Dive Brief:
- TXU Energy has partnered with an energy management and demand response software platform provider EnergyHub to improve and expand programs revolving around the utility's iThermostat device.
- EnergyHub, based out of Brooklyn, N.Y., will work with the Texas utility to expand on features and customer benefits, including an innovative location-based home heating service.
- The new program would allow customers to program their thermostats to begin heating or cooling as they move closer toward their homes and businesses, rather than a specific time.
Dive Insight:
Location-based smartphone services will allow TXU Energy customers to turn down the thermostat when they leave, and have the system restart heating or cooling as the customer nears the home or business. The settings can be customized to meet customer preferences and can be set for multiple devices in the same household.
“TXU Energy is clearly focused on a superior customer experience,” said EnergyHub co-founder and President Seth Frader-Thompson. “The company is deliberate about creating relevant value for customers and is committed to driving smart innovation.”
TXU Energy said it introduced the iThermostat in 2009 to help customers minimize waste and to help reduce pressure on the state’s power grid during periods of extremely high usage. The partnership with EnergyHub is designed to expand and improve the programs which can be offered to customers.
“EnergyHub is well positioned to help us deliver an even better customer experience through its innovative online tools, mobile capabilities and installation services,” said Scott Hudson, chief operating officer for TXU Energy.
