In addition to the small display, the board can be programmed to send text message or email alerts, and in the future could tie into venting or heating systems for completely automated control.
Richardson said the emergency stockpile would be used only if there was a disruption in heating fuel supplies and not to control energy prices in the region.
Options will include a video package, which includes the ability to view live video of the outside or inside of the subscribers home, and an energy package, which allows remote control of appliances like lights, heating and air conditioning.