Smart Dimmer Fuse – Energy Demand Management at the Circuit Level

Abstract
Stanford researchers have developed a 'smart' replacement for conventional circuit breakers that controls energy usage on the circuit level. The Smart Dimmer Fuse (SDF) will replace traditional home circuit breakers to control electricity use based on residents' preferences, while also improving safety. The device will include power electronics for load curtailment, and load measurements.

SDFs installed at the breaker panel for key subcircuits measure the voltage and current, and can control the subcircuit voltage. First-level reductions are generally unnoticeable, e.g. pausing electric water heaters or air conditioning systems when nobody is home. When electricity prices rise to the point where residents have indicated they accept more noticeable load reductions, SDF can dim lights or suspend the clothes dryer running. The ability to control electrical power consumption intelligently and precisely is important with increasing energy sources with variable output, such as wind and solar.

Stage of Research
Stanford researchers have tested the first working prototype. Using data from 131 homes, they've demonstrated it is possible to achieve roughly 5% load flexibility without power interruption. Full prototype with power measurements, communications, and embedded processing is under development.