200,000 homes in Texas to get power boost with new AI-driven virtual plant
Smart thermostats and Google Cloud’s AI will automate HVAC adjustments, reducing energy costs and strain on the Texas grid.
A new energy solution is coming to Texas, promising enhanced stability and significant energy savings.
NRG Energy and Renew Home are joining forces to launch a Virtual Power Plant (VPP) by 2035, capable of generating nearly one gigawatt (GW) of capacity. That’s enough to power around 200,000 homes during peak demand periods.
This initiative is a game-changer for the Texas grid, combining the power of artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced smart devices to support the state’s growing energy needs.
Scaling up with smart thermostats and AI technology
The foundation of this new VPP is the integration of hundreds of thousands of smart thermostats and connected home devices, powered by AI technology from Google Cloud. NRG and Renew Home plan to offer devices like Vivint and Nest smart thermostats at no cost to eligible customers.
These devices will intelligently manage heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, adjusting energy usage to times when electricity is cheaper, greener, and the grid is less strained.
The automation of HVAC settings allows residents to save on energy bills while contributing to grid stability. By shifting demand away from peak hours, the VPP helps avoid overloads and maintains a more balanced energy supply.
NRG’s president of consumer operations, Rasesh Patel, describes this program as a “pivotal step” in both improving the customer experience and enhancing Texas’ energy infrastructure. The goal is to make energy usage not just cost-effective but also sustainable and resilient.
Major rollout planned across Texas
The program will begin rolling out across Texas in spring 2025, focusing on customers served by NRG’s retail electricity providers. Homeowners will see the installation of these smart thermostats as a simple upgrade with significant benefits, as they will actively support the grid while enjoying lower energy costs.
Over time, NRG and Renew Home aim to expand the VPP’s capabilities, adding home battery storage systems and integrating electric vehicles (EVs) into the network. By 2035, the VPP is expected to be a comprehensive energy solution, helping stabilize Texas’ grid during peak demands.