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<p>If you're an existing Sungrow customer or installer, you can now add Powston as a "Channel Partner".</p><p>This will give Powston access to see your historical usage, and control your inverter via API. This method is slightly slower and some instances limited as compared to the Powston Hardware controller.</p><p>Adding Powston as a Channel Partner is simple.</p><p>1. Login to iSolarCloud: <a href="https://au.isolarcloud.com/" data-mce-href="https://au.isolarcloud.com/">https://au.isolarcloud.com/</a>&nbsp;<br>2. Select your Plant from the list<br>3. Select Plant Configuration<br>4. Add Powston as a Channel Partner</p><figure id="figure-966koe6rsqlyxzuu41" class=""><img id="966koe6rsqlyxzuu41" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/32bNZTRpf2nhEecogloQIeSuC39l8s2T6ExWc1vXar846ZhsduM48iaCYlgdE3V2.png" alt="assorted-color social media signage" title="assorted-color social media signage" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/32bNZTRpf2nhEecogloQIeSuC39l8s2T6ExWc1vXar846ZhsduM48iaCYlgdE3V2.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><p><br></p><p><br></p>

Adding Powston as a Channel Partner with Sungrow

a smart phone sitting next to a security camera

<p>When you signup to Powston, we provide you with an MQTT username and password. This will allow your inverter to read important metrics, including today's forecasts and price thresholds for devices. These thresholds help you determine the optimal price point for running a device for 1 to 5 hours a day. To set up Powston, we have made the MQTT topics discoverable.</p><h3>Install MQTT in Home Assistant:</h3><p>* Open Home Assistant</p><p>* Go to Configuration &gt; Integrations &gt; Add Integration.</p><p>* Search for MQTT and install it.</p><p>* Enter your issued username and password.</p><figure id="figure-cqb55exnflym8hobo" class=""><img id="cqb55exnflym8hobo" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/eI45j1ltBUpAbod584m84mA1ONOhIxHxdqRlB6aFbPLwm74hj7on3zAzDDAjAlkn.jpg" alt="MacBook Pro near white open book" title="MacBook Pro near white open book" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/eI45j1ltBUpAbod584m84mA1ONOhIxHxdqRlB6aFbPLwm74hj7on3zAzDDAjAlkn.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Configure Discovery Topic:</h3><p>*&nbsp;Your username is also the prefix for the discovery topic.</p><p>*&nbsp;Replace "ian" with your username in the Home Assistant topic.</p><p>*&nbsp;Enable discovery to allow Home Assistant to find your devices automatically.</p><figure id="figure-gqdli766gklym8k0w4" class=""><img id="gqdli766gklym8k0w4" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/13HICChDqmJ6X0AJHRavNRnnfGAkT6LeOwcZUN1kHlSgjDdAfw7e3nrPfl1dalzh.jpg" alt="person catching light bulb" title="person catching light bulb" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 0% 50%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="0%" data-positiony="50%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/13HICChDqmJ6X0AJHRavNRnnfGAkT6LeOwcZUN1kHlSgjDdAfw7e3nrPfl1dalzh.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 0% 50%;"></figure><p><br></p><h3>Receive Price Updates:</h3><p>*&nbsp;Prices are pushed every five minutes.</p><p>*&nbsp;After a few minutes, you should start to see entities you can use.</p><p>*&nbsp;For example, search for "4_hour" to find the price for approximately 4 hours of runtime.<br>&nbsp;<br>As an example, today's price for a 4-hour runtime might be about 2c/kWh. Set your automation rule to turn on when the price is below this threshold and off when it is above it.</p><figure id="figure-b2zpf45edlym8pubr" class=""><img id="b2zpf45edlym8pubr" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/12FbqbC4eik2CE4ADsXuihzzJMPvfr3iABEk1sxrcD5vrAw9vpAcrfiiKcYDOdbw.jpg" alt="orange megaphone on orange wall" title="orange megaphone on orange wall" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 45% 45%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="45%" data-positiony="45%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/12FbqbC4eik2CE4ADsXuihzzJMPvfr3iABEk1sxrcD5vrAw9vpAcrfiiKcYDOdbw.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 45% 45%;"></figure><p>The prices are always changing, so for devices that need to run a certain number of hours per day, such as a pool pump, it's best to choose the cheapest price rather than a fixed amount.</p><p>PS:&nbsp; If you ask <a data-mce-href="https://localvolts.com/bulletins/localvolts/optimise-buy-and-sell-behaviour-with-their-advanced-inverter-controller/" href="https://localvolts.com/bulletins/localvolts/optimise-buy-and-sell-behaviour-with-their-advanced-inverter-controller/">LocalVolts</a> to add you to Powston, we will push their API's expected costs through for the most accurate price possible. This can help automate processes with prices that factor in certificates, market fees, and other variable costs. Additionally, it accounts for elements of fixed costs and semi-variable fees such as demand charges and maximum levels, which are crucial for optimization and specific to you.</p>

Using Powston in Home Assistant

<p>Demand tariffs, such as the Energex 3950, are designed to manage electricity usage during peak times by charging households based on their highest electricity demand during peak hours. While the intention behind these tariffs is to reduce strain on the electricity grid, they often result in significantly higher costs for households compared to traditional per kWh tariffs. Here's why:</p><h3>Example Scenario: Battery Charging During Peak Period</h3><p>Imagine you own a home battery system and you usually avoid using grid power during peak times (4 pm to 9 pm). One day, the electricity prices are forecast to surge to 70c/kWh. To avoid this high cost, you could charge your battery with 1.6 kWh at a full speed of 20 kW during the current period when the rate is 20c/kWh.</p><p><strong>Cost Analysis Under Per kWh Tariff (6970):</strong></p><table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;" border="1" data-mce-style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Current Rate:</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">20c/kWh</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Usage:</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">1.6 kWh</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Cost:</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">1.6 kWh * 20c/kWh = 32c</td></tr></tbody></table><p>By doing this, you avoid paying:<br></p><table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;" border="1" data-mce-style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Future Rate:</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">70c/kWh</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Usage:</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">1.6 kWh</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Cost:</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">1.6 kWh * 70c/kWh = $1.12</td></tr></tbody></table><p><strong><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">Savings: $1.12 - 32c = 80c</span></strong><br></p><p>This makes economic sense under a per kWh tariff as you spend 32c to avoid paying $1.12, resulting in a net saving of 80c.</p><p><strong>Cost Analysis Under Demand Tariff (3950):</strong><br></p><table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;" border="1" data-mce-selected="1" data-mce-style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;"><br></td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;"><br></td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Demand Charge:</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">$5.127 per kW per month</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Maximum Demand:</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">20 kW (since you charged your battery at 20 kW during peak time)</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Monthly Demand Cost:</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">20 kW * $5.127/kW = <strong>$102.54</strong></td></tr></tbody></table><p>Even though the immediate cost of charging 1.6 kWh at 20c/kWh would cheaper 20.8c, although the savings would be the same, the demand charge adds a significant cost for the entire month.</p><p><strong>Total Cost wi:th Demand Charge:</strong><br></p><table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;" border="1" data-mce-style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Charging Cost (7c cheaper):</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">1.6 kWh * 13c/kWh = 20.8c</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Demand Charge:</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">$102.54</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Total Cost:</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;"><strong>$102.86</strong></td></tr></tbody></table><blockquote><p>...the attempt to save 80c by charging your battery would result in a monthly charge of over $102.</p></blockquote><p>In this scenario, the attempt to save 80c by charging your battery would result in a monthly charge of over $102. This stark contrast highlights the potential pitfalls of demand tariffs for households with irregular but occasional high electricity usage during peak periods.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>Demand tariffs like the Energex 3950 can impose disproportionately high costs for occasional high-demand periods, making them far worse than paying per kWh. Households with battery storage or electric vehicles, which may occasionally need to charge quickly, can find themselves facing significant monthly charges due to a single peak usage event.&nbsp;</p><p>In comparison, a per kWh tariff allows for predictable and manageable electricity costs based on actual usage, making it a more consumer-friendly option for many households.</p><h3>References</h3><p>1. <a data-mce-href="https://www.canstarblue.com.au/electricity/demand-tariffs/" href="https://www.canstarblue.com.au/electricity/demand-tariffs/">Canstar Blue - Understanding Demand Tariffs</a><br>2. <a data-mce-href="https://wattever.com.au/demand-tariffs/" href="https://wattever.com.au/demand-tariffs/">WATTever - Demand Tariffs</a><br>3. <a data-mce-href="https://www.energex.com.au/home/our-services/energy-plans-and-rates" href="https://www.energex.com.au/home/our-services/energy-plans-and-rates">Energex - Residential Tariffs</a></p>

Why Demand Tariffs Like 3950 Can Be Far Worse

<h2>Why We Use Cloudflare Zero Trust Logins for Accessing the Powston Dashboard</h2><p>At Powston, security is our top priority. When it comes to accessing our dashboard, we rely on Cloudflare Zero Trust logins. </p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure id="figure-ust76ijy8llxclroae"><img id="ust76ijy8llxclroae" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6zLssyN058UthWPCcjT3QzqCw8SGbkIgXCdua7qndqVa9a9tNYS87VLkogOk3NWK.png" alt="assorted-color social media signage" title="assorted-color social media signage" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure><p>Here’s why.</p><h3>Enhanced Security</h3><p>Cloudflare Zero Trust ensures that only authorized users can access our dashboard. It verifies each login attempt, adding an extra layer of security.</p><figure id="figure-xoj0f7xn2qlxclpkkf"><img id="xoj0f7xn2qlxclpkkf" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1520697830682-bbb6e85e2b0b?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw1fHxzZWN1cml0eSUyMGxvZ2lufGVufDB8fHx8MTcxODI0MzMyMnww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="security login" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1520697830682-bbb6e85e2b0b?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw1fHxzZWN1cml0eSUyMGxvZ2lufGVufDB8fHx8MTcxODI0MzMyMnww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><p>By using MFA, we ensure a higher level of security for our dashboard.</p><h3>Easy Management</h3><p>Cloudflare allows us to manage user access easily. We can grant or revoke access quickly, ensuring that only the right people have entry at any given time.</p><figure id="figure-nyxdw6hp2alxclpm6a"><img id="nyxdw6hp2alxclpm6a" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1680458841796-360a4cf4b3b1?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxM3x8dXNlciUyMG1hbmFnZW1lbnR8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzE4MjQzMzI0fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="user management" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1680458841796-360a4cf4b3b1?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxM3x8dXNlciUyMG1hbmFnZW1lbnR8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzE4MjQzMzI0fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><p>Real-time monitoring is vital for identifying potential threats. By keeping an eye on login attempts, we can take swift action to prevent unauthorized access. This proactive approach helps us maintain the integrity of our dashboard.</p><figure id="figure-7f5b657nulxclpnka"><img id="7f5b657nulxclpnka" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1509048191080-d2984bad6ae5?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw1fHxyZWFsLXRpbWUlMjBtb25pdG9yaW5nfGVufDB8fHx8MTcxODI0MzMyNnww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="real-time monitoring" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1509048191080-d2984bad6ae5?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw1fHxyZWFsLXRpbWUlMjBtb25pdG9yaW5nfGVufDB8fHx8MTcxODI0MzMyNnww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>Conclusion</h2><p>Using Cloudflare Zero Trust logins helps us maintain the security and integrity of the Powston dashboard. It provides us with the tools to manage access effectively and keep our data secure.</p><p>By prioritizing security, we can ensure that our users have a safe and reliable experience. Cloudflare Zero Trust is a key component of our security strategy, helping us protect our valuable data and maintain trust with our users.</p>

Why We Use Zero Trust Logins

<p>The Australian energy market is notoriously unpredictable, with prices that can swing wildly. This volatility can be a double-edged sword for those with energy storage solutions like battery systems. Traditional energy export strategies often rely on averaging prices over a period, such as half an hour, which can lead to missed opportunities and diminished returns. However, a well-informed and strategic approach can transform these fluctuations from a hazard into a high-reward opportunity.</p><p>Consider a recent evening in Queensland's energy market: prices started at a mere 12c/kWh and soared to an incredible 1,420c/kWh by the end of a half-hour window. Managing a battery system under these conditions requires foresight and precision. One such battery, under my management, exported just 25Wh at the low rate before switching to a real-time pricing model, <a data-mce-href="https://localvolts.com/" href="https://localvolts.com/">LocalVolts</a>, earlier in the month. When the price peaked, the battery exported 273Wh, earning $3.8 in just five minutes—a stark contrast to the another platform's averaged payout of $2.76 for the entire period.</p><table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;" border="1" data-mce-style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;"><br></td><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">Five Minute Price</td><td style="width: 33.335%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.335%;">Thirty Minute Price</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">17:35</td><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">12c/kWh</td><td style="width: 33.335%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.335%;">$2.76</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">17:55</td><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">1,420c/kWh</td><td style="width: 33.335%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.335%;">$2.76</td></tr></tbody></table><p>This change in the last few periods is not uncommon and leaves users who watch the predictions confused as they swing wildly trying to estimate average.&nbsp;</p><p>But beyond the strategic choice of when to export lies another critical factor: the speed of response. In the past week, my system's average response time to price signals was within 21 seconds, allowing the majority of the five-minute window to capitalize on the high prices. This rapid response is key, by comparision I know of another company that issued an SMS alert for that price spike two minutes before the end of a half-hour window. That was too late for customers. The damage was done to the energy bill in the previous 28 minutes, and there's little you can do to mitigate it.</p><p>This incident underscores two critical lessons: averaging hurts and speed is king. Averaging dilutes the potential earnings from spikes in energy prices and can lead to inefficient use of battery storage. And in the race against time, speed is critical. Why export energy at a low rate in the hope of a spike when you can conserve and deploy the battery's capacity precisely when the spike occurs? Timely reporting and the ability to switch inverters and loads within seconds are not just advantageous—they're essential for modern energy management.</p><figure id="figure-vzt2orgvyelwobo7i5"><img id="vzt2orgvyelwobo7i5" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/24AJ6VLblnqrpTeV9R3MWj4xzYhRHKOct9yzn5Lw4C9mOKekjPwTxy8TKoswBLma.png" alt="Best friends" title="Best friends" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 45% 30%;" data-corners="small" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="45%" data-positionY="30%" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>

Maximizing Battery Value in Volatile Energy Markets: A Strategic Guide

<p>As I embarked on the intricate path of developing algorithms for energy trading, little did I anticipate that my journey would weave through the realms of HVAC systems and the principles of thermodynamics. My initial academic voyage at Queensland University of Technology (QUT), where I pursued a degree in Applied Science (Physics Major), turned out to be very useful. It equipped me with a robust foundation in understanding the natural laws that govern our universe. Yet, the frequency with which I lean on this knowledge in my professional endeavors still manages to surprise me.</p><p>Linking physics to the practicalities of energy management and software development might seem unconventional at first glance. However, the complexities of energy trading share a fundamental connection with the principles of thermodynamics, especially when optimizing for efficiency and sustainability in energy usage.</p><p>Recently, my exploration took an unexpected turn towards the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) domain. The catalyst for this diversion was an attempt to understand and mitigate excessive energy consumption in residential settings, a challenge that presented itself in the most practical form: a neighbor's air conditioning system.</p><figure id="figure-kb7lyn9omlsiftq80"><img id="kb7lyn9omlsiftq80" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/18kGZp659Qb5z2MYC3JH5zNp0vnCFDaFa9velJ51unA4KMqaSU0nMivOngstRuoH.png" alt="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="The temperature difference was only 4 degrees, you want at least 10" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/18kGZp659Qb5z2MYC3JH5zNp0vnCFDaFa9velJ51unA4KMqaSU0nMivOngstRuoH.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">The temperature difference was only 4 degrees, you want at least 10</figcaption></figure><p>Armed with a Fluke thermal image scanner, I embarked on a diagnostic quest to uncover the inefficiencies lurking within this HVAC system. The thermal images revealed a mere 4-5 degree Celsius difference between the intake and exhaust air temperatures of the air conditioning unit. This minimal temperature differential not only highlighted a significant inefficiency but also underscored the importance of practical thermodynamics knowledge in addressing real-world problems.</p><h3>Thermodynamics 101</h3><p>The physics behind this is actually not that bad. The idea is to get the highest coefficient of efficiency as possible. In cooling, this is the Carnot COP which can be expressed as the cooling temperature over the difference in temperature from intake to exhast.</p><figure id="figure-ldzlyj2gp8lsifin9j"><img id="ldzlyj2gp8lsifin9j" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/28vxVEnGCKTOdRRC14A7cNKPQ7kTYdN8mQxCaEfkMAoAYY4JKIVbbsJ0YpIe2kcp.png" alt="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 50% 50%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="The larger the temperate from the better." data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="50%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/28vxVEnGCKTOdRRC14A7cNKPQ7kTYdN8mQxCaEfkMAoAYY4JKIVbbsJ0YpIe2kcp.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 50% 50%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">The larger the temperate from the better.</figcaption></figure><p>This foray into HVAC and thermodynamics serves as a testament to the versatility of a physics education. It underscores how the principles learned within the walls of QUT are not confined to abstract or academic pursuits but are profoundly relevant to tackling contemporary challenges, including those in the burgeoning field of energy management and sustainability.</p><blockquote><p>220, 221, whatever it takes.</p></blockquote><p>Reflecting on this experience, I'm reminded of the startup mantra inspired by the movie quote from "Mr. Mom": "220, 221, whatever it takes." This ethos encapsulates the spirit of adaptability and determination that drives innovation and problem-solving across diverse fields, from energy trading algorithms to the optimization of HVAC systems.</p><h3>Implications for Batteries</h3><p>Reflecting on this journey, I'm also reminded of the broader implications of energy efficiency and management, particularly when it comes to integrating technology like battery storage systems. While a battery can significantly reduce costs associated with peak energy usage, the analogy of a "leaking toilet" comes to mind, emphasizing a fundamental principle of efficiency. If the energy load of a household or facility isn't correctly matched or if inefficiencies like improper HVAC installations are present—akin to energy "leaking" against a retaining wall—then the benefits of advanced solutions can be severely undermined.</p><p>This realization highlights a critical step in the path toward optimizing energy usage: addressing the most substantial inefficiencies first. It doesn't matter how sophisticated an algorithm or technology might be; if foundational issues such as energy leakage or inefficient equipment operation are not rectified, then the potential for savings and efficiency improvements remains untapped. Just as fixing a leaking toilet is a prerequisite to water conservation, rectifying major energy inefficiencies is essential before one can fully leverage the advantages of battery storage or engage in the nuances of energy trading.</p><p>Therefore, the endeavor to optimize energy usage and develop trading algorithms is not just about the application of complex mathematical models or the integration of cutting-edge technology. It is equally about applying a thorough understanding of physical principles and addressing basic inefficiencies that might otherwise go unnoticed. This approach is in line with the startup mantra inspired by "Mr. Mom": "220, 221, whatever it takes." It's a call to action that underlines the importance of adaptability, practical problem-solving, and the willingness to tackle challenges at their root, before venturing into more intricate solutions.</p><figure id="figure-tqp6440uclsifwwql"><img id="tqp6440uclsifwwql" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/4TLSLFAEoJ9u8m5JFaIdQPTCXG2cNziq7MLvMbKKuAv4oL8DqL70GI9wpXEaR12o.png" alt="Solar panels on a lawn" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure><p>As we navigate the intricacies of energy management, sustainability, and technological innovation, this blend of fundamental physics, practical insights, and a holistic approach to problem-solving guides us towards more efficient and effective solutions. It's a testament to the idea that before diving into the "interesting problems," we must first ensure that we're not overlooking the basics—that we're not, in essence, leaking energy "up against the wall."</p>

Bridging Energy Trading Algorithms and HVAC: A Physicist's Unexpected Journey

Powston

Powston is an Australian energy technology company transforming how households and businesses use and profit from renewable energy. Our AI-driven platform and plug-and-play controller connect batteries, solar, and smart devices directly to the 5-minute wholesale energy market. This lets customers cut their electricity bills, optimise consumption, and even earn revenue—without relying on traditional retailers or Virtual Power Plants.
With integrations across leading brands like Sungrow, SAJ, iStore, Powston empowers users with real-time energy monitoring, cost optimisation, and automation tools for appliances, EVs, and backup planning.
Headquartered in Brisbane, Powston is committed to building a more sustainable future by enabling everyday Australians to reduce environmental impact while achieving financial independence from power bills

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