Prepay Services
DEFG has identified prepay energy services as one of the "killer apps" for the smart grid. Consumers, utilities, and service providers can benefit from new billing options, controls, information and energy management.
Research indicates that perhaps 10% of consumers would prefer prepay service as a billing option. Participating consumers may reduce their usage -- through better energy management and investments in energy efficiency -- by about 15%. Simple math points to about 1.5% energy savings if an effective prepay service option were universally available. Participating consumers would prefer the added control and information. Utilities and energy suppliers would prefer a reduction in bad debt. Regulators would prefer the increased consumer satisfaction that accompanies more choices and control.
Utility Prepay Service Study
Utility Prepay Working Group
DEFG managed the 2011 Utility Prepay Working Group and is preparing in 2012 to further explore the consumer, regulatory and business issues relating to a voluntary utility prepay option. Persons interested in getting more information about the 2012 Prepay Working Group may contact Jamie Wimberly, CEO, DEFG LLC, jwimberly@defgllc.com, 202-483-4443. | 
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