A simple way to cut down on home energy costs- new technology Smart Grid

http://www.energyhub.net/consumers

Intro:
The Energy Problem

Home energy usage in most of the U.S. is at an all-time high, and utilities across the country are struggling to keep up with demand. Meanwhile, America’s 110 million households needlessly waste energy, mainly through thermostats that are incorrectly programmed, lights and appliances that are left on, and the occurrence of leak current (the power used by electronic devices when they are plugged in but not in use).

At the same time, we’re all motivated to reduce our carbon footprint and save money. But aside from changing to compact fluorescent lightbulbs or choosing Energy Star appliances, we don’t know where or how to begin—because we don’t have the tools or information......

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Smart grids are one way to make energy use far more efficient mainly because it reduces the need for energy during peak times (mainly 9am-5pm) and allows users (us) to choose to buy their energy during off peak times. Why does this matter- 1- saves you money 2- if we reduce the amount of energy at peak times it will eliminate the need for other plants to be built- less coal or nuclear plants (how most of nyc gets its electricity) = less green house gas emissions.