Does automation actually contribute to energy conservation? ABSOLUTELY!
From automatically turning off lights when there is no longer occupancy, to the way the actual switches slowy ramp up the light rather than just pop in on full force, you are saving energy every where you turn with automation. There are even dimmable CF bulbs out now, so that you can double your energy conserving ways. Not to mention the benifit of turning off hot water heaters when you aren't using them, or bumping up thermostats when you leave, all from the press of one button. You're conserving energy without having to run around and use any of your own energy to turn things off.