Microsoft Launches Internet Software to Help Consumers Manage Electricity Use

Strategic Insights -

Microsoft Corp. is set to introduce a new Internet-based software, called Hohm, to help consumers estimate their electricity usage and identify opportunities to reduce energy consumption. The software will initially partner with four utilities to provide detailed usage information to their residential customers who opt-in to the program. The software will use historical weather and usage data from the U.S. Department of Energy and the Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory to estimate energy efficiency. The move comes as several states have implemented laws requiring utilities to reduce energy consumption, and pending federal legislation aims to promote energy conservation nationwide.

Key Takeaways:

  • Microsoft's Hohm software will provide detailed energy usage information to consumers who opt-in to the program, partnered with four utilities, including Xcel Energy and Puget Sound Energy.
  • The software will use historical weather and usage data from the U.S. Department of Energy and the Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory to estimate energy efficiency.
  • Hohm will also estimate carbon dioxide emissions associated with electricity usage, based on the mix of generation sources serving the customer's area.
  • The software will be free for consumers and utilities, aside from the cost of providing customer usage data.
  • The service will initially focus on residential customers, but will also allow for estimated usage of natural gas, fuel oil, and liquid propane.
  • Several states have passed laws requiring utilities to reduce energy consumption, and pending federal legislation aims to promote energy conservation nationwide.

Statistics:

  • 4 utilities will partner with Microsoft to provide detailed energy usage information to their residential customers.
  • The software will use historical data from the U.S. Department of Energy and the Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory.
  • The initial launch of Hohm is expected to take place within the next week.
  • Microsoft's Hohm will provide free energy usage information to consumers, with utilities providing customer data at no additional cost.
  • Carbon dioxide emissions associated with electricity consumption will be estimated based on the mix of generation sources serving the customer's area.

Sources:

  • Microsoft Corp.
  • Xcel Energy Inc. (XEL)
  • Puget Sound Energy
  • U.S. Department of Energy
  • Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory