Online Marketplace makes buying energy items easy
LG&E and KU recently launched an online Marketplace to help consumers purchase energy-efficient equipment at the best prices across the equipment’s life span.
“Users can compare upfront costs and long-term energy efficiency savings. We like to say it’s a great way to compare, shop and save,” Liz Pratt, media relations manager, corporate communications, LG&E and KU, told American Gas.
Marketplace analyzes data on more than 10,000 appliances and electronics—from thermostats, dryers, water heaters and washers to televisions, sound bars and video game consoles. It includes purchase prices as well as reviews, product features and factors that contribute to the overall cost of owning and operating the product over its life span.
“This helps take out some of the guesswork and empowers users to make the best, most-efficient product selection for their needs,” Pratt said.
Items also feature a one-of-a-kind Enervee energy score that rates the energy efficiency level of each product on a scale from 0 to 100 when compared to other products in its category. The higher the number, the greater the efficiency rating.
When users are ready to make their selection, Marketplace links them to national and local retailers where they can get the best deal.
From its launch in November 2019 through March, the site had more than 100,000 visitors, Pratt said. Smart thermostats, televisions and refrigerators are the most-searched items.
“We’re continually exploring new and innovative programs and offerings for our customers. We’ve offered programs and tips to help customers manage their energy usage for many years, and this is a great new tool to help meet our customers’ needs and interests,” Pratt said.
The company has a group that is focused on product and service development and items that provide additional value to customers. The group found that the Marketplace was offered by other utilities and proved to be a popular source of information with customers looking to purchase the most efficient appliances and electronics, she said.