Samsung addresses grid stability with smart home energy systems

Samsung has launched a new demand response program for its SmartThings platform, designed to connect smart homes to the grid and automatically reduce energy consumption during peak periods. The program, called Flex Connect, is currently available in New York and California and works with the company's energy management solution, SmartThings Energy. Flex Connect uses SmartThings AI power modes to automatically connect appliances and devices in response to demand response events. This smart system learns household routines and adjusts energy consumption based on user-defined goals, saving up to 70% of energy consumption when using Samsung products. When a utility sends a demand response signal, Flex Connect can automatically activate AI Energy Mode to save power on supported devices, turn off devices (including third-party lighting and plugs) and adjust compatible thermostats to reduce energy consumption.

The program offers potential financial benefits to participants. Users on time-of-use rates may see reduced energy bills, while others could receive cash rebates from their utility companies for participation. As an added incentive, Samsung is offering Samsung Rewards points through Flex Connect, redeemable for products on Samsung.com. Flex Connect is designed to be flexible and user-friendly. Members can select devices to enroll in the program and change their selection at any time. Even without a compatible device, users can still receive alerts through SmartThings Energy when events are triggered, allowing them to manually adjust their energy consumption.

While Samsung devices dominate the list of compatible devices, some third-party products are also supported. These include smart plugs, lights and thermostats from brands such as WeMo, TP-Link, Aeotec, Ecobee, Sengled and Resideo (Honeywell Home). Tesla products, including Powerwall and Loop EV chargers, are also compatible with the system. As a member of the Matter smart home standard, Samsung is in a good position to expand its list of compatible devices. The recent addition of support for large devices to the Matter standard and power reports suggest that more devices may soon be integrated into the platform. The introduction of Flex Connect is an important step towards creating a more responsive and efficient energy network. By harnessing the power of smart home technology, Samsung aims to help reduce the load on the power grid and potentially prevent power outages during periods of high demand. As the program approaches, it will be interesting to observe its impact on energy consumption patterns and grid stability in the participating regions. The success of Flex Connect could pave the way for similar initiatives across the smart home industry and ultimately help create a more sustainable and flexible energy infrastructure.