on going to a more eficient one, commands could only be streamlined so much.
I don't see wattages declining anytime soon, they will rise until heatsink design allows them to go no higher, then they will level off or increase die size for better transfer or allow cooling of both sides. Maybe heatpipes will be incorporated with hsfs. But beyong that, I don't see maintainance needing systems like water going mainstream.
Edward
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