Event Recap: Duke Energy Emerging Technology Tour

On Thursday May 16th, the BIG-Charlotte team had the opportunity to visit Duke Energy's Emerging Technology Office (ETO) and gain insights into the latest Residential and Commercial & Industrial innovations happening. From smart fridges to robotic dogs to EV charging, Duke Energy is helping pave the way for a smarter, more interconnected future. Here’s a glimpse into some of the tech we learned about:

1. Smart Fridges: Picture this--you’re at the grocery store and you think you’re out of eggs. You really can’t remember, so you buy a dozen just in case. You then return home to now three dozen eggs in your fridge (apparently this has happened before). Duke Energy showcased a smart fridge equipped with cameras that can identify what's missing from your stock while you're at the grocery store. Say goodbye to last-minute trips for forgotten essentials or overload of the same products!

2. Smart Interconnections: Duke Energy’s advancements in smart interconnections are revolutionizing the way devices communicate with each other. This technology streamlines processes and enhances efficiency, making our lives easier and more connected than ever before. They are testing smart interconnections for EV charging, breaker boxes, home appliances, and much more.

3. SPOT the Robotic Dog: Yes, you read that right! Duke Energy introduced us to SPOT, the robotic dog that is incredibly versatile. From inspecting hazardous, remote sites to monitoring equipment, SPOT is leading the charge in innovation and automation.

But that's not all! Duke Energy also enlightened us on their solar production tracking capabilities. We were amazed to learn how they monitor solar production in real-time and even analyze how phenomena like eclipses affect production levels. It’s truly fascinating to see technology intersecting with renewable energy in such impactful ways.

Now, you might be wondering, why is Duke Energy investing in all of this groundbreaking work? Well, the answer is simple: customer adoption. Duke Energy is committed to enhancing the customer journey by integrating cutting-edge technology into their services. By embracing innovation, Duke Energy is not only staying ahead of the curve but also empowering customers to make smarter choices and lead more efficient lives.

So, what's next for Duke Energy and its innovative endeavors? As they continue to push the boundaries of technology, we can expect even more exciting developments that will shape the future of energy consumption and customer experience.

We were thrilled to have had the opportunity to witness firsthand the incredible strides Duke Energy is making in the tech world. We may even look to schedule another tour hear so more BIG-CLT members can join.

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