Topic:"2026 DSM Extension" in M12249

TO: The Nova Scotia Energy Board ("Energy Board") - 1. EfficiencyOne is the holder of the Franchise issued by the Minister of the Department of Energy with an effective date of January 01, 2025, to provide demand-side management activities...

AI summary EfficiencyOne is applying to the Nova Scotia Energy Board for approval of its 2026 DSM Extension Application, which includes updated targets, a rate and bill impact analysis, and amendments to the existing DSM Agreement. The application is supported by legislative changes to the Public Utilities Act, which extend the DSM Plan and Agreement to 2026 and set a prescribed investment amount.

3 1.5 RATE CLASS ALLOCATIONS 4 Rate class spending estimates for 2026 are largely aligned with expectations for 2025. The planned 5 expenditures under each rate class forecasted for the 2026 DSM Extension are reflected i[n Table 2,](#page-...

AI summary Rate class spending estimates for 2026 are largely aligned with 2025 expectations. The planned expenditures under each rate class for the 2026 DSM Extension are reflected in Table 2.

6 7 Table 2: 2026 DSM Extension Rate Class Expenditures Rate Class 2026 ($ million) Residential/Charitable (2,3,4) 33.9 Small General (10) 3.1 General Demand (11) 17.0 Large General (12) 1.6 Small Industrial (21) 1.4 Medium Industrial (22)...

AI summary The table outlines the 2026 DSM Extension Rate Class Expenditures, detailing the allocated funds across various rate classes in millions of dollars, with the total expenditure amounting to $63.75 million.

- following factors in relation to regulatory decision-making function: 1 2 3 4 5 6 (2) In approving or fixing rates, tolls, charges, tariffs, capital applications and all other matters over which the Energy Board has authority, the Board...

AI summary The document discusses the legislative amendments to the Public Utilities Act, specifically extending the term of the current DSM Plan to 2026. It emphasizes the need for E1 to align its planning processes with the new legislative regime and consider sustainable development in regulatory decision-making.

8 3.3 MODEL INPUTS AND ASSUMPTIONS - 9 In collaboration with its consultant Guidehouse, E1 developed a set of inputs to use in the modelling - 10 process for the 2026 DSM Extension for both the Energy Efficiency Model and the Demand Respon...

AI summary E1, in collaboration with Guidehouse, developed model inputs for the 2026 DSM Extension, including line losses, avoided costs, discount rates, annual energy savings, peak demand savings, incremental costs, and incentives for both the Energy Efficiency and Demand Response Models.

17 4.1 OVERVIEW - 18 As noted above, there are no new programs contemplated for the 2026 DSM Extension. There are some - 19 modifications to existing programs, and some program retirements. [Table 3](#page-21-3) shows the modifications and...

AI summary The 2026 DSM Extension does not introduce new programs but includes modifications to existing ones and some program retirements, as detailed in Table 3.

22 Table 3: Program Modifications and Retirements in the 2026 DSM Extension Program Program Component Changes and Enhancements in the 2026 DSM Extension as compared to the 2023-2025 Plan Continued/Modified/ Retired

AI summary The text introduces Table 3, which outlines program modifications and retirements in the 2026 DSM Extension compared to the 2023-2025 Plan. It lists program components and changes, but no specific details are provided in the chunk.

6. EVALUATION AND REPORTING E1 intends to follow the current Board approved measurement and evaluation activities as established in the 2023-2025 Plan. This includes an annual impact evaluation for each program. - Similarly, throughout the...

AI summary E1 will follow the Board-approved measurement and evaluation activities from the 2023-2025 Plan, including annual impact evaluations and specific reporting for the 2026 DSM Extension. References to M10473 and compliance filings are cited.

2. 2026 DSM EXTENSION DEVELOPMENT APPROACH - E1 developed the 2026 DSM Extension for the supply of demand-side management activities to NS Power - in accordance with the provincial legislation that extends the approved 2023-2025 DSM Resour...

AI summary E1 developed the 2026 DSM Extension to continue demand-side management activities for NS Power, in accordance with provincial legislation that extends the 2023-2025 DSM Resource Plan. The extension aims to maintain program continuity, achieve cost-effective savings within a legislated investment level, and ensure consistency for service delivery partners.

14 2.5.3 M ODEL IN PUTS AND ASSUM PTIONS - 15 [Table 2](#page-46-2) describes the key global model inputs and assumptions applied to the 2026 DSM Extension and - 16 updated or changed from the 2023-2025 approved Plan for 2026 DSM Extension...

AI summary This section discusses the model inputs and assumptions used for the 2026 DSM Extension, referencing changes from the 2023-2025 approved Plan. It outlines how these inputs apply to energy efficiency and demand response models.

- The 2026 DSM Extension modelling process remained consistent with the process followed and outlined - and described in the approved 2023-2025 Plan: [18](#page-49-2) - model configuration; - measure characterization; - estimation of parti...

AI summary The 2026 DSM Extension modelling process followed the same approach as the 2023-2025 Plan, including model configuration, measure characterization, participation estimation, EE and DR interactivity, review, and quality assurance.

3. 2026 DSM EXTENSION 1 6 - 2 The 2026 DSM Extension savings targets were informed by the 2023 and 2024 actual results and the 2025 - 3 forecast. Proposed targets for 2026 were based on maintaining continuity with the 2025 forecast to - 4...

AI summary The 2026 DSM Extension savings targets are based on actual results from 2023 and 2024, as well as the 2025 forecast. The proposed targets aim to maintain continuity with the 2025 forecast to establish achievable performance targets at the legislated investment level.

1 3.4.1 PROGRAM CHAN GES AND EN HAN CEMENTS IN 2026 - 2 [Table 6,](#page-57-1) below, highlights the program changes and enhancements in the 2026 DSM Extension as - 3 compared to the approved 2023-2025 Plan. 4

AI summary This section outlines the program changes and enhancements in the 2026 DSM Extension compared to the approved 2023-2025 Plan, as highlighted in Table 6.

age-59-2) - Throughout 2023 and 2024, E1 worked with the DSMAG to develop a new Nova Scotia specific - (jurisdictional-specific) BCA test with the support of a third-party expert Energy Futures Group. - Cost-effectiveness results for the 2...

AI summary E1 collaborated with the DSMAG and Energy Futures Group to develop a jurisdiction-specific BCA test for Nova Scotia. The 2026 DSM Extension cost-effectiveness results are detailed in Table 7, including portfolio-level and program-specific results. References include the amended Public Utilities Act and NSUARB Orders related to DSM Plans.

4. 2026 DSM PROGRAMS - The 2026 DSM Extension establishes the programs and components for delivery of the 2026 portfolio. The - 2026 portfolio consists of Residential and BNI energy efficiency programs, and a demand response - program.

AI summary The 2026 DSM Extension outlines programs for the 2026 portfolio, including Residential and BNI energy efficiency initiatives, and a demand response program. These components aim to deliver the DSM program's objectives through targeted efficiency and demand management strategies.

4 5.2 EXISTING RESIDENTIAL - 5 The Existing Residential program provides residential customers with access to information, technical - 6 support, and financial assistance to identify, assess and implement energy efficiency behaviours and -...

AI summary The Existing Residential program, part of the 2023-2025 Plan, will transition from seven to six components by 2026, removing Green Heat due to declining participation. The 2026 DSM Extension includes six components, such as Home Energy Assessments and Mi'kmaw initiatives, while E1 cites reduced savings as the reason for ending Green Heat.

21 Table 22: 2026 DSM Extension Enabling Strategies Enabling Strategy Category 2026 Investment ($ million) 2026 Areas of Focus Other Enabling Strategies $3.0 • Areas of focus for 2026 for Other Enabling Strategies align with the approved 2...

AI summary The 2026 DSM Extension Enabling Strategies include a $3.0 million investment aimed at supporting the development of the 2027-2031 DSM Resource Plan, engaging with the DSMAG, and participating in the integrated resource planning process under the new Independent Energy System Operator as outlined in Bill 404.

4 9. EVALUATION - 5 In the 2026 DSM Extension, E1 proposes to follow the same measurement and evaluation activities as - 6 approved in the 2023-2025 Plan. This includes an annual impact evaluation for each program. - 7 As in the approved 2...

AI summary E1 proposes to follow the same measurement and evaluation activities as the 2023-2025 Plan for the 2026 DSM Extension, including annual impact evaluations and condensing activities for mature programs. Collaboration with the Evaluator will determine components for process and market evaluations.

15 16 Table 1: Categories of Electric Utility System Avoided Costs Used in 2026 DSM Extension Electric Utility System Energy Demand Rate and Bill Avoided Costs Efficiency Response Impact Analysis Category Process Model DRSim Model (RBIA) E...

AI summary The document presents a table categorizing electric utility system avoided costs used in the 2026 DSM Extension, including energy, demand, and rate and bill impact analysis. It outlines different models and categories such as Energy Winter-On Peak, Energy Non-Winter, Capacity, Transmission, and Distribution.

Consistent with the approach used in the 2023–2025 Plan, the input data for the 2026 DSM Extension was developed using a bottom-up approach which built upon the most recent information available at the time of model development. Given the...

AI summary The 2026 DSM Extension uses a bottom-up approach with updated data sources, making direct reconciliation with the 2023–2025 model difficult. Savings assumptions are based on evaluated savings, with prescriptive measures relying on deemed energy and demand savings from the most recent DSM Evaluation Measure Assessment document.

- For semi-prescriptive measures where in practice, savings are calculated on a project-by-project basis using unit specifications, representative variables are selected to 1 reflect the typical installation characteristics that E1 sees in...

AI summary The text discusses the methodology used to calculate energy savings for semi-prescriptive measures, emphasizing the use of representative variables and the development of input data for the 2026 DSM Extension. It highlights the bottom-up approach and the use of updated information, noting that input data differs from previous models.

- 1 There are no differences in low-income and equity allocation methods, assumptions, and - 2 formulas between 2025 reporting and the 2026 DSM Extension estimates. 3 4 (a) Please refer to E1's response above. Date Filed: June 25, 2025 E1...

AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) confirms that its 2026 DSM Extension is a continuation of the 2023-2025 DSM Plan and not a new resource plan. It proposes to deliver energy and demand savings, including specific targets for low-income and equity programs, and plans to address directives in the next five-year resource plan (2027-2031).

Date Filed: June 25, 2025 IG IR-04, Attachment 1, Page 1 of 1 Plan As Approved Expenditures ($ million) Actual Expenditures ($ million) Variances (Actual Expenditures to Plan as Approved) ($million) 3 Reference: Page 4. 4 5 This process is...

AI summary The text discusses the 2026-2030 DSM Plan and the budget for the 2027-2031 DSM Resource Plan, including increased funding for regulatory initiatives and the development of the new Independent Energy System Operator's first IRP. Questions are raised about the original budget, spending to date, and consideration of underspend from 2025.

1 Request IR-07: 2 3 Reference: Page 5, lines 17-21. 4 5 The single change to the design objectives employed in the development of the 2026 DSM 6 Extension, was to reduce the percentage investment range for low-income and equity to 7 15-20...

AI summary The 2026 DSM Extension reduced the investment range for low-income and equity programs from 17-22% to 15-20% based on updated census data showing a decline in low-income Nova Scotians. The request seeks clarification on the data source, acceptance of updated census data, and other factors influencing investment levels.

Date Filed: June 25, 2025 E1 (IG) IR-10 Page 1 of 2 M12249, E1 2026 DSM Extension, Appendix A, Table 2: Key Global Model Input & Assumptions in 2026 DSM Extension Development, April 30, 2025, page 11-13. - 1 information available at the ti...

AI summary The 2026 DSM Extension model uses updated input data sources, making direct correlation with the 2023–2025 model impossible. A line-by-line reconciliation of input changes, especially at the individual measure level, is not feasible due to differences in technical specifications.

(c) Please see part (b) of this IR response. 1 Request IR-22: 2 3 Reference: Appendix A, Attachment 3 – 2026 DSM Extension Energy Efficiency Technical 4 Tables. 5 6 Preamble: In Section 1.6 of EfficiencyOne 2026 DSM Extension Evidence, pag...

AI summary The text outlines a request for clarification and alignment of the 2026 DSM Extension Energy Efficiency Technical Tables with previous years' data, including the need for working Excel files, explanations of cost changes, and reconciliation of measure names.

Date Filed: June 25, 2025 E1 (IG) IR-23 Page 3 of 3 1 Request IR-24: 2026 $83 2027 $85 2028 $76 2029 $76 2030 $89 2031 $85 2032 $85 2033 $85 2034 $84 2035 $85 2036 $91 2037 $94 2038 $91 2039 $88 2040 $87 2041 $96 2042 $98 2043 $101 2044 $1...

AI summary The document outlines the avoided costs associated with the No DSM, No Energy Efficiency scenario, highlighting factors such as increased thermal generation, the economic addition of the Reliability Intertie, and the need for more wind and solar generation to meet renewable energy standards prior to 2030.

(b) The distribution of industrial customers for each rate class anticipated to participate in the 2026 DSM Plan (i.e. participants vs. non-participants) is provided in Table 3, below. Unlike Table 1 above which provides only tracked parti...

AI summary The text discusses the distribution of industrial customers in different rate classes expected to participate in the 2026 DSM Plan, noting that Table 3 includes both tracked and untracked participants, unlike Table 1 which only shows tracked participation results.

Bill 6 - An Act Respecting Agriculture, Energy and Natural Resources Chapter 4 Acts of 2025, s. 20, Part IV Public Utilities Act, Chapter 380 Amendments, Royal Assent, March 26, 2025; and Public Utilities Act, C 380, R.S.N.S 1989, as amend...

AI summary The document references Bill 6, which amends the Public Utilities Act, and includes a matter (M12249) concerning EfficiencyOne's application for approval of the 2026 DSM Extension.

M12249 – EfficiencyOne (E1) Application for Approval of the 2026 DSM Extension 1 (e) E1 welcomes discussion among stakeholders about what performance target categories 2 should be in place in relation to each new DSM plan that is applied f...

AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) is seeking approval for the 2026 DSM Extension, noting that the legislative amendment requires submission of performance targets under existing categories approved for the 2023-2025 DSM Plan. E1 emphasizes that the performance target categories from the previous plan remain in place and are not being reconsidered.

E1 Responses to Nova Scotia Energy Board (NSEB) Information Requests NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 Request IR-08: 2 3 Page 14 of 25 of E1's Evidence states: 4 5 The modelling therefore focuses on accounting for the 2023 and 2024 actual 6 results unde...

AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) explains that the 2026 DSM Extension targets were determined using updated savings and cost assumptions from the ProCESS™ and DRSim™ models, informed by program delivery experience, performance tracking, and external factors such as market conditions and technology development, while adhering to legislative budget constraints.

M12249 – EfficiencyOne (E1) Application for Approval of the 2026 DSM Extension

AI summary This document outlines EfficiencyOne's application for the approval of the 2026 DSM Extension, a program aimed at expanding energy efficiency initiatives in Nova Scotia.

E1 Responses to Nova Scotia Energy Board (NSEB) Information Requests NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 indicating that the measure provides net benefits to the utility system and 2 ratepayers. o Energy audit measures have a TRC ratio of 0 due to a lack o...

AI summary E1 argues that energy audit measures, despite a TRC ratio of 0, drive customer awareness and support program participation. Instant Savings measures with TRC ratio 1.0 are justified by customer satisfaction, market needs, and PAC Test results exceeding 1.0, indicating net benefits to the utility system and ratepayers. New measures are evaluated for long-term impacts under the 2026 DSM Plan.

6 7 (c) Figure 5 reflects the average bill impact over 2026-2041 as a result of the planned 8 investment included in the 2026 DSM Plan Extension. It does not include investment 9 related to the 2023-2025 DSM Plan or any bill impacts for 20...

AI summary The text discusses the average bill impact of the 2026 DSM Plan Extension from 2026 to 2041, excluding the 2023-2025 DSM Plan. It clarifies that the RBIA in Figure 5 does not include non-energy benefits and is driven solely by energy-related savings and expenditures from the 2026 DSM investment.

1 Request IR-02: 2 - 3 Please refer to Table 1: 2023-2026 DSM Extension Insights on page 3 of 25 of the Evidence. - 4 Please provide a new version of this table with the following columns: 1) Insights, 2) 2023 - 5 Actuals, 3) 2024 Actuals,...

AI summary The document requests a revised version of Table 1 from the Evidence, specifically the 2023-2026 DSM Extension Insights, with additional columns for actuals and forecasts. A response provides the updated table as requested.

- 2 (b) The 2026 DSM Extension PowerPoint presentation from the Demand Side Management - 3 Advisory Group meeting held on April 22, 2025, has been included as Attachment 1 to this - 4 IR response.

AI summary The document references a 2026 DSM Extension PowerPoint presentation from the Demand Side Management Advisory Group meeting held on April 22, 2025, which has been attached to the IR response.

Context - The provincial government introduced legislation in mid-February 2025. The legislation: - extends the 2023-2025 DSM plan to include the 2026 calendar year; - prescribes an investment amount of $63.75 million for 2026; and - requi...

AI summary The provincial government introduced legislation in mid-February 2025, extending the 2023-2025 DSM plan to include 2026, prescribing a $63.75 million investment, and requiring E1 to submit 2026 targets for Energy Board approval. The extension benefits stakeholders as it aligns with the new Energy Board's establishment and allows time for a new BCA decision before the 2027-2031 DSM Plan Application.

Residential Behaviour • For the 2026 DSM Extension, Residential Behaviour will follow the same approach as outlined in the approved 2023-2025 Plan. In 2026, a program investment of $2.1 million will support 205,000 homeowners.

AI summary The 2026 DSM Extension will use the same approach as the approved 2023-2025 Plan, with a $2.1 million investment supporting 205,000 homeowners.

M12249 – EfficiencyOne (E1) Application for Approval of the 2026 DSM Extension 1 Request IR-11: 25 Actual, and 2025 Forecast adoption, by measure, by program component, and in total. 26

AI summary The document outlines EfficiencyOne's (E1) application for approval of the 2026 DSM Extension, focusing on the actual and forecasted adoption of energy efficiency measures by program component and in total.

E1 Responses to Synapse Energy Economics (Synapse) Information Requests NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 (f) Please add to this table the breakout of the proposed participation in the 2026 Plan 2 Extension for DR, by measure, by program component, and i...

AI summary The document includes a request for a breakout of the proposed participation in the 2026 Plan, specifically for DR (Demand Response) by measure, program component, and in total. This is part of a response to information requests from Synapse Energy Economics.

Table 1: Summary of enrolled devices in the 2023-2025 DSM Plan, 2026 Extension, and 2023–2026 Actuals 2023-2025 DSM Plan & 2026 Extension 2023-2026 Actuals a DR devices 2023 2024 2025 2026 2023 2024 2025 2026 2025 2024 2023 YTD Thermostats...

AI summary The table summarizes the enrolled devices under the 2023-2025 DSM Plan, 2026 Extension, and 2023–2026 Actuals, showing significant growth in thermostat enrollments and variations in other device categories across years.

E1 Responses to Synapse Energy Economics (Synapse) Information Requests NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 (a) No, EfficiencyOne (E1) did not apply any of these proposed updates to the Standardized 2 Filing Framework to the 2026 DSM Plan Extension. 3 4 (b...

AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) did not apply proposed updates to the Standardized Filing Framework for the 2026 DSM Plan Extension. E1 received feedback from DSMAG members during the 2026-2030 DSM Plan development and plans to address consensus around the Framework during the 2027-2031 DSM Plan development.

M12249 – EfficiencyOne (E1) Application for Approval of the 2026 DSM Extension

AI summary This document outlines EfficiencyOne's application for the approval of the 2026 DSM Extension, which is part of a broader demand-side management initiative aimed at promoting energy efficiency and reducing electricity consumption.

1 Request IR-33: 2 - 3 Please compare the 2026 Extension with the IRP Reference Plan in terms of energy and demand - 4 savings. 5 6 Response IR-33: 7 - 8 Table 1, below, provides the energy efficiency energy and demand savings, as well as...

AI summary The response to Request IR-33 compares the 2026 DSM Extension with the 2022 Evergreen Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) in terms of energy and demand savings, as well as investment requirements.

EfficiencyOne (E1) Responses to Industrial Group (IG) Information Requests NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 Request IR-01: 2 3 Reference: E-2 Verification Report, page 26. 4 5 "The Evaluator recommends consideration of removing wood fireplace inserts 6...

AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) confirms that wood and pellet fireplace inserts are not included in the 2026 DSM Extension Plan, in response to a request based on an evaluation report that questioned their energy savings and demand impact.

(b) E1 has proposed to continue the Residential Behaviour program in the 2026 DSM Extension and has not modified it. Any modifications to the 2026 DSM Extension will be determined by the NSEB's decision on this matter. A decision of the NS...

AI summary E1 proposes to continue the Residential Behaviour program in the 2026 DSM Extension without modifications. However, if the NSEB accepts Mr. Peach's recommendation to discontinue the program, it would require a complete redesign of the portfolio and impact performance targets for the 2023-2026 period.

EfficiencyOne (E1) Responses to Small Business Advocate (SBA) Information Requests NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 from both a qualitative and quantitative perspective and explain how the use of this term 2 is consistent with current methodological gui...

AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) responds to the Small Business Advocate's (SBA) information requests regarding the inclusion of specific programs in its DSM plans and the evaluation of program savings. E1 confirms that the BNI Demand Response program and compressed air leak audit projects are considered BNI program components.

Q. Please summarize the 2026 DSM Extension. - A. The 2026 DSM Extension is a DSM Plan for 2026. It is essentially a continuation of the 2023-2025 DSM Plan. The 2026 DSM Extension focuses on energy efficiency and demand response programs. E...

AI summary The 2026 DSM Extension continues the 2023-2025 DSM Plan with a focus on energy efficiency and demand response. E1 applied the NSEB-approved TRC and PAC tests for cost-effectiveness. Some changes include updated avoided cost assumptions, phasing out residential lighting measures, and terminating certain program components.

Table 2. Comparison of Nova Scotia Energy Efficiency First-Year Unit Costs to Canadian and Leading U.S. Jurisdictions Jurisdiction First-Year Unit Cost of Energy Efficiency ($2025 CDN/kWh) Yukon 18.57 Massachusetts 2.86 Saskatchewan 2.59 P...

AI summary Table 2 compares the first-year unit costs of energy efficiency in Nova Scotia to other Canadian and U.S. jurisdictions, showing Nova Scotia's 2026 DSM Extension at 0.49 CDN/kWh, lower than many other regions but higher than leading ones like Ontario at 0.16 CDN/kWh.

- Unit Costs from E1 response to Synapse IR-12 - Participants from E1 response to Synapse IR-13 in Table 1: Summary of enrolled devices in the 2023-2025 DSM Plan, 2026 Extension, and 2023–2026 Actuals. 2025 represents YTD participants rath...

AI summary The text discusses unit costs from E1's response to Synapse's IR-12, and participant data from the 2023-2025 DSM Plan and its 2026 extension. Synapse calculated cost per participant and Program Administrator Cost (PAC) using investment and benefit figures. Other data comes from E1's response to Synapse IR-8.

Q. Is the demand response portion of the 2026 DSM Extension cost-effective? 14 A. No. As proposed, demand response is not cost-effective in 2026 with a PAC of 0.5 and a TRC of 0.7.

AI summary The demand response portion of the 2026 DSM Extension is not cost-effective, with a Program Administrator Cost (PAC) of 0.5 and a Total Resource Cost (TRC) of 0.7, as stated in the response.

Synapse Synapse states: I recommend that the NSEB take the following actions: - Approve the energy efficiency portion of the 2026 DSM Extension as filed. - Approve the demand response portion of the 2026 DSM Extension as filed, and: - o Di...

AI summary Synapse recommends that the NSEB approve the energy efficiency and demand response portions of the 2026 DSM Extension. It also suggests directing E1 to include a demand response offering with a Program Administrator Cost (PAC) of 1.0 or greater in the 2027-2031 DSM Plan and to conduct its own benchmarking study, leveraging Efficiency Canada's research.

3.0 2026 DSM EXTENSION APPLICATION - [7] E1 seeks approval to invest the legislated $63,750,000 to achieve the following targets for 2026 under the four categories that were approved for the 2023-2025 DSM Plan: - a) Incremental annual net...

AI summary E1 seeks approval to invest $63.75 million to achieve updated energy efficiency and demand savings targets for 2026 under the extended 2023–2026 DSM Plan. The revised targets include cumulative energy savings and demand reductions, with a focus on low-income and equity programs. E1 used Guidehouse's modeling tools and engaged the DSMAG for input.

lt;sup>1 Reflects planned participation by low-income & equity customers. Numbers are a subset of Existing Residential, BNI Efficient Product Rebates, Custom Incentives, and Direct Installation. [13] E1 states that marketing for the 2026 D...

AI summary The text discusses the 2026 DSM Plan, highlighting alignment with the 2023-2025 DSM Plan and data-driven marketing strategies. It also outlines modifications, retirements, and the structure of residential and BNI energy efficiency programs. The focus is on low-income and equity customers and the continuation of existing initiatives.

[23] E1 said it remains steadfast in its commitment, established in the 2023-2025 DSM Plan, to ensure that programs are both designed and delivered on an equitable and non-discriminatory basis. Specifically, the 2026 DSM Extension will con...

AI summary E1 reaffirms its commitment to equitable energy efficiency programs, as outlined in the 2023-2025 DSM Plan, and adjusts the low-income investment range based on updated census data. It also notes an increase in the portfolio unit cost for energy efficiency in 2026 due to changes in program mix and participation.

5.8 Reallocation of $2.1 Million to Residential [77] Green Energy recommended reallocating $2.1 million to the residential sector budgets to ensure that the 2026 DSM extension maintains the same budget allocation as the existing DSM Plan....

AI summary Green Energy recommended reallocating $2.1 million to the residential sector to maintain the same budget allocation as the existing DSM Plan. E1 noted that the existing plan allocated 55% to residential programs and acknowledged a slight decrease in residential investment allocation for the 2026 DSM Extension, but plans to consult on design objectives for future plans.

5.9 Performance Requirements [81] For the 2026 DSM Extension, E1 proposes to use the same definitions of performance metrics, targets, performance indicators, and thresholds as in the approved 2023-2025 Plan. E1 proposes that its performan...

AI summary E1 proposes to extend the 2023-2025 DSM Plan to include 2026, maintaining the same performance metrics and targets. The proposal includes specific energy and demand savings targets, as well as a total investment of $236.8 million over the four-year period. The targets include energy savings for low-income and equity programs.

- Cost Test (TRC), and Program Administrator Cost Test (PAC) for lighting measures in the 1 Efficiency Product Installation program component over time. Please include 2023 25 • Lifetime CO2e Savings (kt) 26 • Investment/Lifetime CO2e Savi...

AI summary The document focuses on the Resource Cost Test (TRC) and Program Administrator Cost Test (PAC) for lighting measures, specifically analyzing differences between planned and actual values for investment and energy savings in 2023, 2024, and 2026. It asks whether these differences were considered in the development of the 2026 Plan Extension.

- so much higher than the actual values from 2023 and 2024? Do the 2026 Plan Extension assumptions correct for the historical over-projections of Investment/First-Year Energy Savings in the 2023 and 2024 plans? - h. By dividing the Investm...

AI summary The text raises questions about discrepancies between the 2026 Plan Extension assumptions and actual values from 2023 and 2024, specifically regarding Investment/First-Year Energy Savings and Investment/Lifetime Energy Savings metrics. It inquires whether the 2026 Plan Extension corrects for historical over-projections in these metrics.

1 2025 M12249 2 NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD 3 IN THE MATTER OF: The Public Utilities Act, RSNS 1989, c.380, as amended 4 - and - 5 IN THE MATTER OF: An Application by EfficiencyOne for approval of the 2026 DSM 6 Extension for Demand-Side Mana...

AI summary The Nova Scotia Energy Board has issued information requests to EfficiencyOne regarding the 2026 DSM Extension and the amendment to the 2023-2025 DSM Purchase Agreement. The Industrial Group has raised concerns about the lower performance targets outlined in the 2026 DSM Extension compared to the original plan.

21 (a) Please confirm this understanding or explain otherwise. 1 2 3 (b) Where E1 is relying on the increased prescribed investment amount of $63.75 million for 2026, on what basis does E1 justify a lower performance target with a higher i...

AI summary The text presents a series of questions directed at E1 regarding budget approvals, spending, and planning for the development of the 2026-2030 and 2027-2031 DSM Plans, including queries about the justification for budget changes and the use of funds from previous years.

29 please explain the rationale for the change in the 2026 Plan. 4131-2766-6012 v2 30

AI summary The document includes a request to explain the rationale for the change in the 2026 Plan, along with a reference number and a page number.

26 consideration and how it has been accounted for. If not, why not. 1 (e) Please provide a list of measures in the 2023-2025 DSM Plan which failed 2 cost-effectiveness testing (provide the TRC for each) and indicate whether 3 each of thes...

AI summary The text requests information on the 2023-2025 DSM Plan, including failed measures, cost-effectiveness testing, and proposed changes for the 2026 DSM Plan. It also asks for details on measures with a payback period of three years or less and their incentive levels in the 2026 Plan. Additionally, it requests population of a table with 2025 Q1 and Q2 results and forecasts.

- 4 Reference: Appendix B, Attachment 1 –2026 Summary Results. - 5 Please provide an updated excel file that layers in the total rate impacts from the 2023 2025 - 6 DSM Plan with the rate impacts from the 2026 DSM Plan for each rate class...

AI summary The request is for an updated Excel file that combines the total rate impacts from the 2023-2025 DSM Plan with the rate impacts from the 2026 DSM Plan, categorized by rate class and year.

34 Reference: EfficiencyOne's Evidence, p. 25 36 E1 states: "The 2026 DSM Extension proposes to deliver 116.0 GWh of energy savings, 18.9 MW 37 of demand savings, 16.3 MW of demand response available capacity and 4.0 GWh of energy 38 savin...

AI summary EfficiencyOne outlines the 2026 DSM Extension's energy and demand savings targets, including 116.0 GWh of energy savings and 18.9 MW of demand savings. A request is made for a table comparing these targets with forecast and actual results for 2023, 2024, and 2025.

1 2025 M12249 2 NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD 3 IN THE MATTER OF: The Public Utilities Act, RSNS 1989, c.380, as amended 4 IN THE MATTER OF: An Application by EfficiencyOne for approval of the 2026 DSM 5 Extension for Demand-Side Management Act...

AI summary EfficiencyOne seeks approval for a 2026 DSM extension and amendment to a 2023-2025 Purchase Agreement with Nova Scotia Power Inc. The document includes information requests from H. Gil Peach, PhD., regarding savings verification processes, involvement in the Benefits Cost Analysis (BCA) test, and utilization of verification reports in BCA development.

Programs There are no new programs contemplated under the 2026 DSM Extension Plan. The three residential energy efficiency programs are: (1) residential efficient product rebates; (2) existing residential; and (3) new residential (the new...

AI summary The 2026 DSM Extension Plan does not introduce new programs. Existing residential and BNI energy efficiency programs continue, with the new home construction component retired. Demand response programs are also proposed to continue.

4.1 SCOPE OF ENGAGEMENT - 8 The Submission filed by the Industrial Group asserts that E1's 2026 DSM Extension Application "lacks the - 9 full consultative approach generally employed by E1".4 E1 agrees that its applications are informed by...

AI summary The Industrial Group claims that E1's 2026 DSM Extension Application lacks a full consultative approach, but E1 asserts that it engaged meaningfully with stakeholders, including the DSMAG, despite a shortened consultation period due to legislative changes.

after the 2026 DSM Extension was filed." Date DSMAG Members March 25, 2025 NS Power April 7, 2025 Consumer Advocate April 7, 2025 Small Business Advocate April 8, 2025 Ecology Action Centre & Affordable Energy Coalition April 14, 2025 Smal...

AI summary The document discusses the 2026 DSM Extension filing, including the members of the DSMAG and the scope of the extension application. It outlines the timeline and participants involved in the proceeding.

The legislative amendment set out in s. 79J(3) of the Public Utilities Act, directs E1 to submit 2026 targets for the one-year extension of the existing DSM Plan. (3) The franchise holder shall submit its targets for the one-year extension...

AI summary The legislative amendment to the Public Utilities Act requires E1 to submit 2026 targets for the one-year extension of the existing DSM Plan. E1 argues that detailed program design and test methodology issues should be addressed in the upcoming 2027-2031 DSM Plan process. The Industrial Group, however, suggests a broader review of the extension application, including cost-effectiveness and spending management. E1 asserts that the current application provides sufficient information for approval.

3.0 2026 DSM EXTENSION APPLICATION - [7] E1 seeks approval to invest the legislated $63,750,000 to achieve the following targets for 2026 under the four categories that were approved for the 2023-2025 DSM Plan: - a) Incremental annual net...

AI summary E1 seeks approval to invest $63.75 million in the 2026 DSM Extension to achieve energy savings targets. The 2023–2025 DSM Plan has been extended to 2026, with revised performance targets. E1 used the same guiding principles as the previous plan, including a focus on equity and transparency, and engaged Guidehouse and the DSMAG in developing the extension.

5.8 Reallocation of $2.1 Million to Residential [77] Green Energy recommended reallocating $2.1 million to the residential sector budgets to ensure that the 2026 DSM extension maintains the same budget allocation as the existing DSM Plan....

AI summary Green Energy recommended reallocating $2.1 million to the residential sector to maintain budget allocation for the 2026 DSM extension. E1 noted that while the existing plan allocated 55% to residential, the 2026 extension would allocate 51%, a slight decrease. E1 plans to consult with stakeholders on design objectives for the upcoming DSM plan.