By Emma Bailey
Energy efficiency, at times referred to as the “fifth fuel,” can cut carbon emissions without the cost of adding new generating capacity or putting additional strain on the electrical grid. As more companies and individuals worldwide recognize the need to mitigate climate change-related risks, the development of technology to address and improve industrial and consumer energy use has flourished.
A part of the growing “Internet of Things” ecosystem, smart thermostats are devices which give users the ability to both see and control power and fuel use. Installations of these devices are gaining in popularity, proving their ability to reduce heating and cooling costs while cutting down on energy consumption overall.
Analyzing and informing in real-time
In simple terms, “smart” or Wifi-connected thermostats are small computers that are able to “learn” how to predict and respond to behavior. After installing the unit, users adjust the temperature through the control panel or smart device. At this point, the smart thermostat isn’t much different from its analog counterparts.
Energy, personalized
As smart thermostats learn your behaviors, they also calculate the best time to activate. A user’s peak costs might range between noon and 5p.m. In response, the thermostat will activate the cool air at about 11a.m. It then shuts off at noon so that anyone in the building or home can enjoy a cool space without paying the most expensive rate
Source- Eco-Business, 19th October 2016: How smart thermostats are making energy efficiency easy