Abstract:
The invention describes a system and method for arranging to provide power to a power monitor device. The disclosure describes the system and method receiving a request for power for at least one device specified by a power monitor device. The disclosure describes receiving at least one proposal from an entity desiring to supply power according to the request for power. A best proposal of the at least one proposal is determined. And the system and method command the power monitor device to supply power in accordance with the best proposal.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION  
       [0001]     This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/947,081 filed Aug. 29, 2001 and entitled “Apparatus and Method for Centralized Power Management”. 
     
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION  
       [0002]     This invention relates in general to power consumption, and more particularly to management of power consumption.  
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
       [0003]     In order to conserve energy and alleviate power shortages at certain times of the day, it is advantageous to encourage consumers to make use of power at non-peak hours of the day, thus causing power consumption to become more uniform throughout the day. Traditionally, electrical devices have been activated whenever a user needs a function performed by the electrical device. For example, if a wash needs to be done, the user of the washing machine loads the washing machine and does the wash. The power usage aspect of doing the wash is not generally considered. Traditionally, a power network distributes its power through power lines. These power lines eventually terminate in power meters, which measure the amount of power that flows through them. Power is drawn through power meters by electrical devices that consume power when they operate.  
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
       [0004]     In accordance with the present invention, the disadvantages and problems associated with management of power consumption have been substantially reduced or eliminated. In particular, the present invention provides a system that will provide the power customer with an inducement to distribute the customer&#39;s power consumption more evenly throughout the day.  
         [0005]     In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a method for arranging to provide power to a customer is provided. An aspect of the invention includes receiving a request for power for at least one device specified by a customer, receiving at least one proposal from an entity desiring to supply power according to the request for power, determining a best proposal of the at least one proposal, and commanding a power monitor device associated with the customer to supply power in accordance with the best proposal.  
         [0006]     Another aspect of this invention includes a power monitor device for monitoring power consumption. The power monitor device includes a group of first electrical ports, each of the first electrical ports is configured to receive power, a group of second electrical ports, each of the second electrical ports configured to supply power, and a communications port configured to communicate via a communications network. The communications port also communicates with a processor. The processor includes a data storage element, and the processor is connected to the communications port and at least one signaling device. The processor is configured to receive commands from the communications port, to transmit data to the communications port, and to transmit commands to the at least one signaling device. Each of the at least one signaling device is connected to an associated one of the plurality of first electrical ports, an associated one of the plurality of second electrical ports, and the processor. Each of the at least one signaling device is configured to create a power profile, to transmit commands to at least one electrical outlet, and to transmit the power profile to the processor.  
         [0007]     Important technical advantages of certain embodiments of the present invention include redistributing the timing of power consumption and thus alleviating potential power crises, providing an automatic system for users to bid for lower cost power, and providing an automatic system for power companies to sell power during low power consumption periods.  
         [0008]     Other technical advantages will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art from the following figures, descriptions and claims.  
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0009]     For a more complete understanding of the present invention and its advantages, reference is now made to the following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:  
         [0010]      FIG. 1A  is a block diagram illustrating a power control system for managing power consumption and purchasing power at a reduced rate;  
         [0011]      FIG. 1B  is a block diagram illustrating a power control system for managing power consumption and purchasing power at a reduced rate;  
         [0012]      FIG. 1C  is a block diagram illustrating a power control system for controlling the power distribution across a group of power supply circuits in accordance with the present invention;  
         [0013]      FIG. 2A  is a block diagram illustrating a direct communication power monitor device in accordance with the present invention;  
         [0014]      FIG. 2B  is a block diagram illustrating an indirect communication power monitor device in accordance with the present invention;  
         [0015]      FIG. 3  is a flow chart illustrating a process of installing the direct communication power monitor device in accordance with the present invention;  
         [0016]      FIG. 4  is a flow chart illustrating a process of purchasing and using power through a power auction in accordance with the present invention;  
         [0017]      FIG. 5  is a flow chart illustrating a process of conducting a power auction in accordance with the present invention;  
         [0018]      FIG. 6A  is a flow chart illustrating a process of acting on tokens stored by a direct communication power monitor device  50  in accordance with the present invention;  
         [0019]      FIG. 6B  is a flow chart illustrating a process of acting on tokens received by an indirect communication power monitor device  60  in accordance with the present invention;  
         [0020]      FIG. 7A  is a flow chart illustrating a process for retrieving information pertaining to completed contracts in accordance with the present invention;  
         [0021]      FIG. 7B  is a flow chart illustrating a process for bidding on power auctions in accordance with the present invention; and  
         [0022]      FIG. 8  is a flow chart illustrating a process for purchasing power to avoid a power shortage in accordance with the present invention. 
     
    
       [0023]     Throughout the figures, unless otherwise stated, the same reference numerals and characters are used to denote like features, elements, components, or portions of the illustrated embodiments. Moreover, while the subject invention will now be described in detail with reference to the figures, and in connection with the illustrative embodiments, changes and modifications can be made to the described embodiments without departing from the true scope and spirit of the subject invention as defined by the appended claims.  
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION  
       [0024]      FIG. 1A  illustrates a power control system  10  for managing power consumption and purchasing power at a reduced rate. A building  102  including a device  14 , a device  16 , a device  18 , a power supply circuit  118 , a power supply circuit  120 , a fuse box  122 , a fuse box power supply line  123 , a power meter  124 , a power supply line  130 , and a group of communications network connections  28 ,  30 ,  31  is provided. A communications network  170 , a power network  140 , a power station  150 , including a power production line  151  and a power station communications network connection  152  and a power station  160 , including a power production line  161  and a power station communications network connection  162  are also provided. The communications network  170  can be, for example, the Internet.  
         [0025]     The power station  150  and the power station  160  supply power to the power network  140  through the power production lines  151 ,  161  respectively. The power stations  150 ,  160  communicate with the communications network  170  through the power station communications network connections  152 ,  162  respectively. The power network  140  supplies the power meter  124  with power through the power supply line  130 . The power meter  124  measures the energy flowing through it to the devices within the building  102 . In an alternate embodiment, the power meter  124  can be used to measure the energy being used by the devices located in a group of buildings. The power meter  124  supplies power to the fuse box  122  through the fuse box power supply line  123 . The fuse box  122  supplies power to the power supply circuits  118 ,  120 . The power supply circuit  118  supplies power to the device  18 , which is also connected to the communications network  170  through the communications network connection  31 . The power supply circuit  120  supplies power to the devices  14 ,  16 , which are connected to the communications network  170  through the communications network connections  28 ,  30 , respectively. The devices  14 ,  16 ,  18  can be any electrical device, including, but not limited to: washing machines, dryers, dish washers, printing presses, manufacturing presses, computers, telephones, lamps, air conditioners, water heaters, heating systems, and the like.  
         [0026]     Each of the devices  14 ,  16 ,  18  includes a direct communication power monitor device  50 , shown in  FIG. 2A , that communicates with the communications network  170  through each of the communications network connections  28 ,  30 ,  31 , respectively. The direct communication power monitor device  50  of each of the devices  14 ,  16 ,  18  can be configured to set up auctions to purchase and sell power on a power auction server  180  by sending the power auction server  180  parameterized tokens. Each of the devices  14 ,  16 ,  18  are configured to supply the associated direct communication power monitor device  50  with the appropriate information to set up auctions to purchase and sell power.  
         [0027]     Parameterized tokens can be formatted network messages. The parameterized token may contain a digital certificate and parameters. A device that receives the parameterized token can verify the validity of the parameterized token by analyzing the digital certificate in association with the parameters of the parameterized token. If any portion of the digital certificate or parameters has been altered the device can detect the change and reject the parameterized token. The parameters of the parameterized token can include, among others, a power class, a start time, a latest start time, an end time, an active time, a power amount, a maximum rate, a minimum rate, and a priority value.  
         [0028]     In a certain embodiment, the tokens utilize public-private key techniques to encrypt and authenticate the tokens.  
         [0029]     The power auction server  180  includes a central processing unit  182 , a data storage unit  184 , a database  186  and a power auction server communications network connection  188 . Auctions for power are conducted on the power auction server  180 . Power monitor devices and power stations set up and bid on power auctions on the power auction server  180 . The information describing the power station accounts and the monitor device accounts are stored on the data storage unit  184 , and the details about the power auctions are stored on the database  186 . In a certain embodiment, the data storage unit  184  can be eliminated, and the database  186  may contain the information describing the power station accounts, the information describing the monitor device accounts, and the details about the power auctions.  
         [0030]     In a certain embodiment, the power auction server  180  can be eliminated, and the functionality of the power auction server  180  can be embedded in the power stations  150 ,  160  and the direct communication power monitor device  50 . The devices  14 ,  16 ,  18  send messages to set up and bid on auctions directly to the power stations  150 ,  160 , and the power stations  150 ,  160  send messages directly to the devices  14 ,  16 ,  18 .  
         [0031]     In a certain embodiment, the direct communication power monitor device  50  of each of the devices  14 ,  16 ,  18  is configured to set up auctions to purchase and sell power with any device connected to the communications network  170 . In a certain embodiment, a computer may act as a proxy for the direct power monitor devices  14 ,  16 ,  18 .  
         [0032]      FIG. 1B  illustrates a power control system  100  for controlling the power distribution in a building or across a group of power supply circuits. The building  102  includes a device  104 , a device  106 , a device  108 , a group of indirect power monitor devices  60 ,  61 , an intelligent electrical outlet  112 , the power supply circuit  118 , the power supply circuit  120 , the direct communication power monitor device  50 , the fuse box circuit  128 , the fuse box circuit  129 , the fuse box  122 , the fuse box power supply line  123 , the power meter  124 , the power supply line  130 , and a power control communications network connection  136 . Also provided are the communications network  170 , the power network  140 , the power station  150 , including the power production line  151  and the power station communications network connection  152  and the power station  160 , including the power production line  161  and the power station communications network connection  162 .  
         [0033]     The power station  150  and the power station  160  supply power to the power network  140  through the power production lines  151 ,  161  respectively. The power stations  150 ,  160  communicate with the communications network  170  through the power station communications network connections  152 ,  162  respectively. The power network  140  supplies the power meter  124  with power through the power supply line  130 . The power meter  124  measures the energy flowing through it to the devices within the building  102 . In an alternate embodiment, the power meter  124  can be used to measure the energy being used by the devices located in a group of buildings. The power meter  124  supplies power to the fuse box  122  through the fuse box power supply line  123 . The fuse box  122  supplies power to the fuse box circuits  128 ,  129 . The direct communication power monitor device  50  receives power from the fuse box circuits  128 ,  129  and supplies that power to the power supply circuits  118 ,  120 , respectively. The direct communication power monitor device  50  is connected to the communications network  170  through the power monitor device communications network connection  136 . The direct communication power monitor device  50  is shown in more detail in  FIG. 2A  and further described below. The power supply circuit  120 , shown in  FIG. 1A , supplies power to the indirect power monitor devices  60 ,  61 , which in turn supply power to the devices  104 ,  106 . The power supply circuit  118  supplies power to the intelligent electrical outlet  112 , which in turn supplies power to the device  108 . The intelligent electrical outlet  112  contains the indirect power monitor device  60 . The indirect communication power monitor devices  60 ,  61  can, and typically will, be substantially identical. The indirect communication power monitor device  60  is shown in detail in  FIG. 2B  and further described below. The power supply circuits  118 ,  120  are used to transmit the parameterized tokens between the device  50 , and the devices  60 ,  61 ,  112 .  
         [0034]     In a certain embodiment, the intelligent electrical outlet  112  is configured to provide power to a device plugged into the intelligent electrical outlet if the intelligent electrical outlet receives a command to supply power, or refrain from providing power to the device plugged into the intelligent electrical outlet if the intelligent electrical outlet receives a command to stop supplying power.  
         [0035]     The power auction server  180 , shown in  FIG. 1B , includes the central processing unit  182 , the data storage unit  184 , the database  186  and the power auction server communications network connection  188 . Auctions for power are conducted on the power auction server  180 . Power monitor devices and power stations set up and bid on power auctions on the power auction server  180 . The information describing the power station accounts and the monitor device accounts are stored on the data storage unit  184 , and the details about the power auctions are stored on the database  186 . In another certain embodiment, the data storage unit  184  can be eliminated, and the database  186  may contain the information describing the power station accounts, the information describing the monitor device accounts, and the details about the power auctions.  
         [0036]     In a certain embodiment, the power auction server  180  can be eliminated, and the functionality of the power auction server  180  can be embedded in the power stations  150 ,  160 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  sends messages directly to the power stations  150 ,  160 , and the power stations  150 ,  160  send messages directly to the direct communication power monitor device  50 . In another certain embodiment, the messages are parameterized tokens.  
         [0037]     In a certain embodiment, the direct communication power monitor device  50  is configured to set up auctions to purchase and sell power with any device connected to the communications network  170 . In another certain embodiment, the direct communication power monitor device  50  is configured to set up auctions to purchase and sell power on the power control server  180 .  
         [0038]      FIG. 1C  illustrates a power control system  101  for controlling the power distribution in a building or across a group of power supply circuits. Building  102  includes a device  104 , a device  106 , a device  108 , the group of indirect power monitor devices  60 ,  61 ,  62 , the power supply circuit  118 , the power supply circuit  120 , the fuse box  122 , the fuse box power supply line  123 , the power meter  124 , the power supply line  130 , a power supply circuit  132 , a computer  134 , and a computer communications network connection  135 . Also provided are the communications network  170 , the power network  140 , the power station  150 , including the power production line  151  and the power station communications network connection  152  and the power station  160 , including the power production line  161  and the power station communications network connection  162 .  
         [0039]     The power station  150  and the power station  160  supply power to the power network  140  through the power production lines  151 ,  161  respectively. The power stations  150 ,  160  communicate with the communications network  170  through the power station communications network connections  152 ,  162  respectively. The power network  140  supplies the power meter  124  with power through the power supply line  130 . The power meter  124  measures the energy flowing through it to the devices within the building  102 . In an alternate embodiment, the power meter  124  can be used to measure the energy being used by the devices located in a group of buildings. The power meter  124  supplies power to the fuse box  122  through the fuse box power supply line  123 . The fuse box  122  supplies power to the power supply circuits  118 ,  120 . The power supply circuit  120  supplies power to the indirect power monitor devices  60 ,  61 , which in turn supply power to the devices  32 ,  34 . The power supply circuit  118  supplies power to the indirect power monitor device  62 , which in turn supplies power to the device  36 . The indirect communication power monitor devices  60 ,  61 ,  62  can be and typically are substantially identical. The indirect communication power monitor device  60  is shown in detail in  FIG. 2B  and described more fully below. The power supply circuit  132  in  FIG. 1C  supplies power to the computer  134 , which is also connected to the communications network  170  through the computer communications network connection  135 . The power supply circuits  118 ,  120  are used to transmit the parameterized tokens between the device  50 , and the devices  60 ,  61 ,  112 .  
         [0040]     In an alternate embodiment, the computer  134  is directly connected to the device  32  by a communications link  137 , shown by the dashed line.  
         [0041]     The power auction server  180  includes the central processing unit  182 , the data storage unit  184 , the database  186  and the power auction server communications network connection  188 . Auctions for power are conducted on the power auction server  180 . Power monitor devices and power stations set up and bid on power auctions on the power auction server  180 . The information describing the power station accounts and the monitor device accounts are stored on the data storage unit  184 , and the details about the power auctions are stored on the database  186 .  
         [0042]     In a certain embodiment, the power auction server  180  can be eliminated and the functionality of the power auction server  180  can be embedded in the power stations  150 ,  160  and the computer  134 . The computer  134  sends messages directly to the power stations  150 ,  160 , and the power stations  150 ,  160  send messages directly to the computer  134 . In another certain embodiment, the messages are parameterized tokens. In yet another certain embodiment, the data storage unit  184  can be eliminated, and the database  186  may contain the information describing the power station accounts, the information describing the monitor device accounts, and the details about the power auctions.  
         [0043]     In a certain embodiment, the computer  134  acts as a proxy for the indirect power monitor devices  60 ,  61 ,  62 . In a certain embodiment, the computer  134  is configured to set up auctions to purchase and sell power with any device connected to the communications network  170 . In another certain embodiment, the computer  134  is configured to set up auctions to purchase and sell power on the power auction server  180 .  
         [0044]      FIG. 2A  illustrates the direct communication power monitor device  50  in greater detail. The direct communication power monitor device  50  includes a central processing unit  202 , a memory device  204 , a communications port  205 , a data storage unit  206 , a group of power monitor, signaling and switching devices  208 ,  210 ,  212 , a group of power supply ports  214 ,  216 ,  218 , and a group of device power ports  220 ,  222 ,  224 . The power supply ports  214 ,  216 ,  218  are connected to the device power ports  220 ,  222 ,  224 , respectively, through the power monitor, signaling and switching devices  208 ,  210 ,  212 , respectively. There can be any number of power supply ports, device power ports and power monitor, signaling and switching devices. In a certain embodiment, the number of power supply ports, device power ports and power monitor, signaling and switching devices is equal. The power monitor, signaling and switching devices  208 ,  210 ,  212  are controlled by the central processing unit  202 . The central processing unit  202  receives commands from the communications network  170  through the communications port  205 . The communications port  205  is connected to the communications network  170  by the power control communications network connection  136 . The power monitor, signaling and switching devices  208 ,  210 ,  212  are configured to send parameterized tokens to devices or electrical outlets connected to one of the device power ports  220 ,  222 ,  224  or the power supply ports  214 ,  216 ,  218 , receive parameterized tokens from devices or electrical outlets connected to one of the device power ports  220 ,  222 ,  224  or the power supply ports  214 ,  216 ,  218 , supply power to devices or electrical outlets connected to one of the device power ports  220 ,  222 ,  224  or the power supply ports  214 ,  216 ,  218 , and stop supplying power to devices or electrical outlets connected to one of the device power ports  220 ,  222 ,  224  or the power supply ports  214 ,  216 ,  218 . In a certain embodiment, the power monitor, signaling and switching devices  208 ,  210 ,  212  send and receive parameterized tokens using Long Range Ethernet which was developed by Cisco System Inc., 170 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, Calif. 95134-1619. A unit identifier is stored in the memory device  204  of the power monitor device.  
         [0045]     In a certain embodiment, the direct communication power monitor device  50  can be implemented on an ASIC, a general purpose processor, a micro-processor, a programmable logic device, or a field programmable gate array, among others. In another certain embodiment the power monitor, signaling and switching devices  208 ,  210 ,  212  are configured to act as on-off switches.  
         [0046]      FIG. 2B  illustrates the indirect communication power monitor device  60  in greater detail. The indirect communication power monitor device  60  includes a central processing unit  252 , a memory device  254 , a data storage unit  256 , a power monitor, signaling and switching device  258 , a power supply port  264 , and a device power port  270 . The power supply port  264  is connected to the device power port  270  through the power monitor, signaling and switching device  258 . There can be any number of power supply ports, device power ports and power monitor, signaling and switching devices. In a certain embodiment, the number of power supply ports, device power ports and power monitor, signaling and switching devices is equal. The power monitor, signaling and switching device  258  is controlled by the central processing unit  252 . The power monitor, signaling and switching device  258  is configured to send parameterized tokens to devices or electrical outlets connected to one of the device power port  270  or the power supply port  264 , receive parameterized tokens from devices or electrical outlets connected to one of the device power port  270  or the power supply port  264 , supply power to devices or electrical outlets connected to one of the device power port  270  or the power supply port  264 , and stop supplying power to devices or electrical outlets connected to one of the device power port  270  or the power supply port  264 . In a certain embodiment, the power monitor, signaling and switching device  258  sends and receives parameterized tokens using Long Range Ethernet which was developed by Cisco System Inc., 170 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, Calif. 95134-1619. A unit identifier is stored in the memory device  254  of the power monitor device. The main structural difference between the direct communication power monitor device  50  and the indirect communication power monitor device  60  is that the direct communication power monitor device  50  has the communications port  205  and the power monitor communications network connection  136 , whereas the indirect communication power monitor device  60  does not. Therefore, the direct communication power monitor device  50  can communicate with other devices through the communication port  205  or through the device power ports  220 ,  222 ,  224  or the power supply ports  214 ,  216 ,  218 , while the indirect communication power monitor device  60  may only communicate with other devices through the device power port  270  or the power supply port  264 .  
         [0047]     In a certain embodiment, the indirect communication power monitor device  60  can be implemented on an ASIC, a general purpose processor, a micro-processor, a programmable logic device, or a field programmable gate array, among others. In another certain embodiment, the indirect communication power monitor devices  60  can be nested together, thus providing many levels of device control. In another certain embodiment the power monitor, signaling and switching device  258  is configured to act as on-off switches.  
         [0048]      FIG. 3  illustrates the process  300  of installing a power monitor device that does not exist within a device. A customer requests the power monitor device, either a direct communication power monitor device  50  or the indirect communication power monitor device  60 , from a vendor at step  302 . The power monitor device is physically installed at step  304 . The power monitor device can be physically installed in an electrical circuit. For example, the direct communication power monitor device  50  of  FIG. 1B  can be physically installed between the fuse box and the power supply circuits. The power supply circuits are severed into the fuse box circuits  128 ,  129  and the power supply circuits  118 ,  120 , shown in  FIG. 1B . As shown in conjunction with  FIG. 2A , the fuse box circuits  128 ,  129  are connected to the power supply ports  216 ,  218 , and the power supply circuits  118 ,  120  are connected to the device power ports  222 ,  224 .  
         [0049]     Returning to  FIG. 3 , the building  102  is fitted with intelligent electrical outlets at step  306 . The power monitoring and signal devices located within the direct communication power monitor device  50  or the indirect communication power monitor device  60  can turn an intelligent electrical outlet on or off through the power supply circuits. Turning an intelligent electrical outlet on will allow a device which is plugged into the intelligent electrical outlet, to draw power through the intelligent electrical outlet. If an intelligent electrical outlet is off, no power can be drawn through it. In a certain embodiment, the functionality of the intelligent electrical outlets is embedded within a device.  
         [0050]     In a certain embodiment, the power monitor device controls a group of devices where some of the group of devices include the indirect communication power monitor device  60  or the direct communication power monitor device  50 . For each of the devices that include the indirect communication power monitor device  60  or the direct communication power monitor device  50 , the intelligent electrical outlets do not have to be installed, rather any type of electrical outlets can be used.  
         [0051]     At step  307 , if the power monitor device is the direct communication power monitor device  50 , the communications port  205  of the direct communication power monitor device  50  is connected to the communications network  170 . The physical cable linking the direct communication power monitor device  50  to the communications network  170  is connected to the communications port  205  of the direct communication power monitor device  50 . The direct communication power monitor device  50  is then able to communicate with the communications network  170 .  
         [0052]     At step  308 , the customer can register the direct communication power monitor devices  50  and the indirect communication power monitor device  60 . To register the direct communication power monitor device  50 , a unit identifier is stored in a non-volatile portion of the memory device  204  associated with the direct communication power monitor device  50  and is associated with an account of the direct communication power monitor device  50 . To register the indirect communication power monitor device  60 , a unit identifier is stored in a non-volatile portion of the memory device  254  associated with the indirect communication power monitor device  60  and is associated with an account of the indirect communication power monitor device  60 . In a certain embodiment, the unit identifier of the indirect communication power monitor device  60  is stored in a volatile portion of the memory device  254  of the indirect communication power monitor device  60 . In another certain embodiment, the unit identifier of the direct communication power monitor device  50  is stored in a volatile portion of the memory device  204  of the direct communication power monitor device  50 .  
         [0053]     For any system using an indirect communication power monitor device  60  there is at least one associated direct communication power monitor device  50 . At this time, the customer may configure the direct communication power monitor devices  50  and the indirect communication power monitor devices  60  by specifying the devices that the direct communication power monitor devices  50  and the indirect communication power monitor devices  60  will be used with. For example, the indirect communication power monitor device  60  shown in  FIG. 1B  should be configured to be used in association with the device  104 . In a certain embodiment, the geographical location of the direct communication power monitor devices  50  and the indirect communication power monitor devices  60  are provided. In another embodiment, the geographical locations of the devices  14 ,  16 ,  18 ,  32 ,  34 ,  36 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  to be used with the direct communication power monitor devices  50  and the indirect communication power monitor devices  60  are provided. For each device  14 ,  16 ,  18 ,  32 ,  34 ,  36 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  associated with the direct communication power monitor devices  50  and the indirect communication power monitor devices  60 , the customer indicates a device name, the electrical outlet the device is connected to, and the device setting tuple. Each device setting tuple includes a device setting and a power profile for the device setting. The power profile indicates the amount of energy the device  14 ,  16 ,  18 ,  32 ,  34 ,  36 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  uses over the execution of the associated device cycle. For example, to set up the device  108  shown in  FIG. 1B , the customer would indicate that the customer wanted to set up the device  108 , that the device  108  is connected to the intelligent electrical outlet  112 , and that the device had a first device setting tuple and a second device setting tuple. In a certain embodiment, the device setting tuples are pre-programmed for each device. In another embodiment, the devices  14 ,  16 ,  18 ,  32 ,  34 ,  36 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  to be used with the direct communication power monitor device  50  register themselves with the direct communication power monitor device  50 . In another embodiment, the devices  32 ,  34 ,  36 ,  104 ,  106  to be used with the indirect communication power monitor device  60  register themselves with the indirect communication power monitor device  60 . After step  308  is completed, the installation of the power monitor device is complete and the process  300  exits.  
         [0054]     In an alternate embodiment, the device is set up by indicating information that may include the device make, the device model, the device year, and the electrical outlet the device is connected to. The power auction server  180  then consults with a database which contains the device setting tuples for devices of that device make. The device setting tuples for the indicated device make, the device model, and the device year are downloaded, completing the installation. In another alternate embodiment, the device setting tuples are stored in the data storage device  206  of the direct communication power monitor device  50 .  
         [0055]      FIG. 4  illustrates the process  400  of purchasing and using or selling power through a power auction. At step  402 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  establishes the type of auction that will be set up. The direct communication power monitor device  50  can set up an auction to purchase or sell power. Once the direct communication power monitor device  50  determines whether it is setting up an auction to buy or sell power, the direct communication power monitor device  50  establishes a power consumption time frame, an amount of power and a close time for the auction at step  404 . The time frame is the window within which the power will be used by the device. The close time is the time when the auction is complete. No bids are accepted for the auction after the close time.  
         [0056]     At step  406 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  establishes the minimum or maximum price for the auction. If the direct communication power monitor device  50  is establishing an auction to sell power, the direct communication power monitor device  50  sets a minimum price for the power. If the direct communication power monitor device  50  is establishing an auction to purchase power, the direct communication power monitor device  50  sets a maximum price for the power.  
         [0057]     In a certain embodiment, the direct communication power monitor device  50  can establish an auction to purchase or sell power at the best available rate.  
         [0058]     In a certain embodiment, the direct communication power monitor device  50  can establish an auction to purchase power to be supplied to it on a best effort basis, such that the power station will only supply power to the direct communication power monitor device  50  if the power station is not experiencing a power shortage.  
         [0059]     At step  408 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  formats the parameterized token to be sent to the power auction server  180 . The direct communication power monitor device  50  specifies the type of auction, a close time for the auction, the power consumption time frame, the amount of power, and the minimum price for the power if the auction is an auction to sell power or the maximum price for the power if the auction is an auction to purchase power. Once formatted, the parameterized token is sent to the power auction server  180  where the auction is established.  
         [0060]     The power stations  150 ,  160  and other direct communication power monitor devices  50  can bid for the power until the close time for the auction. No bids are accepted after the close time for the auction.  
         [0061]     In an alternate embodiment, the direct communication power monitor device  50  does not specify a maximum price for the power in an auction to purchase power, but rather simply specifies a time frame within which the direct communication power monitor device  50  needs the power, and allows the power stations  150 ,  160  and other direct communication power monitor devices  50  bid to supply the power. In another alternate embodiment, the direct communication power monitor device  50  does not specify a minimum price for the power in an auction to sell power, but rather simply specifies a time frame within which the direct communication power monitor device  50  needs the power, and allows the power stations  150 ,  160  and other direct communication power monitor devices  50  to bid to supply the power.  
         [0062]     In another alternate embodiment, the direct communication power monitor device  50  specifies a maximum price, a reserve price, an auction close time, and a time frame for the power auction. The maximum price acts as an initial bid for the power, but the direct communication power monitor device  50  need not purchase the power after the close of the power auction until the reserve price is met. If the reserve price is met, the direct communication power monitor device  50  must purchase the power. If the reserve price is not met, the direct communication power monitor device  50  has the option to purchase the power, but can refuse. The power stations  150 ,  160  and other direct communication power monitor devices  50  can bid to supply the power until the close time of the auction. No bids are accepted after the close time for the auction.  
         [0063]     At step  410 , the auction closes. Once the close time passes, no bids are accepted. After the close time has passed, the power auction server  180  determines whether there are any acceptable bids and informs the direct communication power monitor device  50  at step  412 . An acceptable bid for an auction to purchase power is a bid to supply the requested power for a price which is lower than or equal to the maximum price, and an acceptable bid for an auction to sell power is a bid to purchase the requested power for a price which is greater than or equal to the minimum price. If there was an acceptable bid, the process  400  advances to step  415 . If there were no acceptable bids, the process  400  advances to step  414 .  
         [0064]     In an alternate embodiment, the direct communication power monitor device  50  will be able to accept input to choose to accept bids which are greater than the maximum price in auctions to purchase power or less than the minimum price in auction to sell power. In another alternate embodiment, bids will be accepted outside the power consumption time frame.  
         [0065]     At step  414 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  is given the opportunity to set up another auction. If the direct communication power monitor device  50  wants to set up another auction, the process  400  advances to step  402 . If the direct communication power monitor device  50  does not want to set up another auction, the process  400  exits.  
         [0066]     At step  415 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  determines whether the auction was an auction to sell power or an auction to purchase power. If the auction was an auction to purchase power, the process  400  advances to step  416 . If the auction was an auction to sell power, the process  400  advances to step  420 . In an auction to purchase power, power itself is not purchased. A token that outlines conditions under which power may be consumed by a device at a preferable rate is purchased. Conversely, in an auction to sell power, power itself is not sold. A token that outlines conditions under which power may be consumed by a device at a preferable rate is purchased.  
         [0067]     At step  416 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  sets the conditions to run the device or devices that consume the power purchased in the power auction. The direct communication power monitor device  50  receives a parameterized token setting the conditions for power consumption in accordance with the power auction and stores the information contained in the parameterized token in the data storage device  206 . If the device includes the indirect communication power monitor device  60 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  formats a parameterized token, and the associated one of the power monitor, signaling and switching devices  208 ,  210 ,  212  of the direct communication power monitor device  50  send the parameterized token to the indirect communication power monitor device  60  through the associated one of the group of device power ports  220 ,  222 ,  224  informing the indirect communication power monitor device  60  of the conditions of the auction. The device associated with the indirect communication power monitor device  60  runs according to the conditions established by the parameterized token. If the device does not include the indirect communication power monitor device  60 , the device should be set to the “run when power available” setting. When the device is set to the “run when power available” setting, the device will run if the intelligent electrical outlet  112  that provides the device with power is turned on. At the time specified by the winning bid in the power auction, the intelligent electrical outlet  112  will be turned on by the direct communication power monitor device  50 . After the time frame ends, the intelligent electrical outlet  112  is turned off by the direct communication power monitor device  50 . If the device is associated with the direct communication power monitor device  50 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  causes the device to run during the appropriate time frame. After the time frame comes to a close, the direct communication power monitor device  50  sends a power profile to the power auction server  180 . The power profile contains the amount of power consumed by the associated device over each discrete period of time (i.e. sampling period). Alternatively, the power profile can include the amount of energy consumed during the time frame.  
         [0068]     In a certain embodiment, the direct communication power monitor device  50  may transmit a token informing a second indirect communication power monitor device  60  of the conditions of the auction through a first indirect communication power monitor device  60 , such that the direct communication power monitor device  50  transmits a parameterized token to the first indirect communication power monitor device  60 , which is associated with the second indirect communication power monitor device  60 , and the first indirect communication power monitor device  60  transmits the parameterized token to the second indirect communication power monitor device  60 .  
         [0069]     At step  420 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  accepts the bid made by a power station or direct communication power monitor device  50  in the power auction. The direct communication power monitor device  50  updates the information pertaining to the token in its memory and sends an updated parameterized token to the power station  150 ,  160 . Once the direct communication power monitor device  50  accepts the bid, the process  400  exits.  
         [0070]      FIG. 5  illustrates a process  500  for bidding on power auctions. The direct communication power monitor device  50  begins the process  500  by connecting with the power auction server  180  at step  502 . The direct communication power monitor device  50  sends an encrypted token to the power auction server  180  containing its digital signature. The digital signature of the direct communication power monitor device  50  uniquely identifies the direct communication power monitor device  50  to the power auction server  180 . Before the token is sent, the direct communication power monitor device  50  encrypts the token using public-private encryption techniques. Upon receipt of the encrypted token, the power auction server  180  decrypts the token using public-private encryption techniques. The power auction server  180  authenticates the direct communication power monitor device  50  by using its digital signature contained within the decrypted token. Once the direct communication power monitor device  50  is authenticated, the process  500  advances to step  504 .  
         [0071]     At step  504  the direct communication power monitor device  50  specifies the initial bid parameters for the power auction. The direct communication power monitor device  50  may specify a maximum price for the power if the auction is an auction to purchase power, a minimum price for the power if the auction is an auction to sell power, the time frame within which the power will be consumed, the amount of power to be purchased or sold, and the close time for the bid. Once the relevant parameters are specified, the process  500  advances to step  506 .  
         [0072]     At step  506 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  formats the specified parameters into a parameterized token and sends the token to the power auction server  180 . Once received by the power auction server  180 , the power auction server  180  uses the parameters contained within the parameterized token to establish the constraints for an auction. Once the parameterized token is sent to the power auction server  180 , the process  500  advances to step  508 .  
         [0073]     In an alternate embodiment, the power stations  150 ,  160  can establish an auction to sell power at a particular preferable rate during a particular time. In another alternate embodiment, the power auction server  180  is eliminated, and the direct communication power monitor device  50  sends the parameterized token directly to the power stations  150 ,  160 .  
         [0074]     At step  508 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  waits for the close time for the auction to elapse. If the direct communication power monitor device  50  receives a bid before the close time for the auction, the process  500  advances to step  510 . If the direct communication power monitor device  50  does not receive a bid before the close time for the auction, the process  500  advances to step  516 .  
         [0075]     At step  510 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  determines whether a better contract should be negotiated through an additional auction. If the direct communication power monitor device  50  determines that an additional auction should be conducted, the process  500  advances to step  518 . If the direct communication power monitor device  50  determines that no additional auction should be conducted, the process  500  advances to step  512 .  
         [0076]     At step  512 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  obtains and stores a token specifying the terms agreed upon during the power auction. The direct communication power monitor device  50  sends an encrypted token to the power auction server  180  including its digital signature and a message to the power auction server  180  informing the power auction server  180  that the direct communication power monitor device  50  accepts the bid that was already submitted. Once the direct communication power monitor device  50  sends the token, the process  500  advances to step  514 .  
         [0077]     At step  514 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  waits for the power auction server  180  to transmit one or more tokens specifying the terms governing the power consumption agreed upon by the power auction. Once the direct communication power monitor device  50  receives the token(s) from the power auction server  180 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  stores the information including start time, end time, and amount of power, in the data storage device  206  of the direct communication power monitor device  50  and establishes a trigger time based on the information contained within the token. The trigger time alerts the direct communication power monitor device  50  when an action needs to take place. For example, if the token is received by the direct power monitor device  50  included within the device  14 , and specifies that power can be used between the times of 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM on June 12, the direct communication power monitor device  50  establishes a first trigger time at 1:00 PM on June 12, and a second trigger time at 2:00 PM on June 12. After the direct communication power monitor device  50  stores the contents of the token, the process  500  ends.  
         [0078]     At step  516 , having failed to receive a bid on the most recent auction within the allotted time, the direct communication power monitor device  50  determines if an acceptable bid was negotiated in a prior auction. If an acceptable bid was negotiated in a prior auction, the process  500  advances to step  510 . At step  510 , if an earlier acceptable bid was received but no response was received in the most recent auction, a modified bid between the acceptable bid and the bid receiving no response can be sent to auction in steps  518  and  520 . Otherwise the earlier acceptable bid is used and the process continues at step  512 . If no acceptable bid was negotiated in a prior auction, the process  500  advances directly to step  518 .  
         [0079]     At step  518 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  determines whether the parameters defining the auction should be modified. If the direct communication power monitor device  50  determines that the parameters defining the auction should be modified, the process  500  advances to step  520 . If the direct communication power monitor device  50  determines that the parameters defining the auction should not be modified, the process  500  advances to step  522 . At step  522 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  alerts the user of the system that no power could be purchased or sold with the parameters specified.  
         [0080]     At step  520 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  modifies the parameter describing the auction. The price, time frame, amount of power, or any other parameter describing the auction could be altered to obtain a contract or a better contract. After the parameters are specified, the process  500  advances to step  506 .  
         [0081]      FIG. 6A  illustrates a process  600  of acting on tokens stored by a direct communication power monitor device  50 . The process  600  begins at step  602 . If the direct communication power monitor device  50  detects that a trigger time elapses, the process  600  advances to step  603 . If no trigger time passes, the process  600  remains at step  602 .  
         [0082]     At step  603 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  obtains the tokens associated with the trigger time from the data storage device  206 . The direct communication power monitor device  50  removes each token associated with the trigger time from the data storage device  206  and adds it to a triggered token list. After the direct communication power monitor device  50  completes searching the data storage device  206 , the process  600  advances to step  604 .  
         [0083]     At step  604 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  determines whether the first token stored in the triggered token list is a power off token. If the first token in the triggered token list is a power off token, the process  600  advances to step  606 . If the first token in the triggering token list is not a power off token, the process  600  advances to step  608 .  
         [0084]     At step  606 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  transmits the power off token to an appropriate device depending on the destination device of the power off token. The direct communication power monitor device  50  transmits an appropriate message to an appropriate device or takes an appropriate action depending on the destination device of the power off token. If the appropriate device is configured to receive tokens, such as an indirect communication power monitor device  60 , a direct communication power monitor device  50 , an intelligent electrical outlet  112 , or the like, the direct communication power monitor device  50  transmits a power off token to the appropriate device. The power off token is transmitted through an appropriate one of the group of power monitor, signaling and switching devices  208 ,  210 ,  212 , and an appropriate one of the device power ports  220 ,  222 ,  224 , to the appropriate device. If the appropriate device is not configured to receive tokens, upon receipt of the power off token the direct communication power monitor device  50  discontinues providing the destination device of the power off token with power. After the direct communication power monitor device  50  transmits the appropriate message, the first token stored in the triggered token list is removed from the triggered token list, and the process  600  advances to step  626 .  
         [0085]     At step  608 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  determines whether the first token stored in the triggered token list is a power on token. If the first token in the triggered token list is a power on token, the process  600  advances to step  610 . If the first token in the triggering token list is not a power on token, the process  600  advances to step  612 .  
         [0086]     At step  610 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  transmits the power on token to an appropriate device depending on the destination device of the power on token. The direct communication power monitor device  50  transmits an appropriate message to the appropriate device or takes an appropriate action depending on the destination device of the power on token. If the appropriate device is configured to receive tokens, such as an indirect communication power monitor device  60 , a direct communication power monitor device  50 , an intelligent electrical outlet  112 , or the like, the direct communication power monitor device  50  transmits a power on token to the appropriate device. The power on token is transmitted through an appropriate one of the group of power monitor, signaling and switching devices  208 ,  210 ,  212 , and an appropriate one of the device power ports  220 ,  222 ,  224 , to the appropriate device. The direct communication power monitor device  50  begins providing the destination device of the power on token with power. After the direct communication power monitor device  50  transmits the appropriate message, the first token stored in the triggered token list is removed from the triggered token list, and the process  600  advances to step  626 .  
         [0087]     At step  612 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  determines whether the first token stored in the triggered token list is a record power token. If the first token in the triggered token list is a record power token, the process  600  advances to step  614 . If the first token in the triggered token list is not a record power token, the process  600  advances to step  616 .  
         [0088]     At step  614 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  transmits the record profile token to an appropriate device depending on the destination device of the record profile token. The direct communication power monitor device  50  transmits an appropriate message to the appropriate device or takes an appropriate action depending on the destination device of the record profile token. If the appropriate device is an indirect communication power monitor device  60  or a direct communication power monitor device  50 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  transmits a record power token to the appropriate device. The record profile token is transmitted through an appropriate one of the group of power monitor, signaling and switching devices  208 ,  210 ,  212 , and an appropriate one of the device power ports  220 ,  222 ,  224 , to the appropriate device. Otherwise the direct communication power monitor device  50  begins recording a power profile in the appropriate one of the group of power monitor, signaling and switching devices  208 ,  210 ,  212  of the direct communication power monitor device  50  for the destination device of the record profile token. After the direct communication power monitor device  50  transmits the appropriate message, the first token stored in the triggered token list is removed from the triggered token list, and the process  600  advances to step  626 .  
         [0089]     In a certain embodiment, the direct communication power monitor device  50  begins recording a power profile upon receipt of a record power token.  
         [0090]     At step  616 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  determines whether the first token stored in the triggered token list is a reduce power token. If the first token in the triggered token list is a reduce power token, the process  600  advances to step  618 . If the first token in the triggering token list is not a reduce power token, the process  600  advances to step  620 .  
         [0091]     At step  618 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  transmits the reduce power token to an appropriate device depending on the destination device of the reduce power token. Reduced power tokens are discussed below with reference to  FIG. 8 . The direct communication power monitor device  50  transmits an appropriate message to the appropriate device or takes an appropriate action depending on the destination device of the reduce power token. If the appropriate device is an indirect communication power monitor device  60  or a direct communication power monitor device  50 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  transmits a reduce power token to the appropriate device indicating the amount of power consumption that must be reduced. The reduce power token is transmitted through an appropriate one of the group of power monitor, signaling and switching devices  208 ,  210 ,  212 , and an appropriate one of the device power ports  220 ,  222 ,  224 , to the appropriate device. If the appropriate device is the intelligent electrical outlet  112 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  issues a power off token if the power being used by the device attached to the intelligent electrical outlet  112  must be discontinued to satisfy the reduce power token. The power off token is transmitted through an appropriate one of the group of power monitor, signaling and switching devices  208 ,  210 ,  212 , and an appropriate one of the device power ports  220 ,  222 ,  224 , to the appropriate device. Otherwise, the direct communication power monitor device  50  discontinues providing power to any device, appliance or the like, if the power being used by the device, appliance or the like must be discontinued to satisfy the reduce power token. After the direct communication power monitor device  50  transmits the appropriate message, the first token stored in the triggered token list is removed from the triggered token list, and the process  600  advances to step  626 .  
         [0092]     At step  620 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  determines whether the first token stored in the triggered token list is a power status token. If the first token in the triggered token list is a power status token, the process  600  advances to step  622 . If the first token in the triggering token list is not a power status token, the process  600  advances to step  624 .  
         [0093]     At step  622 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  transmits the power status token to an appropriate device depending on the destination device of the power status token. The direct communication power monitor device  50  transmits an appropriate message to the appropriate device or takes an appropriate action depending on the destination device of the power status token. If the appropriate device is an indirect communication power monitor device  60  or a direct communication power monitor device  50 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  transmits a power status token to the appropriate device. The power status token is transmitted through an appropriate one of the group of power monitor, signaling and switching devices  208 ,  210 ,  212 , and an appropriate one of the device power ports  220 ,  222 ,  224 , to the appropriate device. Otherwise, the direct communication power monitor device  50  transmits the power profile associated with the destination device of the power status token to the power auction server  180 . After the direct communication power monitor device  50  transmits the appropriate message, the first token stored in the triggered token list is removed from the triggered token list, and the process  600  advances to step  626 .  
         [0094]     At step  624 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  reports an error message. Once the direct communication power monitor device  50  reports the error, the process  600  advances to step  626 .  
         [0095]     At step  626 , the direct communication power monitor device  50  determines if there are any tokens remaining in the triggered token list. If any tokens remain in the triggered token list, the process  600  advances to step  604 . If no tokens remain in the triggered token list, the process  600  advances to step  602 .  
         [0096]     In an alternate embodiment, the record power token can be eliminated, and the power on token can include the functionality of the record power token. For example, if a power on token stored by the direct communication power monitor device  50  of the device  14  is triggered, the direct communication power monitor device  50  of the device  14  can send a power on token to a controller of the device  14  causing it to begin operating, and the direct communication power monitor device  50  of the device  14  can begin recording a power profile for the device  14 .  
         [0097]     In another alternate embodiment, the power status token can be eliminated, and the power off token can include the functionality of the power status token. For example, if a power off token stored by the direct communication power monitor device  50  of the device  14  is triggered, the direct communication power monitor device  50  of the device  14  can send a power off token to a controller of the device  14  causing it to cease operation, and the direct communication power monitor device  50  of the device  14  can send the power profile for the device  14  if it has been recording one.  
         [0098]     In a certain embodiment, additional device specific tokens may be used.  
         [0099]      FIG. 6B  illustrates a process  650  of acting on tokens received by an indirect communication power monitor device  60 . The process  650  begins at step  652 . If the indirect communication power monitor device  60  receives a token, the process  650  advances to step  654 . Otherwise, the process  650  remains at step  652 .  
         [0100]     At step  654 , the indirect communication power monitor device  60  determines whether the first token stored in the triggered token list is a power off token. If the first token in the triggered token list is a power off token, the process  650  advances to step  656 . If the first token in the triggering token list is not a power off token, the process  650  advances to step  658 .  
         [0101]     At step  656 , the indirect communication power monitor device  60  transmits the power off token to an appropriate device depending on the destination device of the power off token. The indirect communication power monitor device  60  transmits an appropriate message to the appropriate device or takes an appropriate action depending on the destination device of the power off token. If the appropriate device is configured to receive tokens, such as an indirect communication power monitor device  60 , a direct communication power monitor device  50 , an intelligent electrical outlet  112 , or the like, the indirect communication power monitor device  60  transmits a power off token to the appropriate device through the power monitor, signaling and switching device  258  and the device power port  270  to the appropriate device. If the appropriate device is not configured to receive tokens, the indirect communication power monitor device  60  discontinues providing the destination device of the power off token with power. After the indirect communication power monitor device  60  transmits the appropriate message, the first token stored in the triggered token list is removed from the triggered token list, and the process  650  advances to step  676 .  
         [0102]     At step  658 , the indirect communication power monitor device  60  determines whether the first token stored in the triggered token list is a power on token. If the first token in the triggered token list is a power on token, the process  650  advances to step  660 . If the first token in the triggering token list is not a power on token, the process  650  advances to step  652 .  
         [0103]     At step  660 , the indirect communication power monitor device  60  transmits the power on token to an appropriate device depending on the destination device of the power on token. The indirect communication power monitor device  60  transmits an appropriate message to the appropriate device or takes an appropriate action depending on the destination device of the power on token. If the appropriate device is configured to receive tokens, such as an indirect communication power monitor device  60 , a direct communication power monitor device  50 , an intelligent electrical outlet  112 , or the like, the indirect communication power monitor device  60  transmits a power on token to the appropriate device through the power monitor, signaling and switching device  258  and the device power port  270  to the appropriate device. The indirect communication power monitor device  60  begins providing the destination device of the power on token with power. After the indirect communication power monitor device  60  transmits the appropriate message, the first token stored in the triggered token list is removed from the triggered token list, and the process  650  advances to step  676 .  
         [0104]     At step  662 , the indirect communication power monitor device  60  determines whether the first token stored in the triggered token list is a record power token. If the first token in the triggered token list is a record power token, the process  650  advances to step  664 . If the first token in the triggered token list is not a record power token, the process  650  advances to step  666 .  
         [0105]     At step  664 , the indirect communication power monitor device  60  transmits the record profile token to an appropriate device depending on the destination device of the record profile token. The indirect communication power monitor device  60  transmits an appropriate message to the appropriate device or takes an appropriate action depending on the destination device of the record profile token. If the appropriate device is an indirect communication power monitor device  60  or a direct communication power monitor device  50 , the indirect communication power monitor device  60  transmits a record power token to the appropriate device through the power monitor, signaling and switching device  258  and the device power port  270  to the appropriate device. Otherwise the indirect communication power monitor device  60  begins recording a power profile in the power monitor, signaling and switching devices  258  of the indirect communication power monitor device  60  for the destination device of the record profile token. After the indirect communication power monitor device  60  transmits the appropriate message, the first token stored in the triggered token list is removed from the triggered token list, and the process  650  advances to step  676 .  
         [0106]     In a certain embodiment, the direct communication power monitor device  60  begins recording a power profile upon receipt of a record power token.  
         [0107]     At step  666 , the indirect communication power monitor device  60  determines whether the first token stored in the triggered token list is a reduce power token. If the first token in the triggered token list is a reduce power token, the process  600  advances to step  668 . If the first token in the triggering token list is not a reduce power token, the process  600  advances to step  670 .  
         [0108]     At step  668 , the indirect communication power monitor device  60  transmits the reduce power token to an appropriate device depending on the destination device of the reduce power token. Reduced power tokens are discussed below with reference to  FIG. 8 . The indirect communication power monitor device  60  transmits an appropriate message to the appropriate device or takes an appropriate action depending on the destination device of the reduce power token. If the appropriate device is an indirect communication power monitor device  60  or a direct communication power monitor device  50 , the indirect communication power monitor device  60  transmits a reduce power token to the appropriate device through the power monitor, signaling and switching device  258  and the device power port  270  to the appropriate device indicating the amount of power consumption that must be reduced. If the appropriate device is the intelligent electrical outlet  112 , the indirect communication power monitor device  60  transmits a power off token if the power being used by the device attached to the intelligent electrical outlet  112  must be discontinued to satisfy the reduce power token. Otherwise, the indirect communication power monitor device  60  discontinues providing power to any device, appliance or the like, if the power being used by the device, appliance or the like must be discontinued according to satisfy the reduce power token. After the indirect communication power monitor device  60  transmits the appropriate message, the first token stored in the triggered token list is removed from the triggered token list, and the process  650  advances to step  676 .  
         [0109]     At step  670 , the indirect communication power monitor device  60  determines whether the first token stored in the triggered token list is a power status token. If the first token in the triggered token list is a power status token, the process  650  advances to step  672 . If the first token in the triggering token list is not a power status token, the process  650  advances to step  674 .  
         [0110]     At step  672 , the indirect communication power monitor device  60  transmits the power status token to an appropriate device depending on the destination device of the power status token. The indirect communication power monitor device  60  transmits an appropriate message or takes an appropriate action depending on the destination device of the power status token. If the appropriate device is an indirect communication power monitor device  60  or a direct communication power monitor device  50 , the indirect communication power monitor device  60  transmits a power status token to the appropriate device through the power monitor, signaling and switching device  258  and the device power port  270  to the appropriate device. Otherwise, the indirect communication power monitor device  60  transmits the power profile associated with the destination device of the power status token to the associated direct communication power monitor device  50  through the power supply port  264  of the indirect communication power monitor device  60 . After the indirect communication power monitor device  60  transmits the appropriate message, the first token stored in the triggered token list is removed from the triggered token list, and the process  650  advances to step  676 .  
         [0111]     At step  674 , the indirect communication power monitor device  60  reports an error message. Once the indirect communication power monitor device  60  reports the error, the process  650  advances to step  676 .  
         [0112]     At step  676 , the indirect communication power monitor device  60  determines if there are any tokens remaining in the triggered token list. If any tokens remain in the triggered token list, the process  650  advances to step  654 . If no tokens remain in the triggered token list, the process  650  advances to step  652 .  
         [0113]     In an alternate embodiment, the record power token can be eliminated, and the power on token can include the functionality of the record power token. For example, if a power on token stored by the indirect communication power monitor device  60  of the device  14  is triggered, the indirect communication power monitor device  60  of the device  14  can send a power on token to a controller of the device  14  causing it to begin operating, and the indirect communication power monitor device  60  of the device  14  can begin recording a power profile for the device  14 .  
         [0114]     In another alternate embodiment, the power status token can be eliminated, and the power off token can include the functionality of the power status token. For example, if a power off token stored by the indirect communication power monitor device  60  of the device  14  is triggered, the indirect communication power monitor device  60  of the device  14  can send a power off token to a controller of the device  14  causing it to cease operation, and the indirect communication power monitor device  60  of the device  14  can send the power profile for the device  14  if it has been recording one.  
         [0115]      FIG. 7A  illustrates a process  700  for retrieving information pertaining to completed contracts. The power stations  150 ,  160  or other direct communication power monitor devices  50  begin the process  700  by logging into the power auction server  180  at step  702 . Once the power station  150 ,  160  or the direct communication power monitor device  50  is logged into the power auction server  180 , the process  700  advances to step  704 .  
         [0116]     At step  704 , the power station  150 ,  160  or the direct communication power monitor device  50  chooses whether or not to download from the power auction server  180  completed contracts from the successful execution of prior auctions of the power station  150 ,  160  or the direct communication power monitor device  50 . If the power station  150 ,  160  or the direct communication power monitor device  50  does not want to download any contracts, the process  700  exits. If the power station  150 ,  160  or the direct communication power monitor device  50  wants to download existing contracts, the process  700  advances to step  706 .  
         [0117]     At step  706 , the power station  150 ,  160  or the direct communication power monitor device  50  downloads completed contracts stored in the data storage element  184  on the power auction server  180 . The power auction server  180  downloads the completed contracts, each of which can include a power profile, to a specified location. The completed contracts can be used to verify that the devices  14 ,  16 ,  18 ,  32 ,  34 ,  36 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  associated with the direct communication power monitor devices  50  or the indirect communication power monitor devices  60  used power in compliance with the agreed upon terms of the auction. Only power that was used in compliance with the agreed upon terms of the auction is eligible for the preferential rate negotiated by the auction. Once the completed contracts are downloaded, the process  700  exits.  
         [0118]      FIG. 7B  illustrates a process  750  for bidding on power auctions. The power stations  150 ,  160  or other direct communication power monitor devices  50  begin the process  750  by logging into the power auction server  180  at step  752 . Once the power station  150 ,  160  or the direct communication power monitor device  50  is logged into the power auction server  180 , the process  750  advances to step  754 .  
         [0119]     At step  754 , the power station  150 ,  160  or the direct communication power monitor device  50  can review the auctions currently stored in the data storage  184  of the power auction server  180 . Each auction will display the current bid, the amount of power desired and the time frame within which the power is desired. If there is an auction that the power station  150 ,  160  or the direct communication power monitor device  50  wants to bid on, the power station  150 ,  160  or the direct communication power monitor device  50  selects that auction and the process  750  advances to step  756 . If there are no auctions that the power station  150 ,  160  or the direct communication power monitor device  50  wants to bid on, the process  750  advances to step  760 .  
         [0120]     At step  756 , the power station  150 ,  160  or the direct communication power monitor device  50  places a bid on the selected auction. The power station  150 ,  160  or the direct communication power monitor device  50  indicates a price for the power and a transaction time frame, i.e. the time frame within which the power station  150 ,  160  or the direct communication power monitor device  50  is willing to purchase or sell the power and which is also within the time frame specified in the auction. After the transaction time frame and amount are entered, the power station  150 ,  160  or the direct communication power monitor device  50  places the bid. As part of the bidding process, the current bid is updated on the auction server data storage  184 . The power station  150 ,  160  or the direct communication power monitor device  50  may specify for how long the bid will be valid. A bid may be withdrawn up to the close of the auction. After the auction is closed, the bid may not be withdrawn. Once the bid is placed, the process  750  advances to step  758 .  
         [0121]     In an alternate embodiment, the bid can be withdrawn once the auction is closed, but there is a penalty for withdrawing the bid after the close of the auction. In another embodiment, the penalty for withdrawing the bid after the close of the auction is a monetary fine.  
         [0122]     The power station  150 ,  160  or the direct communication power monitor device  50  is presented with the option to bid on another auction at step  758 . If the power station  150 ,  160  or the direct communication power monitor device  50  elects to review the auctions again, the process  750  advances to step  754 . If the power station  150 ,  160  or the direct communication power monitor device  50  does not want to bid on any other auctions, the process  750  advances to step  760 .  
         [0123]     At step  760 , the power station  150 ,  160  or the direct communication power monitor device  50  is given the opportunity to exit the process  750 . If the power station  150 ,  160  or the direct communication power monitor device  50  wants to exit the process  750 , the process  750  exits. If the power station  150 ,  160  or the direct communication power monitor device  50  does not wish to exit the process  750 , the process  750  advances to step  754 .  
         [0124]     In a certain embodiment, the power auction server  180  is not involved in the bidding process. The direct communication power monitor device  50  broadcasts a parameterized token specifying the conditions for a power auction to all power consumers, and the power stations  150 ,  160  or other direct communication power monitor devices  50  respond if they wish to make a bid.  
         [0125]      FIG. 8  illustrates a process  800  for reducing the amount of power a power station is required to produce during a power shortage. A power station begins the process  800  by determining whether there is a power shortage at step  802 . The power station analyzes a database containing all the parameterized tokens specifying the amount of power the power station has committed to supply for the time period being analyzed. If the amount of power the power station has committed to supply for the time period is greater than the production capacity of the power station, a power shortage exists. If the power station determines that a power shortage exists, the process  800  advances to step  804 . If the power station determines that no power shortage exists, the process  800  remains at step  802 .  
         [0126]     At step  804 , the power station specifies a power auction to repurchase a token. The power station specifies a maximum price it is willing to pay for power, a time frame within which the power tokens must apply and amount of power. The power station creates a parameterized token based on the specified parameters. Once the parameterized token is created, the process  800  advances to step  805 .  
         [0127]     In a certain embodiment, the power station  150 ,  160  may post a request for power tokens, for a specific time, on a well known Internet web site.  
         [0128]     At step  805 , the power station transmits the parameterized token to the power auction server  180 . Once the parameterized token is transmitted to the power auction server  180 , the process  800  advances to step  806 .  
         [0129]     At step  806 , the power station determines if any acceptable bids were placed for the power auction the power station initiated. If acceptable bids were placed on the power auction, the process  800  advances to step  808 . If no acceptable bids were placed on the power auction, the process  800  advances to step  812 .  
         [0130]     At step  808 , the power station completes the specific power auction. The power station pays the agreed upon price for the token or alternatively provides a credit, and the token is returned to the power station. Once the token is returned, the process  800  advances to step  810 .  
         [0131]     At step  810 , the power station cancels the returned token. The power station searches its database for the token matching the token that was returned as a result of the power auction. After the power station locates the token in its database, the power station modifies the token altering its obligation to provide that amount of power during the time period. Once the token is deleted, the process  800  advances to step  802 .  
         [0132]     At step  812 , the power station determines whether the parameters defining the auction should be modified. If the power station determines that the parameters defining the auction should be modified, the process  800  advances to step  816 . If the power station determines that the parameters defining the auction should not be modified, the process  800  advances to step  814 . At step  814 , the power station alerts the power station operator that the power shortage could not be corrected and the process  800  exits.  
         [0133]     At step  816 , the power station verifies that the power shortage still exists. If it does, at step  818 , the power station specifies modified parameters describing the power auction. The price, time frame, amount of power, or any other parameter describing the auction could be altered to encourage the return of additional tokens. After the parameters are specified, the process  800  advances to step  805 . If the power shortage is determined at step  816  not to exist any longer, the process  800  returns to step  802 .  
         [0134]     Although the present invention has been described with several embodiments, a myriad of changes, variations, alterations, transformations, and modifications may be suggested to one skilled in the art, and it is intended that the present invention encompass such changes, variations, alterations, transformations, and modifications as fall within the scope of the appended claims.