While California may be putting some smart meter projects on hold awaiting a home energy network standard, Vermont is moving full speed ahead. Even though many industry experts believe the advent of smart metering is past its prime, largely in part to fewer stimulus funds and a sluggish economy, the use of smart meters is on the rise in Vermont.
Vermont utility companies plan to have a smart meter in every home and every business within the next two years. While it may seem an overly enthusiastic goal, utilities have somewhat of a head start. In Vermont, close to 32,000 customers already have smart meters in their homes, and customers are extremely receptive to smart metering technology. According to a recent study, when the devices are installed in homes, 82 percent of customers check their smart meter devices daily, and 87 percent make adjustments in their energy usage based on the results.
