Abstract: A system for providing supplemental heating to a hot water heater and an electric heat pump includes a solar thermal collector, a solar thermal storage vessel, a first water circulating system, a second water circulating system, and a controller. The first water circulating system circulates water between the solar thermal storage vessel and the solar thermal collector. The second water circulating system circulates heated water between the solar thermal storage vessel, the hot water heater, and a heat exchanger associated with the heat pump. The controller is configured to cause water circulation between the hot water heater and the solar thermal storage vessel so as to raise a temperature of water in the solar thermal storage vessel and/or in the hot water heater, and to cause circulation of heated water from the hot water heater to the heat exchanger to provide auxiliary heat for the heat pump.

Abstract: Power cords are provided. A power cord includes measurement circuitry configured to measure electrical energy consumption by an apparatus that is connected to the power cord. The power cord also includes first transceiver circuitry configured to transmit data regarding the measured electrical energy consumption to second transceiver circuitry that is spaced apart from the power cord. Related hardwired apparatuses and methods are also provided.

Abstract: Power cords are provided. A power cord includes measurement circuitry configured to measure electrical energy consumption by an apparatus that is connected to the power cord. The power cord also includes first transceiver circuitry configured to transmit data regarding the measured electrical energy consumption to second transceiver circuitry that is spaced apart from the power cord. Related hardwired apparatuses and methods are also provided.