Home automation technology sales grow despite recession

According to a new study by ABI research, vendors of home automation systems are expected to ship nearly 2.8 million units globally in 2011. This is despite the prevailing negative economic climate.

The study estimates that “luxury systems”, on of four categories of home automation systems, will be significantly impacted by the recession.

Says senior analyst Sam Lucero: “The luxury home automation market for systems costing more than $50,000 is relatively mature, so it will feel the greatest impact from the recession. Two other segments – standards-based mainstream home automation systems and home automation as a service – are so new and have so much room for growth that they should expand rapidly starting in 2010 no matter the progress of the wider economic recovery. Likewise, the final segment – DIY home automation – is tied to a certain extent to these other newer segments and should also see healthy growth.”

The use of new wireless technologies are making these home automation systems cheaper and more accessible to lower-end consumers, thereby driving positive growth in sales. The growing availability of peripheral components for these systems are also contributing to generated revenue.

The ABI Research report, entitled “Home Automation and Security” analyzes the market for home automation and home security technologies.