Smart home technologies (SHT) refer to devices that offer digitally connected, automated, or enhanced services to household occupants. These technologies have gained significant attention in recent discussions around energy efficiency, climate change, and the sustainability of buildings. In this context, the study calls for more comprehensive, progressive, and sensitive technology design to foster greater adoption of SHT and help achieve the sustainability and climate goals that advocates often promise.

Smart Scenes: Controlling Energy Usage:

Many household devices and appliances continue to consume energy even when not in use. Smart scenes address this issue by offering intelligent control over energy consumption. These scenes can be configured to automate multiple devices at once, allowing users to schedule on/off cycles, set energy consumption limits, and monitor real-time energy usage. By effectively managing the energy use of electronics and appliances, smart scenes help eliminate phantom power consumption and reduce overall energy waste, thereby encouraging a more sustainable lifestyle.

Conclusion”

Smart home technology has transformed the way we live, offering numerous possibilities for a sustainable lifestyle. By incorporating energy-efficient smart devices into our homes, we can significantly reduce our environmental impact and adopt more energy-conscious living practices. From smart thermostats and lighting systems that optimise energy use to smart plugs that prevent phantom power consumption, and from energy-efficient appliances to water-saving systems, the range of options available is vast. Embracing smart home technology not only contributes to a greener future but also enhances comfort, convenience, and savings.

Evaluation

While the adoption of smart home technology offers clear benefits in terms of energy efficiency and sustainability, it is essential to consider its broader implications. The integration of such technology can help reduce carbon footprints and lower utility bills, but its impact largely depends on the user’s commitment to utilising the systems correctly. Furthermore, the upfront costs of installation and the potential for technological obsolescence could be barriers for some households. Despite these challenges, the long-term advantages—both environmental and financial—make smart homes a significant step towards a more sustainable future.

Its important to highlight of the growing importance of LED lighting. Widespread adoption of LEDs will have a massive impact on energy savings. The figure from the Department of Energy (DoE) really puts things into perspective 348 TWh of electricity saved by 2027 is an enormous reduction in consumption, not to mention the financial savings for homeowners and businesses alike. Smart lighting, combined with LED technology, offers even more potential by making lighting systems more efficient and adaptable to users’ needs.

Other questions to consider: how might culture influence the adoption and use of the technologies that make up smart homes? What cultural barriers could hinder their uptake or even reinforce more carbon-intensive lifestyles? Do smart home technologies genuinely contribute to sustainability goals?

LINKS TO ARTICLES:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S266627872100012X

https://www.hdlautomation.com/Articles_100000160479646.html

https://www.tsp.space/smart-home-blog/want-an-eco-smart-home-were-here-to-help/