Topic:"Demand Side Management Resource Plan" in M12780

6 3.3.2 COST-EFFECTIVENESS: A PROGRAM MATURITY ROADMAP 7 The 2023–2025 DSM Plan positioned demand response as a development and learning phase, with a focus 8 on identifying effective program pathways and refining operational delivery for...

AI summary The 2023–2025 DSM Plan positions demand response as a development and learning phase, focusing on identifying effective program pathways and refining operational delivery for initiatives like Eco Shift. This approach aligns with the typical evolution of residential demand response programs in North America, emphasizing early-stage learning and operational refinement before scaling.

6 7 Through direct discussions with the IESO Demand Side Management team, the program is expected to 8 reach cost-effectiveness under the Program Administrator Cost (PAC) test within the next year, 9 approximately four years after its laun...

AI summary The program is expected to achieve cost-effectiveness under the Program Administrator Cost (PAC) test within the next year, four years after its launch, due to factors like increased demand response capacity, higher customer participation, coordinated marketing, and adoption of bring-your-own thermostat models. Ontario's experience offers insights for smaller jurisdictions.

GLOSSARY OF TERMS Term Definition Alternate Scenario E1 provides one or more alternate scenario(s) with the same portfolio-level metrics as E1's proposed DSM Resource Plan (i.e., the Preferred Plan). Available Demand Response Capacity The...

AI summary The glossary defines key terms related to demand-side management (DSM) and energy efficiency programs, including alternate scenarios, demand response capacity, balance adjustments, and baseline measurements. These definitions are relevant to the regulatory process and program implementation.

2.2.7 2023–2026 DSM PLAN RATE CLASS RESULTS - 7 E1 has provided 2023–2025 rate class results, in addition to 2026 DSM Extension anticipated results, - 8 compared to the approved 2023–2026 Plan, in Table 2, below. 9 10 11 12 13 14 2025 actu...

AI summary E1 has provided 2023–2025 rate class results and 2026 DSM Extension anticipated results, compared to the approved 2023–2026 Plan. 2025 actual expenditures were slightly lower than the approved 2025 Plan, with the medium industrial rate class showing higher spending due to increased participation in the BNI Demand Response program.

DATE FILED: March 31, 2026 Page 24 of 112 Area of Change Change/New Element Rationale and Context Demand Response • Growth of BNI Demand Response through Smart Synergy pathway • Maintenance of residential Demand Response pathway (Eco Shift...

AI summary The document discusses changes to the BNI Demand Response program, including growth through the Smart Synergy pathway and maintaining the residential Eco Shift pathway with existing devices. The changes aim to address cost-effectiveness concerns raised by the Energy Board and DSMAG, with no new residential installations planned from 2027–2031.

- 4 Table 9: 2027 DSM Preferred Plan Savings and Investment by Program Component 2027 Investment ($ million) Lifetime Benefits ($ million) First Year Energy Savings (GWh) Lifetime Energy Savings (GWh) Peak Demand Savings (MW) Available Dem...

AI summary Table 9 outlines the 2027 DSM Preferred Plan Savings and Investment by Program Component, detailing investments, benefits, and energy savings across various programs such as Education and Outreach, Market Transformation, Energy Efficiency, and Demand Response.

6 Table 45: 2027–2031 Residential Demand Response Program Component Residential Demand Response Annual Plan Investment ($M) Available Demand Response Capacity (MW) Participation (participants) 2027 Total 2.2 4.2 22,940 2028 Total 2.0 4.1 2...

AI summary The table outlines the 2027–2031 Residential Demand Response Program, including annual investments, available capacity, and participation numbers. The program focuses on existing participants, using smart thermostats and water heaters, and is delivered through a DERMS provider. Marketing efforts target existing customers, and quality assurance includes customer feedback and post-season surveys.

5 Table 46: 2027–2031 BNI Demand Response Program Component BNI Demand Response Annual Plan Investment ($M) Available Demand Response Capacity (MW) Participation (participants) 2027 Total 3.1 17.0 169 2028 Total 3.5 19.1 173 2029 Total 3.8...

AI summary Table 46 outlines the BNI Demand Response Program's investment, capacity, and participation from 2027 to 2031. The program encourages businesses to reduce load during peak events through financial incentives and involves third-party aggregators for implementation. Enhancements include continued support, marketing strategies, and quality assurance measures.

Table 1: Residential Efficient Product Rebates 2027-2031 Residential Efficient Product Rebates Rate Class Year First-Year Energy Savings Lifetime Energy Savings Peak Demand Savings Expenditures ($ million) (GWh) (GWh) (MW) 2027 11.0 106.3...

AI summary This table outlines projected energy savings and expenditures for the 2027-2031 Residential Efficient Product Rebates program across various rate classes. It includes first-year and lifetime energy savings, peak demand savings, and associated expenditures in millions of dollars.

3 27. SURVIVAL 4 27.1 Subject to the provisions of the Act, all provisions of this Agreement which by their express 5 terms or nature are continuing shall survive the expiration or termination of this 6 Agreement, including, without limita...

AI summary This section outlines that certain provisions of the Agreement will continue to apply even after its expiration or termination, including those related to the EECA DSM Resource Plan, confidentiality, indemnity, and intellectual property.

The figure below identifies the Contract Price to be paid by NSPI allocated for each year of the Term. 2023 2027 2024 2028 2025 2029 2030 2031 Total UARB NSEB Approved Investment Amount Refund2023-2026 DSM Resource Plan Underspend Net Cont...

AI summary The text outlines the allocation of the contract price to be paid by NSPI over the term of the agreement, referencing the refund of a 2019 surplus and the revision of the 2024 net contract amount based on the 2020-2022 DSM Plan. EfficiencyOne is required to report and refund any surplus realized at the end of the term to NSPI unless directed otherwise.

Title: Title: – Supply Purchase Agreement (Redline) 1 2 SCHEDULE E 3 5 7 4 EECA DSM RESOURCE PLAN 6 [Subject to approval by the UARBNova Scotia Energy Board]

AI summary This document outlines a Supply Purchase Agreement, specifically Schedule E, which includes the EECA DSM Resource Plan subject to approval by the UARBNova Scotia Energy Board. It highlights the regulatory process and energy efficiency programs involved.

27. SURVIVAL 27.1 Subject to the provisions of the Act, all provisions of this Agreement which by their express terms or nature are continuing shall survive the expiration or termination of this Agreement, including, without limitation, th...

AI summary This section outlines the survival of certain provisions of an agreement even after its expiration or termination, including clauses related to the DSM Resource Plan, confidentiality, indemnity, and intellectual property, among others.

31 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 Total NSEB Approved Investment Amount 2023-2026 DSM Resource Plan Underspend Net Contract Amount to be Paid by NSPI 32

AI summary The table outlines the NSEB Approved Investment Amount and the 2023-2026 DSM Resource Plan Underspend, with columns for years 2027 to 2031 and a total column. The Net Contract Amount to be Paid by NSPI is also listed but lacks specific values.

- 16 Executed and delivered this day of 20__. EfficiencyOne Nova Scotia Power Incorporated By: By: Name: Name: Title: Title: 1 SCHEDULE "A" to CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT 2 3 4 UNDERTAKING 5 I, HAVE READ AND 6 AGREE TO ABIDE AND AM BOUND BY...

AI summary This document outlines a confidentiality agreement between EfficiencyOne and Nova Scotia Power Incorporated, including a schedule detailing the DSM Resource Plan subject to approval by the Nova Scotia Energy Board.

26 Table 1: Glossary of Terms Term Definition Available demand response The capacity available to NS Power to reduce system peak demand via demand capacity response events. Cumulative net demand Sum of incremental net demand savings across...

AI summary The glossary defines key terms related to demand-side management (DSM) and energy efficiency, including cumulative net demand and energy savings, DSM forecasts, and resource plans. These definitions help clarify the scope and performance metrics of DSM programs.

- 3 E1 will provide the same metrics across the filing content (e.g., from the portfolio level to the 4 program level and/or across sections) and provide rationale where a metric is zero or not 5 applicable. Table 2, below, describes DSM R...

AI summary E1 will ensure consistent metrics across all filing content, from the portfolio level to the program level and across sections, and provide rationale for zero or non-applicable metrics. Table 2 outlines the DSM Resource Plan filing content.

- 6 Table 2: DSM Resource Plan Filing Content Item Description 1. Introduction Introduce the DSM Resource Plan and summarize any E1–NS Power agreements (attach as appendices). Include relevant background and history, including past DSM Pla...

AI summary The document outlines the requirements for the DSM Resource Plan filing, including sections on introduction, previous plan results, plan development, proposed DSM resource plan, alternate scenarios, additional items, and conclusion. It specifies the need for detailed metrics, program descriptions, and cost-effectiveness justifications.

Table 1: 2025 Results to 2025 Plan as Approved and 2025 Year-End Forecast 20: 25 Plan as Appro ved 2 025 Year-End Fo recast 2025 Results Results to Forecas t Resul its to Plan as App oved i i 1.6 3.2 2.5 Other Enabling Strategies 140 5 1,6...

AI summary Table 1 presents the 2025 results compared to the 2025 Plan as Approved and the 2025 Year-End Forecast, highlighting performance metrics for Energy Efficiency Programs, Demand Response (DR) Programs, and Other Enabling Strategies. The data includes metrics such as program costs, participation, and results to forecast and plan comparisons.

12 may have been updated and are reflected in the totals. 13 The Demand Response program includes the Residential and BNI Demand Response program components. 14 Demand Response results reflect available capacity savings achieved during the...

AI summary The text discusses the Demand Response program, which includes the Residential and BNI Demand Response components, and highlights results from the 2024/2025 utility peak period season, specifically from December 1, 2024, to February 28, 2025.

Table 1 Update on Implementation of 2022-2023 Evaluation Recommendations Year Evaluation/ Verification Recommendation Text Source Status Comments Expected Period of Completion 2024 Evaluation Gather and analyze the Eco Shift Pilot data aga...

AI summary This table provides an update on the implementation of 2022-2023 evaluation recommendations, specifically focusing on the re-evaluation of the Eco Shift Pilot data in 2025 to improve the accuracy of unitary available DR capacity value and ensure consistency over multiple years. E1 agrees with the recommendation and outlines the methods used in the 2025 evaluation.

2.1.3 Unitary Savings Review The Evaluator updated unitary savings values mainly based on comprehensive evaluation findings, including one or more of the following approaches: literature reviews of TRMs; metering studies and evaluation rep...

AI summary The Evaluator updated unitary savings values using literature reviews, metering studies, and engineering calculations. In 2025, no program component had a comprehensive evaluation, so parameters from the 2024 DSM MA were relied upon, with some updates. The domestic water heater load control rate and commercial measure algorithms were revised based on 2025 evaluations.

2.1.5 Effective Useful Life Review As part of the 2025 DSM MA update, the Evaluator only reviewed the EUL values for lighting measures and relied on previously established EUL values for other measures. Lighting measure EUL values were upd...

AI summary The 2025 DSM MA updated Effective Useful Life (EUL) values for lighting measures based on BNI market research, using a method that accounts for baseline evolution and equipment replacement timelines. A NS Power cybersecurity incident disrupted AMI data access after April 2025, impacting EUL calculations.

Table 10: 2025 Planned Net Savings and Evaluated Results Planned Savings Evaluated Results Variance Custom Incentives 26.817 5.112 34.519 6.744 29% 32% Custom 24.160 4.824 30.487 6.372 26% 32% Strategic Energy Management 2.657 0.289 4.031...

AI summary Table 10 outlines the 2025 planned net savings and evaluated results for various energy efficiency and demand response programs. It highlights discrepancies between planned and actual outcomes, with some programs showing significant variances, such as a 62% decrease in demand response capacity.

Table 13: Evaluated Net Available DR Capacity, 2023-2025 DSM Program Component (MW) Available DR Capacity Available DR Capacity (%) Program 2023 2024 2025 2023 2024 2025 Demand Response Demand Residential Demand Response 0.058 0.057 0.854...

AI summary Table 13 shows the evaluated net available demand response (DR) capacity for 2023-2025, with BNI Demand Response contributing the majority of capacity. In 2025, E1 achieved 129.444 GWh in net electrical energy savings and 23.556 MW in net peak demand savings, but both metrics decreased compared to 2024.

In 2025, the residential sector accounted for 36% of net electrical energy savings and the BNI sector accounted for 64% of net electrical energy savings. Compared to 2024 levels, the share of lighting in residential programs decreased from...

AI summary In 2025, the residential sector contributed 36% of net electrical energy savings, while the BNI sector contributed 64%. Lighting's share in residential programs decreased from 10% to 2%, while it increased in BNI programs from 24% to 31%. The Demand Reduction program, introduced in 2023, provided 6.795 MW of demand response capacity in 2025.

Table 14: 2025 Recommendations on Residential Program Components No. Recommendation Residential DR – R3 Leverage key awareness channels to increase program participation in Residential DR within and outside the current and past EPI partici...

AI summary The table outlines two recommendations for improving residential demand response (DR) programs in 2025. R3 emphasizes increasing participation through targeted messaging and awareness campaigns, while R4 focuses on continuous engagement to encourage higher participation rates and the enrollment of more devices per household.

Where: - › Zα is the coefficient used at a specific confidence level. - › p is the proportion (typically established conservatively at 0.50, which yields the maximum error). - › N is the population or, in this case, the total number of uni...

AI summary This section explains the calculation of sample size for a survey, using a 90% confidence level and a Zα coefficient of 1.645. It refers to a sample of 103 households that had smart thermostats installed through Efficient Product Installation (EPI) and were not part of the Residential Demand Response (DR) program.

3.2 Gross Savings For ARet, gross savings correspond to the change in energy consumption resulting from the retirement of energy inefficient appliances in participants' homes compared to the consumption level had retirements not occurred....

AI summary Gross savings for Appliance Retirement (ARet) are calculated based on energy consumption changes from retiring inefficient appliances. The 2025 evaluation relied on prior Demand-side Management Measure Assessment (DSM MA) values since no updates were planned, using detailed unitary savings calculations from the DSM MA.

3.2.2 Peak Demand Savings Peak demand savings correspond to the demand savings that coincide in time with the peak demand period of the electricity system. The projected electricity peak demand period in Nova Scotia is between 5 p.m. and 7...

AI summary Peak demand savings in Nova Scotia occur during 5 p.m.–7 p.m. on non-holiday weekdays from December to February. Unitary peak demand savings remained unchanged in 2025, with detailed calculations provided in the 2025 DSM MA.

3.4 Realization Rate [Table](#page-99-1) 11 below compares total ARet tracked and evaluated savings. It also includes the realization rate, representing the ratio of evaluated net savings to tracked net savings, for both electrical energy...

AI summary This section discusses the realization rate, which is the ratio of evaluated net savings to tracked net savings for both electrical energy and peak demand savings, as presented in Table 11.

3.2.4 Effective Useful Life Using the EUL values presented in the 2025 DSM MA and the proportion of savings for measures implemented through AMH in 2025, the Evaluator revised the EUL values for comprehensive projects. For prescriptive pro...

AI summary The document discusses the revision of Effective Useful Life (EUL) values for comprehensive projects based on the 2025 DSM MA and the proportion of savings from measures implemented through AMH in 2025. The weighted average EUL for comprehensive projects decreased from 20.5 years in 2024 to 17.3 years in 2025.

11.2.1 Installation Rates Installation rates represent the proportions of products recorded in the tracking sheet that remain installed in participant homes. The Evaluator applied the installation rates outlined in the 2025 DSM MA.

AI summary Installation rates track the proportion of products installed in participant homes, as recorded in the tracking sheet. The Evaluator applied rates from the 2025 DSM MA to assess program effectiveness.

Table 22: Evaluated 2025 EPI Gross Electrical Energy and Peak Demand Savings per Measure - Single-family Homes LED Lamps Product Category 9 W Replacing 29 W 40 W 43 W 60 W 72 W 100 W 150 W Number of Units Number of Units 238 244 7,833 498...

AI summary Table 22 evaluates the 2025 EPI gross electrical energy and peak demand savings per measure for single-family homes, focusing on LED lamps replacing various wattage bulbs. The table provides data on installation rates, energy savings, and adjustment ratios across different wattage categories.

15.2.1 Installation Rates Installation rates represent the proportion of measures recorded in the tracking sheet and that remains installed in participants' homes. Installation rates for all energy efficient heating systems under Green Hea...

AI summary Installation rates for energy-efficient heating systems under Green Heat are estimated at 100% due to their high cost, with this assumption unchanged during the 2025 DSM MA update. The high cost is presumed to ensure installation, though the rationale for this assumption is not elaborated.

15.6 Realization Rate [Table](#page-39-1) 39 below compares the electrical energy and peak demand savings established through the 2025 evaluation to those calculated in the 2025 tracking sheet. It also includes the realization rate, repres...

AI summary This section discusses the realization rate, which compares evaluated net savings to tracked net savings for electrical energy and peak demand savings as established through the 2025 evaluation and tracking sheet.

Calculations Using Evaluation Results The Evaluator calculated the first-year and lifetime electrical energy and peak demand savings as per the calculation methodology presented in Section [19](#page-46-0) below and using the unitary savin...

AI summary The Evaluator calculated first-year and lifetime electrical energy and peak demand savings using the 2025 DSM MA's unitary savings values and methodology from Section 19. The 2025 DSM MA serves as a reference for calculating savings and includes effective useful life values for E1's DSM program measures.

19.2.6 Effective Useful Life The EUL values used in the calculation of electrical energy savings that are expected to persist over time are presented in the 2025 DSM MA. For the electrical energy savings that come from measures modelled in...

AI summary The 2025 DSM MA establishes weighted average EUL values for electrical energy savings from building envelope measures and space heating equipment under HEA. Equivalent EUL values are applied to gross and net first-year savings to calculate lifetime savings, resulting in differing weighted averages for gross and net savings.

The unconverted D assessment savings spillover effect corresponds to the savings associated with those measures implemented by electrical participants who did not complete an E assessment by the end of the allocated 12-month period (referr...

AI summary The document discusses the unconverted D assessment savings spillover effect, which includes savings from electrical participants who did not complete an E assessment within the 12-month period. These savings were assessed in 2024 and used for the 2025 evaluation, as no data collection was conducted in 2025. The 2025 tracking sheet includes 2,069 participants using electricity as their primary heating source.

Program Tracked and Evaluated Savings [Table](#page-143-0) 3 below summarizes the electrical energy savings and peak demand savings tracked by E1 compared to the evaluated savings at the generator. It also presents the realization rates, r...

AI summary This section presents a table summarizing electrical energy and peak demand savings tracked by E1 compared to evaluated savings at the generator, along with realization rates and NTGR values calculated as rounded averages of net savings divided by gross savings.

Table 4: Types of Evaluations Conducted for Each BER Service in 2025 Component Service 2025 Program Process Market Impact Efficient Product Business Energy Application Rebates (AR) Comprehensive Rebates Rebates (BER) Instant Rebates (IR) C...

AI summary Table 4 outlines the types of evaluations conducted for each BER service in 2025, including comprehensive and condensed evaluations for application and instant rebates. The Evaluator prepared a DSM evaluation report with findings on energy savings and GHG emissions.

Table 5: Implementation Status of Past Recommendations for BER # Recommendation Status Comments 2024-BER-R5 Plan for a shift in the product offer for LED fixtures in BER-IR to BER-AR to capture remaining retrofit opportunities once a LED b...

AI summary Table 5 outlines the implementation status of past recommendations for the Business Energy Rebates (BER) program. Two recommendations were completed, including a shift in product offers from BER-IR to BER-AR and targeting market laggards for lighting retrofits. Research and communication with partners were conducted, and results will be included in the 2025 DSM Efficient Product Rebates Evaluation Report.

CONCLUSION Table 30 below presents the participation levels, net-to-gross ratios (NTGRs), evaluated gross and net savings at the generator, annual GHG emission reductions, as well as effective useful life (EUL) values for each service and...

AI summary Table 30 presents participation levels, net-to-gross ratios, evaluated gross and net savings, annual GHG emission reductions, and effective useful life values for each service and Efficient Product Rebates as a whole.

Table 2: BER-AR Participant Survey Free-ridership Algorithm (Lighting) INTENTION D7. [ASK IF D2=1 OR D4=1, 2 OR 3] Without the Business Energy Rebates Program, what is the likelihood that you would have postponed the purchase of the energy...

AI summary This table outlines the free-ridership algorithm used in the BER-AR Participant Survey for the Lighting program, including questions about the likelihood of postponing purchases and scoring methods to assess free-ridership.

- b. … [ASK IF D1 IS LESS THAN 8], Please explain the reason(s) for your score. Aspects of the program Score Reason 1. The overall NB Power Midstream Business Rebate Program 2. The program support and communications provided by the program...

AI summary The text presents a request for explanation regarding a score given to the NB Power Midstream Business Rebate Program, focusing on aspects such as program support, communication, and rebate processing. It also asks about any challenges experienced with the program.

Installation rate The proportion of incentivized products reported as installed and that remain installed and operating at the time of evaluation. This rate is usually applied to direct install or mail-in rebate programs through which meas...

AI summary The installation rate is defined as the proportion of incentivized products that are installed and remain operational at the time of evaluation, typically used for direct install or mail-in rebate programs where installation is expected to occur immediately upon participation.

alues for all measures offered in E1's program portfolio. For the evaluation conducted during the last year of the 2023-2025 DSM cycle, the Evaluator refers to the values presented in the 2025 DSM MA. [Table](#page-78-0) 10 presents an ill...

AI summary The text discusses the evaluation of energy savings measures in E1's program portfolio during the 2023-2025 DSM cycle, referencing the 2025 DSM MA for values. It also mentions a table illustrating the true-up adjustment process for a hypothetical multiyear project completed in 2025.

4.2.3 Effective Useful Life The Evaluator validated the EUL values based on the 2025 DSM MA. No adjustment was made to the EUL value of the reviewed project.

AI summary The Evaluator validated the Effective Useful Life (EUL) values based on the 2025 DSM MA without making any adjustments to the reviewed project's EUL.

5.2.4 Effective Useful Life The New Construction tracking sheet records savings on a measure-by-measure basis for each project. The Evaluator reviewed the EUL values of all measures in the tracking sheet as part of the tracking sheet audit...

AI summary The New Construction tracking sheet records energy savings measure-by-measure. The Evaluator reviewed Effective Useful Life (EUL) values against the 2025 DSM MA guidelines during the tracking sheet audit, selecting EUL values based on those guidelines.

Project File Reviews In January 2025, a total of 18 measure reviews were conducted. Of these, one included an email request for additional measure information, while another two consisted of a participant interview. The remaining measures...

AI summary In January 2025, 18 measure reviews were conducted, including interviews, site visits, and communication with service providers. Three site visits were requested, with one rescheduled as an interview due to participant availability. Appendices XV and XVI outline the protocols and adjustments for reviews.

11.2.3 Effective Useful Life As part of the 2025 Demand-side Management Measure Assessment (DSM MA)[29](#page-112-3) activities, the Evaluator reviewed the EUL values for all measure categories to ensure they were still valid and revised t...

AI summary The Evaluator reviewed and revised Effective Useful Life (EUL) values for all measure categories in the 2025 DSM MA, resulting in a weighted average EUL of 5.1 years. This ensured EUL values remained valid and aligned with the 2025 DSM MA guidelines.

11.2.4 Evaluated Gross Savings The evaluated 2025 SEM gross electrical energy and peak demand savings at the generator are listed in [Table](#page-113-1) 36 below. The gross electrical energy and peak demand savings at the generator were e...

AI summary The document discusses the evaluation of gross savings for the 2025 Strategic Energy Management (SEM) program, estimating electrical energy and peak demand savings using line loss factors from the 2014 Cost of Service Study. It references the 2025 DSM Measure Assessment (MA) as a key document for calculating savings and includes data on the useful life of energy efficiency measures.

Table 1: Summary of 2025 Demand Response Program Evaluation Evaluation Type Methodology Program Component Process Market Impact Residential Demand Response X Comprehensive › Non-participant survey › Program staff interviews › Service provi...

AI summary The document outlines the evaluation of the 2025 Demand Response Program, including the Residential Demand Response and BNI Demand Response components. It describes the evaluation methodology, which includes surveys, interviews, audits, and data analysis, and references Table 2 for participation levels and available DR capacity.

1.2 Follow-up on Past Evaluation Report Recommendations The Evaluator evaluated Residential DR in 2023 and 2024 and issued improvement recommendations. [Table](#page-49-2) 7 below outlines the status of those recommendations that were carr...

AI summary The Evaluator assessed Residential Demand Response in 2023 and 2024 and issued improvement recommendations. The status of those recommendations that were carried forward is outlined in Table 7.

2 Residential DR Evaluation Approach The 2025 Residential DR evaluation consisted of a comprehensive impact evaluation and a process evaluation. The main objectives of the overall 2025 Residential DR evaluation were as follows: - › Collect...

AI summary The 2025 Residential DR evaluation involved a comprehensive impact and process evaluation with objectives to collect feedback on participation and calculate new and total available DR capacities. Research questions, methods, and sample sizes were outlined in Table 9.

Table 9: 2025 Residential DR Evaluation Approach Evaluation Objectives Research Questions Methodology Evaluation Objectives Research Questions Methodology

AI summary The text presents Table 9, which outlines the 2025 Residential Demand Response (DR) Evaluation Approach, focusing on evaluation objectives, research questions, and methodology for assessing residential DR programs.

Table 10: Types of Devices Included in DR Programs per Jurisdiction Program Administrator Smart Thermostats EV and EV Chargers Home Batteries Hot Water Controllers Efficiency Nova Scotia ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ BC Hydro ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ DTE Energy ✓ ✓ - ✓ Green Mo...

AI summary Table 10 lists the types of devices included in demand response (DR) programs across various jurisdictions, highlighting the participation of Efficiency Nova Scotia and other utility providers. The table includes categories such as smart thermostats, EV and EV chargers, home batteries, and hot water controllers.

All programs adopt a bring-your-own-device (BYOD) option requiring participants to own or purchase and install eligible smart devices to enroll. Hydro-Québec and Yukon Energy are the only jurisdictions combining both BYOD and direct instal...

AI summary The text discusses how DR programs in various jurisdictions offer participants options to enroll via bring-your-own-device (BYOD) or through energy efficiency programs that provide free or discounted devices. It also notes variations in enrollment processes, such as optional steps or device-type dependencies.

Table 11: DR Program Enrollment Pathways by Jurisdiction Program Administrator Is there a Complimentary Energy Efficiency Program Associated with DR? DR Enrollment Pathway via Energy Efficiency Program? Efficiency Nova Scotia √ (EPI: Free...

AI summary Table 11 outlines Demand Response (DR) program enrollment pathways by jurisdiction, including whether a complimentary energy efficiency program is associated with DR and the enrollment process. Efficiency Nova Scotia, BC Hydro, IESO, National Grid, PSE, and Rhode Island Energy are highlighted with their respective DR and energy efficiency program details.

Enrollment Incentive As in Nova Scotia, all jurisdictions with an eligible smart thermostat DR program, except DTE Energy, offer incentives at enrollment. While E1 offers an incentive per device with a lower amount for additional devices e...

AI summary This section compares enrollment incentives for smart thermostat demand response (DR) programs across various jurisdictions, noting that most offer incentives at enrollment, with variations in amounts, customer types, and thermostat types. Yukon Energy provides rebates, and Hydro-Québec offers either per-device incentives or free thermostats.

Participation Incentive and Other Recurring incentives for continued enrollment vary widely. They may be a fixed annual amount per device or household, a monthly payment, or a performance-based amount per kilowatt reduced during DR events....

AI summary Recurring incentives for participation in demand response (DR) programs vary by jurisdiction, with examples including fixed annual payments, monthly payments, or performance-based incentives. E1 offers a higher incentive ($50 per device) compared to Rhode Island and BC Hydro, which offer lower amounts. Hydro-Québec does not provide incentives but offers lower electricity rates during peak events.

Participation Rate The participation rate captures all reasons enrolled devices did not participate. Indeed, participants can opt out of any event, not all EVs are connected to the grid during events, and connectivity issues can result in...

AI summary The participation rate reflects the proportion of enrolled devices that actually participate in demand response (DR) events. For Smart Thermostat DLC, opt-outs and connectivity issues do not affect the participation rate. However, for other pathways like Battery Control and EV Telematic, participation rates are low due to dispatching issues and lack of charging during events. Recommendations include using bidirectional chargers and conducting feasibility studies.

Smart Thermostats For the Smart Thermostat DLC pathway, the Evaluator applied the same methodology as in 2024. More precisely, the baseline was established using whole-house electricity consumption and a regressionbased approach that accou...

AI summary The evaluation of smart thermostats under the DLC pathway used a regression-based methodology with cleaned datasets, excluding inconsistent participants. A sample of 1,222 households was analyzed, grouped by heating systems (EBBs, MSHPs, etc.). The 2025 DSM MA document provided parameters for calculating energy savings and effective useful life values.

Table 21: 2024/25 Available DR Capacity per Participant per Event Available DR Capacity per Participant (W) Event # Event # Event Date Smart per Space EV Telematics Battery EBB Only MSHP Only EBB and MSHP Only Others and Chargers Controls...

AI summary Table 21 presents the 2024/25 available demand response (DR) capacity per participant per event, highlighting variations across different pathways such as Smart per Space, EV Telematics, and Battery Controls. The data shows average available DR capacity values, with some margins of error slightly above the typical 10% threshold. The Evaluator considers these acceptable for establishing 2025 results and E1 tracking for 2026 but notes the need for further analysis to ensure consistency year over year.

Smart Thermostats For smart thermostats, the Evaluator established unitary available DR capacity per thermostat since this metric is better aligned with how participation is tracked. The household data included in the metering analysis wer...

AI summary The Evaluator determined unitary available DR capacity per smart thermostat, using household data to calculate average numbers per household and dividing average DR capacity by this figure. This metric was used to calculate the 2025 evaluated available DR capacity for the Smart Thermostat DLC pathway.

Table 25: Change in Available DR Capacity from 2024 to 2025 Available DR Capacity (MW) % of 2024 Total Available DR Capacity Total 2024 Capacity (A) 0.057 N/A Change in Existing Participants Available DR Capacity (B) 0.012 22% Loss Due To...

AI summary Table 25 shows a significant increase in available demand response (DR) capacity from 2024 to 2025, primarily due to new participants joining the program, despite some loss from participants leaving. The data indicates that all available DR capacity from DHW controllers is considered new since no capacity was claimed for them in 2024.

6.1 BNI DR Description In 2023, E1 officially launched the BNI DR program component now branded as Smart Synergy. Since the fall of 2020, E1 had implemented several pilot initiatives focused on reducing demand during the Nova Scotia peak p...

AI summary In 2023, EfficiencyOne launched the BNI DR program, branded as Smart Synergy, following pilot initiatives since 2020. The C&I Aggregator pathway, managed by Parsons Inc., allows load reduction through remote control or participant action during DR events, targeting systems like heating, cooling, and lighting.

Table 28: BNI DR 2024/25 Event History Month Number of Morning Events Number of Evening Events Total Number of Events Average Length of Events (Hours) December 1 2 3 3.7 January 1 1 2 3.5 February 2 2 3 3.7 Total 4 5 8 3.6 \ One event in F...

AI summary Table 28 outlines the event history for the BNI DR 2024/25 program, showing the number of morning and evening events held each month, along with the total number of events and their average length. In February, one event was split into two time-windows, and participants were grouped into morning and evening platoons based on their suitability for participation.

Table 29: Implementation Status of Past Recommendations for BNI DR # Recommendation Status Comments 2023 – BNI DR – R2 Establish enrolled capacity based on test events when feasible. Complete To ensure it is consistent with M&V guidelines,...

AI summary The document outlines the implementation status of past recommendations for the BNI DR program. Key actions include establishing enrolled capacity based on test events, determining optimal event times for participants, updating baseline considerations, and using project reviews to evaluate available DR capacities. These actions were completed as of 2025.

Table 30: 2025 BNI DR Evaluation Approach Evaluation Objectives Research Questions Methodology Establish available DR capacity results for the C&I Aggregator pathway › Are the data in the tracking sheet complete, accurate, and consistent?...

AI summary The document outlines the evaluation approach for the 2025 BNI Demand Response (DR) program, focusing on assessing the completeness, accuracy, and consistency of data in the tracking sheet and verifying the M&V methodology used. It includes an audit of the tracking sheet and project reviews.

Table 31: 2024/25 Available DR Capacity of Reviewed Meters Metric Stratum 1 Stratum 2 Unadjusted Available DR Capacity (kW) 6,115 231 Tracked Results Tracked Adjustment Ratios 0.67 0.74 Tracked Available DR Capacity 4,079 170 Evaluated Res...

AI summary Table 31 presents the 2024/25 available demand response (DR) capacity for two strata of meters, showing unadjusted and adjusted capacities based on tracked and evaluated results. Adjustment ratios are calculated by dividing adjusted capacities by unadjusted capacities. The Evaluator considers a margin of error below 10% as statistically significant, and the 11% margin for stratum 2 is deemed acceptable due to limited sample size and few changes.

Table 33: Evaluated 2025 BNI DR Available DR Capacity Stratum 1 Meters Stratum 2 Meters Total Number of Participants 20 138 158 Unadjusted Available DR Capacity – at the Meter (MW) 6.115 2.972 9.087 Adjustment Ratio 65% 55% 62% Available D...

AI summary Table 33 evaluates the 2025 BNI DR available DR capacity, showing a decrease of 46% in available DR capacity from returning participants compared to 2024. New participants contributed 1.736 MW, while the new available DR capacity was -2.093 MW.

[Table](#page-108-1) 35 presents the difference between enrolled available DR capacity and evaluated available DR capacity. Metric Stratum 1 Meters Stratum 2 Meters Overall Enrolled Available DR Capacity (MW) 8.392 13.660 22.052 Evaluated...

AI summary Table 35 compares enrolled and evaluated available demand response (DR) capacity across different strata. The enrolled capacity is significantly higher than the evaluated capacity, with overall evaluated capacity being only 27% of enrolled capacity.

8.3 Program Realization Rate [Table](#page-109-0) 36 below compares the available DR capacity established through this evaluation to the value in the 2025 tracking sheet. The realization rate, representing the ratio of evaluated available...

AI summary The program realization rate for DR capacity is 89%, calculated by comparing evaluated available DR capacity to tracked available DR capacity. Event 8 was excluded due to being a split event with participants called for different times based on platoons.

Table 36: Comparison of 2025 BNI DR Tracked and Evaluated Available DR Capacity at the Generator Available DR Capacity Realization Rate Value Unit Available DR Capacity Tracked by E1 6.648 MW Evaluation Results 5.941 MW 89% This value is t...

AI summary The evaluated available DR capacity for 2025 BNI DR was 11% lower than the value tracked by E1, due to adjustments made during project reviews. The realization rate was 89%.

Table 37: Overall 2025 Demand Response Participation and Evaluated Results Participation Level Evaluated Results Value Unit Value Unit Residential DR Available DR Capacity 3,676 Participants 0.854 MW BNI DR Available DR Capacity 143 Partic...

AI summary Table 37 shows that the 2025 Demand Response (DR) program fell short of its targets, with both Residential DR and BNI DR not meeting planned available DR capacity. BNI DR remained the largest contributor to program available DR capacity, which totaled 6.795 MW.

This appendix summarizes all the recommendations made by the Evaluator as part of the 2025 evaluation of Residential DR. Section Recommendations Executive Summary 2025 Res DR Recommendation 1: Include all changes to the pilot and program i...

AI summary The appendix outlines two key recommendations from the 2025 evaluation of the Residential Demand Response (DR) program. The first recommends updating the program manual to include all historical changes and clearly define eligibility criteria. The second emphasizes ensuring accurate data collection and proper recording of device information during the EPI installation process.

r suited to morning events or to evening events and, for each event, E1 can decide to only call participants that are better suited to that time or to call all participants to take part in that event. To illustrate how available DR capacit...

AI summary The text explains how available DR capacity is calculated by considering participants' suitability for morning or evening events. An example with five participants and five events is used to illustrate the calculation, showing how events are scheduled based on participants' availability.

Table 1: Residential Measure Assessment Change Log Change Type Section Description Date Update 2.3.3(10) Smart Thermostats for Electrical Heating Systems Updated average heating energy with HEA 2021- 2025-03-19 2023 TS data. Updated heat p...

AI summary This change log outlines updates and removals to residential energy efficiency measures in Nova Scotia. It includes updates to smart thermostats, the addition of advanced learning thermostats, and the removal of clotheslines and outdoor drying racks from the program. Changes are based on data from various sources including HEA, EPI, and ARet.

Use and Application For the evaluations conducted during the last two years of the 2023-2025 demand-side management (DSM) cycle, the Evaluator will refer to the values presented in the 2025 DSM MA. The DSM MA includes the following element...

AI summary The 2025 DSM MA is referenced for evaluating demand-side management (DSM) programs in the 2023-2025 cycle, including interactive effects, peak demand ratios, installation rates, unitary savings, and effective useful life (EUL) values. Demand response (DR) measures differ from demand reduction measures by generating savings only during DR events rather than throughout peak periods.

Combining the values presented in Table 3 and Table 4, Table 5 summarizes the interactive effects factor established for each lighting measure. 2025 DSM Measure Assessment Final Report & lt;sup>5 Including 9 W, 9.5 W, 10 W, 18 W, and 7 W b...

AI summary The text discusses the interactive effects factor for lighting measures, referencing data from Table 3, Table 4, and Table 5. It includes details about LED lamps installed through EPI and references a 2016 Socket Study by Corporate Research Associates Inc. for Efficiency Nova Scotia.

Summary Table 15 presents a summary of the values used to calculate the savings for motion sensors. The detailed methodology follows.

AI summary Table 15 summarizes the values used to calculate savings for motion sensors, with a detailed methodology provided in the proceeding.

2.3.2 Peak Demand Savings Factors For most space heating measures, peak demand savings are not calculated using a peak demand-toenergy ratio. For more details, refer to Subsection [2.3.3](#page-33-0)[(1)](#page-33-1) for mini-split heat pu...

AI summary The document discusses the methodology for calculating peak demand savings factors for various space heating measures. It notes that for most measures, peak demand savings are not calculated using a peak demand-to-energy ratio, while for air sealing products, ratios established by Navigant in the 2016-2018 DSM Plan are recommended. Programmable and smart thermostats are assumed to have nil peak demand savings unless part of a demand response program.

Table 132: Smart Thermostat Load Control Measure Summary Parameter Demand Response Reference Measure Description and Identification Measure Direct load control for smart thermostats - Baseline Smart thermostats without direct load control...

AI summary Table 132 summarizes the Smart Thermostat Load Control Measure, focusing on parameters like in-service rates, energy savings, and DR capacity. It categorizes measures and provides data for different subcategories of smart thermostats.

KEMA. Focus on Energy Evaluation Business Programs: Measure Life Study. Prepared for PA Consulting Group Inc., August 2009. Measure Program Component EUL Value Reference Fryers BER-AR, SBES 12 DEER 2014 (Value for fryers) Griddles BER-AR,...

AI summary The document presents a measure life study for energy evaluation business programs, focusing on effective useful life (EUL) values for various equipment under the Business Energy Rebates (BER-AR) and Small Business Energy Solutions (SBES) programs. The EUL values are sourced from the Demand-Side Management Resource Plan (DEER 2014) and other references like the Vermont TRM and DOE data.

NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING On March 31, 2026, EfficiencyOne applied to the Board to approve the 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management Purchase Agreement between EfficiencyOne and Nova Scotia Power Incorporated, the establ...

AI summary EfficiencyOne has applied to the Nova Scotia Energy Board for approval of a 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management Purchase Agreement with Nova Scotia Power Incorporated and the establishment of a final agreement and resource plan. A public hearing is scheduled for August 2026.

Request IR-03: In Table 14 of Appendix A, Solar PV generation of 1.7 GWH is shown. Is this first year or lifetime generation? Please report both first year and lifetime generation, to be comparable to first year and lifetime savings for ot...

AI summary The response clarifies that the 1.7 GWh of Solar PV generation in Table 14 refers to first-year generation. It also directs to Table 51 for both first-year and lifetime generation data, ensuring comparability with other DSM programs.

Request IR-03: Reference: Evidence, page 27. "… For the period of 2027–2031 the level of energy savings in the IRP is 683.1 GWh, 123.9 MW of demand savings, and 44.3 MW from demand response (excluding rates – CPP & TVP). […] The energy sav...

AI summary The document discusses energy savings targets in the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) for 2027–2031, noting 683.1 GWh of energy savings. E1 modeled scenarios with varying investment levels, addressing concerns from the DSMAG about short-term affordability. The proposed energy savings of 435.4 GWh represent 64% of the IRP target and are deemed cost-effective compared to supply-side options.

1 Table 2: Alternate Scenario – Average Rate Impacts by Resource over 2027 – 2046. Residential Small Large Small Medium Large Municipal General General Industrial Industrial Industrial DSM (All Resources) 0.55% 0.88% 0.74% 0.33% 0.76% -0.1...

AI summary Table 2 presents the average rate impacts by resource for an alternate scenario over the years 2027 to 2046. It shows the percentage impacts on residential, small, and large sectors, including general, industrial, and municipal categories. The table includes data on DSM, energy efficiency, demand response, and solar PV.

Request IR-18: Reference: 2027-2031 DSM Plan Application, Exhibit E-1, Appendix A ("Appendix A"), page 79. "E1 notes that interruptible customers have not been eligible to participate in the past. The potential for them to be eligible in t...

AI summary E1 acknowledges discussions about allowing interruptible customers to participate in Smart Synergy and commits to further evaluation. The response addresses how incremental value would be determined and how system benefits and double compensation would be managed.

a DR event, please explain 1.) how the overall system benefits from this arrangement and 2.) how E1 would ensure the customer is not compensated twice for the same demand reduction. Response IR-18: (a) EfficiencyOne's) (E1) position is tha...

AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) discusses the potential participation of interruptible customers in the Smart Synergy program, acknowledging the need to ensure that incentives are limited to incremental voluntary curtailments beyond existing interruptible tariff obligations. E1 is committed to further discussions with the DSM Advisory Group to assess feasibility and develop a methodology for determining incremental value.

1 Request IR-05: 2 3 (a) Please confirm whether the Custom New Construction Program provides incentives for 4 heating scenarios with natural gas. 5 6 (b) Please describe the directional impacts of heating system scenarios that include natu...

AI summary The document includes requests and responses regarding the Custom New Construction Program's incentives for natural gas heating and hybrid heating measures in the 2027-2031 DSM Plan. EfficiencyOne confirms incentives for natural gas heating and references prior responses for modeling analysis and collaboration details.

Within the strategic electrification scenarios, several measures incorporating backup (i.e., hybrid) heating systems were assessed. These primarily included applications of mini-split heat pumps and centrally ducted heat pumps, which were...

AI summary The document discusses strategic electrification scenarios involving hybrid heating systems like mini-split and centrally ducted heat pumps, with supplementary heating for performance under varying conditions. E1 plans to examine residential hybrid heating further in the 2026 study. The New Construction and Custom offerings used historical data rather than discrete measure-level assumptions, and E1 engaged with Eastward Energy and other stakeholders during the 2027–2031 DSM Plan development.

asured and phased portfolio that delivers incremental capacity value aligned with peak demand reduction objectives, without exceeding system need or introducing undue delivery or affordability risk. (b) Undue delivery and affordability ris...

AI summary The text discusses the concept of 'undue delivery and affordability risk' in the context of demand response scaling within the 2027–2031 Preferred DSM Plan. It emphasizes a balanced approach based on empirical data, modeling, cost-effectiveness analysis, and regulatory expectations to ensure reliability and affordability.

etc). The price is currently $110/tonne CO2e for 2026 and increases by $15/tonne CO2e annually until the price reaches $130/tonne C02e in 2030. DATE FILED: May 28, 2026 E1 (IG) IR-07 Page 2 of 2 [Output-Based Pricing System Reporting and C...

AI summary E1's DSM Resource Plan includes payback information for measures with ≤ 3-year payback, as required by NSUAB following the M10473 E1 2023 – 2025 DSM Resource Plan. The summary indicates that DSM is fully paid back no later than 2032. Questions are raised about whether the payback reflects current approved rates in the 2027-2028 GRA and a request for an Excel version of the Alternate Scenario.

dentified. (b) Please provide the methodology and all assumptions underlying the lifetime unit cost calculation, including assumed savings lifetimes, discount rate, and realization rates by measure. (c) Please provide the comparable first-...

AI summary E1 responds to requests for methodology details on unit cost calculations for the DSM Plan, noting program support cost allocations, timing constraints affecting 2026 updates, and references to Attachment 1 for cost comparisons between 2026 and 2027–2031 plans. It also mentions administration cost allocations and the incorporation of 2025 evaluation adjustments in the 2027–2031 plan.

ing will continue throughout the 2027–2031 Plan period. E1 will also provide updates in its annual reports on the measures of success identified for each area of focus in the 2027–2031 Preferred Plan. - 1 (d) E1's position is that the allo...

AI summary E1 asserts that the allocation of Enabling Strategies aligns with the 'beneficiary pays' principle. Allocators are applied at the category level rather than sub-categories, and specific cost allocations for Medium and Large Industrial rate classes are detailed in tables.

16 Table 5: Medium Industrial expenditures by areas of focus and total Development and Research Other Enabling Strategies Areas of Focus Areas of Focus Year Information & Analytics ($) Innovation ($) Total Investment ($) DSM Planning ($) R...

AI summary Table 5 outlines Medium Industrial expenditures by areas of focus from 2027 to 2031, showing investments in Information & Analytics, Innovation, DSM Planning, and other regulatory matters, with total investment figures provided for each year and the overall period.

Application. The updated process is more fully described in E1's response to NSEB IR-30. - 5 ii) Please refer to part (b) i) of this IR response. 4 DATE FILED: May 28, 2026 E1 (IG) IR-16 Page 5 of 5 Request IR-17: Reference: Exhibit E-1, A...

AI summary E1 is updating its 2026 DSM Potential Study to inform the NSIESO's 2026 Integrated Resource Plan and contribute to the 2027–2031 Plan period. The update will consider alternative program designs, incentives, and technical assistance for industrial customers, and the study's objectives include improving rate benefits for medium and industrial participants.

ova Scotia Independent Energy System Operator's (NSIESO) 2026 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP). The referenced statement reflects E1's expectations that there will be an update to the 2026 DSM Potential Study to inform the 2032–2036 DSM Plan...

AI summary E1 outlines its expectations for updating the 2026 DSM Potential Study to inform the 2032–2036 DSM Plan and the IRP process led by the NSIESO. The primary objective of the study is to project technically achievable and cost-effective DSM potential, not to assess rate or bill impacts. Rate and bill impacts are evaluated separately through the RBIA.

tudy, but the study contributes to an IRP and planning process whose broader purpose is to minimize long-term electricity costs for all ratepayers. DATE FILED: May 28, 2026 E1 (IG) IR-17 Page 2 of 2 Request IR-18: Reference: Exhibit E-1, A...

AI summary The document requests clarification on eligibility criteria for the BNI Demand Response program, specifically regarding rate classes and the inclusion of Large Industrial Interruptible customers in the 2027–2031 DSM Plan period. It also inquires about past ineligibility of interruptible customers and whether E1 would support exploring their eligibility.

(a) The eligible rate classes for Smart Synergy are business, non-profit, and institutional electricity customers served under the following NS Power rate codes: 10, 11, 12, 21, 22, or 23. Other program eligibility requirements also apply,...

AI summary Smart Synergy is available to business, non-profit, and institutional customers under specific NS Power rate codes, excluding those participating in existing demand response programs. Interruptible customers are ineligible due to the Large Industrial Interruptible Rider, and E1 has not determined eligibility for these customers during the 2027–2031 DSM Plan period, though further discussions are planned.

Table 1: Custom Incentives Program: Investment, Savings, and Participation Custom Incentive s Program Industrial Retrofit $ 11,432,500.00 separated by $11,432,500.00 65.63 by measure in 2027- Custom Commercial Retrofit $ 4,170,000.00 measu...

AI summary Table 1 presents the investment, savings, and participation details for the Custom Incentives Program, including amounts allocated for Industrial Retrofit, Commercial Retrofit, Building Optimization, and Equity Deserving Groups. It also includes total figures and adjustments.

- (a) Please refer to Attachment 1 of this IR Response. - i) Please refer to Attachment 1 of this IR Response. - ii) Please refer to Attachment 1 of this IR Response. - iii) Please refer to Attachment 1 of this IR Response. - iv) Please re...

AI summary The document discusses the demand response practices of NS Power and EfficiencyOne (E1), including the notice period provided for demand response events and its impact on participation levels. In 2026, the notice period was increased to ≥24 hours, contributing to improved results in the BNI Demand Response program.

- 1 2027–2031 DSM plan modelling and as presented in the measure level technical 2 tables in Appendix A, Attachment 3 of E1's 2027–2031 DSM Plan Application. - 3 Additionally, changes in measure definitions, program structures, and resourc...

AI summary The document discusses the challenges faced in aligning historical DSM plan results with the new technical table format for the 2027–2031 DSM Plan. It highlights the limitations due to changes in measure definitions, program structures, and resource categories, as well as the design of the technical tables for portfolio-level performance targets rather than year-specific reporting.

(c) For Custom Retrofit, customer incentives are paid prior to Evaluation. If the savings for a particular project are revised through the evaluation process, it does not impact the incentive for the project and no mechanism is needed to a...

AI summary The document outlines the process for customer incentives in Custom Retrofit and SEM programs, highlighting differences in timing based on evaluation stages. It also references a request and response regarding the 2025 Demand Response (DR) Program evaluation report, including changes in DR capacity and non-participation rates, as well as structural barriers identified by Econoler.

Response IR-04: (a) New measures, including batteries, are not eligible in the Residential Demand Response (DR) program component under the proposed 2027–2031 DSM Preferred Plan because EfficiencyOne (E1) is maintaining Residential DR at t...

AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) has excluded new residential battery enrollments from the Residential Demand Response (DR) program in the proposed 2027–2031 DSM Preferred Plan due to challenges with enrollment and cost-effectiveness. While battery control was considered in early modelling, it was not included in subsequent iterations due to these concerns.

Reference: Appendix A, Attachment 5, Table 1 Forus Area DSM Direct Expenditure ($) Focus Area — 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 Total ($) Demand Response 160,650 178,815 123,175 110,250 111,500 684,390 Demand Flexibility 183,600 204,360 221,715 1...

AI summary The document presents a table outlining projected direct expenditures for various demand-side management (DSM) focus areas from 2027 to 2031, including Demand Response, Demand Flexibility, Strategic Electrification, Market Transformation, and Locational DSM. A question is raised about the eligibility of new residential batteries, including Virtual Power Plants, under these areas.

E1 Responses to Nova Scotia Energy Board (NSEB) Information Requests NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 Request IR-01: 16 Net" over the term of the proposed DSM plan. 17 18 Response IR-02: 19 20 (a) EfficiencyOne (E1) did provide a redline and clean versi...

AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) responded to the Nova Scotia Energy Board's (NSEB) information requests regarding the 2027–2031 DSM Plan. E1 provided a redline and clean version of the proposed Purchase Agreement to NS Power prior to filing the plan but did not receive specific feedback. The response also addressed concerns about the use of terms 'cumulative' and 'annual' and noted alignment with the Standardized Filing Framework. The plan aims to balance affordability and long-term cost reduction.

1 Board (NSEB) decisions and the Public Utilities Act . The NSEB confirmed in its 2025 Benefit 2 Cost Analysis (BCA) Test Decision that "the purpose of the demand-side management provisions in the Public Utilities Act is to reduce electric...

AI summary The NSEB confirmed that the purpose of demand-side management provisions in the Public Utilities Act is to reduce electricity costs for customers. EfficiencyOne (E1) has relied on NSEB decisions and legislation to determine that the 2027–2031 DSM Plan investment of $63.75 million per year is affordable. The 2023–2025 DSM Plan was approved and extended for 2026 with a modest 2% increase due to inflation.

E1 Responses to Nova Scotia Energy Board (NSEB) Information Requests NON-CONFIDENTIAL Impact of 2027-2031 DSM Plan on Residential Customers Bills 13 2022 Evergreen IRP in the 2026 DSM Extension and subsequently for the 2027–2031 DSM 14 Pla...

AI summary E1 responds to Nova Scotia Energy Board information requests regarding the impact of the 2027–2031 DSM Plan on residential customer bills. The response discusses the use of avoided costs from NS Power's 2022 Evergreen IRP, the accuracy of emissions impacts, and the process for updating calculations when IESO-NS provides an updated IRP. It also addresses cost-effectiveness testing and the justification for measures that fail such testing.

E1 Responses to Nova Scotia Energy Board (NSEB) Information Requests NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 large industrial customers, encourage customers to complete energy 2 efficiency projects, and reward them for the time and effort they invest 3 in ener...

AI summary E1 discusses its energy efficiency programs, highlighting increased participation and savings due to incentives. The Strategic Energy Management program rewards customers for long-term engagement, and program costs include service provider fees and customer incentives. These details are outlined in E1's 2027-2031 DSM Plan Application.

E1 Responses to Nova Scotia Energy Board (NSEB) Information Requests NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 Request IR-05: 2 3 Evidence – Exhibit E-1, pp.1-71 (pdf pp. 8-78) 4 5 With regards to Section 2.2.2.1 "Compliance with the 2025 BCA Decision": 6 7 (a)...

AI summary E1 has noted that NS Power has not provided long-run marginal emissions rates, despite requests in December 2025 and February 2026. E1 has used emissions information from NS Power's IRP and the 2023–2026 DSM Plan. Questions are raised about discussions since February 2026 and the impact of long-run marginal emissions rates on the 2027–2031 DSM Plan.

M12349, Nova Scotia Power, 2025 Load Forecast Report, June 27, 2025, page 10. Year First Year Net Savings Energy Savings (GWh) 2025 NS Power Load Forecast1 (GWh) First Year Net Savings Energy Savings % of Load 10 planning objectives." 11 i...

AI summary The document references a 2025 Load Forecast Report by Nova Scotia Power and includes questions regarding updated demand response modelling assumptions and administrative costs in the 2027-2031 DSM Plan. It also notes that feedback from the DSMAG influenced the moderation of demand response investment levels in the new plan.

from the Demand Response program are a result of "C&I Curtailment" and "C&I Loadshift to BUGs". Please confirm. - If not confirmed, please explain in the context of the Figures contained in the tabs. - If confirmed: - a) Please describe th...

AI summary The text asks whether spending from the Demand Response program is attributed to 'C&I Curtailment' and 'C&I Loadshift to BUGs'. If confirmed, it requests reasons for the higher spending on 'DLC – Thermostats' and 'DLC – Water Heating' compared to the other components, and the cost per MW saved for each program component from 2027 to 2031. It also references a Board decision and ongoing discussions between E1 and NS Power regarding program overlap and collaboration.

During the 2027–2031 Plan period, E1 expects BNI demand response to provide the majority of DR capacity because it is a more cost-effective resource. Spending on DLC – Thermostats and DLC – Water Heating economics stabilize.

AI summary E1 anticipates that BNI demand response will be the primary source of DR capacity during the 2027–2031 Plan period due to its cost-effectiveness. Spending on DLC thermostats and water heating economics is expected to stabilize.

(h) i) Please refer to E1's response to NSEB IR-06. 11 10 ii) E1 does not have a specific timeline identified on when this issue will be resolved. 13 12 14 (i) E1 confirms that the Innovation allocations identified under both the "Demand R...

AI summary The text references E1's response to an information request and confirms that investment allocations under 'Demand Response' and 'Locational DSM' include various key activities outlined in an appendix. E1 does not provide a specific timeline for resolving the issue.

1 ii) The projected direct expenditures for strategic electrification under the Innovation 2 Framework, Process and Plan for 2027–2031 are set out in Table 1 of Appendix A, 3 Attachment 5 of E1's 2027–2031 DSM Resource Plan Application as...

AI summary The text refers to projected direct expenditures for strategic electrification under the Innovation 2 Framework, as outlined in Table 1 of Appendix A, Attachment 5 of E1's 2027–2031 DSM Resource Plan Application.

1 M09096, Document No. 84486, DSMAG Revised Terms of Reference, September 20, 2021, page 7 1 Request IR-16: 2 3 Evidence – Exhibit E-1, pp.1-71 (pdf pp. 8-78) 4 5 Regarding Section 3.6 "Enabling Strategies" of the Application: 6 7 (a) Pdf...

AI summary The response to Request IR-16 discusses the development of the 2027–2031 DSM Plan through stakeholder engagement with the DSMAG, emphasizing confidentiality of submissions and the collaborative environment established for dialogue and decision-making.

revised Figure 6 showing both Participants and Non-Participants. Residential Small General General Large General Small Industrial Medium Industrial Large Industrial Municipal DSM (All Resources) 3.69% 4.19% 3.92% 2.89% 3.47% 1.60% 4.70% 2....

AI summary Revised Figure 6 presents participation rates across various customer segments for DSM, Energy Efficiency, Demand Response, and Solar PV programs. The data shows varying levels of participation, with some segments showing negative contributions, particularly in Demand Response.

Project Scope and Background The UARB directed EfficiencyOne to present these recommendations as a result of the regulatory process for the proposed 2016-2018 Demand Side Management (DSM) Resource Plan. In its August 12, 2015 Decision, the...

AI summary The NSUARB directed EfficiencyOne to present recommendations as part of the regulatory process for the proposed 2016-2018 DSM Resource Plan. A budget of $102.15 million was set for the DSM Plan period following a budget adjustment in the Quantum Agreement, with initial energy and demand savings targets remaining unchanged.

13 Our Electricity Future: Nova Scotia's Energy Plan 2015-2020, Nova Scotia Department of Energy, Available: Rate Class Number of Customer Accounts Residential 456,991 Small General Business 24,109 General Business 11,349 Large General Bus...

AI summary The document presents a table of NS Power customer accounts by rate class and references a 2014 DSM Potential Study by Navigant Consulting, along with data from EfficiencyOne and other sources like Stats Canada and ElectroFed.

COST EFFECTIVENESS AND AVOIDED COSTS At the portfolio level, cost effectiveness is guaranteed since the combination of savings targets and budget is lower than the cost effectiveness threshold (provided that the persistence of the energy s...

AI summary The document discusses the cost effectiveness of energy efficiency programs, focusing on the Total Resource Cost (TRC) threshold of 1.0 set by ENS for each program. It highlights the inclusion of program administration costs in TRC screening and notes that other jurisdictions sometimes exclude these costs due to their variability. The approach is based on the 2015-2040 DSM Potential Study by Navigant Consulting.

Avoided Costs Periodically, the avoided costs are updated. The last update occurred in 2015, based on a report by Synapse Energy Economics which investigated the avoided energy supply costs for New England. Before any changes are implement...

AI summary The document discusses the updating of avoided costs, last updated in 2015 based on Synapse Energy Economics' report on New England's avoided energy supply costs. These costs are calculated for the entire New England region and divided into geographic areas, with Massachusetts being one. Major categories include avoided capacity costs, avoided energy costs, transmission and distribution costs, and various DRIPE categories.

M12780 – EfficiencyOne (E1) 2027–2031 Demand Side Management (DSM) Resource Plan Application 1 customers, consistent with considerations applied across both the Preferred Plan and 2 the Alternate Scenario. 3 4 Appendix A, Attachment 3 of E...

AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) has submitted a 2027–2031 Demand Side Management (DSM) Resource Plan Application. The Preferred Plan targets 435.4 GWh of incremental cumulative net energy savings, which is at the lower end of APEX's recommended range of 0.8% to 1.0% of NS Power's load. E1's response explains that the target was determined through modelling software and is considered conservative and achievable.

3 3.3.2 KEY SOURCES FOR MEASURE INPUT DEVELOPMENT - The primary sources of values for measure input development are Table 11[6](#page-64-2) and Table 16[7](#page-64-3) 4 from the 2024 - 5 Custom Incentives Evaluation, as well as historical...

AI summary The primary sources for measure input development are Table 11 and Table 16 from the 2024 Custom Incentives Evaluation, along with historical project-level program results.

- gross energy savings at the meter, as shown in the table below. 2022 Custom Incentive Evaluation, Evaluated Gross Savings, Table 21: Evaluated 2022 P4P Gross Energy and Peak Demand Savings, page 32 (PDF 663/1087) 2022 Custom Incentive Ev...

AI summary The text discusses gross energy savings at the meter, including a table that outlines evaluated gross savings from the 2022 Custom Incentive Evaluation. It provides data on energy savings at the generator level and measure life calculations.

1 4.2.6.2 Coincident Peak Demand Savings (kW) 2 Value: 0.061 6 - 3 Source: Average savings value calculated using recent tracked savings for this measure. - 4 Details: In practice, unitary peak demand savings are calculated by multiplying...

AI summary The value of 0.061 represents average savings for coincident peak demand in kW, calculated using recent tracked savings. It is derived by multiplying the unitary savings value by the peak demand-to-energy ratio (0.162 RES-Water Heat, Navigant 2016-2018 DSM Plan).

4.3.6.1 Energy Savings (kWh) - Value: 143 - Source: Average savings value calculated using recent tracked savings for this measure. - Details: In practice, Electrical unitary energy savings are calculated using the following equation and t...

AI summary This section discusses energy savings calculations for residential measures, using formulas and data from the 2024-2025 Measure Assessment and the EfficiencyOne 2027-2031 DSM Plan. It includes equations for calculating energy savings for fans and heating systems.

3.1.2 Subject Area 2: Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) DERs are small-scale energy generation or storage systems that are located close to the point of use, such as in homes, businesses or communities. Typical technologies include solar...

AI summary The document discusses the role of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) in Demand Side Management (DSM), focusing on the testing of Behind-The-Meter batteries (BTM) as part of a load flexibility pilot. It also mentions investigating commercial battery opportunities for integration into long-term load flexibility strategies.

3.4 Innovation Pilots Overview No. Technology Description 2025 Action Short-term Deliverables (1-3 years) Medium-term Deliverables (3-5 years) Long-term Deliverables (5+ years) Sector(s) Category / Categories 5 Electric Vehicles Explore lo...

AI summary This section outlines an innovation pilot focused on electric vehicles, aiming to explore load management solutions and V2G adoption barriers. The 2025 action includes investigating load management options for residential EV charging, with short-term, medium-term, and long-term deliverables such as testing V2G and developing a VPP pilot.

3.4.1.2 DR Load flexibility The DR load flexibility pilot will launch in Q1 of 2025 and will focus on leveraging existing DR technologies/participants in new use cases beyond system peak curtailment. The new use cases may include cold load...

AI summary The DR load flexibility pilot will launch in Q1 2025, aiming to expand DR use cases beyond system peak curtailment, such as cold load pickup and renewable following, to improve program cost-effectiveness. The pilot seeks to increase DR value for ratepayers and enhance grid stability, with evaluation planned after the first DR season.

19 Table 1: Metrics in 2023-2025 DSM Plan Application Column in 2023-2025 DSM Plan Application Attachment 4 Explanation 22 DCRR process. The DCRR includes a Balance Adjustment, which will be informed by E1's 23 surplus for 2027–2031 based...

AI summary The text discusses the DCRR process, which includes a Balance Adjustment informed by E1's surplus for 2027–2031, reported to NS Power and included in the 2028 DCRR. Adjustments are made by both NS Power and E1.

(e) Please refer to E1's response to part (a) of SBA IR-05. DATE FILED: May 28, 2026 E1 (NS Power) IR-04 Page 2 of 2 Request IR-05: - Did E1 conduct a jurisdictional review of peer utilities with electrification mandates or - programs to i...

AI summary E1 refers to EfficiencyOne's response to other parts of SBA IR-05 for answers to IR-05 and IR-06, which pertain to jurisdictional reviews of electrification programs and the potential introduction of Strategic Electrification measures in the 2027-2031 DSM Plan.

a proportional increase in capacity. In addition, BNI DR is expected to provide more cost-effective DR curtailment during the 2027–2031 Plan period, so incremental investment is better directed there. (b) The pause is intended as a program...

AI summary The document discusses the strategic pause in new Residential DR enrollment during the 2027–2031 Plan period, focusing instead on maintaining and optimizing the existing program. BNI DR is expected to provide more cost-effective curtailment during this period, and E1 believes Residential DR will remain part of the portfolio after optimization.

1 Request IR-08: 2 3 Reference: Appendix A, Attachment 4, Sections 1, 3a, 4a, and 19a–19c. 4 5 (a) Please describe the intended role of load shift to Backup Generators (BUGs) in the 2027- 6 2031 DSM Plan. 7 8 (b) Please provide the details...

AI summary The response to Request IR-08 outlines the role of load shift to backup generators (BUGs) in the 2027–2031 DSM Plan, emphasizing that BUGs are part of the BNI Demand Response program. E1 does not require specific generator details and expects participation from existing generators only. Emissions, permitting, and fuel availability were not modeled as separate variables for this option.

er engagement during plan implementation, but does not constitute a full plan reopening or amendment process, nor does it alter E1's approved performance targets or total spending authority. // The mid-term check-in process described above...

AI summary The mid-term check-in process enhances transparency and stakeholder engagement during plan implementation but does not constitute a plan amendment. E1 will notify the DSMAG and file an application with the NSEB if changes to investment levels, performance targets, or other plan elements are needed due to unforeseen circumstances.

ently underway and as such the specific measure assumptions have not been finalized. (b) E1 has estimated heat pump water heater participation at 1,840 units over the duration of the Preferred Plan. (c) E1 considered incentives specificall...

AI summary The document discusses E1's approach to water heater incentives and demand response programs in the 2027–2031 DSM Plan, emphasizing cost-effectiveness and achievability. E1 plans to focus on heat pump water heaters and maintain the existing residential demand response program, Eco Shift, while expanding the BNI offer.

heating equipment (space or water) as part of its demand response program and has relied on controlling existing heating to minimize program costs. DATE FILED: May 28, 2026 E1 (SNS) IR-02 Page 2 of 2 Request IR-03: EcoShift and Residential...

AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) maintains residential demand response (DR) at 2026 levels in the 2027–2031 DSM Plan, expecting future cost-effectiveness through operational learning and device performance improvements. The response cites Appendix A and Section 3.3 of the DSM Plan Evidence for the basis of this expectation.

es 76–77, E1 is maintaining Residential DR at DATE FILED: May 28, 2026 E1 (SNS) IR-03 Page 1 of 2 The basis is described in Section 3.3 of the 2027–2031 DSM Plan Evidence. 2026 DSM Extension levels with no new enrollments, limiting increme...

AI summary E1 is maintaining Residential Demand Response (DR) at 2026 DSM Extension levels without new enrollments, aiming to optimize performance and reduce costs by improving existing device base efficiency and participation rates. Cost-effectiveness challenges persist despite leveraging lower-cost delivery pathways like the Efficient Product Installation and Instant Savings programs.

s provincially funded program, a separate DSM program component targeting the broader population was not considered necessary to avoid program overlap and duplication with ratepayer-funded investment. - (b) E1's DSM and non-DSM funded resi...

AI summary E1's DSM program supports residential new construction by allowing participants to explore various technologies and design parameters to meet performance criteria. While DR-ready measures are not explicitly promoted, E1 intends to analyze the cost and feasibility of incorporating DR readiness during new construction compared to retrofitting post-occupancy, as part of its commitment under the 2027–2031 DSM Plan.

(c) E1 does not factor in impacts of external financial supports that customers could leverage when preparing DSM Plans unless E1 has a contract to deliver said supports overthe longer- term. Designing DSM programs around alternative fundi...

AI summary E1 does not account for external financial supports in DSM Plans unless under long-term contracts, introducing risk due to potential changes in funding. The approved PAC test does not consider host customer impacts. E1 encourages leveraging non-DSM incentives and may adjust offerings based on program targets. Alternative delivery models like a Roving Energy Manager were considered, but program investment remains focused on customer incentives rather than additional technical support.

DATE FILED: May 28, 2026 E1 (SNS) IR-07 Page 3 of 3 1 Request IR-08: Custom Program 2 3 Reference: 2027-2031 DSM Plan; Custom Program; Existing Buildings; New Construction. 4 5 (a) For each year from 2027 to 2031, provide first-year saving...

AI summary The document outlines a request for details on the Custom Program under the 2027-2031 DSM Plan, including first-year savings, project numbers, and reasons for the decline in savings and projects through 2031. It also asks for details on enhancements to support BNI Demand Response and the percentage of Custom savings from Energy Manager-supported accounts. A response refers to EfficiencyOne's previous response to IG IR-19 and confirms the data.

Request IR-01: Please provide Appendix A - Attachment 3: 2027–2031 Preferred Plan Measure-level Energy Efficiency and Solar-PV Technical Tables and Appendix A – Attachment 4: 2027–2031 Preferred Plan Demand Response Technical Tables in Exc...

AI summary The document outlines responses to two information requests regarding the 2027–2031 DSM Plan. It directs the requester to specific attachments containing technical tables, modeling assumptions, and results, as well as BCA workbooks related to the plan's development.

2.1 DESIGN OBJECTIVES [Table 1,](#page-10-2) below, provides the design objectives used by E1 in the development of the 2027-2031 DSM Plan in Round 1 modelling.

AI summary The document outlines the design objectives used by E1 in developing the 2027-2031 DSM Plan during Round 1 modelling, as presented in Table 1.

Table 3: DSM Resource Scenarios Round 1 Modelling Results 2027-2031 DSM Resource Plan DSM RESOURCE SCENARIO Electric Energy Savings (GWh) Electric Demand Savings (MW) Estimated Generation (GWh) Available Capacity (MW) Installed Capacity (M...

AI summary Table 3 presents the results of the DSM Resource Scenarios Round 1 Modelling for the 2027-2031 DSM Resource Plan, including energy savings, GHG reductions, and costs for various scenarios such as Energy Efficiency, Demand Response, Solar-PV, and Strategic Electrification. The table compares Base and High scenarios for each resource type.

Table 4: 2023-2025 DSM Resource Plan & 2026 DSM Extension 2023-2025 DSM Resource Plan (as Approved) 2026 DSM Extension (as Proposed) 2023-2026 DSM RESOURCE Investment Energy Savings (GWh) Demand Savings (MW) Available Capacity (MW) Investm...

AI summary Table 4 outlines the 2023-2025 DSM Resource Plan and the proposed 2026 DSM Extension, showing investments in energy efficiency and demand response programs, along with energy and demand savings, and available capacity. The total investment for 2023-2026 is $236.75 million, with an average annual investment of $59 million.

3.2.1 SCENARIO 1EE: BASE The five-year total program and program component Round 1 modelling results are provided in [Table 6.](#page-14-0)

AI summary This section presents the five-year total program and program component Round 1 modelling results, which are detailed in Table 6.

4. ENABLING STRATEGIES For the purposes of Round 1 modelling, it is assumed that Enabling Strategies include the following four categories: - Education & Outreach; - Research & Development; - Other Enabling Strategies: and - Market Transfo...

AI summary The document outlines the four categories of Enabling Strategies for the 2027-2031 DSM Plan, including Education & Outreach, Research & Development, Other Enabling Strategies, and the newly introduced Market Transformation. The total investment for these strategies is detailed in Table 16.

5. OTHER ITEMS - STANDARDIZED FILING FRAMEWORK In 2024, E1 proposed an approach for DSMAG consideration of the Standardized Filing Framework. As part of this process, E1 proposed updates to the Framework for DSMAG consideration and comment...

AI summary In 2024, E1 proposed updates to the Standardized Filing Framework for consideration by the DSMAG, incorporating stakeholder feedback received in 2024 and early 2025. The updates are provided in Attachment 2 (Redline) and Attachment 3 (Clean). This work continues efforts initiated during the development of the 2026-2030 DSM Plan.

valuation reports, and annual audited financial statements filed with the NSEB (i.e., 2027, 2028, 2029, 2030, 2031). These six reports, filed with the NSEB each year, will cover the following content: - quarterly, year-to-date, and annual...

AI summary The document outlines the content of six annual reports to be filed with the NSEB, covering program performance, variance reporting, and evaluations. These reports will include quarterly and annual results, progress toward targets, and impact evaluations conducted by an independent consultant.

1. OBJECTIVE To standardize the content of future Demand Side Management (DSM) Resource Plan filings.

AI summary The objective is to standardize the content of future Demand Side Management (DSM) Resource Plan filings.

Table 1: STANDARDIZED FILING FRAMEWORK ITEM DESCRIPTION 1. INTRODUCTION A brief introduction to the DSM Resource Plan filing and a brief overview of any agreements reached between EfficiencyOne (E1) and NS Power Incorporated (NS Power). Al...

AI summary The document outlines a standardized filing framework for the DSM Resource Plan, including an introduction and background section. It mentions agreements between EfficiencyOne and NS Power, which will be provided as appendices.

4.3 DSM RESOURCE PLAN DEVELOPMENT The Preferred Resource Plan identified in the IRP that will inform the development of a preferred DSM Resource Plan by EfficiencyOne, including analysis of alternate scenarios of DSM activity, in accordanc...

AI summary The Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) provides directional information for Demand Side Management (DSM) that will guide EfficiencyOne in developing a preferred DSM Resource Plan, including analysis of alternate scenarios, following the Standardized Filing Framework.

4.3.1 BALANCED PLAN APPROACH EfficiencyOne E1 will produce DSM Resource Plans that balance multiple aspects of DSM for the benefit of customers, including: - Short-term and long-term energy and capacity avoidance; - Program delivery costs;...

AI summary EfficiencyOne will develop DSM Resource Plans that balance various factors such as energy and capacity avoidance, program delivery costs, avoided investments, non-electric benefits, program diversity, business relationships, market access, and rate impacts for the benefit of customers.

Performance Targets consist of: 24 E1 will propose Performance Targets within each DSM Resource Plan. Proposed Performance Targets will be reflective of the DSM resources proposed for the upcoming Plan period (e.g., energy efficiency, dema...

AI summary E1 is required to propose Performance Targets within each DSM Resource Plan, reflecting the DSM resources proposed for the upcoming Plan period. Historically, these targets have included cumulative energy and peak demand savings, demand response capacity, and first-year energy savings for low-income and equity programs.

Performance Indicators consist of: 25 E1 will propose Performance Indicators within each DSM Resource Plan. These performance indicators will be specific to the DSM resources proposed within each future Plan (e.g. performance indicator met...

AI summary E1 will propose performance indicators within each DSM Resource Plan, focusing on energy efficiency, demand response, and other DSM resources. Historical performance indicators include energy savings, peak demand savings, ratepayer benefits, and customer satisfaction. These metrics are reported by program and rate class, with a focus on low-income and equity communities.

4.3.4 DSM PROGRAMS E1 will propose DSM programs within each DSM Resource Plan. Investments in DSM programs reduce energy consumption through technology replacements and behaviour change. DSM programs are offered to the Residential and the...

AI summary E1 will propose Demand Side Management (DSM) programs within each DSM Resource Plan. These programs aim to reduce energy consumption through technology replacements and behaviour change, targeting the Residential and Business, Not-for-Profit and Institutional (BNI) sectors.

4.3.5 ENABLING STRATEGIES E1 will propose Enabling Strategies and categories within each DSM Resource Plan. Historically, Enabling Strategies expenditures are classified into one ofhave included the following three categories: - Education...

AI summary E1 will propose Enabling Strategies within each DSM Resource Plan, historically classified into Education and Outreach, Development and Research, and Other Enabling Strategies. Annual investments over $100,000 benefiting specific rate classes will have 75% of the participant benefit portion allocated to those classes, while investments under $100,000 or benefiting all rate classes will be allocated based on per-rate class expenditures.

4.5 DSM RESOURCE PLANS (35-YEAR CYCLE) EfficiencyOne E1 will prepare DSM Resource Plans as required by the BoardNSEB, on a threefive-year cycle unless directed otherwise by the BoardNSEB. 27

AI summary EfficiencyOne E1 is required to prepare Demand Side Management (DSM) Resource Plans on a three-to-five-year cycle as directed by the BoardNSEB, unless otherwise instructed.

4.6 REPORTING REQUIREMENTS E1 proposes its DSM reporting owithin each DSM Resource Plan. This includes the following DSM reporting:

AI summary E1 proposes to include DSM reporting within each DSM Resource Plan, outlining specific reporting requirements as part of the process.

4.5.24.6.2 QUARTERLY REPORTS ENS E1 will file quarterly reports with the UARB NSEB for quarters one through three of each year. The reports will provide quarterly status updates and service highlights, as well as communicate course adjustm...

AI summary ENS E1 is required to submit quarterly reports to the UARB NSEB, providing updates on status and service highlights, as well as communicating course adjustments within the approved DSM Resource Plan.

4.5.64.6.6 RATE AND BILL IMPACT ANALYSIS ENS E1 will file its historical Rate and Bill Impact Analysis (RBIA) by October 31st of each yearas part of each DSM Resource Plan. 33 The historical RBIA estimates the high-level, longterm impact t...

AI summary ENS E1 is required to file both historical and forward-looking Rate and Bill Impact Analysis (RBIA) as part of each DSM Resource Plan. The historical RBIA covers DSM activities up to the previous calendar year, while the forward-looking RBIA estimates the impact of proposed DSM activities.

Table 1: STANDARDIZED FILING FRAMEWORK ITEM DESCRIPTION 1. INTRODUCTION A brief introduction to the DSM Resource Plan filing and a brief overview of any agreements reached between EfficiencyOne (E1) and NS Power Incorporated (NS Power). Al...

AI summary This section introduces the DSM Resource Plan filing and outlines agreements between EfficiencyOne and NS Power. It also mentions the inclusion of past agreements as appendices and provides context about the regulatory approval process.

4.3.1 BALANCED PLAN APPROACH E1 will produce DSM Resource Plans that balance multiple aspects of DSM for the benefit of customers, including: - Short-term and long-term energy and capacity avoidance; - Program delivery costs; - Avoided ene...

AI summary E1 will develop DSM Resource Plans that balance various aspects of demand-side management to benefit customers, including energy and capacity avoidance, program delivery costs, non-electric benefits, diversity of delivery, and rate impacts.

Performance Targets consist of:[22](#page-66-1) E1 will propose Performance Targets within each DSM Resource Plan. Proposed Performance Targets will be reflective of the DSM resources proposed for the upcoming Plan period (e.g., energy eff...

AI summary E1 is required to propose Performance Targets within each DSM Resource Plan, reflecting the DSM resources proposed for the upcoming Plan period. Historically, these targets have included cumulative energy and peak demand savings, demand response capacity, and first-year savings for low-income and equity programs.

Performance Indicators consist of:[23](#page-67-0) E1 will propose Performance Indicators within each DSM Resource Plan. These performance indicators will be specific to the DSM resources proposed within each future Plan (e.g. performance...

AI summary E1 will propose performance indicators within each DSM Resource Plan, focusing on metrics such as energy savings, demand response capacity, ratepayer benefits, and customer satisfaction. Historical performance indicators have included annual and cumulative energy and peak demand savings, as well as low-income program participation and expenditures.

4.5 DSM RESOURCE PLANS (5-YEAR CYCLE) E1 will prepare DSM Resource Plans as required by the NSEB, on a five-year cycle unless directed otherwise by the NSEB. [25](#page-69-1) 24 M07151, NSUARB Decision Letter, Nova Scotia Power Inc. – DSM...

AI summary E1 is required to prepare DSM Resource Plans on a five-year cycle as directed by the NSEB, with a reference to a 2016 NSUARB decision letter and the Public Utilities Act amendment from 2022.

4.6 REPORTING REQUIREMENTS E1 proposes its DSM reporting within each DSM Resource Plan. This includes the following DSM reporting:

AI summary E1 proposes to include its Demand Side Management (DSM) reporting within each DSM Resource Plan, outlining the specific reporting requirements.

4.6.2 QUARTERLY REPORTS E1 will file quarterly reports with the NSEB for quarters one through three of each year. The reports will provide quarterly status updates and service highlights, as well as communicate course adjustments within th...

AI summary E1 is required to submit quarterly reports to the NSEB, providing updates on the DSM Resource Plan and service highlights. The requirement is based on the DSM Settlement Agreement 2013-2015 DSM Plan.

4.6.6 RATE AND BILL IMPACT ANALYSIS E1 will file its historical Rate and Bill Impact Analysis (RBIA) as part of each DSM Resource Plan. [31](#page-71-2)The historical RBIA estimates the high-level, long-term impact to rates and bills of al...

AI summary E1 will file both historical and forward-looking Rate and Bill Impact Analysis (RBIA) as part of each DSM Resource Plan. The historical RBIA estimates the impact of past DSM activities, while the forward-looking RBIA estimates the impact of proposed DSM activities on rates and bills.

EfficiencyOne 2027-2031 Demand Side Management Resource Plan Round 2 Model Input Assumptions and Results CIRCULATED: FEBRUARY 27, 2026

AI summary This document outlines the 2027-2031 Demand Side Management Resource Plan, including Round 2 Model Input Assumptions and Results, circulated on February 27, 2026.

2027-2031 Demand Side Management Resource Plan Round 2 Model Input Assumptions and Results

AI summary The text refers to the 2027-2031 Demand Side Management Resource Plan and mentions Round 2 Model Input Assumptions and Results, indicating a focus on modeling and planning for demand-side management initiatives.

2. BACKGROUND AND OVERVIEW: ROUND 2 MODEL RESULTS E1 circulated its Round 1 model assumptions and results to the Demand-Side Management Advisory Group (DSMAG) on October 27, 2025. E1 received written comments from DSMAG members regarding t...

AI summary E1 updated its Round 2 model results for the DSM Plan, incorporating new avoided costs from NS Power and guidance from the NSEB. Strategic electrification was excluded due to its failure to reduce customer electricity costs. The Residential Behaviour program was removed, and the Residential DR program was modified based on feedback from the NSEB and DSMAG.

3.1 DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS In Round 1 comments from DSMAG members as well as in the 2026 DSM Extension proceeding, E1 heard that there was limited support for the three design objectives that E1 has been using to guide the development of re...

AI summary The document discusses feedback received from DSMAG members and the 2026 DSM Extension proceeding regarding the design objectives for recent DSM Plans. The feedback indicated limited support for the current 50/50 investment split, 40/60 energy savings split, and 15-20% low-income investment targets. In response, E1 has developed a new methodology for DSM resource scenario design.

Demand Response Demand Response (DR) was introduced as an E1 program in the 2023-2025 DSM Plan and is a critical resource to support Nova Scotia's electricity system. E1 has heard and is responding to concerns from stakeholders regarding b...

AI summary Demand Response (DR) was introduced in the 2023-2025 DSM Plan and is a critical resource for Nova Scotia's electricity system. E1 addressed concerns about achievability and cost effectiveness in Round 2 DR modelling, leading to realistic performance targets for the 2027-2031 DSM Plan. The available capacity remains within optimal levels identified in Nova Scotia Power's 2022 IRP, and a cost-effectiveness target of 1.0 was applied for both Base and High scenarios.

The five-year total program component and pathways Round 2 modelling results are provided in [Table 5](#page-84-2) for Scenario 1DR - Base. Attachment 5 provides the Round 2 DR Model inputs for 1 DR-Base and 2DR-High and Attachment 6 provi...

AI summary The document provides Round 2 modelling results for the five-year total program component and pathways under Scenario 1DR - Base, along with input and output data for two DR scenarios from Attachments 5 and 6.

[Table 11](#page-87-2) provides results for the DSM Resource scenarios modelled in Round 2. This includes two scenarios for EE, two scenarios for DR, one solar-PV scenario and one strategic electrification scenario.

AI summary Table 11 presents results from the DSM Resource scenarios modeled in Round 2, including EE, DR, solar-PV, and strategic electrification scenarios.

Table 11: DSM Resource Scenarios Round 2 Modelling Results 2027-2031 DSM Resource Plan DSM RESOURCE SCENARIO Electric Energy Savings (GWh) Electric Demand Savings (MW) Estimated Generation (GWh) Available Capacity (MW) Installed Capacity (...

AI summary Table 11 and Table 12 provide modeling results and approved details for the DSM Resource Plans for the periods 2027-2031 and 2023-2026, respectively. The tables outline energy efficiency and demand response scenarios, including energy savings, investment costs, and GHG reductions.

6. ENABLING STRATEGIES In Round 2 modelling, E1 assumed that Enabling Strategies include the following four categories: - Education & Outreach; - Research & Development; - Other Enabling Strategies: and - Market Transformation. Education a...

AI summary The document outlines the four categories of Enabling Strategies for the 2027-2031 Plan, including Education & Outreach, Research & Development, Other Enabling Strategies, and the newly introduced Market Transformation. Other Enabling Strategies include costs related to regulatory matters and support for various stakeholders.

Table 15: 2027-2031 Enabling Strategies Categories and Activities Enabling Strategies Category Description of Activities Education and Outreach • Education and Outreach activities are designed to drive awareness of, and participation in, E...

AI summary Table 15 outlines enabling strategies for DSM (Demand-Side Management) from 2027 to 2031, including education and outreach, development and research, market transformation, and other enabling strategies. These activities aim to enhance participation in energy efficiency programs, adapt to market changes, and address barriers to adoption of energy-saving technologies.

8. STANDARDIZED FILING FRAMEWORK In the Board's Decision on the 2023-2025 DSM Plan (M10473), the NSEB strongly encouraged the DSMAG to consider whether changes to the Standardized Filing Framework were required, noting that parties should...

AI summary The Nova Scotia Energy Board (NSEB) has encouraged the Demand-Side Management Advisory Group (DSMAG) to consider changes to the Standardized Filing Framework, particularly in the context of the 2023-2025 DSM Plan and the 2026 DSM Extension Decision. E1 has engaged with DSMAG on this topic, proposing updates and incorporating feedback into revised versions of the Framework.

Round 2 Model Input Assumptions and Results Board Directives E1 Update • To address concerns about its demand response programs in its consultations and upcoming application for approval of its new five-year DSM Plan • E1 has addressed con...

AI summary The document discusses E1's response to concerns about its demand response programs and its engagement with the DSMAG regarding mid-course adjustments in its upcoming DSM Plan application. E1 has addressed these concerns in its Round 2 modelled scenarios and will continue to do so in its 2027-2031 application.

10.1 REPORTING In the Round 1 materials distributed on October 27, 2025, E1 outlined its proposed reporting on the implementation of the 2027-2031 Plan. In total, E1 will file 30 reports with the Nova Scotia Energy Board over the period of...

AI summary E1 plans to submit 30 reports to the Nova Scotia Energy Board over the 2027-2031 Plan period, including quarterly, annual, and financial reports. Stakeholders, particularly the DSMAG, have requested a 'mid-plan check-in process' for increased engagement, following the 2022 amendment to the Public Utilities Act. E1 is working with the DSMAG to develop a revised mid-course adjustment process as directed by the 2026 DSM Extension Decision.

10.1.1 MID-COURSE ADJUSTMENT PROCESS (MCA) [Some DSMAG members have] expressed concern that MCAs can lead to investment shifts between customer classes as compared to the DSM Plan as approved. The [DSMAG member] has specifically commented...

AI summary Some DSMAG members are concerned that mid-course adjustments (MCA) may lead to significant shifts in spending between customer classes compared to the approved DSM Plan. The IG has requested the Board to direct E1 to manage budgeted program spending within a reasonable range. E1 agrees that refinements to the MCA process are needed but believes the underlying principles remain valid and intends to collaborate with DSMAG to revise the process for the 2027-2031 DSM Plan.

12 E1 submitted its first DSM Plan in 2012 as DSM Administrator. ITEM DESCRIPTION 4.1 Overall Summary A brief overview of the proposed DSM Resource Plan for the upcoming period and any proposed significant changes in program delivery or ph...

AI summary E1 submitted its first DSM Plan in 2012 as DSM Administrator. The document outlines the structure for the proposed DSM Resource Plan, including an overview, proposed changes, and metrics for evaluation. NS_Power! will conduct a rate impact analysis, and E1 will provide a glossary of terms.

Appendix 1 ITEM DESCRIPTION 4.5 Evaluation Proposed evaluation activities for the upcoming period, including a summary of any changes that are planned for evaluation activities over the upcoming period. 4.6 Reporting and Performance A summ...

AI summary The text outlines proposed evaluation activities, reporting initiatives, and performance metrics for EfficiencyOne's upcoming DSM Resource Plan. It also references alternate scenarios for the DSM Plan and includes a citation to a 2015 NSUARB Order related to the 2016-2018 DSM Plan.

Performance Targets consist of: 35 E1 will propose Performance Targets within each DSM Resource Plan for consideration and approval by the NSEB. Proposed Performance Targets will be reflective of the DSM resources proposed for the upcoming...

AI summary E1 is required to propose Performance Targets within each DSM Resource Plan for approval by the NSEB. These targets will reflect the DSM resources proposed for the upcoming Plan period, including energy efficiency, demand response, solar-PV, and other DSM resources.

DSM programs may include:as follows: - Residential Efficient Product Rebates - Residential Existing Residential - Residential New Residential - Residential Energy Savings Actions - Business, Not-for-Profit and Institutional Efficient Produ...

AI summary The text outlines various Demand Side Management (DSM) programs that may be included, such as residential and business rebate programs, direct installation initiatives, and demand response programs, along with the possibility of adding other proposed DSM programs.

Figure 1: Glossary of Terms Term Definition 1. INTRODUCTION A brief introduction to the DSM Resource Plan filing and a brief overview of any agreements reached between EfficiencyOne (E1) and NS Power Incorporated (NS Power). All agreements...

AI summary This section introduces the DSM Resource Plan filing and outlines agreements between EfficiencyOne and NS Power, with appendices to be provided. It also mentions the background of previous DSM plans relevant to the regulatory approval process.

ITEM DESCRIPTION Portfolio-level metrics will be provided as follows: - in aggregate (i.e., the aggregate of all DSM resources proposed for the upcoming Plan period); and - by DSM resource (e.g., by each individual DSM resource as proposed...

AI summary The document outlines the provision of portfolio-level metrics for DSM resources, including aggregate and individual resource breakdowns. It specifies the inclusion of forward-looking and historical RBIA in the DSM Resource Plan. The Board directed the use of WACC as the discount rate and a modified PAC for assessing strategic electrification, emphasizing the need for GHG emission and cost reductions.

Table 2: PROGRAM DESCRIPTION TEMPLATE ITEM DESCRIPTION 6.2 Payback Period & Considerations As per the NSUARB's 2023-2025 DSM Plan Order, E1 is directed "to include payback information in its measure level tables in future applications for...

AI summary The text outlines a program description template for a regulatory proceeding, focusing on payback period considerations, justifications for measure inclusion, and other items related to the 2023-2025 DSM Plan Order issued by the NSUARB. It emphasizes the need for detailed information and justification in future resource plan applications.

4.3.1 BALANCED PLAN APPROACH E1 will produce DSM Resource Plans that balance multiple aspects of DSM for the benefit of customers, including: - Short-term and long-term energy and capacity avoidance; - Program delivery costs; - Avoided ene...

AI summary E1 will develop DSM Resource Plans that balance various aspects of demand-side management to benefit customers, including energy and capacity avoidance, program delivery costs, non-electric benefits, and ensuring access across all market sectors.

Performance Targets consist of:[33](#page-149-1) E1 will propose Performance Targets within each DSM Resource Plan for consideration and approval by the NSEB. Proposed Performance Targets will be reflective of the DSM resources proposed fo...

AI summary E1 is required to propose Performance Targets within each DSM Resource Plan for approval by the NSEB. These targets include cumulative energy and peak demand savings, demand response capacity, and savings from low-income and equity programs.

4.3.4 DSM PROGRAMS E1 will propose DSM programs within each DSM Resource Plan. DSM programs are offered to the Residential and the Business, Not-for-Profit and Institutional (BNI) sectors. DSM programs may include:: - Residential Efficient...

AI summary E1 will propose DSM programs for residential and BNI sectors, including rebates, custom incentives, direct installation, and demand response initiatives as part of the DSM Resource Plan.

4.3.5 ENABLING STRATEGIES E1 will propose Enabling Strategies within each DSM Resource Plan. Enabling Strategies expenditures may include the following categories: - Education and Outreach; - Development and Research; - Other Enabling Stra...

AI summary E1 will propose Enabling Strategies within each DSM Resource Plan, with expenditures allocated based on the rate class benefiting from the investment. Investments over $100,000 are allocated 75% to the specific rate class and 25% based on energy and demand requirements.

4.5 DSM RESOURCE PLANS (5-YEAR CYCLE) E1 will prepare DSM Resource Plans as required by the Public Utilities Act , on a five-year cycle unless directed otherwise by the legislation. [37](#page-153-0)

AI summary E1 is required to prepare DSM Resource Plans on a five-year cycle as mandated by the Public Utilities Act, unless otherwise directed by legislation.

4.6.6 RATE AND BILL IMPACT ANALYSIS E1 will file its historical Rate and Bill Impact Analysis (RBIA) as part of each DSM Resource Plan. [43](#page-156-0) The historical RBIA estimates the high-level, long-term impact to rates and bills of...

AI summary E1 will file both historical and forward-looking Rate and Bill Impact Analysis (RBIA) as part of each DSM Resource Plan. The historical RBIA assesses the impact of past DSM activities on rates and bills, while the forward-looking RBIA estimates the impact of proposed DSM activities.

3.1 Glossary of Terms Term Definition Cumulative net demand Sum of incremental net demand savings across the Plan period; net of free savings ridership and spillover. Cumulative net energy Sum of incremental net energy savings across the P...

AI summary This section defines key terms related to demand-side management (DSM) and energy efficiency, including cumulative net demand and energy savings, DSM resource plans, demand response, and effective useful life of measures. These definitions support the evaluation and approval of DSM activities and budgets.

E1 will provide the same metrics across the filing content (e.g., from the portfolio level to the program level and/or across sections) and provide rationale where a metric is zero or not applicable. Table 2, below, describes DSM Resource...

AI summary E1 will ensure consistency in metrics across all filing content, from the portfolio level to the program level and across sections, and will provide rationale for zero or non-applicable metrics. Table 2 outlines the DSM Resource Plan filing content.

Item Description 1. Introduction Introduce the DSM Resource Plan and summarize any E1–NS Power agreements (attach as appendices). Include relevant background and history, including past DSM Plans. Include Glossary of Terms and/or List of A...

AI summary The document outlines the structure and content requirements for the Demand Side Management (DSM) Resource Plan, including previous plan results, plan development, proposed plan metrics, alternate scenarios, and additional items such as rate impact analysis and approvals sought.

4.1 Objectives - Ensure consistency in the overall Demand Side Management (DSM) planning, evaluation, reporting in Nova Scotia; - Consolidate Board decisions and directives as they pertain to DSM; and - • Ensure that DSM Resource Plans bal...

AI summary The objectives outlined focus on ensuring consistency in Demand Side Management (DSM) planning, consolidating Board decisions related to DSM, and ensuring that DSM Resource Plans balance multiple objectives.

4.2.1 DSM Baseline Study E1 will work with the NSIESO on IRP activities,[6](#page-168-6) which may include commissioning a DSM baseline study in advance of each DSM Potential Study to identify current stocks of electricity consuming device...

AI summary E1 will collaborate with the NSIESO on IRP activities, potentially including commissioning a DSM baseline study prior to each DSM Potential Study to assess existing electricity-consuming devices across all market sectors.

4.2.3 Integrated Resource Plan Integrated resource planning establishes directional information for DSM planning. The Preferred Resource Plan identified in the IRP will inform the development of a preferred DSM Resource Plan by E1, includi...

AI summary The Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) provides directional guidance for Demand Side Management (DSM) planning. The Preferred Resource Plan from the IRP will be used by EfficiencyOne (E1) to develop a preferred DSM Resource Plan, including analysis of alternate DSM scenarios in line with the Framework.

4.3.1 Balanced Plan Approach E1 will produce DSM Resource Plans that balance multiple aspects of DSM for the benefit of customers, including: - Short-term and long-term energy and capacity avoidance; - Program delivery costs; - Avoided ene...

AI summary E1 will develop DSM Resource Plans that balance various factors, including energy and capacity avoidance, program delivery costs, avoided investments, non-electric benefits, diversity of delivery, business relationships, market access, and rate impacts, to benefit customers.

Performance Targets Performance targets apply over the Plan period as reflected in the Board-approved DSM Purchase Agreement or as ordered by the Board. E1 is in substantial compliance if it achieves 90 percent or greater on each approved...

AI summary Performance targets under the DSM Purchase Agreement require E1 to achieve at least 90% compliance. If targets are not met, the Board may take appropriate action. E1 will propose specific performance targets in each DSM Resource Plan filing for Board approval, including energy savings, peak demand savings, and others as directed.

4.5 DSM Resource Plans (5-year cycle) E1 will file DSM Resource Plans on a five-year cycle unless otherwise directed by legislation or Board order. [8](#page-168-8)

AI summary E1 is required to file DSM Resource Plans on a five-year cycle, unless directed otherwise by legislation or a Board order.

4.6 Reporting Requirements E1 proposes reporting within each DSM Resource Plan application.

AI summary E1 proposes that reporting requirements be included within each DSM Resource Plan application as part of the regulatory process.

4.6.2 Quarterly Reports E1 will file quarterly reports with the Board for quarters one through three of each year. Reporting requirements were established under the 2013–2015 DSM Plan Settlement Agreement and continue to evolve: [9](#page-...

AI summary E1 is required to file quarterly reports with the Board, covering updates on the DSM Resource Plan, variances in savings and investment, incentive levels, and other program-related information, as established under the 2013–2015 DSM Plan Settlement Agreement.

4.6.5 Rate and Bill Impact Analysis Each DSM Resource Plan filing will include: - a historical RBIA summarizing the long-term impact to rates and bills of all DSM activities up to and including those of the previous calendar year; [11](#pa...

AI summary The document outlines the requirements for Rate and Bill Impact Analysis (RBIA) in each DSM Resource Plan filing, including both historical and forward-looking analyses to assess the long-term impact of DSM activities on rates and bills.

5. CONSOLIDATED ENDNOTES AND SOURCES - 1. M06733 – E1 2016-2018 DSM Resource Plan. NSUARB Order (October 7, 2015) approving the Plan, the Consensus Agreement establishing the Standardized Filing Framework; Performance Targets, Indicators,...

AI summary This section lists consolidated endnotes and sources from a regulatory proceeding, including matters related to Demand Side Management (DSM) plans, standardized filing frameworks, and the establishment of the Nova Scotia Independent Energy System Operator (NSIESO) under the Energy Reform (2024) Act.

he DSM Plan reflects a near-term implementation decision. The Plan explicitly uses the IRP as a benchmark and includes modelling of an IRP-aligned scenario, confirming those savings are achievable and cost-effective. However, the Preferred...

AI summary The DSM Plan prioritizes short-term affordability over long-term system optimization, acknowledging deferral risks but finding a balance. It identifies a 39 MW peak demand gap and a 15 MW demand response shortfall by 2031, which may require future DSM programming, demand response expansion, and alternative supply-side resources.

epend on several factors, including the type of resources selected and their contribution to firm capacity. In addition to the capacity shortfall, there will also be an energy gap of 248 GWh in 2031, with a cumulative total of 627 GWh over...

AI summary The text discusses the capacity shortfall and energy gap in 2031, and references a request for information regarding E1's anticipated updates to the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) and avoided costs between 2027 and 2031, particularly in relation to the More Access to Energy Act and the Nova Scotia Independent Energy System Operator (NSIESO).

n following the completion of the NSIESO's 2026 IRP. Based on the current NSIESO timeline for the 2026 IRP, E1 does not anticipate updated avoided costs to be finalized for use until sometime in 2027. (c) No, E1 does not anticipate updatin...

AI summary E1 does not anticipate updating the avoided costs used in its proposed 2027–2031 DSM Plan Application and re-filing its submission, even though the NSIESO's 2026 IRP is expected to finalize updated avoided costs in 2027. Changes in IRP updates have historically not led to E1 applying for modifications to the approved DSM Plan.

(IRP) consistent with the approved 2023–2026 DSM Plan, revisions would not be warranted and may impose a disproportionate regulatory burden at this stage. Please refer to E1's response to NSEB IR-05. Request IR-14: Pages 18-19 of the Evide...

AI summary The response discusses E1's ongoing collaboration with NS Power on locational demand response and program stacking, with no anticipated resolution date but continuation into the 2027–2031 DSM Plan period. Updates to the DSM Plan are referenced in another response.

Eco Shift (Residential Demand Response) Date Duration (hours) Hour 1 (MW) Hour 2 (MW) Hour 3 (MW) Hour 4 (MW) Dec. 04 2024 17:00-21:00 4 0.063 0.587 0.053 0.039 Dec. 20 2024 07:00-11:00 4 0.239 0.175 0.144 0.091 Dec. 23 2024 17:00-21:00 4...

AI summary The document presents data from the Eco Shift (Residential Demand Response) program and Smart Synergy (BNI Demand Response) program, showing demand response performance across various dates and times. These tables highlight the participation and curtailment levels during specific periods, indicating the effectiveness of demand response initiatives in managing energy consumption.

Improves comparability and clarity of results For the 2023–2025 DSM Plan and 2026 DSM Extension, Guidehouse applied a 10-year cost effectiveness framework to reflect the full expected duration of DR programs and capture all associated cost...

AI summary Guidehouse applied a 10-year cost effectiveness framework for the 2023–2025 DSM Plan and 2026 DSM Extension, but this approach introduced challenges such as reliance on long-term assumptions and post-modeling adjustments. Levelizing upfront costs over ten years improves comparability and clarity of benefit-cost ratios for DR programs within the PAC test.

Request IR-26: Page 66 of the Evidence states, "The mid-term check-in process described above is designed to enhance transparency and stakeholder engagement but does not constitute a plan amendment proceeding or create any obligation for E...

AI summary The text discusses E1's mid-term check-in process for its DSM Plan, which is not a plan amendment proceeding but may lead to amendments if significant changes occur. The request asks when plan amendments are assessed, how often E1 has faced changes in avoided costs and market conditions, and their impacts.

Request IR-28: - Please refer to page 9 of Appendix A – Preferred Plan, where E1 describes the "program design - and delivery changes [implemented] ahead of the 2026 season" including "ensuring installed - devices were event-ready" and "en...

AI summary The response to Request IR-28 provides data on the share of residential demand response devices deemed 'event-ready' in the 2025 and 2026 seasons, referencing an evaluation and internal tracking data. It also mentions the efficacy of providing BNI customers with 48 hours of advance notice for events, though it does not explicitly state whether this practice will continue in 2027.

on system needs and direction from NS Power. Request IR-29: Please refer to the statement on page 9 of Appendix A – Preferred Plan which states: "Throughout 2023–2025, several pathways modelled in the 2023–2026 DSM Plan were not pursued, i...

AI summary The response to Request IR-29 explains that EfficiencyOne (E1) did not pursue certain demand response pathways during the 2023–2026 period because they prioritized those with the highest available capacity potential, such as direct load control and battery control, and focused first on rolling out the newly introduced behavioural program component in the Residential Demand Response program.

- 22 - (b) The variances of 15 percent or more are identified in yellow in Table 1 in part (a). It is important to note that as part of efforts to enhance rate class spending reporting and monitoring, EfficiencyOne (E1) introduced a new ra...

AI summary EfficiencyOne introduced a new rate class allocation methodology in 2025 to improve reporting and monitoring of rate class spending, using three years of historical data instead of one year, as applied in the 2026 DSM Extension and the 2027–2031 DSM Resource Plan.

(d) Please refer to part (c) of this IR response. Where E1 does not have any recent statistics on the number of homes eligible for the program, we are unable to comment on current trends. (e) At the end of 2025, E1 had served roughly 9,500...

AI summary E1 provides information on the number of homes served through the program, challenges in quantifying eligible participants, and pre-weatherization barriers. Participation decline between 2027 and 2031 is not directly addressed, though funding for pre-weatherization barriers is not specifically identified in the proposed 2027–2031 DSM Plan.

1 Request IR-49: 2 3 Please refer to Table 36: 2027–2031 Custom Program Component on Page 69 of Appendix A – 4 Preferred Plan which states, "Enhancements in 2027-2031: Better support for E1's BNI Demand 5 Response program component by enco...

AI summary The response to Request IR-49 discusses the BNI Demand Response program, focusing on equipment compatibility, customer participation, and curtailment methods. It highlights that the program is technology-agnostic, plans to support residential customers with smart thermostats and heat pump water heaters, and primarily uses manual curtailment, with limited automatic control.

DATE FILED: May 28, 2026 E1 (Synapse) IR-50 Page 2 of 2 1 M12249, E1 2026 DSM Extension, April 30, 2025, Appendix A, Attachment 2: Estimation of DSM Low-income and Equity Impacts, section 3.2: DSM Reporting Assumptions: Incidental Impacts,...

AI summary The document outlines a request and response regarding the definition of small businesses and their inclusion in the BNI demand response effort. It clarifies that small businesses are defined based on annual energy consumption and that while they may participate, they are not the primary focus of recruitment during the 2027–2031 DSM Plan period.

(c) E1 has not projected the portion of BNI demand response effort participants that are expected to be small business customers by year or in total across years. In Appendix A – Attachment 2: Program Savings and Investment by Rate Class,...

AI summary E1 has not provided projections on the participation of small businesses in BNI demand response efforts. The Small Business Energy Solutions program supports energy efficiency but does not provide additional equipment for demand response participation.

remental value to ratepayers and does not compensate the same curtailable load twice. (d) E1 expects to continue discussions with DSM Advisory Group (DSMAG) members during the 2027–2031 Plan period. (e) Depending on the outcome of DSMAG en...

AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) plans to continue engaging with the DSM Advisory Group (DSMAG) during the 2027–2031 Plan period to assess the potential for interruptible customers to provide incremental curtailable capacity through BNI DR. E1 explains that batteries, EV telematics, and EV charger devices are not included in the proposed 2027–2031 Plan, despite being supported in previous years.

2026 demand response seasons). Table 45 reflects the measures included in the proposed 2027–2031 Preferred DSM Plan (EV and battery pathways have not been included in the 2027–2031 proposed DSM Plan). Request IR-58: Please refer to the ava...

AI summary The response to Request IR-58 explains that the available demand response capacity estimates do not account for effective load carrying capability (ELCC) as estimated by NS Power. EfficiencyOne (E1) is awaiting the results of ongoing work by NSIESO and NS Power to assess ELCC treatment for demand response and will review findings to optimize program design and increase capacity value for ratepayers.

l review the findings to understand how program design, dispatch parameters, event timing, duration, and resource mix can be optimized to increase the capacity value of demand response for ratepayers. Request IR-59: Please refer to page 82...

AI summary The response to Request IR-59 discusses how past-season performance is factored into projected achievable demand response capacity, including adjustments to enrollment, retention, and per-device response rates based on observed results. It also addresses the increase in C&I Curtailment potential from 2026 to 2027 despite declining participation.

the participation and unitary capacity assumptions used in the proposed 2027–2031 DSM Plan. These assumptions were informed by evaluation results, observed program performance, and EfficiencyOne (E1) program experience. The attrition assum...

AI summary The proposed 2027–2031 DSM Plan uses participation and unitary capacity assumptions informed by EfficiencyOne's (E1) program experience and evaluation results. The attrition rate remains at 2% per year, and the increase in Commercial and Industrial (C&I) Curtailment potential is due to targeted recruitment and improved customer coordination, not just an increase in participant count.

- i) Please refer to part (b) of this IR response. - ii) Please refer to part (b) of this IR response. - (c) No, E1 has not included any new enrollments in the proposed Eco Shift demand response program component during the 2027–2031 DSM P...

AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) explains that the increase in participation in the BNI Demand Response Program from 2024 to 2025 was due to Smart Synergy recruitment and program maturation. E1 also notes that no new enrollments were added in the proposed Eco Shift demand response program component during the 2027–2031 DSM Plan period.

tment to build the program and support the higher capacity target, including recruiting customers with lower available capacity where appropriate. This helped increase participation from 2024 to 2025. After the 2025 season, E1 refined its...

AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) is refining its recruitment strategy for the BNI Demand Response (DR) program, focusing on customers with higher curtailable capacity and reliability. Participation growth is expected to slow due to this targeted approach. Incentives include performance-based payments, and E1 is considering DER integration and AMI data for future planning.

tion where BNI DR can provide value and where customers with curtailable load are within those areas. i) Please refer to part (d) of this IR response. ii) Please refer to part (d) of this IR response. Request IR-62: Please refer to Table 4...

AI summary The response explains that the lower PAC for 2028 is due to significantly lower avoided costs in 2028 compared to other years, particularly the avoided cost of generation capacity being less than half of the 2027 value. Avoided cost of capacity is the main factor influencing PAC results for demand response programs.

3 Figure 1 shows how the annual variation in Residential Demand Response and BNI Demand 4 Response PAC results corresponds to the annual variation in the avoided cost of capacity. 5 6 Figure 1: Residential Demand Response and BNI Demand Re...

AI summary The text discusses the relationship between the annual variation in Residential Demand Response and BNI Demand Response Program Administrator Cost (PAC) results and the avoided cost of capacity. It references figures and tables that provide further details on program performance indicators.

1 Table 4: Residential and BNI Demand Response PAC Results – Constrained Area Analysis PAC PAC Year Residential DR BNI DR 2027 1.1 3.5 2028 0.7 2.2 2029 1.0 3.3 2030 0.8 3.0 2031 0.8 3.1 Total 0.9 3.0 2

AI summary Table 4 presents the Program Administrator Cost (PAC) results for Residential and BNI Demand Response in a constrained area analysis, showing costs from 2027 to 2031 and total costs.

Request IR-66: Please refer to Table 57: 2027–2031 Other Enabling Strategies on page 95 of Appendix A – - Preferred Plan. Please provide a detailed description of the activities that necessitate the - budgets allocated to each of the Areas...

AI summary The response to Request IR-66 directs the reader to Appendix A, Table 58 of EfficiencyOne's 2027–2031 DSM Resource Plan Application for detailed descriptions of activities and budgets related to Other Enabling Strategies from 2027 to 2031.

ther Enabling Strategies activities are provided in EfficiencyOne's - 2027–2031 DSM Resource Plan Application, Appendix A, Table 58 on page 96. DATE FILED: May 28, 2026 E1 (Synapse) IR-66 Page 1 of 1 Request IR-67: Pages 97-98 of Appendix...

AI summary EfficiencyOne outlines the evaluation schedule for the Heat Pump Water Heater Market Transformation pilot during the 2027–2031 Plan period, with the first evaluation planned for fall 2026. The pilot is intended to remain a pilot throughout the Plan period, as it is used to test the MT Framework stages and will eventually phase out.

collect and assess information regarding the coincidence of the load reduction with the utility peak period. This information is not required to evaluate the total available demand response capacity, which is EfficiencyOne's (E1) performan...

AI summary The document discusses how EfficiencyOne (E1) evaluates demand response capacity provided to NS Power, emphasizing that it does not require load reductions to coincide with the utility peak period. The avoided capacity cost is based on NS Power's planning value and reflects the broader value of DSM programs in avoiding generation investments.

(g) recommended changes to respond to implementation challenges or opportunities; (h) the potential for additions and/or terminations of programs; and (i) the potential for a plan amendment and the cause(s), including but not limited to: s...

AI summary E1 proposes a mid-term check-in process with the DSMAG to enhance transparency and stakeholder engagement regarding the DSM Plan's implementation, including updates on evaluation findings, market conditions, and implementation challenges or opportunities.

- Please provide an evaluation plan for the 2027-2031 time period, including studies other than - impact and process evaluations (e.g., saturation/baseline, participation, benchmarking, - potential), schedule for conducting it, focus (e.g....

AI summary The response outlines a plan for evaluating the DSM program from 2027 to 2031, informed by previous evaluation reports and program changes. An Overall Strategic Evaluation Plan will be developed by E1 and an evaluation consultant before the end of 2027, with annual evaluation plans finalized each spring after the previous year's reports are filed.

d by NSPI based upon the proposed Plan and results to date. Response IR-85: Please refer to EfficiencyOne's response to part (e) of IG IR-22. DATE FILED: May 28, 2026 E1 (Synapse) IR-85 Page 1 of 1 Request IR-86: Please refer to page 3 of...

AI summary The response to Request IR-86 confirms that EfficiencyOne (E1) provided the Standardized Filing Framework to the DSM Advisory Group (DSMAG) on February 27, 2026, and made revisions prior to filing the 2027–2031 DSM Plan Application. E1 intends to update the Framework after the Board's decision to align with regulatory requirements and stakeholder feedback.

(g) Please clarify which of these metrics are also indicators and/or targets. Are all of the indicators and targets included? If not, why not? Response IR-88: (a) Yes. As stated in Appendix F, page 5, Table 2: DSM Resource Plan Filing Cont...

AI summary The response clarifies that EfficiencyOne (E1) will provide metrics annually and cumulatively, both in aggregate and by DSM resource. It also mentions that the modified Program Administrator Cost (PAC) test is included in the updated Standardized Filing Framework, referencing Board decision M12282.

1 Request IR-89: 2 - 3 Please refer to 4.5 DSM Resource Plans (5-year cycle) of Appendix F – Proposed Updated - 4 Standardized Filing Framework on page 10. Please provide a draft schedule indicating when - 5 these activities would occur du...

AI summary A request is made for a draft schedule outlining the timing of DSM Resource Plan activities over a 5-year cycle, based on Appendix F's Proposed Updated Standardized Filing Framework. EfficiencyOne has prepared a response with this draft schedule.

1. Evaluated Net Peak Demand Reduction at the Generator In 2025, Efficiency Nova Scotia operated two residential programs (Residential Efficient Product Rebates and Existing Residential) with nine components; three BNI (business, non-profi...

AI summary In 2025, Efficiency Nova Scotia managed multiple residential and BNI programs, including demand response initiatives, with various components aimed at energy efficiency and demand reduction.

In Table 3, the evaluated values for net peak demand reduction at generator are shown for the programs and program components. Econoler reports a portfolio net peak demand reduction of 23.556 MW[34](#page-27-4) (shown in Table 1) plus 6.79...

AI summary The text discusses demand reduction from various programs, including Home Energy Assessment, Business Energy Rebates, and Custom programs, with peak reductions shown in Figure 2. It also mentions capacity reduction from Residential and BNI Demand Response programs, totaling 6.795 MW. The text contrasts physical demand reductions with temporary load shedding and behavioral approaches.

2025 Program Performance BER targeted 38.451 GWh in net electrical energy savings and 7.241 MW in net peak demand savings at the generator. The program exceeded the energy savings target by 5% but fell 26% short of the peak demand target....

AI summary The BER program aimed for 38.451 GWh in energy savings and 7.241 MW in peak demand savings but exceeded energy targets by 5% while falling 26% short on peak demand. Instant Rebates was the main contributor to both energy and demand savings.

Conclusion The Efficient Product Rebates Program delivered energy savings above target and demonstrated the value of updated free-ridership and adjustment data. However, the 26% shortfall against the peak demand target — together with rapi...

AI summary The Efficient Product Rebates Program exceeded energy savings targets but faced a 26% shortfall in peak demand reduction. The conclusion highlights the need for program updates, including refreshed NTGRs and adjustment ratios, to maintain cost-effectiveness. The BER program is noted as a benchmark for successful energy reduction and market transformation.

Evaluation Approach Residential DR evaluation combined a non-participant survey, interviews with E1 program staff and service providers/technical partners, a jurisdictional scan of comparable North American programs (with interviews of sel...

AI summary The evaluation approach for residential and BNI demand response programs includes surveys, interviews, jurisdictional scans, tracking-sheet audits, project-level reviews, and metering-data analysis to assess program effectiveness.

Metric Residential DR (Eco Shift) BNI DR (Smart Synergy) Total Participants 3,676 143 — Devices Enrolled 11,405 (thermostats, DHW, EV, battery) — — Evaluated Available DR Capacity 0.854 MW 5.941 MW 6.795 MW Planned (Target) Capacity 7.135...

AI summary The table compares the performance of two demand response (DR) programs: Residential DR (Eco Shift) and BNI DR (Smart Synergy). Residential DR exceeded its tracked capacity by 58%, mainly due to higher unitary capacity from smart thermostats, while BNI DR was 11% below tracked capacity due to lower participant response.

Key Findings — BNI DR (Smart Synergy) - BNI DR delivered 5.941 MW vs. a 10.726 MW target a 45% shortfall, driven primarily by lower in-event participation rather than enrolment. - Participation grew 88% year-over-year (76 → 143 participant...

AI summary The BNI DR (Smart Synergy) program underperformed its target by 45%, with lower in-event participation being the main cause. Participation increased by 88% year-over-year, but available capacity per participant dropped significantly. Morning events performed better than evening events, and capacity-calculation guidelines were followed but required adjustments in 2025.

Residential DR (Eco Shift) - Restructure the program manual into two distinct, continuous sections for residential and BNI; include all pilot and program changes with dates, descriptions, and rationale; clearly define eligibility criteria...

AI summary The Eco Shift residential demand response program requires restructuring its manual, linking tracking sheets, increasing participation through awareness, and monitoring the impact of new participation thresholds. Strategies for EV-device DR participation and metering analyses are also recommended.

Conclusion The Demand Response Program substantially expanded its addressable footprint in 2025 — Residential DR participation grew nearly tenfold and BNI DR enrolment nearly doubled — but in-event participation, not enrolment, remained th...

AI summary The Demand Response Program expanded significantly in 2025, but only 38% of the 17.861 MW target was met due to low in-event participation. The evaluation highlights the need for improved communication, event design, and process evaluations to align delivered capacity with targets in the next planning cycle.

2 MM12780 3 NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD 4 5 6 NON-CONFIDENTIAL RESPONSES OF H. GIL PEACH & ASSOCIATES LLC TO 7 CONSUMER ADVOCATE INFORMATION REQUESTS 8 9 IN THE MATTER OF: The Public Utilities Act, as amended. 10 – and – 11 12 13 14 15 16 17...

AI summary This document is a non-confidential response from H. Gil Peach & Associates LLC to consumer advocate information requests in the context of a regulatory proceeding related to the 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement and Resource Plan between EfficiencyOne and Nova Scotia Power Incorporated.

1 2 M12780 NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD 3 4 5 NON-CONFIDENTIAL RESPONSES OF H. GIL PEACH & ASSOCIATES LLC TO SMALL BUSINESS ADVOCATE INFORMATION REQUESTS 6 7 8 IN THE MATTER OF: The Public Utilities Act, as amended. 9 -and 10 IN THE MATTER OF:...

AI summary This document outlines the non-confidential responses from H. Gil Peach & Associates LLC to information requests from the Small Business Advocate regarding EfficiencyOne's 2027–2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement and Resource Plan. The responses are provided from the perspective of the Verification Team, which focuses on reviewing and verifying evaluation results.

IntroducƟon Posterity Group works with governments, uƟliƟes, and private sector clients to help them understand the risks and opportuniƟes associated with energy use, climate change, and technology innovaƟon. Posterity Group's mission is t...

AI summary Posterity Group was retained by Eastward Energy to assess EfficiencyOne's 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Resource Plan, focusing on the Custom New Construction (NC) Program's baseline case and incentive structure, particularly its recognition of heating systems that reduce peak electricity demand.

NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD IN THE MATTER OF: The Public Utilities Act – and – IN THE MATTER OF: An Application by EfficiencyOne for approval of the 2027– 2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement between EfficiencyOne and Nova Sco...

AI summary The Nova Scotia Energy Board is considering an application by EfficiencyOne for approval of a 2027–2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement with Nova Scotia Power Inc., as well as the establishment of a final agreement and approval of a DSM Resource Plan.

10 Q. DO YOU SUPPORT THE STRUCTURE OF THE MID-TERM CHECK-IN? - 11 A. I support the transparency and engagement elements, including the mid-term session, the - 12 annual sessions, the one-on-one meetings, and the cumulative reporting. My co...

AI summary The respondent supports the transparency and engagement aspects of the mid-term check-in but expresses concern about the lack of a trigger for E1 to revisit the Plan when conditions change, suggesting that the Mid-Course Adjustment process should address this issue.

17 Q. WHAT DID THE NSUARB DETERMINE REGARDING THE MCA PROCESS. - 18 A. In its decision on the 2026 DSM Extension (M12249), the Board found the existing MCA - 19 process "unbalanced" and directed E1 to revise it. The Board wrote that "the p...

AI summary The NSUARB found the existing MCA process 'unbalanced' and directed E1 to revise it, emphasizing the need for ratepayer protection and more opportunities for review and objection to changes in E1's DSM Plans, which are now reviewed every five years.

14 Q. DO YOU SUPPORT THE PROPOSED APPROVAL PROCESS FOR MCAS? 15 A. No. Without explicit Board approval for an MCA, the proposed process is just a rubber stamp for E1 to "proceed with unrestrained changes" 7 16 [.](#page-5-6) While I can ap...

AI summary The respondent does not support the proposed approval process for MCAs, arguing that it would be a rubber stamp for E1 to proceed with unrestrained changes. They recommend that the Board should explicitly approve or deny modifications within an expedited timeframe, allowing intervenors to provide input within 30 days.

13 Q. DID E1 UTILIZE THE IRP SAVINGS LEVELS FOR ITS PREFERRED PLAN? 14 A. No. Instead, E1 commissioned APEX Analytics to recommend a savings target range. 15 APEX conducted a weighted jurisdictional scan based on climate, building stock, e...

AI summary E1 did not use the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) savings levels for its preferred plan. Instead, E1 commissioned APEX Analytics to recommend a savings target range, which was 0.8%–1.0% of load, with a weighted-average point estimate of 0.90%. E1 selected 0.8% due to short-term affordability concerns and rising per-unit acquisition costs.

10 Q. WHAT DO THE SAVINGS TARGETS FOR THE PREFERRED PLAN LOOK 11 LIKE? 12 A. The following table provides savings as a percentage of sales for each year in the 13 planning window

AI summary The response to the question about savings targets for the preferred plan refers to a table that outlines savings as a percentage of sales for each year in the planning window.

8 Q. PLEASE EXPLAIN WHY ALLOWING LII CUSTOMERS INTO SMART 9 SYNERGY WOULD CONSTITUTE DOUBLE COUNTING. 10 A. LII customers already provide dispatchable load reduction under NS Power's Large 11 Industrial Interruptible Rider ("LIIR"). Under...

AI summary The response explains that allowing LII customers to participate in Smart Synergy would result in double counting, as they already receive a demand charge reduction under the LIIR. Enrolling them in Smart Synergy would provide an additional incentive for the same demand reduction, resulting in paying twice for the same benefit.

High Level Assessment of E1's Preferred Plan At a high level, E1's proposed 2027–2031 DSM Plan is framed around affordability, near-term ratepayer protection, and continuity of DSM programming. That framing is appropriate. Nova Scotia cust...

AI summary E1's 2027–2031 DSM Plan focuses on affordability, ratepayer protection, and continuity of DSM programming. It maintains a consistent investment level of $63.75 million annually, totaling $318.75 million over five years, with a PAC ratio of 2.4 and estimated lifetime benefits of $682.5 million. However, the plan is urged to undergo stronger scrutiny regarding the allocation of DSM funds and alignment with system needs.

5M in 2027; $61.1M in 2028; $62.4M in 2029; $63.6M in 2030; and $64.9M in 2031, all totaling to $312M. This implies that the two budget numbers ($318.7M vs. $312M) are very close to each other. While E1 and its consultant (Apex Analytics)...

AI summary E1's Preferred Plan has significantly higher unit costs compared to other jurisdictions, spending almost twice as much to deliver a single kWh of efficiency. E1 attributes this to a shift away from low-cost lighting measures and other factors, though the peer group comparison is questioned.

A. E1's Treatment of Demand Response E1's Preferred Plan includes both residential DR with an annual budget of ~$2 million and BNI DR with an annual budget ranging from $3.1 million in 2027 to $4.4 million in 2031 with total Demand Respons...

AI summary E1's Preferred Plan includes both residential and BNI Demand Response (DR) programs with significant investment over five years. Residential DR participation is expected to decline, while BNI DR is projected to grow. E1 faces challenges with residential DR cost-effectiveness and implementation, though participation has recovered from initial issues.

While individual programs in the portfolio do not need to have a PAC test greater than one, there must be justification for the inclusion of programs that are not individually cost effective. E1 justifies the inclusion of residential DR no...

AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) justifies pausing the rollout of its residential demand response (DR) program due to current cost-ineffectiveness but emphasizes its importance for the future electricity system. The analysis highlights that E1's residential DR program has higher costs compared to other utilities' DR programs, which may indicate opportunities for cost reduction. E1's approach is criticized as internally inconsistent, as it assumes inaction will improve cost-effectiveness, while the Ontario IESO recommends continued investment.

d event-season learning are what improve performance and spread fixed costs over a broader participant base. E1 should be required to adopt those lessons now, not merely cite them as a reason to wait. A modified Plan should therefore requi...

AI summary The text recommends that E1 adopt lessons from event-season learning to improve DR performance and spread fixed costs. It suggests developing DR as a dispatchable resource with clear metrics and assessing delivery models from other jurisdictions. It also emphasizes scaling BNI Smart Synergy where cost-effective and expanding residential DR programs, particularly for winter peak reduction.

A. E1's Treatment of Strategic Electrification E1 states that it took its role in advancing SE seriously and considered whether SE could be included in the 2027–2031 DSM Plan. E1's modelling focused on building electrification measures whe...

AI summary E1 evaluated strategic electrification (SE) scenarios for inclusion in the 2027–2031 DSM Plan but found they failed to reduce electricity costs under the modified PAC test. Despite GHG benefits, SE was excluded from the Preferred Plan. E1 will instead pursue SE through enabling strategies, including research, pilot programs, and future IRP collaboration.

urred on January 25, 2026.[57](#page-33-2) The same report states that Nova Scotia's total system peak occurs in the December through February period because of weather-sensitive load.[58](#page-33-3) The capacity context is also reflected...

AI summary The document discusses Nova Scotia Power's 2025 10-Year System Outlook, highlighting the role of variable renewable resources like wind and solar in meeting energy needs but noting their limited contribution to firm capacity compared to conventional generation. The peak system demand occurs during the winter months due to weather-sensitive load patterns.

2. Treatment of Demand Response - Treat DR as a valuable dispatchable system capacity resource, not merely as another customer-facing DSM program. - Require E1 to expand and improve residential DR rather than pause new enrollment and wait...

AI summary The text emphasizes the importance of treating Demand Response (DR) as a key system capacity resource, not just a DSM program. It calls for expanding residential DR, improving performance reporting, and learning from successful programs like Ontario's Peak Perks. It also highlights the need for E1 to update its DR studies and avoid substituting BNI DR for a robust residential DR strategy.

- Delaware, Illinois, Kentucky, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Nova Scotia, and Virginia. In Nova Scotia, I have also provided ongoing expert advice on a range of demand-side management (DSM) issues including incentive setting methodologi...

AI summary The text discusses the expert's involvement in various demand-side management (DSM) matters before the Nova Scotia Energy Board (NSEB) and its predecessor, the Nova Scotia Utility and Regulatory Authority Board (NSUARB), including testimony in multiple proceedings related to DSM plans and infrastructure.

3. BACKGROUND 2 Q. Please provide background on the 2027-2031 DSM Plan filing. 3 A. The last multi-year DSM Plan covered 2023 to 2025. In late 2025, the NSEB 4 approved an extension to the 2023-2025 DSM Plan to include 2026 (the 2026 5 Ext...

AI summary The document outlines the background of the 2027-2031 DSM Plan filing by E1, including the extension of the 2023-2025 DSM Plan to 2026 and key changes in the new five-year plan, such as new program components, retired programs, and updated measure categories.

Sources: - 2023 Actuals: 2023 DSM Annual Progress Report, Table 1: 2023 Results to 2023 Plan as Approved, 2023 Mid-Course Adjustments, and 2023 Year-End Forecast, pg. 6. - 2024 Actuals: 2024 DSM Annual Progress Report, Table 1: 2024 Result...

AI summary The text references annual progress reports and planned DSM activities from 2023 to 2026, including actuals, mid-course adjustments, and forecasts. It also mentions a proposed DSM plan for 2027-2031. These documents provide data on program savings and investments related to demand-side management.

Q. Please summarize the peak demand savings and available capacity proposed by E1 in its 2027-2031 DSM Plan. A. E1's expectations for peak demand savings from energy efficiency and available capacity from the demand response in its Preferr...

AI summary E1's 2027-2031 DSM Plan projects total peak demand savings of 43.6 MW by 2031, with energy efficiency contributions declining and demand response contributions growing, sourced entirely from existing and new BNI participants, with no new residential demand response participants planned.

Sources: - 2023 Actuals: 2023 DSM Annual Progress Report, Table 1: 2023 Results to 2023 Plan as Approved, 2023 Mid-Course Adjustments, and 2023 Year-End Forecast, pg. 6. - 2024 Actuals: 2024 DSM Annual Progress Report, Table 1: 2024 Result...

AI summary The text references annual progress reports and planned DSM activities from 2023 to 2026, including actuals, mid-course adjustments, and forecasts. It also mentions a proposed DSM plan for 2027-2031. These documents provide data on program savings and investments related to demand-side management.

Q. Please summarize E1's demand response offerings as part of the 2027-2031 DSM Plan. A. In the 2027-2031 period, E1 plans to offer several pathways, each focused on a type of demand response measure. These pathways include water-heating a...

AI summary E1 plans to offer demand response programs under the 2027-2031 DSM Plan, including water-heating and thermostat demand response for residential participants, curtailment demand response for BNI participants, and a new 'Loadshift to Back Up Generators' offering. Residential participation is expected to decline, while BNI participation and overall budgets will increase.

Q. Do you have any concerns about E1's demand response program proposal? - A. Yes. I identify major concerns regarding the following aspects of E1's demand response proposal: - E1's proposed residential demand response program offerings ha...

AI summary The respondent raises several concerns about E1's demand response program proposal, including low program cost-benefit ratios, high delivery costs, lack of process evaluation for phasing out certain programs, inconsistent performance weighting, and unequal incentives for different backup generator types.

- Q. E1 proposes to phase out its EV and battery demand response programs. What is E1's rationale? - A. E1 plans to phase out the EV and battery pathways before the start of the 2027 - demand response season. E1 states that it excluded the...

AI summary E1 plans to phase out EV and battery demand response programs due to low cost-effectiveness, low enrollment, and operational challenges. While these programs show high curtailment potential, their modeled benefit-cost ratios remain very low, making them difficult to justify in the 2027-2031 DSM Plan.

n Gas East Corporation d/b/a National Grid for Gas Service and The Brooklyn Union Gas Company d/b/a National Grid NY for Gas Service. On behalf of Natural Resources Defense Council. September 1, 2023. Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board (...

AI summary The document outlines various testimonies and evidence provided by Alice Napoleon and others in multiple regulatory proceedings, including matters related to energy efficiency plans, capital work orders, and gas-side investments. These testimonies were provided on behalf of the Natural Resources Defense Council and Counsel to the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board.

Solar Nova Scotia supports a 2027–2031 DSM Plan that continues to deliver cost-effective energy efficiency while also preparing Nova Scotia for the next phase of demand-side resources: flexible load, demand response, strategic electrificat...

AI summary Solar Nova Scotia supports a 2027–2031 DSM Plan that emphasizes cost-effective energy efficiency and the integration of flexible load, demand response, and strategic electrification. The evidence highlights the need to shift business programs from direct-install models to technical assistance and support, treat new controllable load as demand response, and develop a strategic electrification pathway with managed resources and federal incentives.

1. Introduction and Purpose of Evidence This evidence is submitted in relation to EfficiencyOne's application for approval of the 2027– 2031 DSM Resource Plan and associated DSM Purchase Agreement in Matter M12780. Solar Nova Scotia recogn...

AI summary Solar Nova Scotia submits evidence regarding EfficiencyOne's 2027–2031 DSM Resource Plan, noting the need for the DSM framework to evolve due to changes in the electricity system and declining low-cost lighting savings. The focus is on redirecting resources toward more durable and system-valuable efficiency measures.

2.2 Lighting Saturation Is Changing the Business Portfolio Within the business sector there is a major structural shift underway due to the saturation of LED lighting as a DSM measure. As lighting opportunities decline, programs such as Bu...

AI summary The saturation of LED lighting as a DSM measure is causing a structural shift in the business sector, leading to lower savings and higher unit costs for programs like Business Energy Rebates and Small Business Energy Solutions. Meanwhile, the Custom Program has become the dominant source of business-sector savings, with its share increasing from 25% in 2019 to nearly 80% in the 2027–2031 DSM Plan.

4.1 New Controllable Load Is a Demand Response Resource Nova Scotia's 2026 Load Forecast indicates that the 2027–2031 DSM period will add significant new controllable residential load, including 31,399 electric vehicles and 106,475 heat pu...

AI summary Nova Scotia's 2026 Load Forecast predicts significant growth in controllable residential load, including electric vehicles and heat pumps. Solar Nova Scotia supports treating demand response as a dispatchable resource but criticizes the Preferred Plan for limiting enrollment in demand response programs despite growing controllable load.

4.3 Longer-Duration Capacity: Hybrid Heating and Back-up Generation The E3 Effective Load Carrying Capability (ELCC) analysis underscores the value of longerduration demand response. Hybrid heating systems and back-up generators are well s...

AI summary The E3 ELCC analysis highlights the value of longer-duration demand response from hybrid heating and back-up generators. EfficiencyOne is encouraged to expand its portfolio in this area, especially in new commercial construction, with the DSM Plan targeting 6 MW of back-up generator capacity, though the potential is much larger as these systems become more common.

4.5 Recommended Direction for Demand Response Solar Nova Scotia recommends that the Board: - direct IESO Nova Scotia, as the Independent Energy System Operator responsible for resource procurement, to procure longer-term demand response an...

AI summary Solar Nova Scotia recommends that the Board direct IESO Nova Scotia to procure long-term demand response capacity, ensure DSM-funded devices are demand-response capable, and require EfficiencyOne to expand and optimize demand response programs, including reporting on performance metrics.

results of this study were shared with Department of Energy as to fulfill the data reporting requirements of FPL's Smart Grid Investment Grant. - Pricing and technology pilot design and interim impact evaluation for Commonwealth Edison Com...

AI summary A study on innovative rate design and impact evaluation was conducted for Commonwealth Edison Company (ComEd), involving a pilot program with 8,000 customers testing dynamic pricing and enabling technologies. The study was part of a broader effort to evaluate the impact of rate design and was shared with the Department of Energy as part of FPL's Smart Grid Investment Grant.

ssed the magnitudes of the price elasticities and the model specifications used to generate them, analyzed the ability of the models to generate a baseline forecast that could serve as a point of reference when evaluating the likely impact...

AI summary The text discusses the development of demand forecasting models, including the analysis of price elasticities and the creation of a model for a large steam system operator. These models are used to evaluate the impacts and cost-effectiveness of energy efficiency and demand response programs.

1 M12780 2 3 NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD 4 5 6 IN THE MATTER OF: The Public Utilities Act 7 8 – and – 9 10 IN THE MATTER OF: AN APPLICATION by EFFICIENYONE for approval of the 11 20272031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase 12 Agreement bet...

AI summary This document outlines a regulatory proceeding related to an application by EfficiencyOne for the approval of a 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement and Resource Plan. The response to information requests is addressed to EfficiencyOne's interim CEO, Martha Casey, and includes contact details for the Consumer Advocate, David J. Roberts.

3 Reference: Evidence of Green Energy Economics Group page 9, lines 7–8: 4 5 "The SFF directs E1 to provide a Preferred Plan that is informed by the level of DSM savings 6 identified in NS Power's Integrated Resource Plan ("IRP")." 7 8 (a)...

AI summary The text references the Standardized Filing Framework (SFF) and asks about its requirements regarding the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) and the development of a preferred DSM Resource Plan by E1.

16 Response IR-01: 17 18 (a) The reference is to Section 4.2.3, "Integrated Resource Plan," of E1's Proposed Updated 19 Standardized Filing Framework, filed as Appendix F to the Application (Appendix F, p. 7). That 20 section provides: 21...

AI summary The response discusses the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) and its role in shaping the Demand Side Management (DSM) Resource Plan, emphasizing that the IRP provides directional input rather than prescriptive guidance. The response also raises concerns about the balance between short-term affordability and long-term energy savings. A separate request addresses pre-weatherization barriers and their impact on energy savings and cost-effectiveness.

1 M12780 2 3 NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD 4 5 6 IN THE MATTER OF: The Public Utilities Act 7 8 – and – 9 10 IN THE MATTER OF: AN APPLICATION by EFFICIENYONE for approval of the 11 20272031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase 12 Agreement bet...

AI summary This document outlines a regulatory proceeding related to the approval of a 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement between EfficiencyOne and Nova Scotia Power Incorporated, as well as the establishment of a final agreement and a DSM Resource Plan. The response to information requests is being provided by the Consumer Advocate to the Industrial Group.

1 Request IR-01: 2 Preamble: At pages 3–9 regarding the Mid-Course Adjustment (MCA), Mr. Love recommends (a) that the Board require explicit Board approval of any MCA, with a 30-day comment period for intervenors; (b) that unspent funding...

AI summary The text discusses a request (IR-01) regarding the Mid-Course Adjustment (MCA) framework, including whether unspent funds can be carried forward, the scope of the MCA process, and how recommendations for consolidating low-income programs and approving an IRP-aligned budget interact.

5 Request IR-02: 6 7 Reference: E-21, Page 7, lines 2–6. 8 "I recommend that E1 should file an MCA to address any material change to optimal DSM resource acquisition levels identified in the Evergreen IRP process. A material change would b...

AI summary The text outlines a request (IR-02) for clarification on the meaning and application of 'optimal DSM resource acquisition levels,' the 20% threshold for triggering an MCA, and the evidentiary requirements for Board approval of an MCA, particularly in cases involving budget increases.

optimal level in either direction. The purpose is to keep the plan aligned with 10 the least-cost level identified through integrated planning, whether that requires acquiring 11 more DSM or less. 12 13 (b) The 20% threshold for IRP saving...

AI summary The response discusses adjusting the DSM plan to align with integrated planning and the 20% threshold for IRP savings. It supports the Board's decision to evaluate cost-effectiveness at the portfolio level and opposes fixed evidentiary standards for MCAs, instead advocating for case-by-case evaluation with intervenor input.

10 Request IR-11: 11 Preamble: Smart Synergy is described on E1's website as open to businesses willing and able to reduce energy use during high-demand events, through manual shutdown or automation, in four-hour morning or evening blocks....

AI summary The text discusses the eligibility criteria for the Smart Synergy program, noting that LII customers are excluded due to participation in an existing demand response program and the omission of Rate Code 25. It requests confirmation on whether these exclusions are program-specific or due to regulatory or technical constraints, and whether voluntary load reductions by LII customers are functionally equivalent to those incentivized by Smart Synergy.

41 Response IR-12: 43 By way of introduction, it is noted that IR-12 does not refer to the Evidence filed by Mr. Love. 44 Nonetheless, the following response is provided. Date Filed: July 17, 2026 CA (IG) Page 20 of 22 1 (a) GEEG has not c...

AI summary The response to IR-12 discusses issues with overlapping demand response programs, specifically Smart Synergy and the LII interruptible tariff. It highlights the risk of double compensation for the same load reduction and notes that no methodology exists to isolate incremental voluntary curtailment. California's approach is referenced as a possible model.

- d) Please see the response above. 1 Nova Scotia Energy Board 13 participants, provided that the peak demand reduction is measured against a DSM measure 14 baseline that considers baseline fuel choices appropriately. 1 Nova Scotia Energy...

AI summary The Nova Scotia Energy Board is responding to an information request regarding the measurement and verification of peak demand reductions in the context of new construction and industrial building design decisions. The request seeks clarification on recommended metrics and the use of hourly modelling for assessing demand-side management (DSM) programs.

Response IR-4: This IR response has been provided by The Brattle Group. (a) Yes, that is correct. (b) This information is not available as the 2025 Cadmus evaluation report only reports summer capacity savings. (c) Yes, Brattle fully under...

AI summary The Brattle Group confirms the relevance of Peak Perks as a thermostat-controlled demand response (DR) program in Nova Scotia's winter-peaking system. They emphasize that key design features apply to both heating and cooling DR programs. Otter Tail Power uses Direct Load Control for winter heating, though cost-per-kw data is not readily available.

Request IR-6: Reference: Brattle Evidence, Section IV: Representation of Demand Response in E1's Preferred Plan, page 12: "E1's logic for limiting residential DR in the Preferred Plan is internally inconsistent in that E1 states residentia...

AI summary The response to Request IR-6 discusses Brattle's recommendation to scale residential demand response (DR) in E1's Preferred Plan, emphasizing the importance of winter peak reduction and the need for E1 to refine its portfolio based on the 2026 DSM Potential Study. It also references Ontario's Peak Perks program as a model.

city resource, not simply as a customer program; undertake a See E1 response to NSEB IR-07, part (b)(ii). See E1 response to IG IR-17, part (b). new DR potential study focused on winter peak value; identify the relative potential of smart...

AI summary The text discusses the need for a new demand response (DR) study focused on winter peak value, emphasizing the importance of scaling BNI DR and improving residential DR delivery. It also suggests reallocating funds within the existing DSM budget to prioritize DR resources that reduce peak demand and defer future capacity costs.

NON-CONFIDENTIAL - 1 (d) Given that E1's prior potential study is from 2019, and a new DR potential study is 2 currently being developed by IESO Nova Scotia, Brattle does not have the sufficient - 3 information to answer this question. Req...

AI summary Excluding residential customers from growth in Demand Response (DR) capacity would shift the DR program's focus to BNI customer curtailment, reducing diversification and scalability. This approach may not align with Nova Scotia's future energy needs as residential electrification increases.

Date Filed: July 17, 2026 NSPI (CA) IR-6 Page 1 of 1 1 Request IR-7: 2 3 On page 16 of 39 of its Report, the Brattle Group states that there may be opportunities for 4 reduction in the cost of the implementation of Residential Demand Respo...

AI summary The document discusses challenges faced by E1 in implementing its Residential Demand Response (DR) programs, noting a slow ramp-up in DR capacity and the need to learn from prior challenges and best practices. It also references a DSM Resource Plan Application submitted by EfficiencyOne.

- BNI participant drop-outs and event opt-outs: In the 2023/2024 season, BNI DR results were affected by participant drop-out and operational constraints, including customers withdrawing or opting out of events because of operational requi...

AI summary The document discusses challenges in demand response (DR) programs, including participant drop-outs, operational constraints, and issues with residential hot water controllers. E1 had to recall controllers for quality reasons, leading to program disruptions and low adoption of Eco Shift devices. DR results underperformed in 2025 due to low residential participation and limited advance notice of events. Corrective actions were taken, such as improving customer engagement and event notice.

Id., p. 9 of 112. 1 event reporting, independent metering, and a new aggregator with better metering 2 and real-time insights.6 3 4 (b) E1 should ensure that enrolled devices are event-ready, reliable, and capable of being 5 measured befor...

AI summary E1 is advised to improve the reliability and performance of its demand response (DR) programs by ensuring device quality, enhancing customer engagement, and using data to optimize program effectiveness. Specific recommendations include better metering, targeted marketing, and improving communication protocols.

- Use device partners and OEM channels to reduce customer-acquisition costs: IESO's Peak Perks program scaled quickly by working through smart-thermostat platforms and device partners; IESO reported more than 200,000 enrolled participants...

AI summary The text discusses strategies to reduce customer-acquisition costs, improve customer experience in demand response (DR) programs, and refine baseline methods and event analytics. It highlights successful examples from IESO's Peak Perks program, Eversource's ConnectedSolutions, and studies by PG&E and Massachusetts, suggesting E1 adopt similar approaches for its DR initiatives.

vendors, and other programs. E1 should similarly treat early seasons as a learning period and use event data to refine baselines, dispatch strategies, and technology-specific performance assumptions. - Prioritize winter-relevant controllab...

AI summary The document emphasizes the need for E1 to refine its demand response (DR) strategies by focusing on winter-relevant controllable loads and learning from early seasons. It suggests prioritizing resources like electric resistance backup heating and smart thermostats, while also considering the experience of other utilities in stabilizing DR programs over time.

r, this argument is buttressed by the IESO- NS 2026 ELCC study, which shows that at lower levels of residential DR penetration, the estimated ELCC is greater than 90 percent. Please refer to IG IR-12. Request IR-8: Reference: E-22, page 16...

AI summary The argument is supported by the IESO-NS 2026 ELCC study, which highlights the effectiveness of residential demand response at lower penetration levels. The response to IR-8 outlines Brattle Group's recommendations for performance, accreditation, and cost-effectiveness metrics for demand response, based on experience and professional judgment, and suggests including metrics from other jurisdictions.

ailed program design, and final DSM plan for regulatory submission. The same study notes that it also assessed electric DR market potential for Manitoba Hydro, using common inputs and assumptions from the DSM market potential study. The st...

AI summary The document discusses various demand-side management (DSM) and energy efficiency studies from different regions, including Manitoba Hydro, Prince Edward Island (PEI), and Puget Sound Energy (PSE). These studies assess the potential for energy savings and demand response (DR) programs, with a focus on winter peak load reductions and long-term planning periods.

so it is still nascent relative to the incremental levels assumed in the ELCC study. Even with increasing participation, residential DR will have an ELCC of >90 percent until it hits 10 MW. At levels above that, it can still offer meaningf...

AI summary The text discusses the effectiveness of residential demand response (DR) programs, noting their high ELCC until reaching 10 MW. It also addresses managed EV charging programs, confirming that E1's 2027-2031 Preferred Plan does not include such programs, though savings from managed EV charging can be captured within a DR program framework.

NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD IN THE MATTER OF: The Public Utilities Act IN THE MATTER OF: An Application by EfficiencyOne for approval of the 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement between EfficiencyOne and Nova Scotia Power...

AI summary The Nova Scotia Energy Board is considering an application by EfficiencyOne for the approval of a 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement with Nova Scotia Power Incorporated, as well as the establishment of a final agreement and the approval of a DSM Resource Plan.

NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD IN THE MATTER OF: The Public Utilities Act, as amended IN THE MATTER OF: An Application by EfficiencyOne for Approval of the 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement between EfficiencyOne and Nova...

AI summary This document pertains to an application by EfficiencyOne for approval of a 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement with Nova Scotia Power Incorporated, as well as the establishment of a final agreement and approval of a DSM Resource Plan.

Response to Request IR-4: Refer to M12780, Exhibit E-24, SNS Evidence, Section 4.1, New Controllable Load is a Demand Response Resource, page 10 of 16, 2nd paragraph of this section. (a) Please provide the support for the statement "…at th...

AI summary The response to Request IR-4 discusses the growth of controllable residential load and the capacity value of devices like heat pumps and water heaters. It highlights that while these devices are being deployed through efficiency programs, their capacity value is not secured due to limited demand response enrollment, potentially leading to higher costs for ratepayers.

ith that, E1's own Plan already contemplates providing "specific justification, on an individual basis, for each measure that fails" the test, rather than excluding it outright (M12780, E-1, p. 412). On that basis, a strategic electrificat...

AI summary E1 argues that a strategic electrification program should be included in the 2027-2031 DSM Plan without requiring prior cost-effectiveness proof, as portfolio-level testing can accommodate such measures. SNS suggests that if development is limited to the Plan period, results from hourly modelling and pathway analysis should trigger a mid-plan adjustment.

Summary Recommendations I recommend that the Board: - approve the energy-efficiency-related budgets and savings proposed by NB Power for the 2024/25 and 2025/26 program years. - o Direct NB Power to provide updates when the Energy Efficien...

AI summary The Board is recommended to approve NB Power's energy-efficiency and electrification budgets, request revisions to the DSM plan, and conduct reviews on renewable energy and demand response programs. The Province is also urged to align electricity savings requirements with updated targets and include additional program types in future planning.

Request IR-2: 2 Reference: E-23, Pages 11-13. 3 Preamble: Synapse concludes E1's Preferred Plan will deliver approximately 215 GWh 4 less in annual energy efficiency savings than the IRP assumes by 2031, and approximately 5 9 MW less in pe...

AI summary The document requests clarification from Synapse regarding the assumptions in the IRP's DSM savings, whether a RBIA was conducted to close the energy efficiency savings gap, and the methodology for allocating incremental investment. It also asks why NSPI's EE contributions were excluded from the comparison in Table 1.

(e) Where an updated IRP is currently underway by IESO-NS, please explain how Synapse proposes that any changes to the IRP's DSM savings assumptions during the 2027–2031 Plan period should be addressed, including whether those changes woul...

AI summary The response discusses the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) and Demand Side Management (DSM) savings assumptions, noting that the IRP's DSM savings are not binding targets. The response highlights concerns about potential gaps in energy efficiency savings and mentions that no Rate and Bill Impact Analysis (RBIA) was conducted for closing these gaps. It also notes the absence of NS Power-administered energy efficiency programs.

M12780 - In the Matter of EfficiencyOne's (E1) 2027–2031 Demand Side Management (DSM) Resource Plan Application notably the thermostat and water-heater pathways." 87% of the 2025 Residential DR capacity was provided by thermostats alone (S...

AI summary The document discusses EfficiencyOne's 2027–2031 Demand Side Management (DSM) Resource Plan Application, highlighting the use of thermostats and water heaters in residential demand response (DR) and the reliance on large commercial and industrial customers for BNI DR capacity, including non-HVAC measures.

EfficiencyOne IN THE MATTER OF The Public Utilities Act , R.S.N.S. 1989, c. 380, as amended -and- IN THE MATTER OF An Application by EfficiencyOne for Approval of the 2027–2031 Demand Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement between Effici...

AI summary This document pertains to an application by EfficiencyOne for approval of a Demand Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement with Nova Scotia Power Inc., along with the establishment of a final agreement and the approval of a DSM Resource Plan for the period 2027–2031.

Q. Please explain how E1 proposes to assess demand response performance across the duration of demand response events. A. E1's evaluation of available demand response capacity is weighted toward the early hours of an event. E1 states that...

AI summary E1 evaluates demand response (DR) capacity based on demand reduction during the first two hours of winter events for residential and BNI programs, despite events lasting four hours and residential capacity degrading significantly by the fourth hour.

Q. Why does this misalignment matter? A. If E1 dispatches four-hour events and claims savings on a four-hour basis but evaluates performance based primarily on the first two hours, the methodology overstates the performance of pathways for...

AI summary The misalignment in evaluation methodology matters because it overstates the performance of certain demand response pathways and understates others. Equal weighting across all hours of an event is recommended to improve accuracy and fairness in cost-effectiveness comparisons.

Synapse Exhibit 1, 2027–2031 DSM Plan Application, Appendix A, page 103, lines 17-20. - Fourth, with respect to DR, Ms. Napoleon addresses BNI program offerings. At page 6, lines 21 23, Ms. - Napoleon recommends: E1 should develop differen...

AI summary Ms. Napoleon recommends differentiated incentives for BNI demand response program, with higher incentives for battery-based standby resources than for fossil-fueled generators.

NS Power At PDF pages 18 - 19, Brattle states: Here are some of our observations on Peak Perks and what could be adopted by E1: - 1. Peak Perks provides a clear, immediate, and material incentive: the offer is easy to understand: $75 at en...

AI summary Brattle's analysis of Peak Perks highlights its effectiveness in residential demand response (DR) through clear incentives, low-friction enrollment, and customer comfort protections. The program uses existing thermostat channels and provides financial rewards, which have driven high participation and positive customer feedback.

5. SOLAR NOVA SCOTIA EVIDENCE Solar Nova Scotia provided evidence, which was filed with the Board as E-24. This section of the Rebuttal Evidence sets out new evidence of E1, responding to new concerns raised in Solar Nova Scotia's evidence...

AI summary Solar Nova Scotia submitted rebuttal evidence (E-24) addressing concerns raised about BNI DSM and savings from energy manager-supported projects within the 2027–2031 DSM Plan.

Solar Nova Scotia recommends that DSM-funded controllable devices, including smart thermostats, electric water heaters, and heat pumps, be made demand-response capable and integrated into DR programming wherever technically feasible, subje...

AI summary Solar Nova Scotia suggests integrating DSM-funded controllable devices into demand-response programming, emphasizing customer consent, override protections, and annual reporting on peak reduction and capacity value, as these devices represent a low-cost source of demand response.

Solar Nova Scotia At page 11 of its evidence, Solar Nova Scotia states: The E3 Effective Load Carrying Capability (ELCC) analysis underscores the value of longer- duration demand response. Hybrid heating systems and back-up generators are...

AI summary Solar Nova Scotia highlights the value of longer-duration demand response, citing the E3 ELCC analysis. It notes that EfficiencyOne's Demand Response Program targets 6 MW of backup generator capacity, but emphasizes that the available opportunity is much larger.

EfficiencyOne IN THE MATTER OF The Public Utilities Act , RSNS 1989, c. 380, as amended -and- IN THE MATTER OF An Application by EfficiencyOne for Approval of the 2027–2031 Demand Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement between Efficiency...

AI summary The document outlines an application by EfficiencyOne for approval of a 2027–2031 Demand Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement with Nova Scotia Power Inc., as well as the establishment of a final agreement and approval of a DSM Resource Plan.

cotians. It is about helping households manage rising energy costs, helping businesses remain competitive, and helping our province make steady progress toward a cleaner, more resilient energy future. E1's evidence has addressed five centr...

AI summary EfficiencyOne's opening statement outlines a plan focused on managing energy costs, supporting business competitiveness, and advancing a cleaner energy future. The plan maintains flat investment at the 2026 approved level of $63.75 million annually, addressing affordability pressures while delivering long-term energy savings. The statement emphasizes collaboration and responsiveness to changing circumstances.

IN THE MATTER OF THE PUBLIC UTILITIES ACT - and - IN THE MATTER OF AN APPLICATION BY EFFICIENCYONE for approval of the 2027–2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement between EfficiencyOne and Nova Scotia Power Inc., the establis...

AI summary This document concerns an application by EfficiencyOne for approval of a 2027–2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement with Nova Scotia Power Inc., as well as the establishment of a final agreement and approval of a DSM Resource Plan for the same period.

IN THE MATTER OF THE PUBLIC UTILITIES ACT — and — IN THE MATTER OF AN APPLICATION by EFFICIENCYONE for approval of the 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement between EfficiencyOne and Nova Scotia Power Incorporated, the...

AI summary The document is an opening statement from the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi'kmaw Chiefs and Kwilmu'kw Maw-klusuaqn Negotiation Office (KMKNO)/Mi'kmaq Rights Initiative regarding an application by EfficiencyOne for approval of a DSM Purchase Agreement and Resource Plan with Nova Scotia Power Incorporated.

Opening Statement Kwe. Good morning, Chair and Members of the Board. My name is Tamara Young and I am the Chief of Pictou Landing First Nation and Co-Lead for the Energy, Mines and Environment Portfolio with the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi'...

AI summary Tamara Young, Chief of Pictou Landing First Nation and Co-Lead for the Energy, Mines and Environment Portfolio with the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi'kmaw Chiefs, appears on behalf of the Assembly and KMK as interveners in the proposed Demand-Side Management Purchase Agreement and Resource Plan. The outcome of this matter will impact energy programs benefiting Mi'kmaw communities.

1 2026 M12780 2 NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD 3 IN THE MATTER OF: The Public Utilities Act 4 IN THE MATTER OF: An Application by EfficiencyOne for approval of the 2027-2031 5 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement 6 between EfficiencyO...

AI summary EfficiencyOne has applied for approval of its 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement and Resource Plan, proposing a total budget of $318.75 million. The Industrial Group supports the plan, emphasizing cost-effectiveness, proper governance, and equitable allocation. They highlight the use of the Program Administrator Cost test, as directed by the Board in Matter M12282, to ensure cost-effective DSM programming.

nd more than 40 MW added in 2025 alone, yet no forecasted demand-response growth. 35 36 • Heat pumps: more than 100,000 expected, each a controllable-load opportunity if properly equipped. 37 38 • Electric water heaters: 50,000 to 100,000...

AI summary The text discusses the potential for demand-response growth through heat pumps, electric water heaters, and battery storage, while noting that current program structures struggle to accommodate larger capital measures. It highlights the need for program design and delivery to evolve.

- 2 of those costs may be offset by overall system savings, it is not a complete counterbalance. - 3 The SBA had the opportunity to review EfficiencyOne's opening statement and the Schedule "A" - 4 that was attached t _ The SBA acknowledge...

AI summary The SBA acknowledges EfficiencyOne's efforts in developing the 2027-2031 DSM plan, finding many proposed adjustments reasonable and beneficial. The SBA supports strategic electrification under certain conditions and appreciates the commitment to enhanced reporting on innovation-framework activities and Enabling Strategies.

1 M12780 2 3 4 NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD 5 6 IN THE MATTER OF Section 35A of the Public Utilities Act, RSNS 1989, c 380, as amended 7 8 – and – 9 10 11 12 13 14 IN THE MATTER OF an APPLICATION by EFFICIENYONE for approval of the 2027-2031 D...

AI summary This document outlines an application by EfficiencyOne for approval of a 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement and Resource Plan with Nova Scotia Power Incorporated, as part of a proceeding under Section 35A of the Public Utilities Act.

NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD IN THE MATTER OF: The Public Utilities Act IN THE MATTER OF: An Application by EfficiencyOne for approval of the 2027- 2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement between EfficiencyOne and Nova Scotia Powe...

AI summary The Nova Scotia Energy Board is considering an application by EfficiencyOne for approval of a 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement with Nova Scotia Power Incorporated, as well as the establishment of a final agreement and approval of a DSM Resource Plan.

1 M12780 2 3 NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD 4 5 6 IN THE MATTER OF: The Public Utilities Act 7 8 – and – 9 10 11 IN THE MATTER OF: An Application by EfficiencyOne for approval of the 2027–2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement 12 b...

AI summary EfficiencyOne is seeking approval for its 2027–2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Plan, which aims to deliver 435.4 GWh of energy savings. The plan prioritizes near-term affordability due to current economic pressures, including rising interest rates and electricity rate increases, and is expected to cost $318.7 million.

e Plan ("IRP"). The IRP included anticipated 7 DSM energy savings of 683.1 GWh during the relevant period - a difference of 247.7 GWh 8 compared to the savings projected by E1 in this current plan. 9 10 Maintaining short-term affordability...

AI summary The text discusses the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) and highlights a discrepancy between projected and actual DSM energy savings. It emphasizes the importance of balancing short-term affordability with long-term benefits of DSM programs, noting that DSM can lead to cost savings for participants and is a least-cost resource. The Consumer Advocate supports changes to E1's application.

cision in this matter and execute the Study within 6 months following finalization of the scope. The Study will be scoped to generate findings that may inform the design of a potential pilot program. - 3. E1 and Eastward Energy, subject to...

AI summary The document outlines a collaboration between E1 and Eastward Energy to conduct a study and potentially design a pilot program, with updates to be provided to the Nova Scotia Energy Board and DSMAG. The study's findings will inform the pilot, and E1 will bear the costs of the study and pilot.

James R. Gogan Direct +1 (902) 563 5920 [email protected] 1969 Upper Water Street, Suite 1300 Halifax, Nova Scotia Canada B3J 3R7 Tel +1 (902) 425-6500 Fax +1 (902) 425-6350 Our File: 238984 July 31, 2026 Nova Scotia Energy Boa...

AI summary EfficiencyOne and the Industrial Group have reached an agreement regarding the value of customer participation in the Large Industrial Interruptible Rider outside of Nova Scotia Power-dispatched interruptible events. This agreement is part of the M12780 application for approval of the 2027-2031 DSM Purchase Agreement and Resource Plan.

James R. Gogan Direct +1 (902) 563 5920 [email protected] 1969 Upper Water Street, Suite 1300 Halifax, Nova Scotia Canada B3J 3R7 Tel +1 (902) 425-6500 Fax +1 (902) 425-6350 Our File: 238984 August 3, 2026 Nova Scotia Energy Bo...

AI summary EfficiencyOne and the Consumer Advocate have reached an agreement regarding the setting of customer incentive levels for energy efficiency programs. This agreement is part of the M12780 application for the 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management Purchase Agreement and Resource Plan.

NOVA SCOTIA UTILITY AND REVIEW BOARD IN THE MATTER OF: THE PUBLIC UTILITIES ACT - and - IN THE MATTER OF: AN APPLICATION by EfficiencyOne for Approval of the 2027– 2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement between EfficiencyOne...

AI summary This document outlines an application by EfficiencyOne for approval of a 2027–2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement with Nova Scotia Power Inc., including the establishment of a final agreement and the approval of a DSM Resource Plan.

BACKGROUND This letter addresses Efficiency One's (E1) request that the Mercer Compensation Review (Mercer Report) it filed in this proceeding be held in confidence by the Board (i.e., filed as Board only confidential) The request was cons...

AI summary Efficiency One (E1) requested that its Mercer Compensation Review (Mercer Report) be treated as Board-only confidential. The Board, however, determined that the report should be treated as General Confidential and made available to intervenors who signed a Confidentiality Undertaking. E1 argued that the report contains sensitive compensation data and commercial information that could harm its competitive position.

NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD IN THE MATTER OF: The Public Utilities Act -and- IN THE MATTER OF: An Application by EfficiencyOne for approval of the 2027- 2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement between EfficiencyOne and Nova Scoti...

AI summary The Nova Scotia Energy Board is considering EfficiencyOne's application under the Public Utilities Act for a DSM Purchase Agreement and Resource Plan with Nova Scotia Power from 2027-2031, seeking approval for the agreement and establishment of a final plan.

NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD IN THE MATTER OF: The Public Utilities Act , RSNS 1989, c 380, as amended – and – IN THE MATTER OF: An Application by EfficiencyOne for Approval of the 2027–2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement betw...

AI summary The Nova Scotia Energy Board is considering an application by EfficiencyOne for approval of a 2027–2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement with Nova Scotia Power Inc., including the establishment of a final agreement and approval of a DSM Resource Plan under the Public Utilities Act.

measures such as building envelope upgrades, heat pump installations, and 1 i. Does E1 agree that there are risks associated with the proposed 2027-2031 31 for only DSM participants. 32 ii. Please provide a revised Table 6 and revised Figu...

AI summary The document text requests a revised analysis of the 2027-2031 DSM Plan's impact on average rates and customer bills, specifically for non-DSM participants. It also asks for historical participation rates in DSM programs by NS Power customers from 2021 to 2025, broken down by residential and business customers.

Document: 329676 Date Filed: May 7, 2026 Page 25 of 37 1 i. Please confirm whether these proposed enhancements have the support of 2 all members of DSMAG. 3 4 Request IR-31: 5 Regarding Section 8.2 "Mid-Term Check-in" of the Application: 6...

AI summary The document contains a series of requests and questions directed at E1 regarding the proposed enhancements to the DSM Plan, the Mid-Term Check-in process, and the Alternate Scenario. It specifically inquires about support from DSMAG, the filing of a Mid-Term Check-in Report, and whether the Alternate Scenario considered the removal of DSM measures that did not meet the PAC test.

Plan? Request IR-37: Absent any specific demand or energy reduction targets requested by NS Power or IESO-NS, please explain how E1 determined that the quantities and associated expenditures in its DSM Plan are the correct amounts that are...

AI summary The document contains several requests for clarification regarding E1's DSM Plan, including how E1 determined the quantities and expenditures, program development strategies, allocation of energy savings across rate classes, and the economic viability of increased spending with decreasing savings.

(6.6 MW), DLC-Thermostat (3.1 MW), and DLC-Water Heating (1.1 MW). a. Please describe how past-season performance is factored into projected achievable capacity, including any adjustments to enrollment, retention, or per-device response ra...

AI summary The text requests clarification on how past-season performance influences projected achievable capacity for demand-side management programs, and why C&I curtailment potential is projected to increase despite declining participation. It also references a specific table for further details on residential demand response programs.

ear target' with the reduced MCA threshold of 20 percent for program changes for both spending and savings that require explanations? b. Would it make sense to align these two thresholds? Why or why not? Request IR-70: Page 103 of Appendix...

AI summary The text discusses the MCA threshold for program changes and the distinction between available capacity from demand response and peak demand savings. It raises questions about aligning thresholds and references definitions from Appendix A – Preferred Plan.

NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD IN THE MATTER OF: THE PUBLIC UTILITIES ACT and IN THE MATTER OF: AN APPLICATION by EfficiencyOne (E1) for Approval of the 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement between EfficiencyOne and Nova Sco...

AI summary The Nova Scotia Energy Board is considering an application by EfficiencyOne (E1) for approval of a 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement with Nova Scotia Power Incorporated. The application seeks establishment of a final agreement and approval of a DSM Resource Plan under the Public Utilities Act.

NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 (i) details on the type of generator(s) (fuel, size, etc.) to be included in such a 2 program; 3 (ii) whether the program will recruit new or existing generators, or both; 4 (iii) how, and to whom, the program will be ma...

AI summary The document outlines a series of requests related to the design and evaluation of a demand-side management (DSM) program, including details on generator types, recruitment strategies, marketing methods, and performance measurement. It also addresses the timing of performance evaluations and the incorporation of the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) into the DSM Plan.

1 M12780 2 3 NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD 4 5 6 IN THE MATTER OF: The Public Utilities Act, as amended. 7 8 9 10 11 12 IN THE MATTER OF: An Application by EfficiencyOne for Approval of the 2027–2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreem...

AI summary The Nova Scotia Energy Board is considering an application by EfficiencyOne for approval of a 2027–2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement and DSM Resource Plan with Nova Scotia Power Incorporated. The Small Business Advocate has submitted an information request to Martha Casey, interim President and CEO of EfficiencyOne, for responses by May 28, 2026.

1 2026 M12780 2 NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD 3 IN THE MATTER OF: The Public Utilities Act 4 IN THE MATTER OF: An Application by EfficiencyOne for approval of the 2027-2031 5 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement 6 between EfficiencyO...

AI summary The Nova Scotia Energy Board has issued an information request to EfficiencyOne regarding the 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement and Resource Plan. The request asks for a rate-class-by-rate-class comparison of approved annual spending under the 2023–2025 Plan, the 2026 baseline, and the proposed spending for each rate class.

- 2 Reference: Exhibit E-1, Application, page 36/71; and Exhibit E-1, Appendix B, Section 9, 27 2027–2031, representing approximately 64% of the 683.1 GWh savings target in NSPI's 31 during the 2027–2031 DSM Plan development process demons...

AI summary The document requests detailed information on strategic electrification scenarios, including technologies considered, modified-PAC inputs and outputs, and the budget allocated for Enabling Strategies in the 2027–2031 DSM Plan. It also inquires about the allocation of Enabling Strategies funds for Medium and Large Industrial customers.

Request IR-8: - Reference: Exhibit E-1, Application, page 41/71; Exhibit E-1(ii), Excel File, Tab "Simple - Payback Review". - Preamble: E1 as part of its DSM Resource Plan Filing content includes measure level - payback information and ju...

AI summary E1 includes payback information and justifications for DSM measures with ≤ 3-year payback in its DSM Resource Plan Filing, as directed by NSUAB following the M10473 E1 2023 2025 DSM Resource Plan. The summary indicates that DSM is fully paid back no later than 2032.

- 29 (a) Please provide: 1 (i) The complete rate-class allocation methodology, step by 28 1. Update E1's 2026 potential study: Together with its consultants, E1 29 30 will complete an update of its 2026 potential study during the 2027–2031...

AI summary The document requests the current DSM Potential Study and outlines plans for its update, focusing on industrial customer programs and participant rate benefits. It also references BNI Demand Response and associated expenditures and capacity data for 2025.

21 1 (g) Please break down Table 36 and Exhibit E-1-(ii) custom programs 16 17 18 19 (a) A version of Table 15 disaggregated by individual program component (e.g., Custom Incentives, BNI Efficient Product Rebates, BNI Demand Response inclu...

AI summary The request asks for a breakdown of custom programs in Table 36 and Exhibit E-1-(ii), including disaggregation by program components and rate classes. It also requests details on interest calculations and reporting related to refunds and underspend during the DSM Plan period.

5 1 2 (b) Please provide a table showing the annual impact of the Preferred Plan on the DSM rate rider for each year from 2026 through 2032, inclusive. State 26 (a) Please explain all calculations for which line losses are included as an 2...

AI summary The document text contains a series of requests and questions related to demand-side management (DSM) programs, line loss calculations, and the Smart Synergy program. It asks for updates to tables, explanations of formulas, and analysis of participation rates and incentive structures.

NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD IN THE MATTER OF: THE PUBLIC UTILITIES ACT - and - IN THE MATTER OF: An Application by EFFICIENCYONE for approval of the 2027- 2031 Demand Side Management Resource Plan

AI summary The Nova Scotia Energy Board is considering an application by EfficiencyOne for approval of its 2027-2031 Demand Side Management Resource Plan under the Public Utilities Act. The proceeding involves evaluating the plan's compliance with regulatory requirements and its impact on energy efficiency initiatives.

1 M12780 2 3 NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD 4 5 6 IN THE MATTER OF: The Public Utilities Act, as amended. 7 8 9 10 11 IN THE MATTER OF: An Application by EfficiencyOne for Approval of the 2027–2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement...

AI summary The Nova Scotia Energy Board is handling an application by EfficiencyOne for approval of a 2027–2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement with Nova Scotia Power Incorporated and the establishment of a final agreement and DSM Resource Plan. A request for a Peach Verification Report has been issued to H. Gil Peach & Associates LLC, with responses due by June 16, 2026.

June 10, 2026 [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) James Gogan McInnes Cooper 1300-1969 Upper Water Street PO Box 730 Halifax, NS B3J 3R7 Dear Mr. Gogan: M12780 – EfficiencyOne – Demand Side Management (DSM...

AI summary The Board has raised concerns about EfficiencyOne's use of Board Only - Confidential treatment for certain responses to information requests, particularly regarding sensitive compensation information. The Board references a previous decision in Matter M10431 regarding NS Power's executive compensation and asks EfficiencyOne to justify why similar treatment should not apply here.

BACKGROUND This letter addresses Efficiency One's (E1) request that the Mercer Compensation Review (Mercer Report) it filed in this proceeding be held in confidence by the Board (i.e., filed as Board only confidential) The request was cons...

AI summary Efficiency One (E1) requested that its Mercer Compensation Review be treated as Board-only confidential. The Board considered the request and found that the report should be treated as General Confidential, available to intervenors who signed a Confidentiality Undertaking. E1 argued the report contained sensitive compensation data and commercial information that could cause competitive harm.

James R. Gogan Direct +1 (902) 563 5920 [email protected] 1969 Upper Water Street, Suite 1300 Halifax, Nova Scotia Canada B3J 3R7 Tel +1 (902) 425-6500 Fax +1 (902) 425-6350 Our File: 238984 June 26, 2026 Nova Scotia Energy Boa...

AI summary This document relates to EfficiencyOne's (E1) application for approval of a Demand Side Management (DSM) Resource Plan and Purchase Agreement for 2027-2031. The Nova Scotia Energy Board (NSEB) requested clarification on E1's request for confidential treatment of certain information, and E1 responded accordingly. The Board later decided that the Mercer Report should be treated as General Confidential and made available to intervenors who sign a Confidentiality Undertaking.

1 M12780 2 3 NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD 4 5 6 IN THE MATTER OF: The Public Utilities Act, as amended. 7 8 9 10 11 IN THE MATTER OF: An Application by EfficiencyOne for Approval of the 2027–2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement...

AI summary This document pertains to an application by EfficiencyOne for the approval of a 2027–2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement with Nova Scotia Power Incorporated, as well as the establishment of a final agreement and approval of a DSM Resource Plan under the Public Utilities Act.

Request IR-4: Refer to M12780, Exhibit E-24, SNS Evidence, Section 4.1 New Controllable Load is a Demand Response Resource, page 10 of 16, 2nd paragraph of this section, which states: Solar Nova Scotia agrees with Nova Scotia Power's evide...

AI summary Solar Nova Scotia (SNS) agrees with Nova Scotia Power on the need for demand response to play a larger role in the DSM portfolio as a dispatchable resource. However, SNS criticizes the Preferred Plan for limiting new residential demand response enrollment and closing EcoShift, which may leave the capacity value of controllable devices unsecured as residential load grows.

Request IR-5: Refer to M12780, Exhibit E-24, SNS Evidence, Section 4.2 Smart Thermostats Illustrate the Missed Opportunity, page 10 of 16, 2nd paragraph of this section, which states: Solar Nova Scotia recommends that DSM-funded controllab...

AI summary Solar Nova Scotia (SNS) recommends that demand-side management (DSM)-funded controllable devices, such as smart thermostats, be integrated into demand-response (DR) programming where technically feasible, with customer consent and annual reporting on peak reduction and capacity value. The questions posed explore how this differs from E1's current residential DR program and whether automatic enrollment or conditional incentives are recommended.

Request IR-6: Refer to M12780, Exhibit E-24, SNS Evidence, Section 4.5 Recommended Direction for Demand Response, pages 11-12 of 16, which states: Solar Nova Scotia recommends that the Board: - direct IESO Nova Scotia, as the Independent E...

AI summary Solar Nova Scotia (SNS) recommends that the Board direct IESO Nova Scotia to procure longer-term demand response and aggregator capacity, and requires specific actions from EfficiencyOne regarding demand response capabilities and reporting. Questions are raised about the status of discussions with IESO Nova Scotia and the application of these recommendations to the current DSM plan.

NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 Request IR-01: 2 Reference: Evidence of Green Energy Economics Group, page 9, lines 7–8: 3 4 "The SFF directs E1 to provide a Preferred Plan that is informed by the level of DSM 5 savings identified in NS Power's Integra...

AI summary The text outlines two requests for information related to the Standardized Filing Framework (SFF) and pre-weatherization barriers. It asks about the SFF's guidance on developing a preferred DSM Resource Plan and whether GEEG acknowledges that only certain pre-weatherization barriers result in forgoing energy savings.

NON-CONFIDENTIAL (b) Please provide the most recent published Peak Perks PAC test result and confirm whether Peak Perks has, as of the date of the Brattle Evidence, achieved cost-effectiveness under the PAC test (Brattle Evidence page 13:...

AI summary The text requests confirmation of the most recent Peak Perks PAC test result and whether the program has achieved cost-effectiveness under the PAC test. It also asks for clarification on the nature of Peak Perks as a summer cooling-based DR program and the breakdown of its capacity sources between winter heating and summer cooling thermostats.

1 (c) Please confirm Brattle's understanding that Nova Scotia is a winter-peaking system and that 2 summer cooling-based DR provides no value during NS Power's December–February peak 3 period. 4 5 (d) Please provide any utility-scale winte...

AI summary The document requests confirmation that Nova Scotia is a winter-peaking system and that summer cooling-based demand response (DR) programs have no value during winter peaks. It also asks for examples of utility-scale winter-heating thermostat DR programs and cost data. Additionally, it requests source data for peer utilities and details on the scale and investment required for E1's residential DR program to be cost-effective.

1 M12780 2 3 NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD 4 5 6 IN THE MATTER OF: The Public Utilities Act 7 8 – and – 9 10 IN THE MATTER OF: AN APPLICATION by EFFICIENYONE for approval of the 2027- 11 12 2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement b...

AI summary This document is an information request from the Nova Scotia Energy Board related to an application by EfficiencyOne for approval of a 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement and a DSM Resource Plan. The request is directed to Brattle Group and the Consumer Advocate, with responses due by July 17, 2026.

1 Request IR-1: 2 3 On Page 7 of 39 of its Report, the Brattle Group states that the Proposed Plan remains heavily 4 weighed towards traditional energy efficiency with 90% of the total investment directed towards 5 energy efficiency compar...

AI summary The document outlines several requests for information (IR-1 to IR-6) directed at E1, concerning the allocation of program investments between energy efficiency and demand response, the exclusion of benefits in the modified PAC test, the cost of energy savings in Nova Scotia compared to other jurisdictions, and the impact of excluding residential customers from demand response growth.

1 M12780 2 3 NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD 4 5 6 7 IN THE MATTER OF: The Public Utilities Act 8 – and – 9 10 IN THE MATTER OF: AN APPLICATION by EFFICIENYONE for approval of the 11 12 20272031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement bet...

AI summary The Nova Scotia Energy Board has issued information requests to Synapse Energy Economics Inc. regarding an application by EfficiencyOne for approval of a 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement and DSM Resource Plan. Responses are due by July 17, 2026, and the Consumer Advocate is involved in the process.

1 2026 M12780 2 NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD 3 IN THE MATTER OF: The Public Utilities Act 4 IN THE MATTER OF: An Application by EfficiencyOne for approval of the 2027-2031 5 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement 6 between EfficiencyO...

AI summary The Nova Scotia Energy Board is considering an application by EfficiencyOne for approval of a 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement and Resource Plan. Posterity Group has requested information on the use of the NECB Part 8 code-compliance baseline in other Canadian jurisdictions and any regulatory challenges or evaluations related to it.

2026 M12780 NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD IN THE MATTER OF: The Public Utilities Act IN THE MATTER OF: An Application by EfficiencyOne for approval of the 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement between EfficiencyOne and Nova...

AI summary The document outlines an information request related to the 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement and Resource Plan between EfficiencyOne and Nova Scotia Power Incorporated. Theodore M. Love of the Green Energy Economics Group, Inc. recommends that the Board require explicit approval for Mid-Course Adjustments (MCA), allow carryforward of unspent funding, and trigger MCA for material changes in identified savings levels.

29 (a) Please confirm: 1 (i) what "optimal DSM resource acquisition levels" means 2 operationally — is this the IRP's Base profile or some other 3 metric; and 4 (ii) whether Mr. Love's recommended trigger would also apply 5 when IRP findin...

AI summary The text requests clarification on the meaning of 'optimal DSM resource acquisition levels' and whether a 20% threshold is appropriate for triggering a Mid-Course Adjustment (MCA). It also asks about the conditions for approving an MCA that increases the budget and the evidentiary requirements for such approvals. References to specific regulatory matters (M12386, M12916) are included.

1 2026 M12780 2 NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD 3 IN THE MATTER OF: The Public Utilities Act 4 IN THE MATTER OF: An Application by EfficiencyOne for approval of the 2027-2031 5 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement 6 between EfficiencyO...

AI summary The document outlines an information request from The Industrial Group to Solar Nova Scotia regarding the authors of evidence submitted in a proceeding involving EfficiencyOne's 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement and Resource Plan. The request seeks details on the qualifications of the authors and whether an independent expert was involved in preparing the evidence.

1 2026 M12780 2 NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD 3 IN THE MATTER OF: The Public Utilities Act 4 IN THE MATTER OF: An Application by EfficiencyOne for approval of the 2027-2031 5 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement 6 between EfficiencyO...

AI summary This document is an information request from The Industrial Group to The Brattle Group and Nova Scotia Power Incorporated (NSPI) regarding the preparation of evidence for the 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement and Resource Plan. It asks for details on data sources, filings, and any non-public information used in the analysis.

23 Request IR-8: 24 Reference : E-22, page 16. A modified Plan should therefore require E1 to develop DR as a dispatchable system resource with clear performance, accreditation, and cost-effectiveness metrics. That should include a careful...

AI summary The text recommends that a modified Plan should require E1 to develop a demand response (DR) system as a dispatchable resource, with clear performance, accreditation, and cost-effectiveness metrics. It suggests assessing delivery models from other jurisdictions, including incentive levels and customer acquisition strategies.

2026 M12780 NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD IN THE MATTER OF: The Public Utilities Act IN THE MATTER OF: An Application by EfficiencyOne for approval of the 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement between EfficiencyOne and Nova...

AI summary The document outlines an information request related to EfficiencyOne's application for a 2027-2031 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement and Resource Plan. It references the Nova Scotia Energy Board's (NSEB) Order on E1's Application for Approval of a New Benefit-Cost Analysis Test and section 79A(iv) of the Public Utilities Act. Synapse Energy Economics, Inc. provides alternative interpretations of the Board's decision.

July 17, 2026 Crystal Henwood Clerk of the Board Nova Scotia Energy Board 1601 Lower Water Street, 3rd Floor Halifax, NS B3J 3S3 Re: M12780 – EfficiencyOne 2027-2031 Demand Side Management Resource Plan Application – IR Responses Dear Ms....

AI summary This letter from Jennifer Power, Director, Regulatory at Nova Scotia Power Inc. (NS Power), responds to information requests (IRs) received on July 6, 2026, regarding the EfficiencyOne 2027-2031 Demand Side Management Resource Plan Application (M12780). The responses are submitted to the Nova Scotia Energy Board.

Nova Scotia Energy Board 3 rd Floor, 1601 Lower Water Street Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 3S3 Filed via email Attention: Clerk of the Board Dear Ms. Henwood, RE: M12780 An Application by EfficiencyOne for Approval of the 2027-2031 Demand Side...

AI summary EfficiencyOne is seeking approval from the Nova Scotia Energy Board for a 2027-2031 Demand Side Management (DSM) Purchase Agreement with Nova Scotia Power Inc. and the establishment of a final agreement and DSM Resource Plan. James Gogan and Lucia Westin-Eastaugh from McInnes Cooper will represent EfficiencyOne in the proceeding.

July 24, 2026 [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) James Gogan McInnes Cooper 1300-1969 Upper Water Street PO Box 730 Halifax, NS B3J 3R7 Dear Mr. Gogan: M12780 – EfficiencyOne – Demand Side Management (DSM...

AI summary The Board has concerns about EfficiencyOne's (E1) intended witness panels in the M12780 proceeding, fearing that the approach may cause confusion, unfairness, inefficiencies, and prolong the hearing. The Board is particularly concerned about the vague distinction between high-level and technical questions and the potential for redundant questioning.

James R. Gogan Direct +1 (902) 563 5920 [email protected] 1969 Upper Water Street, Suite 1300 Halifax, Nova Scotia Canada B3J 3R7 Tel +1 (902) 425-6500 Fax +1 (902) 425-6350 Our File: 238984 July 24, 2026 Nova Scotia Energy Boa...

AI summary This letter from James R. Gogan of McInnes Cooper submits EfficiencyOne's rebuttal evidence for their application to approve a Demand Side Management (DSM) Resource Plan and Purchase Agreement for 2027-2031. It includes Appendix A with testimony from Michael Goldman of Apex Analytics, filed on behalf of EfficiencyOne.

July 29, 2026 Ms. Crystal Henwood Clerk of the Board Nova Scotia Energy Board 1601 Lower Water Street, 3rd Floor Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 3S3 Dear Ms. Henwood: Re: EfficiencyOne – M12780 2027-2031 Demand Side Management (DSM) Plan Applicat...

AI summary Eastward Energy has submitted an opening statement and witness information for its 2027-2031 Demand Side Management (DSM) Plan Application. The sole witness will be Mr. Chris Pulfer from Posterity Group, appearing virtually.

James R. Gogan Direct +1 (902) 563 5920 [email protected] 1969 Upper Water Street, Suite 1300 Halifax, Nova Scotia Canada B3J 3R7 Tel +1 (902) 425-6500 Fax +1 (902) 425-6350 Our File: 238984 July 31, 2026 Nova Scotia Energy Boa...

AI summary EfficiencyOne and the Industrial Group have reached an agreement regarding the value of customer participation in the Large Industrial Interruptible Rider outside of Nova Scotia Power-dispatched interruptible events. The agreement is part of the M12780 application for approval of the 2027-2031 DSM Purchase Agreement and Resource Plan.