Your Future Appliances
I recently discussed Smart Grid pilot projects and some initial consumer reactions to a smarter grid. I've been looking for a simple Smart Grid introduction and some specific examples for homeowners.
Fast Company has a short article on GE's new Smart Appliances, including hot water heaters, ovens, clothes dryers, and refrigerators. There is also a link to a video of a GE representative discussing the appliances and their interactions with the electric system. It's a good intro to the appliances we may all be able to purchase in the future.
GE is working with the power utility in Louisville, Kentucky to test the appliances and related upgraded electric meters. If fully implemented, the system would allow homeowners to set the appliances to run at lower power or postpone operation when electricity is most expensive (e.g., hot summer afternoons) and automatically restart when power is cheaper.
Fast Company says the GE appliances may be available yet this year. Maybe my hot water heater can last a few more months.
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