Google tool lets users monitor energy consumption

Homeowners will now be able to monitor their domestic energy consumption via their broadband connection, thanks to a new tool released by Google.

The Google Powermeter takes consumption data fed from an add-on clip used for conventional energy meters, or taken directly from a newer smart meter, and presents the information on an iGoogle web page.

Data can then be monitored by the homeowner, either via computer or mobile phone.

Pilgrim Beart, the founder and chief executive officer of AlertMe Energy, the product the Powermeter will initially be sold with in the UK, said: “More than a quarter of all energy use happens in our homes and this gives consumers the power to monitor, control and reduce the energy they use.”

If the government’s plans for a universal connection policy are successful, then every home in the UK could be able to use the Powermeter by 2012.

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