Microsoft Corp on Wednesday launched a test version of its new online application which the software giant said can help consumers save energy and money.

Consumers in the United States can now access the free application, which is called Hohm, by visiting the website of www.microsoft-hohm.com, the company said.

Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer speaks to shareholders at the Microsoft annual shareholders meeting in Bellevue, Washington in this November 19, 2008 file photo. [Xinhua]

According to Microsoft, 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.

The recommendations will be tailored based on specific circumstances in the consumer's home including house features, usage patterns and appliances.

"We believe technology will play a pivotal role in tackling the global energy issues we currently face," Craig Mundie, Microsoft's chief research and strategy officer, said in a statement.

"Microsoft Hohm demonstrates how a combination of advanced software and Internet-based services can help people track, understand and manage their personal energy usage," he added.

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.

Studies cited by Google showed that access to home energy information may result in savings from 5 percent to 15 percent on monthly electricity bills.

(Xinhua News Agency June 25, 2009)