PayGo recently joined the Smart Grid Consumer Collaborative (“SGCC””). Their “Consumer Pulse” surveys assess attitudes about smart grid and smart grid services. According to the latest “wave” of Smart Grid Consumers Collaborative’s (SGCC) Consumer Pulse telephone survey of 1,001 U.S. residential electricity consumers nationwide, more consumers say they are willing to pay extra to invest in and support alternative energy than to improve reliability. The study also found that 44% of consumers were “somewhat or very” interested in Pre-Pay electricity programs. The study indicated significant interest amongst “Young America” (61%) and “Concerned Greens” (51%). This data is consistent with previous reports, and confirms the growing interest in Pre-Pay as an additional behavioral approach to energy efficiency.
The survey also tracked respondents’ impressions of smart grid and smart meters, likelihood to participate in related energy programs, and favorability toward alternative energy.
The report notes that consumer awareness of smart grid has remained relatively consistent over the last two years, with 53 percent of respondents never having heard the term “smart grid.” However, 54 percent of respondents who are aware of smart grid and its benefits are supportive, consistent with earlier “waves” of the survey.
“The results from this study illustrate the importance of promoting the understanding and benefits of modernized electrical systems to all stakeholders in the U.S,” said Patty Durand, SGCC executive director.
To help with that mission, SGCC has recently released an array of smart grid education materials including: www.WhatIsSmartGrid.org a one-stop-shop that provides visitors with easy-to-understand information about the smart grid and the Consumer Concerns and Educational Toolkit, which addresses important consumer topics including consumer benefits, data privacy, outage restoration and health concerns.