Home automation is evolving quickly. Not only is it meeting traditional needs like security and safety, it’s offering homeowners new ways to live an eco-friendly life.

More than simply dimmer switches or motion sensors, today’s home automation solutions find all sorts of ways to save power. Not only does that translate to a greener home, it also translates to more green in your pocket from the savings on your energy bills.

Let’s take a look at some of the current and emerging home automation solutions that can help you live a greener life:

• Motion sensors and person detectors. One of the older green home automation solutions is also one of the most basic. Motion sensors have been used for many years now for security lighting, and some homeowners are even using the solution in rooms of the home that tend to be used only briefly (such as the bathroom).
• Outlet timers and remote controls. Another wonderful opportunity to save on power is to reduce the amount of electricity your appliances are sucking from the wall at any given moment. You can use timers (an older technology, but still useful) or even remote-controlled outlet inserts in order to cut power to a given outlet, reducing the drain that appliances make on the home’s power when the outlet isn’t in use. Some of these systems can even be controlled via a WiFi-enabled smartphone app. You can literally turn off the kitchen light from your smartphone after you’re already in bed.
• Whole home automation technology. There are a number of emerging systems that take a more holistic approach to home automation and energy savings. For example, the Luminode system essentially tracks the way power is used in your home, and builds a profile that connects with your home automation system and home security panel. It identifies when your peak usage times occur, and when power can be cut in order to save on consumption. Crestron, on the other hand, offers comprehensive luxury home automation solutions that are actually within the reach of the American middle class.