The future of smart grid technology in the U.S. lodging industry: a Delphi study

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to discover emerging issues associated with smart grid technology adoption in the U.S. lodging industry through discussion and consensus of industry experts. United States lodging industry experts were asked to identify critical issues relating to smart grid technology adoption in the industry for the planning horizon ending December 30, 2020. A Delphi study was conducted. Through three rounds of a series of questions, industry experts' perceptions of currently adopted and anticipated future smart grid technologies in the U.S. lodging industry were recorded, analyzed and ranked. The study provides a baseline for the U.S. lodging industry that may be used to assess industry progress as smart grid technologies are developed and adopted. The benefits of collaborative academic research that elucidates practical solutions to challenges posed by multi-discipline forces are highlighted in study results. Study conclusions provide direction for those who are making decisions about smart grid technology adoption and for those who are charged with providing exceptional service while achieving energy efficiency.