Extending the Smart Grid
A Smart Control Network with Embedded Intelligence Puts Everything on the Grid
When control systems in cities, buildings, and homes are linked with pricing and other information available through a smart grid, they become part of the grid. We call this becoming grid-aware.
Echelon's LonWorks control networking platform makes grid awareness possible at both the individual device level (a smart, communicating thermostat) and at the system level (a fully integrated building automation system). These devices and systems are critical parts of the smart grid from the moment they can react to conditions on the grid. Demand response, peak load management, save-a-watt days, and other energy-saving programs are driven by the ability of grid-aware systems and devices to respond to conditions on the grid.
In each case — city, building, or home — a network and owner already exists. (For example, facility management firms or companies own their buildings or factories.) In effect, extending the smart grid lets users provide software, information, and connection hardware to allow the energy-distribution network to work with the energy-consuming network. Getting the most out of grid awareness requires a smart control network, one that knows how to react to the grid so that the needs of the grid are in harmony with the needs of the end user who interacts with the smart devices. Examples include:
- Lighting systems that rely on light harvesting in perimeter offices while keeping light levels in interior offices at a moderate level. This is a better solution than shutting off all office lights, and it keeps employees more productive.
- Air conditioning systems that provide cooling only to occupied offices or those scheduled to be occupied. This keeps employees comfortable and productive while lowering the overall energy load.
- Home area networks that balance the energy needs of the water heaters in appliances — as well as more on-demand energy devices like microwaves — to help consumers shift energy use to lower cost times.
To extend the smart grid, we’re continually enhancing the LonWorks® platform. Hundreds of thousands of buildings and homes, and tens of millions of smart meters, are already grid-aware because they’re based on the LonWorks platform. Putting smarts into the devices themselves gives them the flexibility to react intelligently to grid conditions to decrease energy use while maintaining productivity, comfort, and security.