Home Area Networking and Demand Response

Overview

Home Area Networks (HAN) and Demand Response (DR) are an extension of the smart grid and smart metering into the home, providing utilities and their customers with the information and control they need to make intelligent energy and water consumption decisions.

HAN systems allow consumers to specify how they will use energy by managing devices and appliances like smart thermostats, air conditioners, pool pumps, washers, and dryers. DR systems put the power in the utilities hands, allowing it to control peak energy demand, ultimately ensuring consistent, affordable energy to consumers. The technology works in conjunction by collecting and sending usage information to both utilities and their consumers via HAN devices such as smart thermostats and in-home display devices. This allows consumers to monitor and better understand their electricity usage. The incentive to shift use into off-peak hours provides an opportunity to shave peak demand, which ultimately helps utilities reduce the price of electricity they purchase or generate. Utility customers can now have choices for managing their electric use, as well as greater control over their electricity purchasing decisions.

Sensus has a vision for the HAN and DR programs through its FlexNet™ Home solution suite. FlexNet™ Home is a partner ecosystem for AMI load reduction service programs using Critical Peak Pricing (CPP), Time-of-Use (TOU) and load shedding events. Sensus is working with leading industry partners to develop new value-added applications and services. The partner ecosystem is built on open standards and includes affordable interoperable HAN and DR solutions that are easy for all consumers to use and understand.