• Powerline Networking: The HomePlug Experience
• HomePlug technology applications
• White Papers
• Global Standards Initiatives
• IEEE 1901 and the HomePlug Alliance
• Smart Energy Initiative
• HomePlug Green PHY specification
• Download the HomePlug Green PHY Spec
• HomePlug Videos
• HomePlug Command and Control

Smart Energy Initiative

NEW --  The ZigBee + HomePlug Smart Energy Marketing Requirements Document (MRD) for the next generation HAN is now available for download.   Click here to download the MRD (file size: 1.21 MB).

What is "smart energy"?

The term "smart energy" refers generally to actions and technologies that are used to improve the efficiency of energy consumption. Energy demand and costs are increasing rapidly, so utility companies are focusing on adopting communications and networking technologies to help consumers monitor and reduce their energy consumption.

In fact, the demand for energy is increasing so fast that forecasts indicate there will not be enough power plants to meet the peak demand periods (for example, a hot summer day when everyone has the A/C on). Also, demand will accelerate with a transition to electrically powered vehicles which need to be charged frequently.

To generate 58,000 megawatts requires approximately 110 large power plants. That's about one new power plant every month for the next ten years.  [Source: The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC)]

The Smart Grid is realized by merging data from islands of automation to achieve a total end-to-end system view, integrating information technology and operational technology.

What does this mean for the HomePlug alliance?

By working together with utility companies and the ZigBee Alliance, (see our announcement here) the HomePlug Powerline Alliance will help build the Home Area Network (HAN) ecosystem that enables intelligent energy management and efficiency in the home and small businesses.

By providing a complimentary wireless (ZigBee) and wired (HomePlug) infrastructure, the coverage for large homes and multi dwelling units can be assured.

Smart Meter Features & Benefits • Automated Meter Reading ⇒ Saves labor • Real-Time Consumption ⇒ Modifies user behavior • Demand Response ⇒ Manage peak demand

If you'd like to learn more about the HomePlug Powerline Alliance or the Smart Energy Initiative, click here.