The goal of smart meters is twofold. Two way meters can communicate with the utility and provide real-time demand data. Secondly, the process of smart metering will allow homeowners to manage when they use electricity and leverage special promotions that utilities will offer. Daytime electricity generation is the most expensive but if utilities can reduce daytime generation and move it to evening or late night there is a lot of money to be saved and eventual passed on to homeowners.
Some sort of smart meters have been around for 10 years and newer technology is fueling the trend. A few years back there were health and safety concerns but the industry seems to have worked out those problems. Privacy advocates also caution on “too much info” being sent to the power company. Currently there is an estimated 10 million homes that have some type of metering technology installed. Some states that are rolling out the programs are getting push back from homeowners (Article from Texas) who say they are being forced to use the new meters against their wishes. Please contact your local Public Utility Commission to convey any concerns.
What Will The Offers From My Utility Look Like?
Let’s say you pay 7.9 cents for a Kilowatt (1000 watts of electricity). Utilities will offer you 20% savings if you use electricity after 8 pm or even more after 11 pm when generation costs the least. (Click on video above) Your smart meter will communicate just how much you use and when you use it. In many states that had energy deregulation, competing energy suppliers may entice new customers with “free electricity every Wednesday for two months”. It won’t be long before you see offers form banks and credit card companies offering similar deals to sign up for a new service.
With rapidly advancing technology in the home automation industry, fueled by WiFi networks, your smart phone will communicate with your smart meter and tell you the optimal time to turn on the dishwasher or do the wash!
Stay tuned, this is going to be fun. Visit your electric utility’s website and that of your state public utility commission. Also, if you already have a smart meter, kindly provide some feedback in the box below. Thanks
About Deborah Laemmerhirt
Let me assist you in finding everything you need to know about buying or selling a home! As the preeminent real estate professional in my community, I am dedicated to providing the finest service available while breaking new ground.
Because the real estate industry is becoming more sophisticated and challenging every day, you need a professional that understands the industry and is positioned to stay ahead of the game.
I go the extra mile to help you achieve your goals. That’s why I constantly research the home, market and estate values so your home is priced effectively from day one. I also make sure the public knows your home is for sale by using innovative marketing techniques to attract potential buyers.
As an Internet-savvy real estate representative in Connecticut, I’ve had the opportunity to help many home buyers find their ideal homes and many sellers obtain top dollar for their homes. Buying or selling a home is one of the largest financial transactions that most people ever undertake, so I will help you through every step of the process. My goal is to make your home selling or buying experience as easy and enjoyable as possible.
My services include:
Explaining the home selling and buying process thoroughly
Diligently selecting homes that meets your criteria
Pricing your home correctly and implementing a unique yet proven marketing plan
Negotiating on your behalf
Tracking the closing process to ensure a smooth transaction
I welcome the opportunity to address any questions you might have about buying, selling or current market conditions. Please call or e-mail me any time, and I will be happy to discuss your next steps in the buying or selling process.
I specialize in both Residential and Commercial Properties.
I also head a Real Estate Group to provide you with expert service and support.
Areas of Expertise
Making transitions in your life is challenging. You may be moving from out of town, a different state, internationally or just next door! Regardless of the distance I am prepared to respond to your unique needs.If you are a BUYER looking to downsize, up-size, want a new construction, desire a condominium, to invest, even if this is your first home, I will design a unique plan to fulfill your needs in a reasonable time frame, with the best negotiated price and the least amount of inconvenience.For my Home Sellers, I have an innovative marketing plan that will leave nothing to chance. Just call, and I would be happy to share the DIFFERENT and SUCCESSFUL TOOLS I utilize on each of my listings.
I have lived in Connecticut for over 35 years. I practice Real Estate in Fairfield County, New Haven County and Litchfield County. This includes, but is not limited to Bethel, Bridgewater, Brookfield, Danbury, Harwinton, Kent, Litchfield, New Fairfield, New Milford, Newtown, Oxford, Ridgefield, Redding, Roxbury, Sherman, Southbury, Warren, Washington, Westport and Wilton.
