The Internet of Things refers to leveraging interconnected devices to create a network that can communicate, gather data, and adjust operations through a centralized controller. This fast-growing technology sector spans from smart lighting and small appliances to entire HVAC systems, electric vehicle charging, and even irrigation, pool, or spa equipment.

With solar IoT, interconnected devices powered by solar panels can monitor and manage the energy production and usage of entire buildings (whether residential, commercial, or industrial), making them more comfortable, more efficient, and ultimately saving energy and money. By creating a network encompassing all (or a large part of) a building’s technology, IoT enables data collection that continually refines the energy-dependent processes of any home or building, empowering owners to better understand and deploy their energy assets.

We’re hearing more and more clients ask about solar IoT solutions, which is why our Everything Solar process is designed to make it easy for consumers to adopt this exciting technology.

Demystifying Solar IoT

Internet of Things technology is cutting-edge, which makes it both attractive to consumers yet also sometimes hard to fully understand. What does a solar IoT building look like? Let’s use the average residential home as a case study:

As EnergyMatters notes, “With the advent of smart inverters, energy monitors and new generation battery storage, solar energy systems have joined the Internet of Things and are an important piece of the puzzle of boosting energy efficiency in an automated, smart home.” Any home equipped with solar PV panels can be fitted with a smart inverter and energy monitor to interact with IoT devices elsewhere on the property. We highly recommend battery storage as well in order to optimize energy use and provide power in times of need. The home’s solar energy can then be used to power a suite of interconnected devices.

Smart lighting is one of the most visible aspects of a smart home. In-room sensors can detect occupancy and adjust lighting levels automatically when people enter or leave the area. They can also monitor ambient light levels in order to provide the necessary amount of light during the day as opposed to at night, creating immediate energy savings. A smart home hub, whether a physical device or an app on occupant’s phones, can be used to adjust light levels at home or remotely.

Smart HVAC systems use internal and external thermometers to efficiently heat and cool a smart home. As with lighting, sensors detect occupancy to prioritize which areas need climate control and when, and temperatures can be automated or adjusted remotely. As foobot explores, smart air purifiers are the newest wave of IoT technology to make homes healthier and more energy efficient.

Smart appliances are revolutionizing how we live and work in domestic spaces. From IoT-connected refrigerators, water heaters, and washer/dryers to home security systems, entertainment systems and more, smart technology uses less energy while enabling greater control (or automation) of every aspect of a smart home.

Smart irrigation systems extend a home’s intelligence beyond the front door, using technology to save water and energy while keeping grass and plants healthy and hydrated. Smart pool pumps and heaters are self-monitoring, allowing residents to enjoy outdoor amenities without the hassle.

Smart solar consumption through energy monitoring and battery storage ensures that the solar energy a home generates extends as far as possible. Whether responding to time-of-use charges to save you money or automating your whole home without any dependence on utilities, these technologies are ushering in the future of green IoT. From the largest appliances to solar sensors that inform their decision-making and data collection, every aspect of a smart home can be powered by solar energy.

Everything Solar Makes IoT Easy

At Solar Design Studio, we believe that solar IoT solutions should be understandable and accessible to all interested consumers. That’s why our Everything Solar process includes a top-to-bottom assessment of your property’s energy needs and capabilities alongside a comprehensive suite of products that can be combined to create your custom smart home. We know that every space is unique and work with consumers to design the solution that meets their comfort, technology, and savings goals.

If you’d like to learn more about Everything Solar and our smart home solutions, contact us today!

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