Why is the program shutting down?

The project ended earlier than anticipated due to redirected resources toward changing priorities within the Department of Energy's administration. A number of planned research activities were not completed based on the shortened timeframe and will no longer be carried out. 

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What was the original study?

Click here to access the "Disclosure of Research Study."

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What happens to the equipment and devices in my home? 

All participating equipment and devices in your home will remain in place at the conclusion of the study. The water heater controller may be eligible for use with a Duke Energy smart water heater program, and the thermostat may be eligible for Duke Energy's EnergyWise® Home smart thermostat program.

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What should I do with the Curb Home Energy Monitoring System? 

If the Curb Home Energy Monitoring System was installed in your home, you can turn it off and discontinue use of it, or if access to this real-time data is helping you make smarter decisions about how you use energy in your home and save money, you are welcome to continue using this service. The device will continue to function until you wish to no longer utilize it. 

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Should I have this equipment removed? 

There is no need to remove this equipment, unless you would like to do so on your own. The equipment remaining in place will not affect the performance of your home and appliances. 

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Can anything go wrong with the water heater controller or Curb device?  If so, what?  Who is responsible? 

There are no anticipated issues with these devices outside of normal aging of electronic components. Any malfunction in these devices will not negatively impact the performance of the home. Manufacturer warranties are in place for these devices. 

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What happens with my enrollment in the Duke Energy Power Manager® Program? 

If you enrolled your smart thermostat(s) in the Duke Energy EnergyWise® Home Program, your participation in this program will continue at your discretion and per the terms and conditions of your enrollment with Duke Energy. The conclusion of the North Carolina Connected Communities Program simply means that the study team is no longer collecting data for this program.

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Is my home less energy efficient than I thought it would be when I bought it? 

No, the heating and cooling loads on this home, as well as the water heating loads, will not change due to the conclusion of this study.

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Does this add value to the home? 

The ability to enroll in Duke Energy programs may have perceived value to prospective buyers. 
 

What do I tell a buyer/inspector when I sell my house? 

Prospective buyers and/or inspectors can be informed of the installation of a water heater controller and energy monitoring device. If the prospective buyer is interested in removing these devices, most local electricians would be able to remove them.

 

Will I receive a copy of the results of the study? 

The final report may be released publicly in the future by the U.S. Department of Energy.

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Where should I go if I have additional questions? 

If you have any questions about the U.S. Department of Energy’s Connected Communities Program, please refer to www.connectedcommunities.lbl.gov.