According to ABI Research future home area networks will allow users to customize the energy usage of their home. The networks will utilize smart metering that communicates electric, gas or water usage over a network.

The home area network will tie into smart metering devices like intelligent thermostats and other load centers like the washer and dryer. The four technologies that can make these new home area networks possible are ZigBee, Z-Wave and 61oWPAN along with HomePlug command and Control (HPCC).

"HANs are deployed in only small numbers today," Lucero concludes, "but most utilities have plans in this direction, and we expect a large incremental ramp-up: first smart meters with HAN capabilities, then the addition of one or more load centers, and finally the Energy Management System."

Via ABI Research