Span’s new smart electrical panel can plug right into utility meters

Yahoo! News - Mar 25th, 2025

San Francisco-based startup Span has introduced the Span Edge, a device that integrates its core technology into utility infrastructure, unveiled at the Distributech trade show in Dallas. This advancement allows utilities to manage distributed energy resources such as solar panels, batteries, and EVs more effectively. The Span Edge can be installed quickly and connects directly to a utility electric meter, providing utilities with better insights into power consumption patterns. This capability enables utilities to manage grid demand more efficiently, potentially saving ratepayers money by avoiding costly infrastructure upgrades.

The introduction of Span Edge comes at a critical time as households increasingly adopt energy-intensive appliances like EVs and heat pumps. The device supports the creation of virtual power plants by allowing aggregated control over household energy use. This offers utilities a flexible approach to managing power demand and grid constraints, promoting a shift away from expensive grid upgrades. The technology's success will depend on utility adoption and customer willingness to participate in energy management programs, which could lead to a reduction in electricity rates over time.

Span Edge Arch Rao Utility Management Energy Consumption Distributed Energy Resources Virtual Power Plants Smart Electrical Panels Ev Chargers

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

6.2

Moderately Fair

Read with skepticism

The article provides a detailed and timely exploration of Span's new energy management technology, highlighting its potential benefits for utilities and consumers. It excels in clarity and timeliness, making complex topics accessible and relevant. However, the article could improve in balance and source quality by incorporating more diverse perspectives and authoritative sources. Greater transparency and verification of certain claims would enhance its accuracy and credibility. While the story addresses issues of significant public interest, its potential impact and engagement could be strengthened by exploring controversial aspects and including more human-interest elements.

Accuracy

The story provides a comprehensive overview of Span's new product, the Span Edge, and its implications for utilities and consumers. The claim that Span debuted a smartphone-controllable electrical panel five years ago is consistent with available information, confirming the innovation timeline. However, details about the installation time of 15 minutes and the device's compatibility with utility meters need verification for precision. The article suggests significant cost savings from using Span Edge, which aligns with industry trends but requires more data to substantiate fully. The narrative accurately reflects current utility challenges, yet the extent of Span's integration with utilities and specific pilot projects needs corroboration from external sources.

Balance

The article primarily focuses on the benefits of Span's technology for utilities and consumers, providing a positive outlook on its potential impact. It mentions competitors and alternative technologies, such as those from Schneider Electric and Eaton, which adds some balance. However, the story could benefit from more perspectives, particularly from utilities that might be hesitant to adopt such technology or consumers who could face challenges. The article's emphasis on the potential benefits may overshadow potential drawbacks or limitations, such as the costs of implementation or technical challenges.

Clarity

The article is well-structured and uses clear language to explain complex concepts related to energy management and utility challenges. It logically progresses from the introduction of Span's technology to its implications for utilities and consumers, making it accessible to readers with varying levels of technical knowledge. The use of industry-specific terms is balanced with explanations, ensuring the content remains understandable. However, the inclusion of more technical details without adequate context could confuse some readers.

Source quality

The article cites statements from Span's CEO, Arch Rao, and references to other companies and technologies, which adds some credibility. However, it lacks direct quotes or data from independent experts, utility companies, or regulatory bodies that could provide a more rounded view. The reliance on company representatives for information may introduce bias, as they have vested interests in promoting their products. Including more diverse and authoritative sources would strengthen the article's reliability.

Transparency

The article provides a clear overview of Span's technology and its potential benefits but lacks transparency in terms of data sources and methodology. It does not disclose any potential conflicts of interest or the basis for some claims, such as the projected cost savings. The reader is left to assume the accuracy of the information without insight into how conclusions were reached. Greater transparency about the sources of information and any affiliations would enhance the article's credibility.