Microsoft launched a test version of its new online application Hohm which can help consumers save energy and money. Microsoft Hohm is a free online beta application that helps consumers to save energy and money. With Microsoft Hohm consumer can better understand his home energy usage, get recommendations to conserve energy and start saving. As with any recommendation engine, Hohm will provide increasingly more accurate and relevant suggestions for energy conservation as its users contribute home energy input and feedback. Hohm can help consumers lower their energy bill and reduce their impact on the environment by providing them with personalized energy-saving recommendations such as placing new caulking on windows to removing air leaks.

Earlier this year, Google Inc unveiled a similar online application named PowerMeter which enables consumers to receive their home electricity consumption information almost in real time right from their computers. The recommendations will be tailored based on specific circumstances in the consumer's home including house features, usage patterns and appliances. Consumers in the United States can now access the free application, Hohm, by visiting www.microsoft-hohm.com