You just described how Nest is using their data and how utilities are trying to use Time Of Data metering to signal pricing to consumers (using smart meters).
Also, most if not all industrial electricity users have load shedding agreements with utilities; in the event of demand spikes, those industrial users are required to curb their power use within X number of minutes.
Also, most if not all industrial electricity users have load shedding agreements with utilities; in the event of demand spikes, those industrial users are required to curb their power use within X number of minutes.