Plug-level monitoring

Smart plugs are another way of managing home energy without smart meters. Carbon management software company Zerofootprint built a prototype of a smart plug system that can transmit data wirelessly to a hub in the home. From there, the data can be transferred over a home Internet gateway and accessed via a Web browser. The company is looking for utilities or other companies to offer its TalkingPlug devices to customers. Not only does it present detailed energy data, but it also allows a person to program lighting and appliances. The company estimates the cost of these smart plugs is about $50 but says that price could go down if they were to be made at large scale.

November 20, 2009 3:58 AM PST

Photo by: Zerofootprint

| Caption by: Martin LaMonica