APOGEE Interactive Deploys New Energy Efficiency Software in Hundreds of Utilities Nationwide

ATLANTA, Sept. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- APOGEE Interactive, a pioneer and market leader in energy efficiency software for utilities, today announced a major new release of its HomeEnergyCalculator™ software and customer communications platform. This latest upgrade marks the culmination of two years of research, development and user testing, plus recent accreditation by RESNET® for analytical accuracy. RESNET is the national organization recognized by DOE and the mortgage industry for setting the standard for home energy efficiency ratings.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20091210/CL23938LOGO )

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091210/CL23938LOGO )

Leading electric utilities such as Georgia Power and Cobb EMC were among the first to deploy APOGEE's newest platform this summer. The upgraded software allows the customer to choose where they want to start their home energy analysis; some like to begin with the full comprehensive report upfront, others like to go directly to specific energy use and cost questions. The home profile inputs have been expanded and the customized energy-saving recommendations for each home are presented as low-cost/no-cost or longer-term investment options for easier prioritization. The new platform also includes tools for immediate consumer feedback and utility follow-up.

APOGEE's nearly 500 utility clients will complete activation of the new platform over the next month. Serving utilities since 1993, APOGEE's Co-Founder and Chief Software Architect Joel Gilbert addressed the company's 17th Annual Users Conference in Atlanta this week, announcing the new platform's official full-scale deployment. "Our applications are about energy efficiency education, analysis and action. This new platform provides for a more robust analysis, more interaction with customers through feedback systems and clearer communication about potential savings to motivate consumers to take action."

The conference's opening keynote speaker, Jeff Conklin, senior director at J.D. Power and Associates, noted ongoing consumer interest in energy efficiency. He cited 2010 utility survey results that show customers have greater satisfaction with their utility when they are familiar with the utility's energy-saving programs.

Georgia Power and Midwest Energy also presented at the conference, highlighting their "Sniff out Savings" and "HowSmart" energy efficiency programs and campaigns respectively. The Georgia Environmental Finance Authority showcased the Governor's Energy Challenge and online pledge calculator, which is powered by APOGEE's analytical engine. The conference continues tomorrow with additional utility case studies and user sessions.

APOGEE Interactive Inc. (www.apogee.net) is the leading provider of online energy efficiency solutions to the utility industry. Its energy analysis, customer self-service Web applications, and website designs are currently in use by nearly 500 electric and gas companies across the US, reaching millions of consumers daily. Its clients span a wide range of utilities including Southern Company (SO), SMUD, Con Edison (ED), BGE (CEG), Westar Energy (WR), NSTAR (NST), PSE&G, Minnesota Power, Puget Sound Energy, Missouri Gas & Electric, Entergy (ETR), Empire District (EDE), Marietta Power & Water, Jackson EMC and others.

SOURCE APOGEE Interactive Inc.