December 8, 2025 •Sushma Annareddy
The energy industry isn’t just evolving—it’s transforming.
From regulatory pressures and funding shifts to the race toward personalization, utilities today face a confluence of challenges that demand more than incremental change. They require bold transformation—and artificial intelligence (AI) is at the heart of this shift.
AI is no longer a futuristic add-on—it’s a practical, present-day tool for unlocking better outcomes for utilities and the communities they serve.
Rethinking Complexity with Purposeful Technology
Without the right approach, technology can complicate things. That’s why applying AI with clear intent—to reduce friction across customer journeys—is necessary.
True transformation only happens when technology, marketing, and operations align around one guiding principle: the customer comes first. By embedding AI tools into this cohesive strategy, you can simplify enrollment processes, customize outreach, and accelerate impact—all while maintaining trust and transparency.
Smarter Engagement, Powered by Real Data
From AI-enabled energy advisors to dynamic customer segmentation, new tools are making it easier to meet customers where they are—and guide them toward next best actions with clarity and confidence.
Retail, healthcare, and finance have all mastered personalization through predictive analytics and omni-channel engagement. Why not the energy sector, too?
From Automation to Transformation
Ultimately, the focus isn’t just on implementing AI—it’s on using it to enhance the way teams work. AI is helping utility partners boost agility and scale without losing the human touch. Whether streamlining back-end process or enhancing front-line decision making, the goal remains clear: empower people to continuously improve, adapt, and innovate.
Beyond delivering services, the energy industry should be leveraging AI to create better ways of working—ways that improve engagement, ensure safety, and deliver measurable impact. And these aren’t abstract concepts; they’re real tools that are making energy audits simpler, decisions smarter, and results more impactful today.
AI That Serves, Not Replaces
As utilities integrate AI into customer-facing roles, ethical use and data security are paramount. At Franklin Energy, we have developed a 3-step framework for ethical AI adoption:
- Build on strong cybersecurity foundations.
- Educate teams through AI literacy training and acceptable use policies.
- Govern AI deployment with an internal steering committee.
By rooting AI in existing controls and enhancing them with oversight, you ensure that technology remains a tool for empowerment—not a replacement for human connection.
Piloting the Future, Today
In partnership with a large multi-state utility, Franklin Energy is already piloting AI-powered virtual advisors that merge personalized usage insights with eCommerce platforms. These solutions guide customers to rebates, products, and next steps tailored to their home—delivered in real-time through an intuitive interface.
For contractors, AI is streamlining field work with image recognition, auto-filled assessments, and equipment guidance—making it easier for teams to serve more customers with less friction.
Leading with Purpose, Partnering with Utilities
As utilities navigate what’s next, Franklin Energy is committed to walking alongside them—not just as a technology provider, but as a strategic partner. Our role isn’t to sell AI. It’s to apply it meaningfully, grounded in decades of experience and a clear understanding of what works in utility program delivery.
We’re not just imagining the future of energy programs. We’re building it—together. Ready to join us?
