CSIRO_fridge.jpgCSIRO has recently developed a smart fridge that's equipped with the needed machinery to be able to communicate with other fridges of the same model in an effort to lower energy use. According to CSIRO, the dispatched fridges are connected by a network and the appliances can communicate with each other to decide if it's the best time to use electricity or not. These refrigerators were designed specifically to be used in conjunction with generators powered by renewable energy sources such as solar or wind energy.

"The fridges work together to decide when to cool down, and thus consume power, based on how much surplus power will be available. They are able to anticipate power shortages and change their running schedules accordingly to use as little power as possible during these times. In short, the fridges are working cooperatively to use the available power supply efficiently," says CSIRO engineer, Sam West.

Just like the smart fridges to be distributed in Britain soon, CSIRO's version can maintain its internal temperature so consumers reportedly don't have to worry about defrosting and spoiled food. Its basic functionalities aside, the CSIRO fridge can also store surplus energy in its machinery for later use.