CPA launched the Smart Light Switch Pilot program in January to help customers reduce their electricity use and save money on their monthly bills via a Flick smart light switch that gives visual cues of when to adjust usage.
During Time-of-Use (TOU) peak periods, when energy is at its most expensive, the light switch will automatically glow yellow to advise customers to reduce electricity usage to save money on electricity bills and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The devices were installed in 161 residential housing units in disadvantaged communities in Ventura County last month and provide a message on the screen to remind customers when energy costs are highest, encouraging the reduction of energy usage.
Flick takes time-based electric rate signals directly from local utilities and translates those signals into an easy-to-understand informational display.
The unique color-coded system makes it easy for customers to lower energy use. The system does much more than provide reminders to save energy; it delivers important community messages and provides humidity and temperature tracking that helps to identify early HVAC issues to avoid larger maintenance issues.
Customers utilizing Flick may also be eligible to enroll in CPA’s Power Response Home Program and earn incentives for reducing energy usage during Energy Saving Events, such as times when there is stress on the grid. Participation is simple, as the Flick device will send a signal that glows red to notify customers of an event. Customers can receive $20 for signing up, and an additional $2 for every kWh of energy saved during events.
This pilot program will provide key insights into how notifications from devices like smart light switches influence residents’ electricity usage and provide learnings for future program offerings that help customers reduce energy use.
To learn more about the Smart Light Switch pilot program, visit cleanpoweralliance.org/smartlightswitch.
