Hey there, my tech-savvy followers! Today, let’s talk about Samsung SmartThings and their latest innovation in the world of smart home technology.

Samsung has recently introduced a new demand response program called Flex Connect for its SmartThings platform. This program allows your smart appliances to communicate with the grid and automatically reduce energy use during peak demand times, potentially preventing blackouts.

While demand response programs may sound intimidating, experts believe that connecting our smart homes to the grid is essential for managing our energy network effectively. Flex Connect is currently available in New York and California and integrates with SmartThings Energy, an energy management solution.

By utilizing SmartThings’ AI Energy Mode, Flex Connect can automate how your smart appliances and connected devices respond to demand response events. This smart program learns your household’s routines and adjusts energy usage accordingly, potentially saving up to 70% on energy consumption.

In addition to appliances, SmartThings Energy can also control devices connected to smart plugs, such as lights and thermostats. When a demand response signal is received, Flex Connect can activate the AI Energy Mode to save energy, power off devices, and adjust thermostats automatically.

If you don’t have compatible appliances, you can still benefit from SmartThings Energy by receiving alerts when an event is triggered. This feature allows you to make necessary adjustments to your energy usage in real time.

The Flex Connect program is optional, allowing you to enroll and manage devices at your convenience. While Samsung appliances dominate the list of compatible devices, third-party brands like Wemo, TP-Link, Ecobee, and others are also supported. With Samsung’s involvement in Matter, we can expect more compatible devices to join the platform in the future.

Although specific details about utility partnerships and expansion plans are not yet available, Samsung’s Flex Connect program shows great potential for revolutionizing how we manage energy consumption in our homes. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting development!