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Informetis and Chugoku Electric Power Innovate Eco-Friendly Demand Response Solutions

Informetis Integrates Eco-Cute Remote Control Features in Demand Response Services

Informetis, based in Minato-ku, Tokyo, is taking a bold step towards sustainable energy management by enhancing its demand response (DR) service, "BridgeLAB DR," in collaboration with Chugoku Electric Power Company. This partnership aims to introduce a new feature that allows remote control of Eco-Cute devices, targeting an official launch in April 2026. The project is pivotal in pushing forward energy efficiency and green technology integration in Japan.

The existing "BridgeLAB DR" service encourages consumers to engage in behavioral changes that contribute to energy conservation. This involves aggregating participant data, monitoring involvement, and calculating the fluctuations in electricity demand caused by DR activities. However, with the incoming remote control DR function, users will experience notable convenience—automated management of their Eco-Cute equipment will mitigate operational burdens and prevent any instances of forgetfulness regarding energy-saving actions.

The integration of this innovative technology will also address the challenges faced by DR programs, especially in increasing response rates during periods of surplus electricity, commonly referred to as "up DR." By capitalizing on the advantages of remote control, it opens opportunities for improved engagement from consumers, particularly for those devices classified under up DR circumstances.

As Japan continues to navigate the complexities of maintaining a balanced electricity supply and demand, the role of energy storage systems like batteries is recognized. However, the current proliferation of Eco-Cute devices indicates that their management could produce a significantly higher impact than other alternatives, prompting Informetis to collaborate with Chugoku Electric Power for trials commencing in 2024. Based on these results, the focus will be on enhancing the functionalities of "BridgeLAB DR" to prioritize Eco-Cute device control, thus broadening the scope of the service in the market.

Benefits of Adding Functionality to "BridgeLAB DR"

Ease of Integration: The new DR service will not necessitate API system connections with electricity retail businesses. Instead, it will facilitate simple data sharing between users and their Eco-Cute devices, providing seamless access to the service.
Reduced Operational Burden: The design of the UI allows for intuitive control over device management and result tracking, significantly easing operational demands for electricity retailers.

Future Prospects

The enhancement of "BridgeLAB DR" demonstrates not only a response to the growing need for stable electricity supply but also a commitment to improving the management of supply and demand balance in the face of increasing renewable energy integration. Informetis strives to ensure that this feature is widely adopted by various businesses. Future plans include expanding the range of compatible Eco-Cute manufacturers, enabling more consumers to benefit from these innovative services. Moreover, there are ambitions to extend the range of controllable devices beyond Eco-Cutes to include batteries, electric vehicles (EVs), and HVAC systems, signifying a robust commitment to advancing energy efficiency.

About Informetis

Founded with the mission to transform future lifestyles through the power of energy data, Informetis is dedicated to harnessing AI to offer energy optimization solutions that contribute to carbon neutrality in Japan and worldwide.

About Chugoku Electric Power

Chugoku Electric Power Company, headquartered in Hiroshima, serves as a primary supplier of electricity across the Chugoku region. The company balances their energy provision through hydro, thermal, and nuclear power while engaging in renewable energy initiatives to promote environmental sustainability.