Kevin Meagher, SVP Business Development at ROC-Connect, answers several industry questions prior to speaking at Parks Associates' annual Smart Energy Summit, taking place February 22-24, 2016 in Austin:
What do you think is the most challenging issue for your company as it relates to the residential energy management market?
The main challenge is business models. Utilities are missing the opportunity to use the IoT and smart home as a way to reinvent their relationship with the consumer. They have no real direct engagement with consumers and, where there is a competitive environment, that will be critical to growth.
What are the major barriers impacting consumer adoption of energy related products and services?
Consumer awareness. Utilities have a unique position in the market and could do so much more to extend beyond the meter into the home.
What are the biggest opportunities for the smart home industry to work with the electricity industry?
The smart home industry offers utilities new ways to engage with their consumer base and move beyond the meter into the home. The smart home offers them more to sell and chance to become more visible and relevant as a brand.
Kevin Meagher will speak on the panel session "Innovation in Marketing and Consumer Engagement" on Wednesday, February 22 at 1:00pm, alongside speakers from PlanetEcosystems and Southern California Edison.
For more information on how to attend this year's Smart Energy Summit, visit www.ses2016.com.
