Most Americans are still unfamiliar with the term ‘smart grid,’ according to a recent survey by EcoAlign and Clasma Events. The survey, "Separating Smart Grid from Smart Meters," is the 8th EcoPulse survey the partnership have published, and was released in conjunction with the ConnectivityWeek 2010 event taking place in California this week. The goal of the survey was to test consumer expectations and perceptions of smart grid technology.
Although about 70 percent of American had not heard the term ‘smart grid’ before, once participants had the concept explained to them they responded favorably. Fifty-five percent said smart grid modifications will be of substantial benefit to them, according to the report. Half of those surveyed said the ability to monitor their energy use would be of significant benefit to them.
Roughly a quarter of those surveyed said they would use smart grid technology to review their energy bill on at least a weekly basis.
However, the survey also identified some potential pitfalls with meeting consumer expectations. With the primary consumer expectation for smart grid technology being the reduction of energy bills, failure to realize such savings (due to increasing energy prices or increased energy use) could cause consumers to sour on the idea of smart grid technology.
The entire report can be downloaded for free by registering on the EcoAlign website.
