Parks Associates presents new consumer research on distributed energy adoption and attitudes toward data sharing. Learn how transparency, interoperability, and perceived value shape consumer openness—and what this means for future partnerships and business growth.

Parks Associates shares insights from DISTRIBUTECH and our latest research on scaling virtual power plants and engaging consumers in next-generation grid programs.

Residential solar and battery storage are reshaping how consumers interact with the grid, offering both resilience and new opportunities for load flexibility. This session dives into the critical trends shaping the market—from virtual power plants and solar-plus-storage bundling to financing innovations and evolving net metering policies. Panelists discuss how utilities, installers, and technology platforms can align to maximize customer value, grid stability, and long-term sustainability.

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As utilities face increasing pressure to enhance grid reliability and manage operational costs, HVAC systems present a practical and scalable pathway for load flexibility. Nearly every household relies on HVAC, making it the most accessible and impactful touchpoint for demand management. Parks Associates research shows that over half of single-family homeowners express interest in advanced HVAC service concepts, highlighting a clear opportunity for utilities to drive participation, optimize grid performance, and deliver consumer value through connected HVAC solutions.

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This session focuses on the current adoption and future demand for renewable energy sources, smart grids, and advanced energy storage systems. Parks Associates shares its latest research and data, highlighting the business challenges and opportunities for utilities, energy providers, builders, device manufacturers, and more as we all must balance conservation with ensuring a reliable and sufficient energy supply.

This session explores the growth of AI-powered platforms and IoT devices to transform home energy management, optimize consumption patterns, and reduce costs. Participants share examples of successful integration of energy management platforms with smart home ecosystems for enhanced efficiency and convenience.

Energy providers are working hard to collaborate with consumers to balance electricity demand and supply through demand response (DR) programs. The session features insights from industry experts on innovative approaches to DR, including real-time pricing and automated load-shedding techniques.

In this keynote presentation, Savant’s Will Dillion discusses how the energy industry can standardize and simplify to own our own future.

Parks Associates shares research highlighting key points of integration between energy solutions and the other markets active in the smart home and where consumer research points to new opportunities.

Marketing to the consumer is a challenge—this session reviews research and past case studies to reveal effective communication strategies that resonate with consumers and encourage participation in energy efficiency programs and renewable energy adoption. The discussion includes the role of behavioral economics in shaping consumer attitudes towards energy conservation and the adoption of sustainable energy practices.

This panel of experts examines regulatory and technological advancements driving grid modernization efforts to accommodate renewable energy integration and EV charging infrastructure. The session explores the concept of virtual power plants and decentralized energy networks as solutions for optimizing grid orchestration and resilience.

Not long ago, a “smart home” might have included a programmable thermostat or light. Today’s smart home can feature electric vehicles, battery storage, rooftop solar, smart appliances, and sensors, all integrated through a hub with AI-powered automation. Who will lead this smart home revolution to deliver a simple energy hub as well as create value for both customers and the grid? Utilities? Big Tech? Or perhaps some other yet-to-be-identified player?

Join us as Southern Company’s Director of New Ventures, Robin Lanier, explores the ever-evolving landscape of smart home technology and the key players driving this revolution.

Sponsored by NRG

The smart grid relies on vast amounts of data to optimize energy distribution, improve efficiency, and enhance consumer experiences. However, this increased connectivity also raises significant concerns about data security and privacy. This session includes insights on the requirements for securing energy data, safeguarding consumer privacy, and strengthening grid infrastructure against cyber threats. Industry experts will share insights on best practices, consumer perspective,  regulatory considerations, and technologies that support a secure, resilient, and consumer-centric smart energy ecosystem. 

In a world where utilities, OEMs, and policymakers play key roles in the future of our energy infrastructure, consumers remain the missing link in realizing the full potential of a smarter, cleaner, and more resilient grid.

However, engaging consumers effectively has been a challenge. Competing priorities, confusing options, and fragmented approaches have led to missed opportunities and grid inefficiencies. The reality is simple: consumers will do what’s right for them. The key is to design energy solutions that naturally fit their lives, help them save, and empower them to make smart choices. 

This keynote introduces a new path forward and attendees can expect to learn:

• Consumers hold the key to our energy future – how unlocking their potential benefits everyone.
• Better experiences drive better energy solutions – what seamless, personalized, and engaging approaches look like. 
• Small shifts can create big impact – Real-world results prove what’s possible at scale.

By flipping energy industry needs into customer-centered solutions, we can transform energy challenges into opportunities.

Sponsored by Universal Electronics
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Electric vehicles, solar photovoltaics, and battery storage systems will play a critical role in creating resilient and sustainable energy ecosystems now and in the future. This session highlights successful models of integrating distributed energy resources to enhance grid reliability, reduce climate impacts, and empower communities.

Effective data sharing and energy monitoring are pivotal to empowering consumers and driving meaningful change. This session delves into critical strategies and emerging trends that ensure the right information reaches consumers, fostering informed decision-making and active participation in energy management.

With AI compute requirements on the cusp of an explosion, greater efficiency in power management coupled with a massive increase in power access is a must in bringing data centers online. This fireside chat session explores what it means to meet the power and compute demands for the coming tide of technology growth, and how energy orchestration can lead to prosperity and deliver infrastructure needs to create new economies and growth for cities and states.

Parks Associates shares new research revealing opportunities to align new and emerging energy solutions with consumer demands and expectations.

This session highlights the latest advancements in home energy management and smart distribution technologies with insights from Schneider Electric's Jonathan Hastings. Discover how emerging solutions enhance energy efficiency, grid resilience, and consumer control, shaping the future of smart, connected homes.

Smart thermostats can optimize indoor comfort while reducing energy consumption and utility bills, yet these benefits have yet to translate into strong adoption trendlines, despite strong consumer interest in personalized insights, remote monitoring, and household efficiency. This panel reviews best practices for capturing consumer attention and imagination when designing and discussing smart thermostat technologies and capabilities.

This session delivers a comprehensive overview of the evolving landscape of consumer-centric energy management solutions. Participants explore future trends in home energy management technologies and their impact on consumer behavior and lifestyle. 

Parks Associates analysts launch the conference with an overview of the firm's latest consumer research and industry insights.

Energy providers are making moves behind the meter with partnerships and acquisitions of companies building a smarter, more secure home. Explore the powerful synergy between smart home technology, residential security providers, energy management players, and utility providers. Gain strategic insights into how these industries intersect and discover opportunities for collaboration and innovation.

Sponsored by Arcadia

As households become increasingly integrated with IoT (Internet of Things) devices and smart technologies, understanding the dynamics of energy use within these environments becomes critical. This study delves into how connected home devices, including smart thermostats, lighting systems, and appliances, impact overall energy efficiency and sustainability. The presentation seeks to provide insights into the challenges and opportunities presented by the integration of energy management solutions in connected homes, with a focus on promoting environmental sustainability and reducing energy use in individual homes and multifamily environments.

Energy providers have an established and ongoing relationship with customers today, and market leaders are building on that relationship and diversifying with additional value-added home services.  Discover the potential inrush of new revenue with evolving business models within the smart home and energy industries. Gain valuable insights into new revenue streams, partnership opportunities, and innovative approaches to delivering smart home and smart energy services in an ever-changing market landscape.

This keynote session addresses the driving forces behind smart home adoption, including energy-saving initiatives, convenience, and enhanced security. Join us to hear about the latest developments in smart home technology, including the wide array of devices, platforms, and communication protocols that are shaping the connected home landscape. This discussion will highlight the pivotal role that smart home technology will play in achieving energy efficiency and sustainability goals, empowering utilities to optimize energy usage and reduce environmental impact.

Builders today have the materials, renewable generation technology, and home automation technologies necessary to offer consumers affordable zero net energy homes. Learn how builders are incorporating solar, storage, and home automation technologies to meet Zero Net Energy goals and utility programs supporting their efforts.

Connected products and systems can expose consumers, utilities, and ecosystem players to cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Explore the critical aspects of security and privacy in the context of smart home energy systems. Discuss best practices for protecting data, securing devices, and ensuring consumer trust in the interconnected energy ecosystem. In addition, speakers address the role of data analytics, pivotal to the monitoring and optimization of smart home energy systems.

Parks Associates summarizes key points shared across the day in the closing comments, as well as take questions from the audience.

Join Parks Associates and leaders of the smart home and utility markets for networking and cocktails. Request a pass for the reception.

This session will explore the latest advancements in the connected home including adoption of broadband, connected devices, and the future market driven by services.  Participants will gain insights into the current trends shaping the smart home industry, including the integration of AI and IoT technologies, user privacy and data security concerns, and the role of interoperability in creating seamless smart home ecosystems.

Dive into the latest advancements in smart energy devices that are transforming residential energy management. Discover cutting-edge technologies such as smart thermostats, energy monitors, and connected appliances that provide real-time energy consumption data, enable remote control, and facilitate intelligent energy optimization. Learn how these devices empower homeowners to make informed decisions, reduce energy waste, and contribute to a greener future.

Sponsored by Resideo

This session will offer a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in EV and solar technology, market trends, and sustainability impacts. " This session offers a deep dive into the factors driving consumer interest and market trends in these two key areas of sustainable technology. Attendees will explore the latest research findings on consumer preferences, adoption barriers, and motivational factors influencing the shift towards EVs and solar energy solutions.

Multifamily property owners and operators seek to control energy costs, have confidence in their power supply, and attract residents who increasingly seek smart and “green” lifestyles. Three-fourths of multifamily owner-operators report interest in deploying solar and EV chargers on their properties.  Explore the unique challenges and opportunities in implementing smart energy technologies in multifamily residences. Discover innovative solutions for energy management, security, and enhanced living experiences in shared living spaces.

This session focuses on the evolving landscape of electric vehicles (EVs) and their charging infrastructure. Speakers explore how advancements in EV technology and the expansion of charging stations are shaping the future of transportation, emphasizing their impact on energy consumption, environmental sustainability, and the integration of EVs into daily life and smart city planning.

This keynote session addresses the evolving landscape of consumer energy markets, focusing on innovative revenue streams and business models. Speakers provide insights into the impact of renewable energy sources, like solar and wind power, on traditional energy markets, the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), and the integration of smart home technologies.

With governments around the globe, major car makers, and big tech all investing in electric vehicles, the market is primed for growth. The next few years represent a challenging but critical time for players in energy and connected technology industries to determine how the rise of EVs will impact their industries and to develop strategies to ensure their solutions will be part of the new reality. This session addresses the opportunity for home energy management device makers, EV charger-makers, and utility players as adoption of these technologies grows.

Increased environmental awareness, introduction of new devices enabling energy savings like smart thermostats and smart sprinkler systems, and the spotlight on electric grid challenges are drivers for the adoption of renewable energy sources. The need for more electricity and alternative sources beyond fossil fuels has led to the development and promotion of renewable alternatives, such as solar panels and storage, EVs, and other devices that enable demand response activities. This session addresses how consumers are gravitating towards these solutions as electricity costs increase, new interest in monitoring energy usage, and as regulations and tax incentives are rolled out.

New tax incentives for battery storage make inclusion of a battery in a solar system an easier sell, and more systems with batteries will push up the revenue per system installed. In the coming years, a tightening economy will create downward pressure on growth for solar solutions. Rising energy costs and concerns about grid stability will be exacerbated by electric vehicle sales and the associated home charging installations. Together, these factors will build a tailwind for energy cost-reduction products and services growth.

This session addresses the changes in the market of solar power, battery technology, and integration of devices and systems with the electrical grid. This session highlights growing consumer and industry demand for home energy management systems and the changes in how we manage and consume energy at home.

The standard smart home buyer journey today is via retail, often one device at a time, creating an experience where consumers are using multiple apps to control their devices. Therefore, control is not unified, and data is often not shared among devices, creating a disjointed consumer experience and difficulty connected energy-saving desires and behaviors with the broader smart home experience.

These conditions have inhibited wider adoption of smart energy solutions and delayed transition of the smart home market into the mass market. Some higher levels of control are available via smart home hubs, security providers, service providers, custom installments, and master smart home apps, but consumers want a more unified experience, with integrated automation and intelligence. This session highlights key trends in the customer buyer journey, based on Parks Associates research of 10,000 internet households, and where there are opportunities to realize this unified experience.

Many people live in apartments and expect new technologies, including always-on broadband and energy management solutions. This session addresses the growing opportunities in the small-to-medium business (SMB) and apartment sectors, including the energy solutions, analytics, platforms, and services.

The next few years represent a challenging but critical time for players in energy and connected technology industries to determine how the rise of energy management solutions will impact their industries and customer segments. This session addresses how companies are supporting the future infrastructure for solar, and electric vehicles.

Utility companies are making a concerted effort to share more data with their customers: more than 50% of consumers receive a daily breakdown of their energy consumption from their energy provider, up from 31% at the end of 2020.

Innovations in energy devices and platforms allow utilities to supercharge this effort, giving energy providers the ability to deliver more detailed and useful real-time energy information and extend into control and conservation services that reach “the other side of the meter.”

 The energy transition presents a unique opportunity to grow by efficiently addressing the needs of a rapidly changing market. But with the complexity of the Energy Industry, including so many use cases, markets, technologies, and regulations, getting started can be daunting.

In this session, you’ll learn a structured approach to building an innovation engine that produces repeatable results, accelerates growth, and reduces the risk of costly mistakes.

Whether you are planning a brand-new product, developing a new module, building a line extension, or expanding to a new market, you’ll walk away with an actionable blueprint you can apply at your company today. This session is based on Daniel’s bestselling book The B2B Innovator’s Map.

For many utilities, participation in DR programs is critically important during peak times. Recruiting and engaging consumers are key to ensure success. Getting the incentives right is key to maximizing participation and minimizing cost. This research presentation highlights how consumers perceive utility control and what incentives work to gain consumer participation.

Artificial intelligence and big data applications can continually add more value to smart home and IoT solutions at the application level, often without requiring substantive hardware changes. This session features industry leaders sharing various methods to help educate the industry and consumer market on the value of energy management solutions and AI tech-enabled applications and services.

Sponsored by Questline Digital

In general, integration with smart home solutions delivers four key benefits to utilities and energy providers: increased consumer engagement with energy management programs, facilitation of smart product integration in demand response programs, increased adoption of smart products for use in energy management, and increased program awareness through cross-marketing efforts. This session highlights the state of the energy management markets, including the impact on the consumer, utility, and connected home industries.

Sponsored by Google