Samsung unveiled a major feature update for SmartThings and one of those features, SmartThings Energy Flex Connect, can help avoid power blackouts. Currently, this feature is available only in a few places in the US, but it is something significant.
SmartThings Flex Connect talks to the power grid to help avoid blackouts
To help improve sustainability, Samsung is taking several measures, including a new feature called SmartThings Energy Flex Connect. It is a demand response program that allows a smart home system to communicate with the power grid.
Power blackouts can occur when the power grid is under a high load, such as during extreme summers and winters. In such situations, the SmartThings Energy Flex Connect talks to the grid and changes the settings of home appliances to reduce power consumption. If enough homes have such a demand response program, they can reduce the load on the power grid, thereby reducing the chances of power blackouts.
The story continues after the video below.
The SmartThings Energy Flex Connect system is available in New York and California and works with homes with the SmartThings system.
The SmartThings AI Energy Mode adjusts the settings of devices like air conditioners, refrigerators, and washing machines to reduce power consumption after learning a user's usage habits. Samsung claims that its energy-saving feature can reduce power consumption by up to 70 percent when using Samsung products.
Apart from Samsung's own products, SmartThings Energy also works with most lights, smart plugs, and thermostats, offering users more ways to save energy when they're not home or outside a particular room. In the ‘Away' mode, the system turns off the AC, lights, and fans or lowers power consumption.
Samsung also rewards customers who use the SmartThings AI Energy Mode. Those who save 400Whr of power in a single day will get the Energy Stamp, which can be converted into Samsung Rewards. These rewards can be used while buying products from Samsung's website. Users in California can enroll in Resideo’s energy program to enjoy cash rewards and get up to $100 gift cards.
Image Credits: Samsung
