Frequently Asked Questions About Jousto.

Jousto is revolutionising how people manage energy, from renters and apartment dwellers to offices, shops, hotels, and Airbnb owners. Whether you’re curious about how Jousto works, its benefits, or how to get started, we’ve compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions from our community.

Question 1: What is Jousto, and how does it work?

Jousto is a smart energy platform that automates your energy usage to save money and optimise efficiency. By connecting to smart devices like plugs, controllers, and batteries, Jousto tracks energy prices in real-time. It then automates appliances to run during low-price or negative-price periods and avoids costly price spikes, helping you save without lifting a finger.

Question 2: Do I need solar panels or batteries to use Jousto?

No, Jousto is designed to work with or without solar panels and batteries. For those without solar, Jousto automates your energy usage based on market prices, ensuring you still benefit from renewable energy and low-price periods. If you have batteries, Jousto optimises charging during off-peak times and discharging during peak demand.

Question 3: Can Jousto really help renters and apartment dwellers?

Absolutely. Jousto is renter-friendly and works perfectly in apartments. It doesn’t require permanent installations or solar panels, and its smart plugs and portable power solutions make it easy to automate appliances and save money, even in rental properties.

Question 4: How can Jousto help me take advantage of negative energy prices?

Negative price periods occur when there’s an oversupply of renewable energy. Jousto automates appliances like air conditioners and washing machines to run during these times, allowing you to use energy at no cost—or even earn money. Additionally, Jousto charges batteries during negative-price events for later use.

Question 5: What happens during price spikes?

During price spikes, Jousto automates appliances to turn off or switch to battery power. For example, it can keep your fridge running on a portable power station while turning off non-essential devices, helping you avoid high costs without sacrificing comfort.

Question 6: How can Airbnb owners benefit from Jousto?

Jousto offers Airbnb owners a unique opportunity to earn money even when the property is empty. By charging batteries during low-price periods and discharging to the grid during evening peaks, owners can generate income daily. Jousto also automates appliance usage, ensuring devices like air conditioners aren’t left running after guests check out.

Question 7: What is the solar sponge, and how can businesses use it?

The solar sponge is a period during the day when excess solar energy leads to significantly lower electricity prices. Businesses can automate appliances like air conditioners and coolers during this time, maximising cost savings.

Question 8: Do I need a smart meter to use Jousto?

Yes, a smart meter (interval meter) is required to take full advantage of Jousto’s capabilities. Smart meters record your energy usage in intervals, enabling precise tracking and automations based on real-time market prices. If you don’t have one, contact your energy retailer to arrange installation.

Question 9: How can I tell if I have a smart meter installed?

Check your electricity bill. If you see a time-of-use tariff with different rates for various times of the day, you likely have a smart meter. Older accumulation meters usually have a single kWh rate.

Question 10: How does Jousto work with energy retailers?

Jousto partners with energy retailers like LocalVolts and Amber Electric to provide users access to wholesale energy markets. These partnerships enable real-time pricing and advanced features like peer-to-peer (P2P) energy trading, where you can buy energy directly from other users.

Question 11: Can Jousto integrate with existing solar panels or batteries?

Yes, Jousto works seamlessly with solar panels and battery systems. It automates charging during low-price or negative-price periods and ensures batteries discharge during peak demand, maximising savings and efficiency.

Question 12: What appliances can Jousto automate?

Jousto can automate a wide range of devices, including air conditioners, fridges, washing machines, hot water systems, lights, and entertainment systems. Using smart plugs and controllers, Jousto adjusts appliance usage based on energy market conditions.

Question 13: Is Jousto scalable for businesses and large properties?

Yes, Jousto is scalable and works for businesses of all sizes. From small offices and shops to larger hotels and commercial properties, Jousto’s automation tools and energy-saving strategies can be tailored to fit any operation.

Question 14: How much can I save with Jousto?

Savings depend on your energy habits, appliances, and market conditions. Many users significantly reduce their bills by automating energy usage during low-price periods and avoiding spikes, with additional savings for those using batteries or portable power solutions.

Question 15: How do I get started with Jousto?

Getting started is simple. Purchase a Jousto Hub or Home Assistant, add smart devices like plugs and controllers, and set up your automations using the Jousto app. Our team offers support for both DIY setups and Do It for Me (DIFM) services, including on-site installations in South Australia.