GE Introduces New Energy Interface Device

Posted on January 15, 2010 at 9:38 am

GE just announced the introduction of a new energy interface device (EID) for consumers to track and manage home energy consumption. The device is a welcome addition to the homeowner’s energy management arsenal.

GE’s EID is an in-home display on steroids. Linked wirelessly to a smart meter via ZigBee or another protocol, it displays energy usage in real-time so consumers can see immediate responses when turning appliances on and off.  It also communicates with smart thermostats and smart appliances, so the user can hit the touch-screen to control those devices.  The research literature suggests that consumers equipped with such an EID are likely to reduce total energy consumption anywhere from 10 to 30%, and peak demand by 20 to 50%.

GE’s EID competes with similar products from Control4 and others.  As the market develops, we’ll watch to see how consumer preferences develop in two areas.  First, will they be more motivated by energy management or by other home automation, including entertainment?  Of course, consumers want both.  Second, will they buy EIDs or use general purpose devices such as iPhones and laptop computers for these applications?

Kudos to GE on its announcement.  And those two questions?  Stay tuned as 2010 promises many more such exciting announcements!