- A new pilot program in New York City is testing plug-in batteries to power air conditioning units during peak electricity demand, aiming to alleviate grid strain.
- Developed by Every Electric in partnership with Con Edison, these batteries charge during off-peak hours and then run window AC units for several hours when demand is highest.
- The initiative helps prevent power outages and reduces reliance on less efficient, more polluting backup power plants, addressing both environmental and affordability concerns.
- Expanding to over 1,000 homes this summer, the program offers participants incentives such as cash rebates or gift cards for their contributions to grid stability.
- Experts view this renter-friendly solution as a crucial step towards integrating consumer energy devices into "virtual power plants" and enhancing power reliability and affordability during intensifying heat waves.
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