Some homes in Springfield Lakes are going to get the chance to test Energex’s new home energy management systems (HEMS) to improve their energy use. The energy company is set to conduct a seven-month pilot test phase in selected households, including those in Chapel Hill, North Lakes, Wakerley, from mid-2020 until April 2021.
Residents of these four suburbs may voluntary sign up online to be considered for the pilot test. Only 500 homes will be selected and provided with the new cutting-edge technology, which should be physically installed at home.
The HEMS are smartphone-controlled via an app to allow homeowners to switch household devices on and off remotely, such as air conditioners, pool pumps, and hot water systems. The device may also monitor the household’s solar panels’ efficiency.
“This pilot will test just how much impact HEMS has on householders’ energy behaviour and if they save money on their power bills,” Energy Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said.
“Energex is also trialling HEMS systems to see how they can help Energex deal with peak demand, with managing solar energy coming into the network and also provide important data to help develop new pricing options for the future.”
Energex has been looking into a range of devices and configurations for the trial through a tender. Included in the tender bids are perks and benefits to the consumer, such as cashback offers, free or discounted HEMS systems, or discounted solar and battery storage systems.
The trial phase will be funded by the Australian Energy Regulator.
