Optimizing Energy Usage in Private Households

The exploding power consumption in private households is a growing challenge in the pursuit of reduction of the worldwide emission of green house gases (GHG). Development of smart sensors and advanced control systems has made it possible to make technology assist in solving this challenge. Complexity and magnitude of the challenge is presented in this chapter and the Minimum Configuration Home Automation (MCHA) framework enabling interoperability between existing communication protocols is offered as an intelligent part of the solution. An outline of technology trends supporting the promotion of the use of ICT in solving the challenge is also included to emphasize the vast potential in the application of ICT in the solutions for the future.