Dive Summary:

• Kevin Meagher, vice president of smart homes for Lowe's, criticized utilities for being their own worst enemies when it comes to engaging consumers about in-home smart grid technology.
• He argues that partnership programs with—surprise—retailers like Lowe's are necessary to drive adoption of devices such as smart thermostats.
• Meagher tells Intelligent Utility that it makes more sense for consumers to look to businesses such as Lowe's (instead of utilities) for technology that will improve energy efficiency, since they are already visiting these stores.

From the article:

"... He suggests, instead of working to make all these programs happen with websites and door hangers and extra employee time, that utilities think about strategic partnerships with businesses like his to increase energy efficiency and drive consumer adoption.

'We do believe there is a huge opportunity for the smart home and to deliver genuine benefits to consumers,' Meagher said. 'But, we also believe we may be able to give a lot of those consumers many of those benefits without the utility. Some utilities will be happy about that, and some will be defensive.' ..."