<ul><li>Researchers from the University of Michigan partnered with Pecan Street Inc. to test the idea of using home air conditioning units (ACs) to balance the power grid without affecting comfort.</li><li>AC units can collectively adjust energy consumption by slightly shifting the timing of their cycles, helping to bring the grid frequency back to 60 Hz.</li><li>In a study conducted in Austin, Texas, the U-M team successfully adjusted AC usage every 2 seconds in real homes without affecting home comfort.</li><li>To implement this solution on a larger scale, researchers suggest that smart thermostat companies allow third-party control to make it more practical and cost-effective.</li></ul>

Home air conditioners can help balance the power grid without affecting comfort

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