Homeowners nationwide can now estimate the energy efficiency of their homes, condos, and apartments with the click of a mouse thanks to Microsoft Hohm, a free, on-line tool developed with the aid of WSU’s Extension Energy Program.
The Hohm website, currently in a beta version, was launched in August and uses information provided by a homeowner to project home’s current rate of energy consumption.
The site then generates a report based on geographic data reflecting the home’s monthly energy consumption. It also recommends resources that will help lower average energy costs.
According to David Shepherd-Gaw, manager of WSU’s Energy Services Clearinghouse, several of the tools Hohm uses to generate energy saving tips were provided by WSU’s Energy Experts website.
Cooperative effort
The Energy Experts website is a cooperative effort supported by several partners and headed by the WSU Extension Energy Program. It offers resources for building owners, operators and occupants to improve energy efficiency within various building types.
“Microsoft was looking for local resources and expertise when they came across our website,” Shepherd-Gaw said. “We provided energy efficiency tips, frequently asked questions, information on myths associated with energy efficiency, and additional information on carbon reduction and greenhouse gases.”
According to Shepherd-Gaw, Microsoft was especially interested in cost assessment calculators for heating and air conditioning systems.
He added that the WSU Extension Energy Program also reviewed energy efficiency recommendations Hohm had provided to recent users.
Homeowner involvement
“Microsoft’s intention is to get more people involved to help improve the site and increase the accuracy rate,” Shepherd-Gaw said. “I have used the program several times and have provided additional feedback to help with that process.”
One way Microsoft plans to improve the site, he said, is with the aid of utility companies. Several have already signed on as industry partners. Both Seattle City Light and Sacramento Municipal Utility District can connect their customer data with the program. Other utilities involved with Hohm are Xcel Energy and Puget Sound Energy, as well as technolgy partners Itron and Landys+Gyr.
“The utility data will give users an accurate picture of where the utility costs are being attributed to. They will be able to see, for example, the amount of electricity that is being used on particular appliances throughout their home,” he said.
The initial project between Microsoft and the WSU Extension Energy Program began in May-June 2009. Shepherd-Gaw said additional Microsoft Hohm activity is currently being discussed between the two organizations.
