FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What exactly are web services and APIs?
A: If the concepts are unfamiliar a reasonable placd to start might be Wikipedia. Here's how Wikipedia defines web services and APIs.

Q: Do I need to use these APIs if all I want to do is link to your site.
A: Definitely not. Just link. No strings attached. APIs are only needed if you want to customize the site for your users (e.g. ask fewer questions or change the user interface design).

Q: Who developed the EnergyIQ APIs?
A: EnergyIQ APIs were developed by scientists at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, an internationally recognized center for research and development on energy efficiency. LBNL is a national laboratory of the U.S. Department of Energy.

Q: What are LBNL's goals of licensing technology and why does it charge some licensees?
A: Berkeley Lab licenses software and technologies to industry in order to move Lab inventions to the marketplace and benefit the public. Berkeley Lab seeks licensees that can marshal the requisite financial, R & D, manufacturing, marketing, and managerial capabilities and commitment to successfully commercialize Berkeley Lab innovations. Our goals are to:

• Promote the use of Berkeley Lab technology to benefit society through licensing Lab inventions to companies capable of successfully commercializing them;
  
• Support the research mission of the Lab through generating licensing income that supports future Lab research and by identifying industry partners to sponsor Lab research;
  
• Earn a fair return and recognition for the Lab and inventors; and
  
  
• Contribute to regional and national economic development.

In addition, government funding to offset the costs of maintaining the infrastructure to support licensees is not guaranteed, and usage-based payments help establish greater sustainability of the service.

Q: Can I get an exclusive license?
A: No. LBNL provides non-exclusive licenses for EnergyIQ to maximize the creative use of the APIs.

Q: How often will the APIs be updated?
A: We are in constant development, and plan for minor updates on a continuous basis as well as major occasional updates.

Q: Do you have examples of how the APIs have been used?
A: Yes. See the "Apps Gallery" tab in this website.

Q: Where do I report a bug or technical issue in the HES website?
A: Mail to: energyiqhelp@lbl.gov