Smart Energy Summit addresses much needed marketing for energy programs
Parks Associates will highlight new research at the 15th annual Smart Energy Summit, co-located with DISTRIBUTECH, February 27-28, Orlando, Florida, revealing 24% of US internet households are not currently enrolled in a utility energy program. The research firm’s latest consumer study finds that 41% are currently enrolled in an energy program, such as demand response (DR) or time-of-use, while 35% were once enrolled but not anymore. Current adoption of smart thermostats is 17%.
Smart Energy Summit: Engaging the Consumer, February 27-28 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, features keynotes from Google, Uplight, Southern Company, and Parks Associates and a keynote panel featuring GAF Energy, California Public Utilities Commission, and SmartMark Communications. Sponsors are SkyBell, SmartThings, Arcadia, Resideo, and Universal Electronics.
“Marketing and enrollment for utility programs are a challenge, as program names and incentives vary widely, causing consumer confusion and low awareness,” said Mindi Sue Sternblitz-Rubenstein, Vice President of Marketing, Parks Associates. “Our research shows consumers are interested in ways to save energy and money, so program participation could be higher, with the right approach. At Smart Energy Summit, we will analyze strategies most likely to expand consumer awareness and adoption.”
Smart Energy Summit sessions, moderated by Parks Associates’ expert research team, address the new business models being deployed regarding the transition to clean energy, next-generation revenue opportunities, synergies with smart home solutions, and the impact of EVs on energy consumption:
- The Convergence of Smart Home, Energy, and Utility, February 27, 10:15 AM
- The Future Role of EVs and Charging Stations, February 28, 1:45 PM
- Women in Tech Keynote Panel: Next Gen of Revenue, February 28, 2:45 PM
- Erik Becker, VP, Strategic Accounts, Arcadia
- Dr. Gabriela Bunea, Chief Solar Innovation Officer, GAF Energy
- Luis Castro, Business Development Manager – Utilities, Enel X Way
- Max Gaspranov, Director, SmartHome & Energy, TELUS
- Dave Kranzler, GM, IoT Services, Amazon Web Services
- Bijou Lulla, CEO, Sustainable Energi Solution
- Desiree Mejia, Co-Founder & COO, SkyBell
- Maryam Mozafari, Program Supervisor - Demand Response/Flexibility, California Public Utilities Commission
- David Oberholzer, GM, Resideo Grid Services, Resideo
- Jigar J. Shah, Director, Energy Services, Electrify America
- Juliet Shavit, President & CEO, SmartMark Communications
- Chris Thorson, CMO, FLO
- Paul Wezner, Chief Product and Customer Officer, Powerley
Registration is open at the DISTRIBUTECH event website. Parks Associates will host an evening reception Tuesday, February 27, from 6-8 pm. For questions or to speak with an analyst, contact mindi.sue@parksassociates.com or call 972-490-1113.
About Smart Energy Summit
The 17th annual Smart Energy Summit: Engaging the Consumer addresses the rising demand for energy, accelerated by the growth of data centers and AI, and its impact on energy management, renewable adoption, and grid modernization. Organized by Parks Associates and co-located with DISTRIBUTECH, Smart Energy Summit brings together leaders from energy, smart home, and technology industries to explore strategies and partnerships critical to the energy transition.
Smart Energy Summit takes place February 3-4, 2026, at the San Diego Convention Center. It will focus on integrating smart energy solutions, leveraging AI and IoT for home energy management, and tackling challenges in demand response and grid orchestration. Supported by Parks Associates’ consumer and industry research, the event provides key insights into market trends and the path forward for utilities, technology providers, and consumer brands.
Follow #SmartEnergy26 on Parks Associates’ LinkedIn. For information on speaking, sponsoring, or attending Smart Energy Summit, visit www.smartenergysmt.com.
