UtilityAPI Adopts DataGuard Energy Data Privacy Program

OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA – UtilityAPI is proud to announce its participation in DataGuard, a code of conduct that utilities and other energy companies voluntarily agree to follow. As an adopter of DataGuard, UtilityAPI certified that it is following the principles and guidelines established by the DataGuard Energy Data Privacy Program so our customers know that their energy data is being protected and treated responsibly.

The concepts and principles specified in the DataGuard Energy Data Privacy Program Voluntary Code of Conduct were created by industry stakeholders and establish a framework for common practices that protect the access, use, and sharing of customer data. DataGuard equips utilities and other energy providers and companies with a consumer-facing mechanism for demonstrating their commitment to data security and sets a national standard for privacy throughout the energy systems industry.

New technology – with increased intelligence – is allowing utilities to upgrade their electricity infrastructure to improve operations and increase efficiencies. It is also providing opportunities for new, innovative products and services so consumers can better manage their electricity use. These technologies, while providing tremendous value, have led to concerns regarding consumer data privacy.

With this in mind in 2012, the U.S. Department of Energy launched a multi-stakeholder initiative, A Voluntary Code of Conduct for Smart Grid Data Privacy, to develop a privacy code that would provide utilities and third parties not only a framework for handling and protecting customer's data, but also a visible method (i.e., brand mark) for communicating their commitment to their customers. This voluntary code of conduct is now called DataGuard.

To learn more about the DataGuard Energy Data Privacy Program, go to https://www.dataguardprivacyprogram.org.