Microsoft Corp., has launched Hohm, a web-based service that lets consumers monitor their home energy consumption and rates in real-time and get related energy information. The real time monitoring service is currently available with a small handful of energy partners who use smart meters, including Sacramento’s Municipal Utility District, City Light Seattle, Puget Sound Energy, and Xcel Energy.

Google is also developing a competing product, Google PowerMeter, that essentially shows “consumers their personal electricity consumption right on a home computer.” Google’s PowerMeter also relies on smart meters from partners. Google’s current partners include San Diego Gas & Electrc , TXU Energy, Toronto Hydro , among other partners.