ATLANTA — More consumers say they are willing to pay extra to invest in and support alternative energy than to improve reliability, according to the latest edition of an annual Smart Grid Consumer Collaborative (SGCC) telephone survey of 1,001 United States residential electricity consumers nationwide.

The survey, undertaken by Market Strategies International, determined that more than 60 percent of consumers are willing to pay an extra $2, $5, or $15 a month to support deployment of alternative energy. Less than 60 percent were willing to pay those amounts to improve reliability.

The survey also tracked respondents’ impressions of the smart grid and smart meters, and their likelihood to participate in related energy programs.

The report notes that consumer awareness of the smart grid has remained relatively consistent over the last two years, with 53 percent of respondents never having heard the term smart grid. However, 54 percent of respondents who are aware of the smart grid and its benefits are supportive, consistent with earlier editions of the survey.

“The results from this study illustrate the importance of promoting the understanding and benefits of modernized electrical systems to all stakeholders in the U.S.,” said Patty Durand, SGCC executive director.

For more information, visit www.smartgridcc.org.

Publication date: 11/25/2013

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