Monitoring how much power your home uses isn’t just frugal but an “in” and green idea. Google and Microsoft are already players in the home energy market but Apple is looking to change the game with two patent applications.

There’s a simple reason for Apple to get into the smart grid market and that’s money. Cisco anticipates the smart grid market that includes smart appliances and smart meters to be bigger than the internet and valued at $100 billion.

Apple’s foray into smart meters is a lot like their launch of the iPod. MP3 players were already out in 2001, but Apple put their Steve Jobs spin on existing technology and ended up dominating the market.

The system leans heavily on HomePlug Powerline Networking, a method that turns a basic power plug into a delivery system for audio and data. Plug in a cell phone or fridge in a HomePlug socket and it will be connected with every other plugged in device in the home via broadband internet.

The information from each item would be sent to a central location or what Apple calls a “Smart Home Energy Management Dashboard System.” Could this “dashboard” be code for the long rumored tablet? Apple’s not saying but it would certainly be gadget catnip to Apple fanboys, electronics nerds, and green minded consumers.

Users would be able to track their energy usage or plan to do specific tasks at off peak times, like running a dishwasher. Forget to shut off the porch lights? Turn them off remotely through the dashboard. The proposed device could not only work in homes but small businesses as well. Idle desktop computers and laser printers could be powered down to help save cash.

Google’s PowerMeter has seen a lot of success but there’s one little problem. Many utilities haven’t signed up for the project or are developing similar in-house programs like Michigan’s Consumers Energy. Apple’s dashboard and use of the HomePlug system could function outside those used by the utility or for those that aren’t Google PowerMeter partners. Add in Apple’s design team and the dashboard may be a major force in the home energy market.