New white paper shows how smart home technology can strengthen the electric grid

ARLINGTON, VA – July 30, 2026 – Millions of American homes already contain technologies that can help meet the nation’s growing electricity demand, according to a new report from the Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®. With U.S. electricity demand expected to grow 19 to 35 percent by 2030, CTA’s new white paper shows how smart home technologies can strengthen the electric grid while helping consumers save energy and money.

The white paper, The Untapped Grid, examines how technologies already in American homes, including smart thermostats, home batteries, electric vehicles and rooftop solar systems can help consumers reduce energy use during peak periods while providing valuable support to the grid.

The report finds that 66 percent of U.S. adults are willing to adjust their energy use during periods of high demand, while 53 percent are willing to allow connected devices to automatically reduce electricity use when needed.

"Innovation has always helped America solve its greatest challenges, and meeting our growing energy needs is no exception," said Kinsey Fabrizio, President and CEO, CTA. “This report shows how consumer technology can help families save electricity, strengthen our infrastructure and help power America's energy future."

The paper outlines policy and industry actions needed to expand consumer participation, unlock the full potential of these technologies and create a smarter, more flexible and resilient energy system. CTA’s recommendations include better aligning utility incentives with consumer energy participation; expanding access to demand response programs; promoting interoperability across connected technologies and adopting strong cybersecurity standards for grid-connected devices.

Learn more about the technology industry’s recommendations to modernize the electric grid, expand energy infrastructure and encourage technologies that improve energy efficiency and reliability in CTA's new Policy for Powering America's Innovation Future.

About Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®:   

As North America’s largest technology trade association, CTA is the tech sector. Our members are the world’s leading innovators – from startups to global brands – helping support more than 17 million American jobs. CTA owns and produces CES® – the most powerful tech event in the world. Find us at CTA.tech. Follow us @CTAtech.