Abstract: This invention is a system to control a network of distributed power machines. In one preferred embodiment, the system monitors the prices of electricity and hydrocarbon fuels on the open market. When the system determines that electrical power can be generated from a power machine like a fuel cell more cheaply than from a traditional source like coal-fired steam, the system sends an actuation command to the power machine network. The system also considers other factors, including load shedding arrangements, peak shaving arrangements, local rate structures, and the like. In another embodiment, the system includes a means for aggregating electrical power generated by power machines and selling it on an open market. The system also includes means for bill preparation and presentation. The system is capable of operating in several environments, including a traditional environment, a competitive environment, and a competitive environment.

Abstract: One embodiment of this invention includes a source sharing circuit that is coupled to a power machine. Examples of the power machine include micro-turbine generators, gasoline engine powered generators, fuel cells, and Stirling engines. The power machine is placed in a users home as an alternate source of power. The source sharing circuitry may be coupled to a local load, the power grid and to a digital communications link. The source sharing circuitry is capable of actuation the power machine based upon a variety of factors. Additionally, the digital communications link is capable of two-way communications and transmission of many forms of data, including programs, video, audio, telephone calls and the like. Accordingly, telephones, televisions, appliances and computers may use the source sharing circuitry as a central data gateway from which to receive data from telephone networks, television and radio networks, the internet and the like.

Abstract: An apparatus for electrical source sharing between a power grid, at least one local generator and a local load includes a power circuit, a data port and a controller. The power circuit is capable of effecting a plurality of source sharing configurations, including: a fist configuration in which the local load is fully powered by the power grid; a second configuration in which the local load is fully powered by the local generator; and a third configuration in which the local load is partially powered by the power grid and partially powered by the local generator. The data port is capable of receiving data from an external source. The controller is programmed to execute the following operations: receive data from the data port; determine a preferred source sharing configuration from the plurality of source sharing configurations, based on data received from the data port; and instruct the power circuit to effect the preferred source sharing configuration.