Utilities and the importance of consumer communication during COVID-19

by April Smith | published on April, 2020

Despite the energy sector’s critical role of ensuring electric service during the COVID-19 pandemic and its unprecedented actions to suspend disconnections due to non-payment nationwide, the utility industry’s response has gone largely unnoticed and unacknowledged by consumers.

This has left electric service providers a clean slate to leverage their unique position to convey messages of unity and support to consumers in order to gain confidence and trust.

Energy companies' responses perceived as "business as usual"

Three in five consumers surveyed reported their electric utility’s response to COVID-19 has been “business as usual,” while another third felt their energy provider has taken “expected actions” in response to the crisis.

bar chart showing most of consumers thinking that their electric utility's response to COVID-19 has been business as usual

 

Consumers' awareness of actions taken is rising

Only one in five was aware of specific actions their electric utility has taken in response to COVID-19; however, awareness levels increased between the first and second weeks of surveying.

circle chart bar chart showing most of consumers have low awareness of their electric utility's actions in response to COVID-19

Consumers are most aware of suspension of disconnects

Among those aware, most noted their utility suspended disconnections or waived late fees due to non-payment.

Icon representing a quote from a consumer.“They have sent text messages regarding the Corona and requested the households not to panic, not necessary to visit electric office for regular work. We are available online for your support.”

bar chart showing most of consumers are most aware of utilities suspending disconnects or waiving late fees from their electric utility.

Electric companies have the opportunity to improve overall perceptions

The majority of consumers reported their electric utility’s response to the crisis has had no impact on their overall opinion of their utility; however, there is an opportunity for electric utilities to improve overall opinions by promoting the actions they have taken in response to COVID-19.

Almost 60% of consumers who are aware of these actions have a more positive overall opinion of their utility. Additionally, a higher proportion of customers reported a more positive opinion during the second week of surveying than the first, coinciding with higher awareness of actions taken in response to COVID-19.

chart to show opinions of electric utilities are improving among consumers during COVID-19

Proactive communication can quell rising concerns

worries emoji with text: 60% of consumers express some level of concerns about energy costs.Looking into the future, three in five consumers report some level of concern about rising energy costs if confined to their homes for an extended period of time, with the level of concern rising week-over-week. This reveals a second opportunity for electric utilities to support their customers during this difficult time by proactively communicating energy saving tips and connecting consumers with resources when they need help.

Icon representing a quote from a consumer."So far the service has been excellent as it has been in the past. No complaints and this was one area I wasn't really worried about. Hopefully I won't be later on?"

Icon representing a quote from a consumer."The power flickered during the day about two days ago and it made me concerned because I need to work from home. At the same time, the power downtown flickered off, so it worried me that with more people using utilities it might have trouble sustaining."

line graph showing an increase of consumers that are very concerned about rising energy costs during COVID-19

 

Customer experience is key in this ever-changing landscape

It might be too early to see the true impact of COVID-19 in the energy sector, since many consumers may need a complete billing cycle before they engage with their energy provider or understand the full impact on their bottom line.

As reduced work hours continue and bills pile up, it will be important for utilities to listen to consumers or even proactively reach out to their customers and understand specific needs. For some, this may be late-fee forgiveness or payment plans, while others may appreciate suspended disconnects even past the expiration of stay-at-home orders as they regain footing. The key is to have the voice of your customer front and center to track their needs in this ever-changing landscape.