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UC Davis EEI Smart Home
Advancing Energy-Efficient and Grid-Responsive Living
A Living Lab for the Future of Sustainable Housing
The UC Davis Energy and Efficiency Institute (EEI) Smart Home is a research and demonstration facility designed to advance energy-efficient, grid-responsive, and sustainable living. Originally developed as the Honda Smart Home, this facility is now operated by EEI to test and showcase cutting-edge residential energy technologies.
Located in West Village, one of the largest planned zero-net energy communities in the U.S., the EEI Smart Home provides a platform for evaluating and integrating solutions in housing, transportation, energy, water, and sustainable building practices.
Key Smart Home Features
Zero Net Energy (ZNE) Design – Powered by a 9.5 kW solar photovoltaic (PV) system, producing more electricity annually than it consumes.
Energy Storage & Management – A 10 kWh stationary battery storage system enables energy optimization and resilience.
Smart Energy Distribution – The Home Energy Management System (HEMS) dynamically manages energy use across the home, EV, and grid.
Geothermal Radiant Heating & Cooling – Uses a geothermal heat pump to reduce heating and cooling energy demand.
Circadian Lighting System – Supports occupant well-being by adjusting lighting color and intensity based on natural rhythms.
Sustainable Water Use – Features greywater recycling and rainwater collection to minimize water waste.
General Specifications
Construction: Slab foundation, wood framing
Floor Area: 1,944 sq. ft.
Annex Floor Area: 190 sq. ft.
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 2.5
Walls: 9.25” double-stud walls with cellulose insulation
Windows: Triple-pane
Garage: 2-car, HEMS Ready
Research & Demonstration Projects
The EEI Smart Home actively supports cutting-edge research in energy efficiency and decarbonization:
Multi-Function Heat Pump (MFHP) Research – Testing the Panasonic Aquarea EcoFleX system to evaluate its efficiency in combining space cooling, heating, and domestic hot water heating.
Building-Grid Interaction Studies – Investigating how smart homes enhance grid stability and efficiency by responding to real-time electricity pricing and demand.
Technology Demonstration & Testing – Serving as a living laboratory for emerging HVAC technologies, energy storage solutions, and sustainable building materials.
Resources & Related Links
Explore reports, research publications, and video content related to the EEI Smart Home:
Get Involved
The EEI Smart Home is open for research collaborations and industry partnerships. Contact us at energy@ucdavis.edu to learn more or get involved.
Join us in shaping the future of sustainable housing!
