Home Intel analytics: pay-for-performance audits find frequent household 'leaks' and average savings of about $350 a year

Steve Schmidt, founder of Home Energy Analytics, told the Climate and Sustainability Committee that Home Intel uses smart-meter data to disaggregate household energy use, identify the biggest sources of waste and help customers prioritize cost‑effective measures.

"PG&E only pays us if you guys save," Schmidt said, explaining the program’s pay‑for‑performance model. He said roughly 245 Woodside customers use Home Intel, with thousands of customers across PG&E territory; a PG&E analysis cited in the presentation estimated roughly $350 in annual savings per home on average (larger homes in Atherton showed higher estimated savings).

Schmidt gave concrete examples of common energy drains — pool pumps left running, permanently-on crawl-space fans, legacy towel heaters with no off switch and continuously running hot‑water recirculation pumps — and showed how collecting and comparing smart-meter data can reveal these issues. He also described Home Intel’s energy‑coaching and retrofit referral services for customers who want help turning analysis into action.

Why it matters: the product is aimed at lowering energy bills, reducing both electricity and natural gas use, and helping households plan electrification steps by estimating cost and carbon impacts.

What attendees asked: residents raised questions about renter eligibility and whether Home Intel can handle mobile homes and apartments. Schmidt said the service works when the resident pays the electricity bill and that Home Intel also offers coaching for landlords exploring solar-plus-battery options.

Next steps: Schmidt invited attendees to try the free online service and consult Home Intel’s energy coaches for individualized planning.