A while ago I got a call from a friend saying that I had to check out this new Kickstarter project: Plugaway 

This really looks interesting. Wall plugs that can be remote controlled that also monitor the energy consumption. Looks a bit like a product we’re been using for years now: Plugwise! (note that the comparison below is without having seen the product and it’s quality)

Difference with Plugwise:

1. Price. The Smart Plug costs approx. € 20 (30 AUD) vs. a Plugwise module that costs approx. € 36
2. Features: Plugaway doesn’t come with advanced software that allows you to program, monitor, graph, etc. like the Plugwise Source, but it will probably provide similar functionality in the cloud. It also has API’s for integration (into Homeseer?). Plugaway also comes with Android and iOS apps. Besides switching and monitoring the colored LED ring on the plug can be controlled remotely.
3. Connectivity: Plugaway uses WiFi instead of Zigbee. Therefore it doesn’t need a central ‘hub’ (like the Plugwise Stick). This could be a big advantage!

Smart LED

Going forward I decided to buy a 2-LED/3-Plug kit. After realizing that the prices were in AUD not USD the deal became even better. This kit also includes 2 LED lights. The 1-pack LED light costs € 30 (45 AUD) which is way cheaper than my € 60 Philips Hue lamps which, BTW, work fantastic.

NOTE: For product details, features, FAQ’s, risks, images and more please go to the Kickstarter page or to the Plugaway.co website!

Next

Wait wait wait. The scheduled shipment of these products is April 2014. So let’s assume everything works out fine and they ship in May we could be up & running in June 2014 !

Once the products are in and integrated into Homeseer the project & script documentation will be made available on this website.

More info: Plugaway website & Kickstarter

VIDEO: Plugaway Video