iControl adds home energy services to broadband

Will consumers plug into home energy displays?
Dozens of companies are developing tools to ratchet down home energy use as part of utility smart grid programs, but nobody is sure which approach will stick with consumers.

Control4 displays to monitor energy in smart-grid project
Home energy displays, which let consumers view energy use and program the thermostat via a home network, is set to be tested in a Texas smart-grid project.

AlertMe to trial home energy management in U.K.
British Gas signs on start-up AlertMe to give consumers the ability to get detailed home energy data and remote control of home heating system.

Photos: GE's smart grid kitchen of the future
General Electric is working on networked appliances that work with smart meters to reduce home energy use.

Are consumers ready for the smart grid?
Smart meters and in-home energy displays are trickling out into people's homes. But there's still some question whether the technology is consumer-friendly enough.