GridPoint Unveils New Home Energy Management Tools

Smart Grid solutions provider GridPoint has released its next-generation home energy management solution which includes a comprehensive suite of features for continued interactive relationships between utilities and their customers, as well as features to help consumers manage their energy use.

The new release was designed to be used regularly by consumers who want to understand and manage their natural gas and electricity consumption. It also offers energy conservation tips based on individual lifestyles and supports enrollment in utility programs such as solar, demand response and energy efficiency programs.

GridPoint considers its new offering to be a one-stop energy management solution. Because it is tightly integrated with utility back-end systems, the program is capable of providing the personal energy efficiency recommendations and to execute key transactions. Customers can view and pay bills, enroll in the utility programs and manage an expanded number of smart home devices remotely.

"Our home energy management software empowers utility customers with comprehensive, personal information they can regularly act upon," said Michael J. Carlson, GridPoint executive vice president. "The innovative design of our consumer portal is extensible to our other Smart Grid applications, allowing utilities to use the same familiar venue to engage customers in programs such as load management or smart charging their electric vehicles."

In a nutshell, the new release promises:

· Complete View of Energy Consumption – Integration with utility-provided electricity and gas consumption information provides consumers with a more complete view of their total energy use.

· Utility Program Support and Easy Opt In – Key utility programs are supported, enabling consumers to enroll in energy efficiency, solar, demand response and other relevant programs.

· Enhanced Device Control – The number of smart home devices and device types that consumers can remotely manage via the Internet, in-home display or smart phone has expanded, reflecting the rapid growth of this market. GridPoint’s open, standards-based server technology allows for quick integration of new devices.

· Personalized Conservation Tips – Enhanced analytics and utility system integration allow consumers to receive very customized recommendations on how to save money and reduce their carbon footprint. Rich media, including video, makes energy efficiency tips meaningful and encourages adoption.
Source : SmartGrid News, 9/12/09