Smart homes to become tomorrow’s future

Home automation and energy management are expected to become the mainstream in the near future, buoyed by the rise of new advanced technologies and electric vehicles (EVs), says Schneider Electric, an energy management and automation specialist.

“Home automation will be adopted even in low-cost houses in the future. Such systems are already built-in features in mid-range and luxury properties now,” Kusol Kusolsong, cluster business vice-president of Schneider Electric Thailand, said at a press briefing.

Home automation now centres on electricity and light control and smart connected devices meant to enhance convenience.

In 5-10 years, home automation will expand to energy management, he said.

“Energy management will be increasingly important due to the rise of EVs as users need to charge their cars at home. Car fuel expenses will become electricity bills,” said Mr Kusol.

This shift has already happened in developed countries where energy management is a key consideration apart from electrical safety standards, he said.

The property and construction market has been disrupted by the pandemic over the past 1-2 years but this crisis provides new opportunities for home automation, said Mr Kusol.

As people spend more time at home for remote work and online study, they use more electricity at home and engage in home improvements, he said.

“Home automation is one of the key markets apart from construction, the grid, data centres and utilities,” said Mr Kusol.

According to him, electricians need to upskill themselves in regards to digital technology particularly home automation device installation, EV charging systems and surveillance systems.

Mr Kusol said his company has developed an application that can support electricians’ skills in this digital transformation era.

Electricians can look for related training courses on the app, including home automation and EV charging, he said.

The app can also serve as a channel linking merchants selling equipment with electricians.

The platform also supports voluntary activities for electricians who can help install electricity systems for temples, schools and field hospitals in rural areas with equipment donated by Schneider.

Source: Agencies