Summary: Automated systems have existed since the industrial revolution, but it is only in the last couple decades that we have seen intelligent controllers making decisions to automate processes, and only even more recently that we have seen them taking part in attempts to reduce energy.
Automation systems have existed in industry for some time to make processes more efficient, moving into commercial settings with simple things such as occupancy sensors to shut off lights. Finally, automation systems have started finding their way into residences, although they are still seen as a high-end luxury item.