Residential energy monitoring and computerized surveillance via utility power flows

The author notes that all novel technologies have the potential to affect society in a complex manner, with both beneficial and detrimental consequences. He considers an illustrative case study: a nonintrusive appliance load monitoring technique that can provide vital information to help avoid future energy crises, but can also be used for surveillance purposes. He notes that there appears to be a significant potential for the technology to be abused. The danger that the technology might eventually lead to an erosion of civil liberties and privacy rights leaves its developers in an ethical quandary. The author examines how this technology should be controlled.<>