Change the World 2023
KB Home and Schneider Electric Aging energy grids around the world have been tested in unprecedented ways—the result of a perilous mix of heat waves, severe storms, droughts, and other catastrophes. Residential energy use accounts for an estimated 20% of all greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S., and more energy-efficient homes are one possible solution to the growing strain. Schneider Electric—whose products are now in four out of 10 U.S. homes—has been a leader in building out technology and services to make smarter homes and grids a reality. In early 2023, the company launched a product that lets consumers switch between energy sources (traditional and cleaner sources) and store energy from solar panels during the day to power their homes during peak hours. This saves money for residents and helps alleviate some of the stress put on existing power grids at times of high demand. Schneider has also teamed up with KB Home, the big U.S. builder that has become a leader in energy-efficient housing. In 2022, KB launched the first “microgrid communities”—two all-electric, energy-smart neighborhoods in Menifee, Calif. Homes in the neighborhoods have built-in solar panels, energy-storage systems, and energy-efficiency tech powered in part by Schneider. Each home is designed to average out to be net-zero energy—producing as much energy as it consumes over time.
Courtesy of KB Home