When technology is combined with energy consumption devices and power generators of all sizes, we speak of “smart grids” and “smart meters.”
Electricity has to be generated in the exact amount of simultaneous consumption; otherwise storage is needed. Data can be used to adjust consumption and production levels – such steps are also possible in households.
For instance, refrigerators and air conditioners could switch off temporarily to “shave off” peak demand. When power consumption drops to a lower level, these units could then stay on a bit longer.