One of our readers, Derek from Software Advice, sent me this link to an article regarding the benefits of energy management systems for apartment dwellers. I am providing the link as a follow up to an article I posted a while back regarding Google PowerMeter. I think the article is informative and emphasizes the point that the real savings of money and energy consumption with these devices comes from the user having access to actionable data. The device and tracking system arms the consumer with information which hopefully motivates the consumer to make changes and reap the rewards. I think it is a concept which appeals not only the thrifty,or the eco-aware individuals, but also to the competitive, goal oriented personalities. It is worth looking into.
Welcome To The Energy Blog Posts
Google Powermeter
I love my Google account. No matter where I am, I have access to my mail, calendar, documents, pictures and news. The free tools (Analytics, Webmaster, Places, Maps…) have been invaluable in my job as DC Home Systems webmaster. So, when I read a recent blog about ‘Google PowerMeter’ my curiosity was piqued.
Google offers a free web based energy monitoring tool.
The site displays your energy consumption and related costs and allows you to view the data in a day, week or monthly view. The program will calculate a projection of future consumption based on current trends. Armed with this information you can input your desired consumption and track your progress to your budget goals. And, as with all Google tools, you can communicate with others members of the PowerMeter community and utilize Google’s online help center.
Google PowerMeter interfaces with the meter data management systems of participating ‘Smart Grid’ utility companies (none in the North East unfortunately) as well as standalone energy tracking devices manufactured for in home use. Current Cost, a UK based company, has a number of devices which display energy data on a portable, docked device that looks similar to the iPod classic. TED (The Energy Detective) manufactures a similar line of displays (www.theenergydetective.com). One of the TED models allows you to monitor from both your electrical panel and your solar or wind inverter. These devices are small, easy to install and quite inexpensive, most under $300. With one of these devices combined with Google PowerMeter, you are one more step down the path of reduced energy consumption.
And though I love my Google, those of you with or contemplating Crestron home systems should be aware that Crestron Green Light offers a more sophisticated monitoring, display and control option which monitors the dollars, energy(WH), power(W) and Carbon(lbs) associated with your electricity, gas, water and solar consumption. With this system, your motorized shades, lighting control and thermostat will automatically adjust based on the thresholds programmed for your budget. Now that’s a giant step in the green direction.
Electronics for Elderly Care
I am excited to report that today I have seen an application of our home automation technology being put to use in caring for our elderly. I have have been noodling the concept for a few years and was pleased to find a company that has developed an engineered and scalable solution.
The core concept is to install sensors that can monitor the key activities of a loved one like: movement in the home, opening and closing of doors and medicine cabinets, flushing of toilets, use of a vehicle, etc.. These sensors are tied to a processor that will present real time information via the web, email or smart phone. Triggers can be set up so that certain events, or lack of events, can send an emergency email or phone call.
Another option with these systems is to add a video camera for remote monitoring and a “message” board that would permit you to type or even draw messages to a screen. You can even post photo’s, videos or music for them as well.
Finally, lights and heat control can be automated with occupancy sensors so that the person does not need to fumble in the dark or try and read a thermostat with small print.
I am particulalry excited about this application of technology as it takes the core elements of systems that we have installing for years and makes them available in a focussed way for our elderly and those in need.
Apps For Home Control Systems
New technologies allow you to use your iPhone as a house wide remote control. Simply tap the screen to select movies, music and TV in any room or adjust volume, light levels and room temperature with just a touch. Using the home Wi-Fi network locally or the powerful 3G and EDGE networks remotely, total control is always at your fingertips. What apps would you like to have for your home audio, video, lighting control or other home systems?
