New "internet of things" devices allow for more precise control of different loads energy usage. These can generally respond to change the load shape of a building on short time scales. In parallel to the development of these technologies, great advances are taking place in the world of solar forecasting. As solar forecasts become more accurate, specifically on shorter time scales <1 hr, <15 min, or even less, there is an opportunities to better match loads with solar generation to maximize building self consumption. Additionally, this can also lead to smaller storage needs to provide the same value as storage alone, but at a lower price.
Solutions are needed to more closely integrate load controls to solar generation so products are ready to leverage new forecasting technologies when they hit the market.