Microsoft-Hohm is a web-based program (still in beta mode) that helps residents monitor their homes’ energy efficiency. Hohm collects data on users’ homes like square footage, number of rooms, and year of construction (all available through public records and automatically appear on your Hohm profile when you enter an address), and assigns an energy efficiency score based on available data, where a score of 100 means maximum efficiency.

Hohm displays a user’s home energy efficiency as compared to other houses of similar size and construction located in similar climates. The idea is supposedly to show users how much more efficient they could make their homes, and in turn drive them to make conservation changes.

I regsitered to Hohm and entered data for my house. Unfortunately, Hohm did not automatically link to PG&E and Silicon Valley Power so I could not get all my data within their interface.

There is an option to enter it manually though. Based on typical housing data it still can give you some interesting relevant information. It includes a lot of informative graphics and charts. based on your consumption it gives you advice, very much like what Mint.com does to your financial data.

After Google, Oracle, IBM and my neighbor’s startup, everybody seems to want to monitor your and my home utility consumption. I am sure that Microsoft, like all the others, could care less about your or my personal consumption and how I can save on my utility bill so what is their bigger plan?  Why are they all getting into that business?  I would love to have your insight on this one.

It is made from impact-resistant plastic, four solar panels, a replaceable rechargeable battery and five light-emitting diodes (LEDs). It is about the size of a standard light bulb and can withstand tough outdoor conditions.

• Over two hours of light per typical daily charge**
• Up to four hours of light once fully charged**
• Two-plus years of battery life**
• Safety hook for hanging
• Rainproof
• Night-only protection circuit protects from
  accidental daytime usage

Coming from Hong Kong, the world’s first solar-powered LED lightbulb costs about $15. The company’s goal is to go after the kerosene lamps market but the price might be prohibitive to the developing world and for aid agencies in disaster zones.  On the other hand, anyone with a patio or into camping could find the alternative worth it.

I am in for one. I have just installed a gazebo in my backyard and was considering bringing electricity there so I could use some light in the evening.  This might just be the cheaper alternative – and it’s green.

Would you use a solar light bulb and if yes what for?