ConEd is testing whether small, in-home batteries can take pressure off New York City’s grid during summer peaks. (Canary Media)
In a pilot with Standard Potential, 65 household ACs are being wired to portable battery units that discharge during high-demand periods. Participants get $100/unit for the season, funded by ConEd’s demand-reduction payments.
Utility perspective: ConEd sees potential to scale the program to avoid firing up expensive, polluting peakers. The utility is also considering pairing batteries with electric heat pumps in the winter.