SMART GRID FOR ALL
The days of meter-readers and one-dimensional, monthly electric bills are rapidly disappearing. The smart grid is ushering in a new era of empowered consumers, actively involved in managing their energy use.
Utilities have the unique opportunity to drive this transformation in consumer engagement. GridPoint’s home energy management solution provides the foundation for an interactive discussion on energy consumption that will enable informed choice.
Visually intriguing consumer portals make relevant energy information available to customers when and where it is most actionable. A robust suite of customizable widgets allows utilities to place easy-to-use tools, tips and analysis in the hands of everyone they serve. Customers interested in a deeper understanding of their monthly consumption can register for advanced functionality, including the option to manage their household energy use remotely, scheduling time-of-day and device specific behaviors.
With insight into their usage patterns, consumers are able to make small changes in their daily consumption to save money and positively impact the environment. Empowered and rewarded by their efforts, customers are likely to increase participation in other smart grid offerings, including demand response and load management programs.
Proactive, early engagement allows utilities to maintain a primary role in their customer relationships. To that end, GridPoint’s consumer portals are designed to be a constant, valued resource for home energy information and management, while our server technology provides the flexibility to rapidly respond to the still evolving smart grid marketplace.
The consumer portals provide a rich customer experience and home energy information that is:
Comprehensive – Users are provided with a complete picture of energy use, including both electric and gas consumption, current and historic patterns, costs and device specific impacts.
Customized – Consumption analysis and tips reflect specific residences, appliances and usage patterns.
Actionable – Easy access to information via the Internet, in-home and mobile devices make wise energy choices possible throughout the day. Through the portals, consumers can control their intelligent in-home devices from any remote location.
Relevant – The concept of kWhs-consumed is foreign to many consumers. To make usage data meaningful, it is expressed visually, in neighborhood comparisons and via a simple monthly grade.
Visual – Usage patterns, energy costs, comparison information and other valuable energy data is displayed in a variety of graphical formats to ensure rapid and easy understanding.
Dynamic – Various communication methods – video, interactive multi-media, text messages, etc. – are available to engage and educate utility customers.
Informative – Useful tips on lowering consumption, saving money and improving energy efficiency are readily accessible.
Utility specific – Our portals are easily customized with the look and feel of a utility’s brand and multiple opportunities exist to promote specific utility initiatives and recruit participation in targeted programs.