LG Electronics said Thursday it agreed to take part in a smart grid project with U.S.-based Pecan Street Inc. in Austin, Texas.

The firm will participate in the project as a member of the industry advisory council and will provide expertise in the research of smart homes, energy management and consumer electronics until 2015.

LG’s primary focus will be on the development of effective home energy management systems, according to its officials.

The company will install its advanced air conditioners, smart refrigerators, smart washing machines, LED lighting and the Home Energy Management Systems in participating homes.

“In addition to our leadership in energy-efficient smart appliances, our involvement with Pecan Street demonstrates LG’s ongoing commitment to smart grid technology,” said Skott Ahn, Chief Technology Officer at LG. “We’re excited by the opportunity to further promote the burgeoning smart grid industry, both domestically and globally.”

Pecan Street is currently conducting one of the world’s most unique and advanced consumer energy research trials in Austin. This involves the energy usage analysis of over 450 volunteer homeowners, which are testing energy and consumer electronic products and services. More than 60 residents have also acquired electric vehicles and at least 200 homes have installed rooftop solar panels since the beginning of the research project.

Other global companies that are working with Pecan Street include Dell, Intel, Sony and Oracle.

By Cho Ji-hyun (sharon@heraldcorp.com)