The results of a study conducted by Parks Associates on energy management, utilities and smart home, highlight that consumers are increasingly comfortable self-installing smart energy devices.
More than 60% of smart energy devices installed in 2018 were self-installed by consumers. The smart energy devices include smart light bulbs plugs, adapters and smart thermostats.
Other key findings include:
1.59% of smart thermostats, 79% of smart light bulbs and 68% of smart lighting control systems were self-installed
2.76% of solar PV owners want to connect smart thermostats and water heaters in order to optimise their investments
3.54% of US broadband households do not know if their electricity provider offers energy programmes
4.35% of smart home device owners are knowledgeable about rebate programmes
5.32% of smart thermostat owners report that rebates, discounts, or coupons did not have any impact on their purchase decision, but two-thirds report those offers did impact their decision
Denise Ernst, vice president at Parks Associates, said: "Smart-energy consumers are DIYers, so utilities with broad BYOD (bring your own device) programmes are able to target the largest segments of smart home device ownership.
"Retail is the dominant sales channel for smart energy devices, including both brick-and-mortar stores as well as online retail. Partnerships with these third parties can help utilities expand offerings and improve customer satisfaction.
"Depending upon the state policies on renewable energy, the investment in solar energy for the home has too long of a perceived payback period.
"By integrating with other devices in the home, this payback period can be reduced." The study included some 10,000 broadband households.
