Ecobee has introduced a new feature for its smart thermostats that will automatically adjust temperatures during energy emergencies to help prevent power outages. Unlike some utility energy-saving programs, Ecobee customers can opt out of this feature at any time.
Heatwaves often cause sudden spikes in electricity demand as people turn up their air conditioning, leading to potential power outages. Utilities typically ask customers to conserve energy during these peaks by lowering their thermostats. Small actions taken by many homes can have a significant impact on the grid.
Ecobee’s latest update enhances the Eco Plus Community Energy Savings feature, responding to emergency alerts from grid operators in North America. When a potential blackout is imminent due to an energy shortage, customers will receive notifications on their Ecobee smart thermostat and mobile app. The thermostat will then adjust the temperature slightly, between one and four degrees, for a maximum of four hours.
This feature is designed for users who are not enrolled in similar utility programs. By having numerous homes make small adjustments, it helps stabilize the grid, mitigating demand peaks and preventing power outages. This approach, known as demand response, aims to make power grids more resilient to extreme weather conditions.
