Last year, 19.6 million smart thermostats were installed in U.S. homes, yet many homeowners miss deeper, integrated energy savings from certified systems. While individual devices promise reduced utility bills, widespread adoption alone does not guarantee an energy-efficient household.
Individual smart home devices offer modest energy savings, but their full potential remains unrealized without a centralized, certified system. Some smart devices even increase overall household energy consumption, creating a disconnect between perceived benefits and actual energy impact.
Based on evolving integrated systems and increasing user literacy, the shift towards certified Smart Home Energy Management Systems (SHEMS) will likely drive significant household energy reduction. Relying solely on individual devices may yield diminishing returns.
Smart Devices: Accessible Savings and Enhanced Control
1. Certified Smart Home Energy Management Systems (SHEMS)
Best for: Homeowners seeking comprehensive, integrated energy optimization across multiple device types and active grid interaction.
Certified SHEMS allow users to control and track products like lighting, home entertainment, appliances, EV chargers, and solar panels from a central system, according to UL. These systems include standby limits, grid communication for demand response, and utility time-of-use pricing integration. An ENERGY STAR SHEMS package requires at minimum an ENERGY STAR certified smart thermostat, lighting, and monitor/control plug loads. SHEMS offers a holistic, intelligent framework, maximizing efficiency and savings beyond what standalone devices can achieve.
| Feature | Individual Smart Devices (e.g. Thermostat) | Certified Smart Home Energy Management Systems (SHEMS) |
|---|---|---|
| Scope of Control | Single device type (e.g. heating/cooling) | Multiple device types (lighting, appliances, EV chargers, solar panels) |
| Energy Optimization | Localized, device-specific savings (e.g. 8% on heating/cooling) | Holistic home energy management, system-wide savings |
| Grid Interaction | Limited or none | Active grid communication for demand response and time-of-use pricing |
| Integration Requirement | Standalone operation | Centralized system requiring minimum ENERGY STAR certified thermostat, lighting, and plug load control |
| Potential Net Impact | Savings may be offset by other smart devices | Designed for verifiable, substantial net energy reductions |
