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New Chartwell reports address both technology and ‘the human factor’ involved in demand response programs
New Chartwell reports address both technology and ‘the human factor’ involved in demand response programs
ATLANTA – The latest environmental trends, consumer attitudes and technology advancements have more utilities poised to launch demand-response programs, but whether or not those programs get off the ground remains to be seen, utility research firm Chartwell reports in its latest industry publications.
In fact, while the proportion of utilities offering customers demand-response programs has remained steady, those planning or considering such programs have increased significantly, reveal 2007 Chartwell survey results. For example, 22% of utilities report planning or considering special rates that encourage peak load management for residential customers. Fifteen percent are planning or considering a residential air conditioner cycling program; only 1% reported planning or considering such a program on a 2006 survey.
Metering and data analysis technology may also contribute toward the movement. More than half of all utilities using, planning or considering advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) intend to leverage the technology for demand response programs, according to Chartwell data. Nearly three quarters of those same utilities are planning or considering AMI-enabled time-dynamic rates.
These are some of the findings outlined in two new companion Chartwell reports, AMI-Enabled Demand Response 2007 and Marketing & Communicating Demand Response.
In AMI-Enabled Demand Response 2007, readers will find discussion of AMI systems’ potential to serve as the backbone for future demand response and load control programs that use advanced in-home controls. Many utilities close to deploying the next generation of metering systems project demand response to deliver benefits internally as well as to customers. Several industry experts believe AMI-enabled energy efficiency programs will allow utilities to reduce demand and prevent the construction of generation facilities.
The 31-page AMI-Enabled Demand Response report contains data specific to AMI-enabled demand response and load control from Chartwell’s latest annual metering survey, as well as exlusive analysis. The report also contains case studies on two utilities – Idaho Power and Chatham-Kent Energy – that use AMI for demand response and/or load control programs.
Marketing & Communicating Demand Response addresses the human factors involved, from the customer end, in managing peak loads. The report details successful utilities’ efforts to attract the right participants and motivate those customers to change their usage patterns. In addition to 10 in-depth case studies – including ComEd, Florida Power & Light and Portland General Electric – an analysis looks at new data from Chartwell’s proprietary 2007 products, services and programs utility survey as well as advice from consultants and vendors in the demand response and program evaluation arenas. The report examines utility demand response programs such as air conditioner cycling, time-of-use rates and critical peak pricing for both residential and C&I customers.
Both reports are available at no charge to Chartwell Premier Members. Non-members may purchase AMI-Enabled Demand Response 2007 for $495 or Marketing & Communicating Demand Response for $995. If purchased together, they are available for the package price of $1190. Please go to www.energylibary.com or call 404-237-9099 for more information.
AMI-Enabled Demand Response 2007 is part of the Chartwell Metering Research Series, and Marketing & Communicating Demand Response is part of the Chartwell Products, Services & Programs Research Series. Each Research Series is a 12-month membership that includes in-depth research reports and accompanying databases derived from Chartwell’s extensive annual utility surveys; case studies; frequent news reporting; one-on-one consultation with Chartwell research staff; and profiles of vendors poised to help utilities in this arena.
For information on Chartwell Premier or Research Series membership, contact Chartwell at (800) 432-5879, (404) 237-9099 or utility.info@chartwellinc.com; or visit www.chartwellinc.com or Chartwell’s Energy Library at www.energylibrary.com.
ABOUT CHARTWELL INC.
Chartwell Inc., the leading facilitator of knowledge exchange within the utility industry, provides utility business information, survey data and case studies on customer service, marketing, metering technology and energy delivery issues.
Press contact: Jennifer Allen, jallen@chartwellinc.com or (404) 237-9099.
