New report looks at behaviors, motivations of US energy customers

The Smart Energy Consumer Collaborative (SECC) published a report that looks at trends regarding the behaviors, attitudes, and motivations of U.S. energy customers.

SECC’s “2019 State of the Consumer” is comprised of an analysis of five 2018 research studies that the organization conducted throughout the year. Collectively, these studies include over 5,500 survey responses that shed light on consumers’ needs and wants in a rapidly evolving energy ecosystem.

The “2019 State of the Consumer” report features overviews of the key findings from each of the five studies, but also takes a broader view and puts forth some overarching ideas on the wants of today’s energy consumers.

In summary, consumers want return-on-investment information to better understand programs and more technology-based solutions like those offered in other industries. The study also says engaged consumers are ready for the next step and upfront costs are a hurdle for many consumers — not only those with lower incomes. Finally, consumers will enroll and participate if it’s easy and convenient for them to do so.

These takeaways can be used by electricity providers to meet the needs of today’s energy consumers better.

“The energy industry has undergone many changes in recent years, including the growth of renewable energy, the emergence of smart home products and the expansion of smart grid technology,” Patty Durand, president & CEO of SECC, said. “The new report provides a concise, updated look at consumers’ needs and what energy providers can implement to improve their customers’ experiences.”