Top 5 Search Trends of 2023

We’ve seen these top 5 search terms dominate our online queries this year, reflecting not only the industry's current interests regarding energy solutions but also some insight into the priorities in 2024.

1. Energy-as-a-Service:
   Topping the list is "Energy-as-a-Service" (EaaS), demonstrating a shift in how organizations approach their energy and operational needs. EaaS provides a holistic, service-oriented solution that transfers responsibility and risk to contractors. This aligns with the growing interest Centrica Business Solutions has witnessed across public and private sectors. Organizations are now more often seeking a contract method to deliver comprehensive upgrades resulting in measurable energy savings with operations and maintenance built in for the duration of the term.
    
2. Heating and Cooling: 
   "Heating and Cooling" claims the second spot of organic search terms. Organizations are actively exploring energy-efficient solutions to maintain optimal indoor climates, simultaneously reducing their environmental footprint and operational costs and creating an improved environment for employees and customers. The interest in electrification has been increasing nationwide, which will require infrastructure modernization to accomplish heating and cooling for many businesses and organizations.
    
3. Microgrid: 
   The interest in "Microgrid" solutions continues to surge, reflecting a desire for resilient and isolated energy systems. As communities, organizations, and businesses prioritize reliability and sustainability, microgrid technology and on-site generation have emerged as a focus area of our projects.
    
4. Building Management Software:
   "Building Management Software" secures its place on the list as organizations increasingly seek intelligent solutions to optimize energy consumption and enhance overall building performance. The sustained interest in energy management control systems underscores the importance of technology in achieving energy and operational efficiency goals.
    
5. Water Billing Management System:
   Addressing resource management, "Water Billing Management System" rounds out our top 5 search terms of 2023. Communities are recognizing the need for more accurate and efficient water management practices. The installation of new smart water meters and billing platforms can provide critical information to operators and end-users alike. This technology reduces the risk of water leaks going undetected and can pinpoint failures when they occur, saving water and associated costs.

As always, there has been plenty of news in the energy space in 2023. Incentives and legislative changes, such as the Inflation Reduction Act, dominated the energy news cycle. One search topic that popped up again and again in California is “Net Metering” and the implementation of NEM 3.0. With California's commitment to renewable energy, organizations are actively exploring net metering support to navigate the regulatory environment while implementing renewable energy solutions and promoting sustainable practices.

I’m excited to see the new developments that 2024 will bring and how Centrica Business Solutions will continue to deliver innovative and tailored energy solutions to communities and businesses nationwide.

*Top 5 list excludes branded and redundant search terms.