Consumers want smart technologies but lack knowledge of emerging systems

Consumers in the US are concerned about the cost of their energy use, yet lack awareness of emerging energy management systems, according to a recent survey by Consumer Electronics Association, a standards and trade organisation for the consumer electronics industry in the United States. The study found that just 10.2 million of 119 million US households are estimated to have enrolled in electricity management programs.

The consumers are interested in how electricity management programs could reduce their monthly electric bills; however, the survey found there is little difference in the bills of those enrolled in electricity management programs and those who are not, said Steve Koenig, director of industry analysis for CEA. This indicates that further development by industry, utilities and government is needed to realise the vision of a smart grid that could bring about more meaningful cost savings to consumers. Utility companies are in the best position to raise awareness of these programs to boost consumers’ understanding of energy consumption, according to the study.

Currently, energy management systems allow consumers to control their home air conditioning and heating units through a programmable display. In the future, a smart grid would enable consumers to adjust home cooling and heating systems with a smartphone, run their dishwashers at times of low energy costs or control home appliances remotely, among other applications. 

The survey of 1250 adults, conducted in April, sought to better understand consumer awareness and attitudes regarding energy management and how energy-efficiency gains in consumer electronics products have changed purchasing habits. More than 55% of consumers expressed interest in an electricity management program sponsored by a utility or electric company. Consumers also indicated they would prefer to use a device in the home (41%), an online portal (41%) or a mobile device (32%) to monitor energy use.

Looking forward, 46% of respondents aware of electricity management programs available in their area expressed an interest in enrolling in the coming years. Many more expressed interest in buying efficient consumer electronics devices. The research also showed those with energy management systems had slightly lower electricity costs, although much greater energy savings are possible when a truly interactive smart grid comes online.