Smart grid

A key element of energy consumption is the timing of its use. This is especially true for renewable energy, which often depends on variations in wind and sunshine. When it is windy or sunny, there is more energy available. In the other direction, the demand for electricity is much higher in winter, because of the multiple electric heatings in operation, the famous peaks.

A particularity of the electrical grid is, that you always have to put in the same amount of energy that you take out. The network cannot store energy.

Smart grid is a term that describes an intelligent power grid, capable of automatically activating deferable loads, for example some forms of heating, cooling or battery charging. This also allows for more efficient use of transmission lines.

There is a program from Hydro-Quebec that rewards you for successfully reducing your electricity consumption (manually) during peak hours, when you receive a notification.

Hydro-Quebec's subdivision Hilo sells smart thermostats that can automatically reduce your heating at certain times, and earn you money in return.