LG takes on the smarter, green home (photos)

LAS VEGAS--At the Consumer Electronics Show, LG showed off a line of smart appliances capable of connecting to a home network and smart meter. But it's vision for the smart, greener home is much bigger, as seen here. It encompasses solar panels, a ground-source heat pump, home batteries, efficient lighting and electronics, and even electric car charging.

LG's Thinq smart appliances can be controlled from a networked device, including a PC, tablet, or smart phone.

An LG executive shows off some of the capabilities of a smart appliance, including the ability to track energy use and schedule jobs to take advantage of cheaper, off-peak electricity rates.

LG's smart appliances have touch-screen displays. The company says that being connected to the Internet would allow consumers to download pre-programmed wash cycles or recipes and keep track of food in the refrigerator.

LG said its robotic vacuum cleaner can also be controlled over the home network and keep an eye on the house when people are out.

LG also touted some of the technology inside its appliances to make them more energy efficient. The drum inside its washing machine does not use a belt as typical washers do, making it vibrate less and more efficient.