Most energy consumers will never care – or have need to care – about transformer sizing, automated reclosers, power factor or any of the day-to-day business of keeping the lights on. But an increasing number do report an interest in engaging with their utility on things like usage data, clean energy options, improving efficiency, and of course, money saving programs.

As the grid continues to modernize, utilities have more opportunities to connect with consumers. But some education on the opportunities and benefits is often required. That’s where organizations like the Smart Energy Consumer Collaborative (SECC) have taken a leading role in assisting both utilities and consumers

In addition to the group’s annual research projects, SECC produces a variety of educational materials on topics ranging from smart meter myths to facts about electric vehicles. SECC’s newly released video on the Evolving World of Energy provides plenty of background explaining why digitization is happening. But it follows up with a broad set of examples – some rarely discussed – of how the modern utility allows consumers more access and control over their energy bill and lifestyle than ever before.

For a look at some of the other materials available, you can log into the SECC website and check out the many additional education resources available.