ATLANTA – While data from a survey of 50 utility companies shows that almost three-fourths – 74% – say they offer energy management consulting to commercial and industrial (C&I) customers, many of them are ignoring their small business customers when it comes to helping manage energy usage. This may be a mistake. A small business survey Chartwell recently completed uncovers data that shows small business might be willing to pay for this service, as reported in Energy Management Services for Large and Small Businesses, a new industry report from Atlanta-based energy research firm Chartwell Inc.

When Chartwell researchers surveyed 307 small business owners via telephone in the fall of 2002, they found that more than one-third – 34% – said they would consider purchasing energy management services or consulting from their utility. The most likely type of small business to purchase these services were retail businesses with more than $5 million in annual revenue. Wholesalers and manufacturers also were more likely than other types of small businesses to purchase these services.

Energy Management Services for Large and Small Businesses also provides data on the types of utilities – based on ownership and number of customers – most likely to offer energy management consulting, as well as data on the numbers and types of utilities that charge a fee vs. provide these services for free.

In addition to data and analysis, the Chartwell report includes seven case studies that cover:
• a utility providing energy management to small businesses;
• utilities and energy company subsidiaries offering data-driven energy management programs;
• energy companies involved in energy management performance contracting; and
• end-user companies that are participating in utility energy management programs.

Energy Management Services for Large and Small Businesses, which is available from Chartwell for $250, is part of The Chartwell Utility Marketing Research Series, an ongoing information service that provides utility case studies; topical analysis and research centered around specific products or services in the utility and energy services marketplace; and a database of 70 utilities and the products and services they offer.

For more information about the ongoing Research Series, the Report on Energy Management Services for Large and Small Businesses, or the products/services database, please call (800) 432-5879, or (404) 237-9099.
Press contact: Jennifer Quay Allen (404) 237-9099.