I just took the survey at Xcel Energy's SmartGrid site on the Web, where the Colorado utility is looking for 10,000 volunteers to help gather information on its efforts to make Boulder one of the first "energy smart" cities in the country.
One of the key questions on the survey is whether I would be willing to change out my present thermostat with a thermostat designed for the SmartGridCity Home Energy Manager pilot study. I said yes.
The survey also asked if I would be willing to test new "in-home equipment" that gives more real-time information on my energy usuage. Yes again.
This past fall, we installed much more energy-efficient, double-paned windows in our home, and already we've seen lower utility bills from that. We also recently purchased new Energy Star-rated refrigerator and dish washer.
I'm not sure if I'll be selected to participate in this SmartGrid volunteer program, but I hope I will. The program is being watched closely around the country, where other utilities are looking at incorporating similar programs.
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