Ambient Devices’ Ambient Orb, which is known for being a visual indicator of the current level of the Dow Jones, can now be tuned into PG&E and give a visual representation of the current load of their power grid.  PG&E customer can simply plug the orb into an outlet and it will automatically start receiving power grid updates over a 900 MHz broadcast network.  When energy demand is low the orb will glow green, but when the energy demand is high, it will turn red.  PG&E is hoping this will help avoid brownouts by alerting consumers that the system is being taxed heavily and reminding them to turn off nonessential appliances.  If you aren’t a PG&E customer and don’t live in CA, you can still buy the Orb and use on a number Ambient’s channels for example, use it to…

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Big fan of Space Odyssey:2001? Well here is an eco-friendly version of the deranged and psychotic HAL. Named Wattson, this is an energy monitoring device that once installed in your home displays how much electricity you are consuming. Using both a digital read out and illuminating color display Wattson is like your personal Al Gore, keeping tabs on your energy consumption. It connects to the computer to give you real time monitoring, and chronological view of your energy use.  With the capability of storing weeks worth of energy consuming data you can track your habits and tailor your routine to be more Green.  Wattson works by attaching a sensor to your meter and fusebox, then a wireless transmitter communicates the information to the display that can be mounted anywhere you like within the home. Unlike HAL, Wattson won’t try to kill you if the TV stays on too long or you need to blow dry your hair.

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