Feb. 18, 2013: Many Consumers Remain Unfamiliar with Smart Grid Concepts, According to New Survey
BOULDER, Colo. — Even as utilities continue to invest in smart grid technologies, they are struggling to effectively communicate both the benefits of smart grids and the possibilities they make available to the end user. According to a new consumer survey from Pike Research, a part of Navigant’s Energy Practice, nearly one-third of respondents (30 percent) were unfamiliar with smart grids, and one-quarter (24 percent) were unfamiliar with smart meters.
“The survey data indicates we are still in the early phase of consumer awareness and adoption of smart grid technologies, and consumers’ understanding of the benefits that can be derived from these technologies remains relatively low,” said senior research analyst Neil Strother. “Utilities and other smart grid stakeholders must find more effective means of engaging customers with simple, affordable, and helpful energy management products and services.”