Member Spotlights Archives | Smart Energy Consumer Collaborative https://smartenergycc.org/category/member-spotlight/ Listen, Educate, Collaborate Tue, 01 Oct 2024 13:27:27 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.1 https://smartenergycc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/cropped-SECC_LinkedIn_400x400_option2-32x32.png Member Spotlights Archives | Smart Energy Consumer Collaborative https://smartenergycc.org/category/member-spotlight/ 32 32 4Liberty https://smartenergycc.org/member-spotlight-4liberty/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=member-spotlight-4liberty Tue, 01 Oct 2024 13:00:27 +0000 https://smartenergycc.org/?p=32541 With deep utility expertise in T&D programs and grid modernization, 4Liberty provides complete solutions, specializing in solving tough problems then implementing and operating the solutions through turnkey program, project and construction management. Continue reading →

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October 2024

Member Spotlight


Throughout 2024, SECC will recognize one member every month, providing an organizational profile and highlighting the member's accomplishments in the smart energy space.



About 4Liberty


4Liberty is a solutions-based consultancy focused on professional, technical and infrastructure program delivery for utilities. With deep utility expertise in T&D programs and grid modernization, 4Liberty provides complete solutions, specializing in solving tough problems then implementing and operating the solutions through turnkey program, project and construction management. They wrap financial and capital control services around every program, ensuring projects are delivering more while on budget.

By applying data science, analytics and AI, they deliver insights that derisk projects and keep them in scope through project closeout. 4Liberty is a strategic partner that supports utilities with all aspects of the energy transition from securing funding to supporting upgrades to driving change management, as well as leading end-customer engagement and communication strategies.

The company is a women-owned and operated certified DBE and SBE headquartered in San Diego, California. They have driven outcomes for their clients since their founding in 2009. 4Liberty is dedicated to delivering results through their methodologies by innovating, automating and eliminating waste and driving efficiencies for utilities, which results in direct end-customer benefits, including affordability.

Services that Drive Efficiency and Affordability


As a full turnkey services provider, 4Liberty has a role to play in helping utilities modernize power grids to improve resiliency while focusing on sustainability to create a positive impact in the communities they serve. They apply advanced technologies and business models to activate opportunities in renewables, smart grids, energy efficiency, consumer engagement and more.

Performance-Built PMO Services


Their methodology follows industry best practices and has been refined through use on over 4,000 utility projects. 4Liberty's program management methodology aligns with a utility company's project management model so the solutions are seamless. 4Liberty operates an “owners PMO” and serves as a force multiplier to ensure that utility client’s objectives are met and expectations are exceeded. Some key offerings are described below.

T&D Programs


4Liberty’s team of professionals understands the unique challenges and demands of the electric T&D sector. They have extensive experience managing major capital projects, including implementing AMI, new infrastructure construction, substation upgrades and expansions, as well as maintenance programs. Whether clients require support for overhead, under-build or underground transmission lines, substations or distribution system upgrades, including fire and weather system hardening, they have the expertise to deliver exceptional results.

Their service delivery encompasses the entire lifecycle of a project, from initial planning and design to execution, monitoring and completion. They work closely with clients to understand specific requirements and objectives, ensuring that their tailored solutions align with clients’ business goals and regulatory standards.

Consumer Engagement and Stakeholder Planning


4Liberty extensive experience in helping utilities and cities implement technology and critical infrastructure projects is anchored in successful community benefits and outreach planning. They understand that this planning hinges on deep knowledge of and robust relationships with local community-based organizations. These connections are essential for ensuring that the direct benefits of any technology implementation reach end customers, fostering successful adoption, particularly in underserved and underrepresented communities.

As the energy transition progresses, engaging with end customers becomes increasingly critical. 4Liberty prioritizes involving the community and maintaining transparent communication to ensure that new energy solutions are embraced and effectively utilized. By focusing on these key areas, they manage community benefits and execute outreach effectively, ensuring that technology and infrastructure projects not only succeed but also bring tangible, positive changes to the communities they serve.

Grant Administration


With a tremendous amount of grant funding available to support the industry’s critical infrastructure projects, 4Liberty can help utilities take advantage of funding opportunities. 4Liberty’s exceptional grant administration and management capabilities are evidenced by their meticulous handling of Department of Energy reporting requirements. They specialize in identifying, supporting and submitting all necessary documentation, working closely with client staff and project stakeholders. Their team ensures that all information is accurately collected and reported on time, demonstrating their commitment to precision and reliability in managing complex grant processes. This attention to detail and proactive approach guarantees compliance and maximizes the benefits of grant funding for our clients.

Change Management


Effective change management is crucial for utility critical infrastructure projects, as it ensures seamless transitions, minimizes disruptions and drives long-term success. Managing change in these complex environments requires a deep understanding of regulatory demands, stakeholder coordination and operational continuity. 4Liberty, specializes in guiding utility companies through these transformations, leveraging their expertise to manage risks, align teams and implement strategies that ensure every phase of the project runs smoothly. They can drive the change management process, delivering reliable, resilient solutions that safeguard your critical infrastructure.

To learn more, follow them on LinkedIn or visit them at 4liberty.com.



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]]> Uplight https://smartenergycc.org/member-spotlight-uplight-2024/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=member-spotlight-uplight-2024 Sun, 01 Sep 2024 13:00:09 +0000 https://smartenergycc.org/?p=32484 Uplight creates compelling opportunities for everyone to actively participate in the clean energy transformation. They combine best-in-class energy customer experiences with an open flexibility management platform to create, manage and monetize energy capacity that improves grid resilience, reduces costs and accelerates decarbonization. Continue reading →

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September 2024

Member Spotlight


Throughout 2024, SECC will recognize one member every month, providing an organizational profile and highlighting the member's accomplishments in the smart energy space.



About Uplight


Uplight creates compelling opportunities for everyone to actively participate in the clean energy transformation. They combine best-in-class energy customer experiences with an open flexibility management platform to create, manage and monetize energy capacity that improves grid resilience, reduces costs and accelerates decarbonization.

By creating new clean energy capacity for 120+ utility clients, Uplight’s solutions have abated two million tons of CO2 from the environment and saved customers $500 million on their energy bills.

Flexible Management


By harnessing distributed energy resources (DERs) – such as smart thermostats, electric vehicles (EVs), solar panels and battery storage – Uplight transforms how energy is managed and balanced across the grid.

Customer Engagement Solutions


Uplight's customer engagement solutions empower energy customers with personalized energy insights, making it easier for them to optimize their energy use and save money – all while contributing to the clean energy transition.

Explore Uplight’s Latest Research and Industry Insights


Want to get in touch with Uplight?

Reach out via their website and follow them on LinkedIn!



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]]> Vistra https://smartenergycc.org/member-spotlight-vistra/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=member-spotlight-vistra Thu, 01 Aug 2024 13:00:58 +0000 https://smartenergycc.org/?p=32369 Vistra is a leading Fortune 500 integrated retail electricity and power generation company that provides essential resources to customers, businesses and communities from California to Maine. Continue reading →

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August 2024

Member Spotlight


Throughout 2024, SECC will recognize one member every month, providing an organizational profile and highlighting the member's accomplishments in the smart energy space.



About Vistra


Vistra is a leading Fortune 500 integrated retail electricity and power generation company that provides essential resources to customers, businesses and communities from California to Maine. Based in Irving, Texas, Vistra is a leader in the energy transformation with an unyielding focus on reliability, affordability and sustainability. The company safely operates a reliable, efficient power generation fleet of natural gas, nuclear, coal, solar and battery energy storage facilities, while taking an innovative, customer-centric approach to its retail business.

Retail Solutions


Vistra is one of the largest competitive electricity providers in the country and with its family of retail brands, serves approximately five million residential, commercial and industrial customers. The company takes an innovative, customer-centric approach to retail, offering solutions to meet customers’ needs, including more than 50 renewable energy products and solutions. Driven to be at the leading edge of retail electricity design, Vistra’s flagship retail brand, TXU Energy, has been first-to-market with more residential products and plans than all its competitors combined.

Using Less Means More


Large business and industrial customers look to Vistra Retail brands for innovative solutions to help them use less and save more. That’s why, since 2011, the company has invested nearly $26 million in Greenback Rebates – rebate dollars that help businesses in Texas and the Midwest fund equipment upgrades and projects to increase energy efficiency. From HVAC equipment replacement to electric vehicle charging stations and onsite solar generation, these projects help customers achieve their sustainability goals – and save money.

Lighting Up Lives


Vistra’s hardworking team is committed to its purpose, “lighting up lives, powering a better way forward”, and believes in investing in the communities where its employees and customers live and work. Through meaningful investments, Vistra is addressing needs and strengthening communities.

The company focuses its community giving in five key areas:

  • Community welfare: programs supporting critical community needs
  • Economic development: programs that help grow state and local economies
  • Education: K-12 programs, especially those building skills in science, technology, engineering and math
  • Employee involvement: worksite groups are empowered to identify needs in their specific communities that meet guidelines and then donate volunteer time or cash grants
  • Environment/sustainability: groups working to build a cleaner, sustainable, and healthier environment

To learn more about Vistra, visit their website here or follow their page on LinkedIn.



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]]> Milepost https://smartenergycc.org/member-spotlight-milepost/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=member-spotlight-milepost Mon, 01 Jul 2024 13:00:44 +0000 https://smartenergycc.org/?p=32243 Milepost is here to unlock the power of people to advance the future of energy. Because people are the key to change, Milepost builds strategies, designs programs and forges alliances that get people excited, aligned and invested in powering progress. Continue reading →

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July 2024

Member Spotlight


Throughout 2024, SECC will recognize one member every month, providing an organizational profile and highlighting the member's accomplishments in the smart energy space.



About Milepost


Milepost is here to unlock the power of people to advance the future of energy. Because people are the key to change, Milepost builds strategies, designs programs and forges alliances that get people excited, aligned and invested in powering progress.

For electric providers, this means having a partner who can increase participation and rally support around your programs, from electrification to grid modernization to time-of-use rates.

For government agencies, it means building community-wide alignment, securing much-needed funding and supporting the development and implementation of funded programs.

When an equitable, resilient energy future depends on you — you can depend on Milepost.

Energy Is Their Expertise, Engagement Is Their Superpower


Milepost is a diverse mix of technical consultants, businesses strategists, people experts, researchers, marketers and creatives. When working with them, you get a strategy consultancy, creative agency, and energy expert all in one.

Milepost’s expertise means that their clients have an experienced partner by their side. They understand current energy challenges, political landscapes and the right way to appeal to customers. In fact, many of them have served in key government and utility roles before joining the Milepost team.

Custom Consulting


Milepost has served electric utilities and government agencies across the U.S. for over a decade, providing custom consulting in three areas:

  • People-Centered Program Design
    Milepost builds tactical strategies that rally stakeholders and transform passive energy consumers into lifelong energy advocates.
  • Government and Community Integration
    Milepost can help you leverage government initiatives to bolster your projects and programs in a way that will resonate with communities and achieve progress.
  • Communications and Creative
    Milepost’s in-house creative team develops communications that inform, educate and ignite support for your initiatives, transforming complexity into clarity and apathy into action.

Turnkey Solutions


Milepost understands that electric utilities and government entities come in all shapes and sizes and have vastly different budgets for outside support. Because achieving an equitable, resilient energy future means that every community is making progress, Milepost provides free and low-cost resources to help everyone unlock the power of people to drive results and serve their communities.

Federal Funding Resource Snapshot: 

Kids’ Energy Education Programs

Understanding the lasting impact that education can have on household behaviors, Milepost developed an engaging off-the-shelf kids’ program that makes it easy to teach how energy is made, how it's used, and how to use it wisely. These interactive lessons are delivered by friendly, colorful monsters and bold, fun graphics that keep kids (and their parents) engaged and learning. Learn more about the Monster Detective Collective here.

Visit their website and join their mailing list to stay up to date on new resources.

Values


Milepost is a certified B Corp and a Social Purpose Corporation focused on creating positive, long-term impacts by prioritizing employees, community and environment over earnings.

Engage Milepost


If building an equitable and resilient energy future is on your itinerary, Milepost will help you get there.



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]]> BlastPoint https://smartenergycc.org/member-spotlight-blastpoint-2024/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=member-spotlight-blastpoint-2024 Wed, 01 May 2024 12:30:25 +0000 https://smartenergycc.org/?p=31964 BlastPoint specializes in developing AI-powered, result-driven customer intelligence software designed to assist utility companies in reaching the right customers at the right time through the right channels with just the right messages. Continue reading →

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May 2024

Member Spotlight


Throughout 2024, SECC will recognize one member every month, providing an organizational profile and highlighting the member's accomplishments in the smart energy space.



About BlastPoint


BlastPoint specializes in developing AI-powered, result-driven customer intelligence software designed to assist utility companies in reaching the right customers at the right time through the right channels with just the right messages. Designed for business teams, BlastPoint’s Customer Intelligence Platform makes data insights accessible and actionable in less than three months of implementation.

BlastPoint has enabled companies in highly regulated industries around the world to operationalize customer data, meet customer experience goals and become customer-focused organizations.

Customer Intelligence Technology


The company’s objective-driven machine learning technology is meticulously crafted to support the achievement of specific goals. Setting itself apart, BlastPoint refreshes data daily for 20 percent of U.S. households and businesses. Each solution offered is customized to fit the unique customer base of the utility, eschewing the generic, one-size-fits-all approach. As market conditions shift, BlastPoint's models evolve in tandem, ensuring they remain aligned with the dynamic needs of customers.

The platform's success is driven by the collective expertise of its team, which brings over 100 years of experience in data science. This depth of knowledge ensures that data is not just collected, but effectively leveraged to drive real ROI and boost customer satisfaction.

Embracing a Data-Driven Approach to Customer-Centricity


As the digital era reshapes industries, the utilities sector faces a crucial transformation, shifting from viewing individuals as "ratepayers" to engaging them as valued "customers" with a focus on customer-centricity and data-driven strategies.

BlastPoint offers strategic partnerships and business-oriented strategies, enabling utilities to effectively manage this transition by providing the necessary tools, expertise and support to empower utilities to leverage analytics to their fullest potential. By adopting a data-driven and customer-focused approach, utilities not only enhance customer satisfaction but also achieve significant operational and financial improvements.

Make Your Customer Data Work for You


Utilities utilizing BlastPoint have experienced a 30-percent increase in digital self-service engagement, more than a 300-percent increase in engagement with low-to-moderate income customers, a 98-percent increase in enrollment in EV programs, a 47-percent increase in collection rates and more. Their use cases extend across a wide range of customer-related initiatives, including:

  • Engage Low-to-Moderate Income Customers: Enhance support by educating on assistance options and streamlining the enrollment process, ensuring timely help for those at risk.
  • Optimize Call Management: Reduce call center load by promoting the use of digital channels for a seamless customer experience.
  • Elevate Satisfaction with AI: Utilize artificial intelligence to improve customer happiness and boost daily satisfaction metrics.
  • Refine Program Targeting: Increase program impact by matching initiatives to the ideal customer profile and refining communication strategies.
  • Enhance Collections Strategy: Proactively manage accounts by identifying deviations from predictive models and engaging customers with timely outreach.
  • Promote Energy Efficiency: Encourage adoption of energy-saving measures among customers most likely to engage, enhancing program uptake.
  • Increase E-Billing Adoption: Drive e-billing enrollment by aligning with customer values on sustainability, targeting those most receptive.
  • Accelerate EV Adoption: Identify leading consumers in EV adoption, focusing efforts on achieving equitable access and participation.

Learn more about their technology by visiting blastpoint.com and following the company on LinkedIn and X.



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]]> Beneficial Electrification League https://smartenergycc.org/member-spotlight-beneficial-electrification-league/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=member-spotlight-beneficial-electrification-league Mon, 01 Apr 2024 13:00:14 +0000 https://smartenergycc.org/?p=31904 The Beneficial Electrification League is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in 2018 that works to facilitate electrification, when it is beneficial, by promoting understanding among key stakeholders, championing necessary grid infrastructure and developing actionable resources to accelerate implementation. Continue reading →

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April 2024

Member Spotlight


Throughout 2024, SECC will recognize one member every month, providing an organizational profile and highlighting the member's accomplishments in the smart energy space.



About The Beneficial Electrification League (BEL)


The Beneficial Electrification League is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in 2018 that works to facilitate electrification, when it is beneficial, by promoting understanding among key stakeholders, championing necessary grid infrastructure and developing actionable resources to accelerate implementation. BEL envisions a future where electrification is broadly implemented, when beneficial, to drive economic development, meet consumer needs, and achieve environmental goals.

What is Beneficial Electrification?


Beneficial electrification includes the application of electricity to end-uses where doing so satisfies at least one of the following conditions, without adversely affecting the others:

  • Saves consumers money over time;
  • Benefits the environment and reduces greenhouse gas emissions;
  • Improves product quality or consumer quality of life;
  • Fosters a more robust and resilient grid.

Supporting Electric Cooperatives and Municipal Utilities


BEL helps electric cooperatives and municipal utilities navigate issues related to beneficial electrification.

Examples of their work include:

  • USDA PACE and New ERA Program Support: BEL is assisting coalitions of munis and co-ops with proposals, including at least 100 projects worth $13B in cost, totaling 4,000 MW solar, 2,000 MW wind, 2,000 MW storage and annual GHG reduction of 22M+ tons.
  • DOE’s Grid Resilience 40101(d) Program Support: BEL has supported over a dozen applications in multiple states for entities which qualify for small utility set asides to gain access to funding through state formula grant programs.
  • DOE’s Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program (EECBG) Program Support: BEL has helped over a dozen utilities apply for and win competitive and formula EECBG grants.
  • DOE’s Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) Program Support: BEL helped support 11 applicants in round two of the GRIP Program, totaling over $200 million in grants and supported approximately $300 million in grant funding.
  • Tribal Assistance: BEL is facilitating partnerships between tribal organizations and their electric cooperatives and utility partners to apply for BIA tribal electrification grants and DOE electrification programs.
  • Direct Pay Tax Credit Support: BEL provides guidance for community-owned municipal & cooperative utilities to facilitate utilization of the U.S. Treasury’s Direct Pay Tax Credits.
  • Weatherization/Electrification Together Initiative: BEL has developed a coalition of 350 distribution co-ops across 32+ states to design & implement a home energy retrofit model that combines weatherization & electrification to benefit low-income and disadvantaged consumers, reduce emissions, and improve grid efficiency.
  • Electric School Bus Initiative: BEL launched a coalition effort to bring together 300 rural electric co-ops in 20+ states to facilitate coordination between utilities and school districts on electric school bus programs and troubleshoot issues of concern with the EPA Clean School Bus program.
  • State Electrify Meetings: BEL has created a politically neutral brand of event where state and local stakeholders can discuss new technologies, products, and program performance. Recent events have covered topics spanning federal funding opportunities, tax policy, electric school buses, water heaters, weatherization, and more! BEL has hosted 31 state-wide leadership summits with 3,000+ event attendees.

Collaborative Success


BEL brings together a diverse group of organizations that support acceptance of beneficial electrification as a necessary strategy to meet economic, consumer and environmental goals. Connect with BEL by contacting info@be-league.org. For more information, visit https://be-league.org/ and follow the organization on LinkedIn.



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]]> Arizona Public Service (APS) https://smartenergycc.org/member-spotlight-arizona-public-service/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=member-spotlight-arizona-public-service Fri, 01 Mar 2024 16:39:12 +0000 https://smartenergycc.org/?p=31807 Arizona Public Service (APS) is a leader in delivering reliable, affordable and clean energy for approximately 1.4 million customers in Arizona. APS is committed to serving customers with 100-percent clean and carbon-free power by 2050 while maintaining reliable energy to meet customer needs. Continue reading →

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March 2024

Member Spotlight


Throughout 2024, SECC will recognize one member every month, providing an organizational profile and highlighting the member's accomplishments in the smart energy space.



About Arizona Public Service


Arizona Public Service (APS) is a leader in delivering reliable, affordable and clean energy for approximately 1.4 million customers in Arizona. APS is committed to serving customers with 100-percent clean and carbon-free power by 2050 while maintaining reliable energy to meet customer needs.

As owner and operator of Palo Verde Generating Station, the nation’s largest producer of carbon-free electricity, and with one of the country’s most substantial renewable energy portfolios, APS’s current energy mix is 51-percent clean. APS offers customers a diverse set of flexible programs, which provide mutual benefits to the grid and meets customers’ needs in ways that best fit their lifestyles.

APS’s Virtual Power Plant


APS’s demand response (DR) portfolio is comprised of multiple residential and non-residential customer programs. To deliver this portfolio of programs, APS works with industry partners to offer customer rebates and discounts for eligible devices, including smart thermostats, batteries and water heaters. With high customer participation, the program creates a network of connected customer devices, creating a virtual power plant. In 2023, APS’s DR portfolio of programs provided approximately 175 megawatts (MW) of capacity to support grid reliability.

Most of the virtual power plant capacity comes from APS Cool Rewards. The program enables customers to participate by allowing their smart thermostats to automatically adjust the temperature in customers’ homes by just a few degrees during a Cool Rewards program day. The combined impact is amplified as more customers join the program and is seen as a growing resource that helps APS serve all customers during the critical summer months. The program has over 80,000 enrolled smart thermostats and provides up to three hours of load reduction with the maximum single hour capacity of 138 MW.

One tool helping scale the program is APS Marketplace, an online shopping site where customers can be better informed and motivated to buy demand-friendly electrical products and can directly enroll into programs with the purchase of their connected device.

Electric vehicle (EV) adoption is also increasing in APS’s service territory. APS is working to support approximately 450,000 EVs by 2030. In order to best support its customers, APS is focused on EV education and outreach, fleet electrification, EV grid integration through managed charging and enabling access to EV charging infrastructure across Arizona.

Renewable Energy and Battery Storage


As Arizona continues to see an increase in residential population and economic growth, the demand for energy from extra-large energy users has also increased significantly. APS customers are adopting their own clean energy goals and are looking to APS to help them achieve their ambitious goals. APS developed the award-winning Green Power Partners (GPP) program, which consists of three distinct solutions that provide business customers options related to how they invest in renewable energy. Most importantly, there is no cost shift to non-participating customers and the revenue generated through GPP is passed back to all APS customers.

Additionally, APS supports customers who choose to install clean energy technologies like rooftop solar and battery storage. In 2023, APS interconnected more than 20,000 residential rooftop solar systems and over 100 commercial photovoltaic systems. Further, residential customers installed more than 1,000 energy storage systems. APS continues to expand its virtual power plant by including residential battery customers through pilot programs.



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]]> powerconnect.ai https://smartenergycc.org/member-spotlight-powerconnect-ai/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=member-spotlight-powerconnect-ai Thu, 01 Feb 2024 14:00:44 +0000 https://smartenergycc.org/?p=31687 As a trailblazer in clean energy, powerconnect.ai is committed to advancing discussions and actions related to clean energy programs. The platform serves as both a technological solution and a key contributor to the energy industry's evolution. Continue reading →

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February 2024

Member Spotlight


Throughout 2024, SECC will recognize one member every month, providing an organizational profile and highlighting the member's accomplishments in the smart energy space.



About powerconnect.ai


As a trailblazer in clean energy, powerconnectAI Inc. is committed to advancing discussions and actions related to clean energy programs. The platform serves as both a technological solution and a key contributor to the energy industry's evolution. By embracing powerconnect.ai's solutions, energy companies can unlock new efficiencies, customer satisfaction and sustainability, ushering in a new chapter in utility-customer engagement.

As 2024 unfolds, we’re on the cusp of a transformative era where artificial intelligence (AI) is pivotal. In this dynamic landscape, powerconnect.ai stands out as a beacon of innovation, particularly in the realm of clean energy and customer service. In today's fast-paced world, understanding the intricacies of service provider programs, be it electric vehicle (EV), solar or energy efficiency programs, can be a daunting task for customers. The complexity of information often leads to confusion and a less-than-ideal experience. That's where powerconnect.ai steps in to bridge the gap.

Leadership and Innovation by Young Entrepreneurs


Steven Dawson, the founder and CEO of powerconnect.ai, envisions a future where AI reshapes business-customer interactions, making clean energy programs more approachable and accelerating the signup process through streamlined workflow automation. Nune Isabekyan, founder and CTO, emphasizes the role of specialized AI models and Generative AI in setting a new standard in customer support for clean energy programs. Their AI-powered advisor enhances customer interaction by creating personalized content and integrating with preferred communication channels, thereby reducing costs and elevating contact center skills.

Pioneering the Future of the Energy and Utilities Industry


powerconnect.ai integrates cutting-edge, AI-driven innovations to redefine customer engagement in clean energy programs. Offering personalized and intuitive communication solutions, the company enhances customer satisfaction and participation. With a foundation rooted in curiosity and innovation, powerconnect.ai is dedicated to bridging crucial market gaps. This commitment is evident in their approach to crafting the future of energy and customer interactions, leveraging unique insights to create a transformative impact.

The company has partnered with Amazon Web Services (AWS) as their preferred cloud provider, a significant milestone, especially following the spotlight on Generative AI at AWS Re:Invent and CES. This partnership underscores a shared dedication to harnessing technology for a sustainable future, leveraging AWS's robust cloud technology. Additionally, powerconnect.ai has formed a strategic alliance with TMG, an RIA company, further enhancing its capabilities and reach in the energy and utilities industry. These partnerships collectively lead a transformative shift in the utilities industry.

Empowering Customer Service with Generative AI


powerconnect.ai's offerings are centered around four core products that are revolutionizing the clean energy experience: One-Stop Shop Clean Energy Experience Website, AI Agent Assistance, Self-Service Advisor and Program Marketing Tool. These innovative solutions are designed to enhance customer engagement and provide seamless, efficient service delivery. In summary, powerconnect.ai is not just developing technology; it's crafting experiences that resonate with the changing dynamics of the industry. Its focus on GenAI-driven innovation, combined with a commitment to enhancing customer service and education in the clean energy industry, marks it as an indispensable tool in the journey towards a sustainable, customer-focused energy future.

Recent Milestones and Future Outlook


In a 90-day period, powerconnect.ai has strategically partnered with AWS and TMG. They have also begun recruiting top talent for ongoing projects. The company’s innovation has been recognized with a nomination as a startup finalist at DISTRIBUTECH International and a feature in Silicon magazine as one of the top-five AI companies for 2024. powerconnect.ai is excited to participate in key industry events, including conferences hosted by Oracle, SAP and CS Week. As proud members of the Smart Energy Consumer Collaborative (SECC), they look forward to deepening their engagement in shaping a sustainable energy future.

Special Event Announcement


Experience the revolution in customer service with Generative AI. Join powerconnect.ai on February 28 at 10 a.m. at DISTRIBUTECH International to witness powerconnect.ai's founders Steven Dawson and Nune Isabekyan unveil the future of customer service in the energy and utility industry. This presentation will showcase the revolutionary application of Generative AI, marking a significant milestone in how energy companies and utilities can interact with their customers. Don't miss this opportunity to see the transformative potential of AI in action, brought to you live by the visionaries at the forefront of the industry.

Additionally, an exclusive VIP dinner, specifically tailored for professionals in the utilities sector, is scheduled for February 27 at DISTRIBUTECH. Hosted in partnership with TMG, this intimate dinner offers utility executives a unique platform for networking and engaging in strategic discussions. Due to the specialized nature of this dinner and the desire to foster meaningful dialogue, seats are highly limited. Those interested in attending are encouraged to register early to secure their participation.



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]]> GridX https://smartenergycc.org/member-spotlight-gridx-2024/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=member-spotlight-gridx-2024 Tue, 02 Jan 2024 15:56:05 +0000 https://smartenergycc.org/?p=31611 GridX is the Enterprise Rate Platform that modern, customer-centric utilities, energy suppliers and technology providers rely on to usher in our clean energy future. Continue reading →

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January 2024

Member Spotlight


Throughout 2024, SECC will recognize one member every month, providing an organizational profile and highlighting the member's accomplishments in the smart energy space.

GridX


About GridX


GridX is the Enterprise Rate Platform that modern, customer-centric utilities, energy suppliers and technology providers rely on to usher in our clean energy future. Their comprehensive suite of big data rate analytics solutions streamlines the design, implementation and marketing of emerging rate structures and customer programs, increases consumer adoption and investment in distributed energy resources (DERs) and behind-the-meter (BTM) technologies, and manages the complex billing needs associated with these new rates and programs.

GridX has run successful programs with some of the most innovative utilities across the United States, has 26 million smart meters under management, calculates nearly 50 million bills a day and has modeled and validated more than 500 tariffs.

As examples of their work, GridX helped Southern California Edison (SCE) enroll 59 percent of their residential customers on time-of-use (TOU) rates as of August 2023. As an added benefit, SCE achieved significant peak load reduction in August 2022, making it equivalent to the third largest program in their demand response (DR) lineup. PSEG LI also tapped GridX to help deploy their TOU pilot program, and among the successful results was being able to get more than double the targeted number of customers enrolled in the program.

The Digital Transformation of Utility Ratemaking


As the grid becomes more complex and additional clean energy technologies are adopted, tariff design and digital rate processes need to be repeatable and flexible in a way that enables utilities to make changes or construct new rates, as well as quickly operationalize those rates. In addition, rates and business models have become more complex, and this is likely to increase as some utilities pursue highly personalized options.

By digitizing a rate or tariff within the GridX Enterprise Rate Engine, it allows its DNA to be componentized, shareable and reusable. The different departments within a utility that touch a rate – namely rate design, customer and billing teams – all have different systems and processes. Digitization breaks down these silos to allow users from different departments of the organization to share the same tariff model or rate in the same format, which improves efficiency, reduces potential errors and creates a single source of rates truth.

Rates Done Right, Now


GridX products and solutions leverage the GridX Enterprise Rate Engine, which completely replicates the bill calculations created by the utility billing system (CIS). This allows users of our products to have an enhanced “sandbox” to work with the rates, tariff models and customer data that has always been locked within the CIS. With intuitive and user-friendly interfaces, users can quickly perform large scale and complex analysis without any need for programming skills or the need to search and combine multiple data sources. This approach also breaks down departmental silos, allowing for information to flow more efficiently and to maintain data integrity.

Delivering Value Across Critical Use Cases


The GridX Enterprise Rate Engine manages the entire energy product lifecycle across four core use cases:

  • Rate Design & Analytics: Build and optimize products that benefit customers and support utility revenue goals.
  • Marketing & Conversion: Upgrade or enhance current customer experiences with real-time, billing grade conversion tools.
  • Customer Service: Quickly access deep analysis and insights and find the best rates for all customer classes.
  • Add-On Billing: Augment legacy billing systems with whole bill analysis and calculation capabilities.

For more information, visit www.gridx.com and follow the company on LinkedIn and X. You can also check out their industry-leading podcast, With Great Power, where they interview the energy industry innovators building the future grid, today.



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]]> NTC Corporate https://smartenergycc.org/member-spotlight-ntc-corporate/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=member-spotlight-ntc-corporate Fri, 01 Dec 2023 14:30:13 +0000 https://smartenergycc.org/?p=31500 For over 45 years of operation, NTC has connected thousands of schools to energy organizations by educating students, their families and community members about energy efficiency, safety, conservation, renewable energy and, now, clean energy and the energy transition. Continue reading →

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December 2023

Member Spotlight


Throughout 2023, SECC will recognize one member every month, providing an organizational profile and highlighting the member's accomplishments in the smart energy space.



About NTC Corporate


NTC is a WBENC-certified premium provider of educational outreach and content to over one million students and 3,000 schools annually. With operations in the United States, Australia and New Zealand, NTC uses schools as community hubs to spread client messaging into their service territories. For over 45 years of operation, NTC has connected thousands of schools to energy organizations by educating students, their families and community members about energy efficiency, safety, conservation, renewable energy and, now, clean energy and the energy transition. NTC works directly between schools and clients to promote beneficial behaviors and life skills to help inspire the next generation of leaders, scientists, artists, thinkers, pioneers and world citizens in grades K-12 on a local, regional and national level.

A Customized Approach to Educational Outreach


NTC combines customizable creative engagement strategies with effective school outreach methods to assist utilities in reaching energy efficiency and conservation goals. NTC supports energy savings goals by encouraging students, families and educators to adopt energy-efficient behaviors in schools, homes and communities for now and well into the future.

Founded on the principle of “edutainment,” NTC believes strongly that the foundation of effective educational outreach is to make it memorable and meaningful for students. Story-based and arts-integrated learning approaches elevate learning into ideas that stick with students, inspire them to action and effectively reach residential homes.

Curriculum and Content Capabilities


NTC has spent decades cultivating, innovating and successfully using effective ways to teach, entertain and inspire school-age children. These strategies include live, in-school assembly performances, interactive livestream performances, custom video capabilities, digital learning platforms and supplemental education materials like graphic novels, chapter books, take-home workbooks and gamification.

Responding to community needs and larger energy industry goals, NTC has developed curriculum product suites for: electrification, workforce development, clean energy and energy efficiency. Each education package is customized and designed through partnership and collaboration with utility clients and energy solution firms. By making the next generation aware of all aspects of the energy transition, NTC actively recruits natural adopters of new energy consumption habits.

Educational Impact in the LMI Community


NTC does not stop at creative and fun approaches to education. Coupling these approaches with effective and measurable school outreach methods means the “edutainment” can be targeted and done at scale, reaching students no matter the location.

NTC’s targeted outreach methods reach communities throughout the U.S., including rural, urban, mid-size, small town and everything in-between. NTC has been especially successful reaching LMI communities. In the 2022-23 school year, NTC visited 3,436 schools on behalf of clients, reaching 824,762 students and 44,284 educators with 56 percent of all schools reached nationally within LMI communities. Through kit programs, NTC helped clients claim 13,428,339 kWh savings. Ninety-nine percent of educators surveyed indicated they wanted their NTC program to return the following year, while also rating the educational level 6.62 out of 7 possible.

Partner with NTC


As the giant lift of the energy transition weighs heavily on energy utilities, gaining the buy-in of the next generation is imperative to lightening the load. NTC’s creative engagement strategies reach not only high school learners, but the youngest learners too. This long-term strategy of empowering young people early supports long-term solutions to the larger energy transition task, including energy efficiency, adoption of new technologies and workforce development gaps. Partnering with NTC means unique educational strategies that get students’ attention, inspire them to act and stick with them for years to come. Combining this creativity with measurable and targeted school outreach methods means utilities can spread energy transition messaging to the places in their territories that need it the most.



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