The power of social media can be invaluable for utilities that want a cost-effective way to communicate with and market to customers, expand their presence and branding and have a positive impact on energy conservation, customer savings and business initiatives.

"Utilities need to go beyond the meter and invite two-way communication through the use of social media," said Tony Di Giosia, director of marketing for Consert.

"Social media is about people and the voices behind it. It's about story-telling and the ‘we' not the ‘me.'" The intelligent energy management company has some ideas on how utilities can use social media as a vehicle to build community and engage with their customers.