As with tracking calories and losing weight, people who track their energy use are the most likely to make changes in their lifestyle and reduce consumption—as we saw with digital wall meters, which helped homeowners dramatically cut their use.
Now you can watch your energy use anywhere you go: All you need to do is purchase the energy monitoring device, TED 5000 for $200 to $300, and then download Google’s PowerMeter for free to start monitoring your progress. Some of Google’s employees have already tested it out and have said good things.
Eweek Europe reports:
According to Energy Inc, the TED 5000 is specifically designed to provide energy information to consumers rather than being a tool for utility to improve their margins. “Smart meters are designed primarily for the electric utility industry so they can better manage the supply-and-demand of electricity. TED is designed specifically for the consumer, so that one can better manage the use and costs of electricity. TED puts you in charge,” the company states.
Users can view their energy use daily on their personal iGoogle homepage or directly on their cell phones, and some people have already reported a 15 percent use reduction. In addition to monitoring, the device offers advice on how to cut carbon use. And, if saving money on energy isn’t enough of a motivator, Google thinks social competition just might be: PowerMeter also allows you to compare your results with your friends’.
Unlike Apple’s relationship with AT&T, Google doesn’t intend to keep the partnership limited to TED. Other utilities may soon roll out energy devices soon.
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Image: Google
