Google announce PowerMeter

Google have just announced their new PowerMeter application – a free tool for monitoring energy usage in the home. As you can probably tell from my post about Bye Bye Standby last week, I love technology like this, and I'm looking forward to giving it a go. Interestingly too, it's been developed by Google's philanthropic arm that is working on a number of green projects.

Unfortunately though it needs to be used with a device that plugs in to your energy meter. So far, there's just one product – the AlertMe Energy – that works with PowerMeter, but we're looking to get that in stock as soon as possible. Also, from next month those in the East Midlands and Midlands will be able to get access to PowerMeter by signing up with first:utility, an energy provider that offers smart metering services.

This news, together with getting the Bye Bye Standby system, has sent me on a bit of a monitoring spree. Here's a few of the things I've found:

* iMeasure – a free tool that works off your meter readings, so you don't need any new equipment. It's not perfect, but it's a good starting point

* One for the brave - 'aside from being electrocuted, incorrect wiring can burn your house down'!

* Edison – PC only, but quite good

Have a great weekend! Edwin