Samsung launched SmartThings Energy Flex Connect, a demand response program designed to conserve energy during peak hours in New York and California.
Eligible users can earn Samsung Rewards points upon enrolling their smart devices which can be used to redeem discounts.
Samsung Supports Demand Response Program
The International Energy Agency described demand response as the balancing act between power grids among customers during peak hours. The program is designed to decrease the need for new transmission and distribution infrastructures.
Smart appliances can be enrolled in the SmartThings Energy app, automatically enabling AI Energy Mode. It will optimize energy conservation for all connected devices.
Appliances that are not needed will be turned off by the system to decrease energy usage, this includes third-party lights and plugs. Smart temperature adjustment is also part of the system, especially for thermostats.
How Flex Connect Response to Demand
Samsung's AI Energy Mode can save up to 70 percent of the usual energy consumption of a consumer. The program will analyze the household's routines and will automatically adjust the energy use of the connect apps based on the targets in the app.
Flex Connect will automatically enabled once a demand response alert is received from a utility company. In addition, incompatible appliances can still receive the same alert to notify consumers to adjust their energy consumption manually.
"SmartThings Energy empower our users with tools and information to monitor their energy consumption and save money, and launching Flex Connect is a crucial step in creating a greener and smarter world," said Chanwoo Park, EVP for Samsung Electronics.
Brands like Wemo, TP-Link, Tesla products, Ecobee, and more are all eligible for Flex Connect. All Samsung appliances are encouraged to be enrolled in the program.
