Google is testing a cool, new software that will provide you information about your home energy consumption in real-time. Called as Google PowerMeter, this prototype product will let you safely and privately browse your home electricity usage through a secure iGoogle gadget. Well, this free software is currently in closed beta and not yet available to the public.
Google PowerMeter
Why Google is so eager to provide you near real-time home energy consumption data? According to, Google, they are creating this product to help people save money and combat global warming by reducing their home electricity consumption. The Official Google Blog stated that:
Google’s mission is to “organize the world’s information and make it universally accessible and useful,” and we believe consumers have a right to detailed information about their home electricity use. We’re tackling the challenge on several fronts, from policy advocacy to developing consumer tools, and even investing in smart grid companies. We’ve been participating in the dialogue in Washington, DC and with public agencies in the U.S. and other parts of the world to advocate for investment in the building of a “smart grid,” to bring our 1950s-era electricity grid into the digital age.
So, Google’s target is the “Smart Grid” market? Anyway, PowerMeter looks like an useful software and Google promises that it will not only allow you to see your own energy usage information, but will also help you improve your efficiency in a variety of ways. Which may ultimately lead to a reduction in energy consumption and a light electricity bill.
More info: http://www.google.org/powermeter/index.html