Abstract: Systems and methods for balancing power on an electrical power grid are provided. Demand-side equipment, such as industrial heaters, refrigeration units, and freezers are adjusted to help balance the electrical grid. The power utility that operates the local electric grid (or other external entity) requests real time changes in electrical consumption by specifying specific levels of electrical demand in units of energy (watts). A device control system translates the requested energy level to thermal set points in thermal devices (heaters, air conditioners, freezers, chillers, and the like) such as degrees Fahrenheit or Celsius, to the specific pieces of equipment most likely to most quickly achieve and sustain this level of energy consumption to reduce or increase the supply of available energy as needed.