Survey reveals consumers, businesses frugal with energy

American energy consumers are getting frugal and focusing on energy efficiency as a result, according to research from the Deloitte Center for Energy Solutions.

The annual survey, "reSources 2012," found that 9 out of 10 companies have electricity usage and energy management goals; 66 percent identifying cost-cutting as their primary motivation. Further, 85 percent see reducing electricity costs as essential to staying financially competitive, a 9 percent increase from 2011; 81 percent view reducing electricity costs as essential to their image.

New energy goals are linked to the bottom line and not simply just corporate window dressing, according to Marlene Motyka, U.S. Alternative Energy Leader, Deloitte.

Companies report making significant energy-efficiency progress, achieving about 60 percent of their targets for energy savings. However, the road to reaching these targets was not easy and could prove even more difficult in the future.

"Well over half (62 percent) of the companies surveyed report their energy management goals were somewhat difficult to achieve," Motyka said. "Moreover, 21 percent say their energy management goals were very or extremely difficult to achieve compared to 13 percent in the 2011 survey. The low-hanging fruit may have already been picked when it comes to energy efficiency."

On the consumer side, 83 percent report taking extra steps over the past year to reduce their electric bill; 93 percent say they will use the same amount of or less electricity in the future.

"The recession is profoundly changing energy habits for both businesses and consumers," said Greg Aliff, Vice Chairman, Energy and Resources, Deloitte. "Using less may be the new normal, from boardroom tables to the kitchen tables."

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