Smarter and More Responsive
Developing sources of renewable energy is one way to curb use of carbon-based fuels. Another is to reduce consumption with demand-response and smart-grid technology, a business that has been growing alongside solar, wind and other forms of alternative-energy production.
Smart-grid companies use software and networking technologies to help customers consume energy more efficiently. At times when utilities are charging peak rates for energy, for example, a wireless signal might be sent to trigger an automatic lowering of customers' thermostats.