System and method for managing power consumption of an HVAC system

An HVAC controller for managing power consumption of an HVAC system, comprising:

• an interface configured to receive a signal indicative of an operating status of a backup power source that powers the HVAC system when utility power is unavailable;
• a processor operatively coupled to the interface;
• and
• a memory operatively coupled to the processor and including a set of executable instructions, which, when executed by the processor, cause the HVAC controller to reduce a maximum power consumption of the HVAC system when the backup power source is powering the HVAC system, including reducing the maximum operating speed of one or more rotary components of the HVAC system, or modifying a setpoint of the HVAC system in which a temperature setpoint is raised or lowered while in respectively a cooling mode or a heating mode.

A method for managing power consumption of an HVAC system, comprising the steps of:

• providing an HVAC system comprising a transfer switch, a detector, and an HVAC controller, wherein the detector is in communication with the transfer switch or a controller of a backup power source, and the HVAC controller;
• switching a utility power line of the utility power source connected to a load of the HVAC system to a generator power line of the backup power source;
• detecting and sending data relating to switching of the power line to the HVAC controller;
• receiving a data of the backup power source by the HVAC controller;
• and
• controlling an operation of one or more components of the HVAC system based on the data of the backup power source to reduce power consumption the HVAC system, including reducing the maximum operating speed of one or more rotary components of the HVAC system, or modifying a setpoint of the HVAC system in which a temperature setpoint is raised or lowered while in respectively a cooling mode or a heating mode.