Air conditioners that talk to each other could prevent rolling blackouts

But Purdue University researchers have proposed a simple solution: air conditioners that talk to each other. By distributing the times at which electrical loads turn on – even by a few seconds – power grids can be much more robust against these issues, with no discernible impact to the end user.

“Energy use follows a predictable pattern,” said Kevin Kircher, an assistant professor of mechanical engineering who studies the interaction between buildings and the electrical grid. “When the outside temperature rises, air conditioners come on in the middle of the day to cool buildings down.” This can lead to a domino effect because electrical infrastructure is built to withstand the worst-case scenario. “If a million people turn on their air conditioner at the same time, power lines may overload.” 

More information can be read on the Purdue University School of Mechanical Engineering website.