Utilities Focusing on Energy-Saving Products

Electric utility deregulation is scheduled to become a reality in California on March 31, but most consumers will need more than just a new energy supplier to lower their electric bills. That’s because electricity ratepayers are still paying off the bulk of utility investments made in expensive power plants and other regulated assets, a process that will take four years in California. In the meantime, utilities are rushing to design, manufacture and market products that will help consumers cut energy use. The products can be profitable for utilities because “they can improve efficiency without any upfront investment,” said Trip Tripathi, acting chairman of CES/Way International, an independent energy service company.