Examining Whether Smart Meters Have Been Used Smartly: A Case Study of Residential Electricity Customers in Vermont

摘要

Approximately 92% of electricity meters in Vermont, and more than 40% across the United States, have been replaced with smart meters due to their potential to improve grid efficiency and reduce electricity costs, but there is very limited information on whether smart meters are benefitting or being efficiently used by electricity customers. In this study, quantitative analysis of primary data from statewide surveys in Vermont is used to address several questions on consumer behavior and opinions towards smart meters. The empirical results indicate that less than 50% of the surveyed customers reported having a smart meter and, for those who did report having a smart meter, less than 20% of them thought that the smart meter had reduced their electricity use. Also, there were significant differences in demographic factors and concerns about the potential impacts of smart meters on health and privacy between those who reported having a smart meter and those who did not. Furthermore, the respondents did report some interest in receiving additional information on smart meters. In all, these findings suggest that there are a number of ways utility companies and other educational entities, such as Extension, can improve the efficacy of smart meter utilization.