Abstract: Various embodiments provide appliances and electronic devices and methods implemented in such appliances and electronic devices to improve Demand Response (DR) capabilities and responses while mitigating interrupts to services provided to consumers. Various embodiments improve on DR systems by equipping a variety of electronic devices and appliances with integrated internal energy storage (e.g., battery), control and communication capabilities that enable responding to DR events by splitting power drawn by the devices or appliances between the grid and the integrated internal energy storage. Some embodiments further improve on conventional DR systems by enabling utilities to recharge batteries in electronic devices and appliances when power on the grid exceeds demand, thereby enabling utilities to increase demand when required in order to better balance power demands with power generation. Such may support the grid by increasing or decreasing load on the grid in response to grid frequency.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present methods deposit smooth, semi-bright nickel coatings from a nickel bath at room temperature, with relatively high concentrations (between about 5 and about 10%) of an organic modifier (such as butanol) under acidic conditions and using a modified pulse potential. The methods for electrodepositing nickel coatings result in nickel coatings that have improved internal structure and corrosion resistance.