July 8, 2004—BOSTON—UtiliPoint International is releasing a prospectus for a multi-client study entitled “Evaluation and Outlook of the Electronic Presentment & Automated Payments (EBP&AP) in the Utilities Industry,” which will report on the role, impact and potential of electronic bill presentment and automated payment (EBP&AP) systems.

This unique survey, developed in response to client needs and industry inquiries, is based on UtiliPoint International's IssueAlert articles that were written on the subject and recent research reviews of EBP&AP systems vendors. The survey will answer the call of many in the utility industry who need a fresh and in-depth look at the role and value of EBP&AP within the utility enterprise.

The study is sponsored by the Utility Energy Technology Practice at UtiliPoint, headed by Ethan L. Cohen, and combines Cohen's insight and analysis with the expertise of James J. Jossie, an industry veteran with more than 25 years of experience in developing and implementing billing and payment systems for utilities.

“This report from UtiliPoint goes beyond a simple snapshot review of current perception and opinion,” Cohen said. “Our study provides insightful direction about the market and digs deep into the key propositions of EBP&AP to evaluate and provide an accurate assessment.”

“With so many technologies clamoring for attention and claiming to be the 'silver bullet' solution, it's important that utilities get all the facts in front of them before they outlay precious budget dollars for an initiative like EBP&AP,” added Jossie.

The sponsorship launch of the study will take place next week and will be open to both utilities and technology and service vendors. If you are interested in learning about the benefits of sponsorship please contact: Ethan L. Cohen, director, Utility and Energy Technology, UtiliPoint International, 617.960.3584, ecohen@utilipoint.com.