CalPlug

Ubiquitous plug-load devices include appliances, electronics and tools—anything that plugs into an electrical outlet. Currently, these devices are responsible for as much as 20 percent of the electrical consumption in buildings, and 30 percent by 2030. To exacerbate the situation, a majority of these devices consume power even when not in use—the much dreaded “phantom power” which accounts for over 15 gigawatts of power consumption, worldwide, 24/7.

CalPlug’s innovation extends beyond the research labs and reaches out to industry, commerce and government. Business collaborations and studies of user behavior are essential to plug-load energy conservation, as is consumer education. Through collaborations with research institutes and manufacturers, the center will assist in developing future appliance efficiency standards and incentives for manufacturers and retailers.

CalPlug in the News

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  CalPlug workshop focuses on batteriesNovember 12, 2023
  Event focused on batteries as a device in relation to energy efficiency and renewable energy.
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  Mastering Energy EfficiencyAugust 10, 2023
  Tips for plug load control and energy savings this summer.
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  CalPlug Workshop explores tech solutionsMay 4, 2023
  Workshop focuses on finding solutions to address the climate crisis via decarbonization.