Expectations to Maintain Grid Consistency
Consumer views on grid resiliency steer the next wave of utility investment and infrastructure.
Challenge
Bellomy aimed to explore customer perceptions and expectations regarding grid maintenance across multiple utilities. The study focused on awareness of current maintenance efforts and desired actions for future grid resiliency.
Solution
In Q1 of 2023, a quarterly Utility Heartbeat Poll was conducted with customers from nine electric utility panels, managed by Bellomy, gathering insights on grid-related perceptions.
Results
Awareness of Maintenance Efforts
Two-thirds of customers were aware of tree trimming as a maintenance effort. However, awareness was much lower for other initiatives, such as the use of smart meters, replacing or repairing old equipment, investing in cybersecurity, balancing energy sources, and replacing overhead powerlines with underground lines.
Importance of Grid Resiliency
Despite varying levels of awareness about specific maintenance tactics, nearly all customers recognized the importance of utilities investing in grid resiliency. This underscores a strong customer expectation for utilities to prioritize robust grid infrastructure.
Preferred Actions for Resiliency
When asked about preferred future actions, about 20% of customers each prioritized replacing overhead lines with underground lines, using stronger or storm-resistant infrastructure, and investing in smart grid technology. These preferences highlight the specific areas where customers see the greatest potential for enhancing grid reliability and resilience.
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—Tiffany/Market Researcher, Utilities
Some of Our Utility Clients
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