The technology has been included as a standard feature in all of the latest Panasonic air conditioning products sold in Australia.
Panasonic’s Demand Response Management (DRM) technology allows energy providers to manage air conditioner power consumption during times of high electricity demand on the grid to reduce the likelihood of brownouts or blackouts occurring. On a 40ºC+ degree day, many Australians come home from work wondering if they will have power to cool the house, and cook dinner. DRM technology allows the demand on the electricity grid to be managed in a smart way that still allows air conditioners to operate, whilst also preventing brownouts and blackouts.
Panasonic air conditioner customers in South East Queensland are the first to take advantage of the application of this technology in partnership with Energex.
John Phillpotts, Demand Management Project Manager – Energex said, “The rollout has been strongly supported by manufacturers such as Panasonic, who are really leading the way by already having available a complete range of DRM-ready products.”
Starting with Energex in South East Queensland, DRM technology is expected to be implemented by energy providers Australia wide in the very near future. DRM cash rebate incentives of $250 for split systems, and $500 for Ducted systems are available for all eligible South East Queensland consumers who purchase a Panasonic Air Conditioner and connect it to the Energex Peak Smart network from 1 September 2012.
Shane Quinn, Product Marketing Manager - Air Conditioning, Panasonic Australia, said, “We are proud to be one of the first manufacturers to have DRM as a standard feature across all of our heating and cooling appliances; offering complete energy solutions suited to a wide range of both residential and commercial applications ahead of a nation-wide energy initiative.”