GE Introduces Energy-Saving Whole-Home Sensor Solution

GE has revealed the latest additions to the Brillion suite of home energy solutions including the Brillion-enabled smart plugs, Whole-Home sensors and the GeoSpring hybrid water heater.

The product manager in charge of home energy at GE Appliances, William Paul stated that the new Whole-Home Sensor solution, directed at consumers who do not have a smart meter, is capable of communicating with real-time energy consumption. It connects to the electrical panels and allows consumers to determine their energy consumption without the help of a smart meter.

GE Appliances in collaboration with Flint Energies is currently testing the Whole-Home sensor along with the Nucleus energy manager and the Brillion-enabled thermostat to understand the potential to reduce peak load in combination with peak-time rebates and reduce utility bills for consumers. The tests are being conducted in Warner Robins, GA. The Whole-Home Sensor is likely to be available in Q2 of 2012.

Consumption data for 240 V applications such as pool pumps and panel boxes are sent to the Nucleus energy manager which notifies the consumer by sending the data to their personal computers and smartphones. The consumers receivedata on their electricity-intensive activities and can make smarter decisions.

The Brillion-enabled Smart Plugs are capable of communicating with the energy manager and provides feedback to consumers on electrical usage for 120 V devices and appliances. The Smart-Plugs can be used for non-smart devices and electronics that plug into 120 V standard outlets. Moreover, their usage can be shifted from one device to another, allowing consumers to closely monitor their electronic devices and appliances.

The Brillion-enabled thermostats enable consumers to alter their cooling and heating schedules by using the Nucleus software interface remotely through the iPhone.

The Brillion range of home-energy solutions include appliances comprising of water heaters, cooking products, dishwashers, refrigerators, laundry pairs and an in-home display.