prosumenter

A prosumenter is a neologism combining the words "producer" and "consumer." It describes an individual or entity that is both a producer and a consumer of a good or service. The concept gained prominence with the rise of the internet and digital technologies, which empowered individuals to create and share content, products, and services on a large scale.

In the context of energy, a prosumenter is typically a household or business that generates its own electricity, often through renewable sources like solar panels, and also consumes electricity from the grid. This dual role allows them to reduce their reliance on traditional energy providers, potentially lower their energy bills, and contribute to a more decentralized energy system. The surplus energy generated can sometimes be fed back into the grid, creating an additional revenue stream or credit.

The prosumenter model extends beyond energy. In the digital realm, individuals who create and upload content to platforms like YouTube or Wikipedia are prosumenters. They consume content on these platforms while simultaneously producing new material. Similarly, in the sharing economy, individuals who rent out their assets, such as cars or spare rooms, are acting as prosumenters by producing a service from assets they also consume. The prosumenter concept reflects a shift towards more active and participatory roles for individuals in various economic and social systems.