Topic:"Equity Access" in M10473

CARBON - For the Settlement Plan, it remains E1's position that it is reasonable to assign a value to carbon and - related pricing avoidance. With this in mind, E1 determined the avoided costs of carbon for the purposes - of the Settlement...

AI summary E1 argues that assigning a value to carbon and related pricing avoidance is reasonable for the Settlement Plan, using the federal carbon pricing trajectory to assess affordability. The discussion also references legislative goals under the Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act, emphasizing energy efficiency and equitable access for low-income and marginalized communities.

2.2.2 PORTFOLIO-WIDE ASSUMPTIONS & DESIGN OBJECTIVES - E1's key global assumptions and design objectives for all modelled scenarios align with both the Plan's - Guiding Principles and the Standardized Filing Framework (SFF). Specifically,...

AI summary E1's assumptions and design objectives for the 2023-2025 DSM Plan align with the Standardized Filing Framework and Guiding Principles, emphasizing balance between energy and capacity avoidance, program delivery costs, and accessibility. The Balanced Portfolio section outlines how these principles are applied in the development of the DSM Plan scenarios.

10. CONCLUSION - The Settlement Plan is responsive to the climate emergency and helps advance recent environmental goals - preparing for the future. The Settlement Plan positions E1 to achieve levels of DSM in the future and is a - transit...

AI summary The Settlement Plan addresses the climate emergency, increases energy efficiency targets, expands accessibility and equity programs, and is cost-effective with significant lifetime benefits to ratepayers. It reflects stakeholder input and is in the best interest of ratepayers, supporting growth in energy efficiency and demand response.

Goals Statement - To build inclusion, diversity, and social justice in pursuit of technical excellence. - Excellence in the integration of knowledge, method, and practice. - Improvement and learning at all levels. - Contextually sound meas...

AI summary The Goals Statement emphasizes technical excellence, inclusion, diversity, and social justice. It highlights the integration of knowledge and practice, continuous improvement, ethical research, client-focused service, and innovation in methodologies. Key priorities include contextual measurement, learning at all levels, and ethical research practices.

E1 Responses to Affordable Energy Coalition (AEC) Information Requests NON-CONFIDENTIAL Request IR-01: - How will the proposed new Affordable Single-family Home Program (ASHP) be coordinated - with the HomeWarming Program? Response IR-01:...

AI summary EfficiencyOne plans to align the new Affordable Single-family Homes Program (ASHP) with the HomeWarming Program for non-electric participants, ensuring uniform measures for electric and non-electric customers to avoid confusion, ensure equity for low-income residents, and reduce costs through efficient resource allocation.

Request IR-02: Do you plan to ensure that having a certificate of title will not be a requirement for eligibility for participation in the new Affordable Single-family Home Program for residents of African Nova Scotian communities? As you...

AI summary The request questions whether the Affordable Single-family Home Program (ASHP) will exclude property title requirements for African Nova Scotian communities, where historical racism has caused unclear titles. This could create barriers to participation, as obtaining clear titles is a lengthy process, preventing eligible families from accessing low-income efficiency upgrades.

Response IR-02: EfficiencyOne (E1) recognizes that proof of home ownership has been a barrier for some participants in its existing HomeWarming program and could be a barrier to participation in the new Affordable Single-family Homes progr...

AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) acknowledges that proof of home ownership has been a barrier for some participants in its HomeWarming program and plans to address this by collaborating with the Nova Scotia Land Titles Initiative. E1 has accepted alternative documentation, such as certificates of possession in Mi'kmaw communities, and intends to expand similar measures for African Nova Scotian communities to improve access to the Affordable Single-family Homes program.

m Administrators’ 2022-2024 Three-Year Plans, with modifications. G.L. c. 25, § 21(d)(2). Under the Three-Year Plans, the Program Administrators will invest approximately $4.0 billion in energy efficiency and demand reduction resources tha...

AI summary The 2022-2024 Three-Year Plans, aligned with the Energy Act of 2018 and the Climate Act, aim to invest $4.0 billion in energy efficiency and demand reduction, emphasizing strategic electrification and equitable access. These plans support the Commonwealth's 2030 GHG emissions reduction targets and net-zero by 2050.

t discovered multiple additional data anomalies, including but not limited to NSTAR Electric incorrectly projected its SBC revenues in its initial filing; the proposed EM&V budget in the Three-Year Plans and pre-filed testimony was not con...

AI summary The text highlights multiple data inconsistencies and inaccuracies in filings related to SBC revenues, EM&V budgets, and equity measures. It notes discrepancies in electrification thresholds and confusion around the equity component of the performance incentive mechanism, with Program Administrators failing to define equity measures as requested.

Page 25 these measures, the Program Administrators responded that they “have not defined any measure as an equity measure” (Exh. DPU-Comm 3-1). Further, a cornerstone proposal of the Program Administrators’ equity efforts is the Community...

AI summary The Program Administrators' equity efforts, including the Community First Partnership Program, faced criticism for unclear criteria and lack of transparency. The Department of Public Utilities had to address inconsistencies and ensure clarity in the proposed budget increase of $1.2 billion, which is 29.3% higher than the 2019-2021 Three-Year Plans.

39 In the context of energy efficiency, the Program Administrators define equity as “the process of establishing more equal access to and participation in energy efficiency programs, particularly among those groups who have historically pa...

AI summary The Program Administrators define equity in energy efficiency as ensuring equal access and participation, especially for historically underrepresented groups. They are required to include all programs, such as the Community First Partnership Program, in their three-year plans with full names and separate cost-effectiveness evaluations.

ion of data collection does not strike an appropriate balance between the value and usefulness of the data requested with the cost to provide the data (Program Administrators Reply Brief at 13-14, citing Statewide Plan, Exh. 1, at 21). The...

AI summary The Program Administrators argue that data collection requirements are too costly and that concerns about customer displacement should be addressed by other agencies. The Attorney General supports the approval of the Three-Year Plans and agrees to reallocate CO2e from gas to electric Program Administrators, contingent on ensuring no double-counting of savings from natural gas equipment.

serts that her support for this proposal is conditioned on an expressed commitment that no other savings from other efficient natural gas equipment are counted towards the achievement of the electric Program Administrators’ goal (Attorney...

AI summary The Attorney General supports the proposed electrification programs but requires that savings from other efficient natural gas equipment not be counted toward the Program Administrators’ goals. They emphasize equity, climate goals, and workforce development, and argue that electrification will lower customer costs and reduce fossil fuel heating. DOER supports the Statewide Plan, stating it complies with the Green Community Act and Climate Act requirements.

the Program Administrators could take to increase participation while minimizing risks of displacement and gentrification (CLF Brief at 29-43). These recommendations include: (1) making program information available through additional mark...

AI summary The Conservation Law Foundation (CLF) recommends strategies to increase participation in energy efficiency programs while addressing risks of displacement and gentrification. These include expanding outreach methods, improving program accessibility for renters and low-income residents, and enhancing data collection to ensure equity goals are met.

lan term, the Department directs the Program Administrators to perform a review of the TRM for each prescriptive electrification offering before the next Three-Year Plan filing to ensure the accuracy of measure assumptions (Statewide Plan,...

AI summary The Department of Public Utilities directs Program Administrators to review the Technology Readiness Matrix for prescriptive electrification offerings prior to the next Three-Year Plan filing. The Three-Year Plans include strategies to address participation barriers for hard-to-reach customers, with a focus on promoting equity and cost-effective energy efficiency. The Community First Partnership Program is highlighted as a strategy to increase energy efficiency reach, particularly in environmental justice communities.

ide average combined gas and electric consumption-weighted participation rate and, therefore, does not address historically low participation. Overall, the Department determines that the set of eligibility criteria established by the Progr...

AI summary The Department finds that the Program Administrators' eligibility criteria are not effectively tailored to increase equity by targeting communities with lower participation rates. It recommends using a geographic approach and a three-pronged test to identify eligible communities for targeted equity investment and outreach strategies.

tice populations (see Statewide Plan, Exh. 1, at 21). Accordingly, the Program Administrators shall include the following neighborhoods in the City of Boston as Targeted Hard-to-Reach meet one or more of the following criteria: (1) annual...

AI summary The document discusses the inclusion of specific neighborhoods in Boston as Targeted Hard-to-Reach Communities based on income, minority population, and language proficiency criteria. It references the Environmental Justice Policy of the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs and highlights the use of the EEA Environmental Justice Policy to identify lower-income and limited English-proficiency customers.

ironmental justice populations (i.e., lower income customers and limited English-proficiency customers). Accordingly, the Department finds that using the EEA Environmental Justice Policy definition of environmental justice populations capt...

AI summary The Department of Public Utilities finds that using the EEA Environmental Justice Policy definition effectively identifies environmental justice populations, including lower income and limited English-proficiency customers. Applying the three-pronged criteria for Targeted Hard-to-Reach Communities increases eligibility for energy efficiency investments and outreach, aligning with equity policies and ensuring more equitable distribution of benefits.

customers knowing some customers have not been served, and prior to assessing the remaining savings opportunities for renters, moderate income, minority, and limited English-proficiency customers (Exh. DPU-Comm 9-2). The Department finds t...

AI summary The Department of Public Utilities finds that eliminating lighting programs for certain customer groups may hinder equitable service and emissions reduction goals. Energy efficiency remains a cost-effective way to lower emissions, and continuing electric savings measures can help mitigate increased consumption and grid costs during electrification.

ving benefits at the lowest-cost but also to consider the new electrification and equity goals (DOER Brief at 33-34). Specifically, DOER contends that the benefits associated with equity and electrification are expected to come at a higher...

AI summary DOER argues that the benefits of electrification and equity goals come at higher costs compared to standard components and that existing mechanisms already encourage cost containment. DOER suggests distinct value components for each of the three component pools to ensure cost-effective achievement of priorities and avoid incentivizing energy efficiency in affluent areas over underserved ones.

an appropriate incentive for the Program Administrators to reach traditionally underserved populations (Acadia Brief at 24). Finally, Acadia argues that the electrification incentive is necessary for gas Program Administrators because elec...

AI summary Acadia argues that an electrification incentive is necessary for gas Program Administrators to address underserved populations and counter the gas utility business model. CLF submits that an equity component is essential to prioritize equity and justice in the implementation of Three-Year Plans and increase access for environmental justice communities.

ts (including allocated costs), and benefits for the savings and electrification components; and (2) a detailed description of the method the Program Administrators will use to track the success of each equity measure at the ZIP code level...

AI summary The Department outlines requirements for Program Administrators to track equity measures at the ZIP code level and apply benefits from energy efficiency initiatives in targeted communities toward the equity component of the performance incentive mechanism. This aims to improve participation in lower-served communities.

,State Scorecard Rank,State Score,State Government Score,State Government Summary,Financial Incentives,Equity Metrics and Workplace Development,Building Energy Disclosure,Public Building Requirements,Fleets,Energy Savings Performance Contr...

AI summary Alabama ranks 44th with a score of 9, leading in energy-efficient fleets and performance contracting but lacking equity metrics. The state funds loan programs and research at the University of Alabama, though no climate action plans or equity goals exist. Financial incentives are managed by DSIRE Alabama.

ficiency takes place at several institutions in the state. ","Financial Incentive information for Arizona is provided by the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE Arizona). Last Updated: July 2017 ","We were una...

AI summary Arizona's energy policies include legislative mandates (House Bill 2324) and executive orders (2005-05, 2008-29) requiring energy efficiency in state buildings and agencies. However, no policies address equity metrics for underserved customers or clean energy workforce development, and benchmarking requirements for public facilities remain unclear.

ns have specific advisory group, policies, programs and metrics to ensure energy equity. State agencies involved include CEC, CPUC and California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD). The Disadvantaged Community Advisory G...

AI summary The text discusses energy equity initiatives in California, including the Disadvantaged Community Advisory Group (DACAG), the 2019 California Energy Efficiency Action Plan, and the Energy Equity Indicators Tracking Progress report. These efforts aim to improve access to energy programs for low-income and disadvantaged communities and ensure data collection and collaboration across agencies.

The CEC’s energy research and development programs also prioritize energy equity to ensure that the most vulnerable communities benefit from emerging clean energy technologies. The CEC’s EPIC program exceeded the requirements set forth in...

AI summary The CEC's EPIC program focuses on energy equity by allocating funds to disadvantaged and low-income communities. Outreach efforts, including community engagement meetings and the launch of the Empower Innovation platform, aim to connect stakeholders and improve program effectiveness. A Civic Spark fellow was hired to better understand community needs in specific cities.

s impacts on energy rates are better understood. Colorado WAP will be expanding its community engagement approach starting July 1, 2021, with a focus on EDI for engagement across Colorado communities. The heat pump pilot program will likel...

AI summary The text discusses Colorado's Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) expansion and its focus on equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in community engagement. It also highlights the heat pump pilot program's role in developing expertise in heat pump installation, addressing Colorado's low level of air conditioning expertise. The CEO collaborates with utilities and organizations to promote heat pump contractor training and provides funding for certifications and equipment.

EV Equity Study and incorporating the findings of that study in transit electrification grant programs and the medium- and heavy-duty vehicle electrification strategies. This plan can be found here. The Colorado DOT is currently working wi...

AI summary Colorado has implemented several legislative measures to support transit and transportation equity, including the FASTER legislation, SB 48, and SB 1, which allocate funds for public transit, bicycle, and pedestrian investments. The state is also working on ensuring equitable deployment of transit EVs, particularly in low-income and underserved communities.

EVs. The EVMP recommends a target of a minimum of 25% EV Fleet purchase for municipal vehicles by 2025 and EV transit and school bus fleet purchase by 2030. Equity in transportation electrification Florida's Office of Energy, in coordinati...

AI summary Florida's EV Roadmap and EV Master Plan emphasize equity by prioritizing investment in rural and low-income communities for EV infrastructure and promoting access through rebates for used EVs. Additionally, House Bill 1271 allows municipalities to levy taxes for transit development, but no appliance standards beyond federal requirements are in place.

ble energies are generated, and how energy systems are relevant to their lives and the climate crisis; and, direct residents to helpful energy financial assistance programs available across the State. The Hawai?i State Energy Office (HSEO)...

AI summary The Hawai?i State Energy Office (HSEO) is working with AmeriCorps VISTA members to develop an equity playbook focusing on energy and transportation. This includes evaluating the impact of energy and climate initiatives on low-to-moderate income and marginalized communities, as well as reviewing tools to identify vulnerable populations.

creation of low-income housing near transit facilities, but it does consider the proximity of transit facilities when distributing federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits to qualifying property owners. HSEO’s 2015 Hawai‘i Clean Energy Initi...

AI summary The document discusses the importance of transit-oriented development (TOD) in reducing carbon emissions and improving transportation affordability in Hawai‘i. It mentions the Hawai?i Interagency Council for TOD and the integration of clean transportation metrics. Additionally, it highlights equity considerations in transportation electrification.

s which are walkable, served by public and multimodal transportation options, and provide ready and affordable access to the necessities of daily life. (link) Equity in transportation electrification As the designated agency to administer...

AI summary The text discusses efforts to promote equity in transportation electrification in Hawaii, including the Beneficiary Mitigation Plan for the Volkswagen Settlement Environmental Trust and the EV Charging Station Incentive Program. The initiative supports the adoption of electric vehicles and charging infrastructure, with a focus on low- and moderate-income (LMI) residents and those living in MUDs.

bonds. Last Reviewed: July 2019 ","No program in place or proposed. Last Reviewed: July 2019 ",0 out of 3,"Illinois has not set appliance standards beyond those required by the federal government. Last Reviewed: June 2019 ", Indiana,37,11....

AI summary The text discusses the lack of appliance standards in Illinois beyond federal requirements, Indiana's residential tax credit for insulation, and the absence of specific policies to ensure equity in energy access or workforce development. It also mentions the Green Project Reserve Revolving Loan Fund in Indiana and the absence of a disclosure policy.

centives not present on DSIRE is listed here. Energy Fund Loan Program: Provides low interest loans for energy efficiency projects at schools and other public facilities. Last Updated: July 2018 "," We were unable to determine if the state...

AI summary The text discusses energy efficiency initiatives, including loan programs for public facilities, legislative requirements for state buildings to exceed energy codes, and fleet efficiency measures. It also notes the absence of specific policies addressing equity or clean energy workforce development.

cerning policies, practices, and specific actions that the Commonwealth should implement to ensure that the objectives of Executive Order 552 are accomplished. Goals and metrics for tracking progress In addition to its oversight role throu...

AI summary The document discusses the oversight role of MA DOER in tracking progress towards energy efficiency goals, including the development of outcomes for the Massachusetts Residential Conservation Services (RCS) program. It also outlines the formation of an inter-agency workgroup to assess cumulative environmental impacts on environmental justice populations as mandated by Chapter 8 of the Acts of 2021.

ter 40R). The state also considers the proximity of transit facilities when distributing federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits to qualifying property owners. Equity in transportation electrification The Climate Act of 2021 includes electr...

AI summary Massachusetts has implemented various policies and programs to promote energy efficiency and transportation electrification, including the MOR-EV Program, the Clean Energy and Climate Plan, and legislation related to appliance efficiency standards. The state also considers equity in transportation electrification and has passed legislation to fund the MBTA.

o the state-funded incentives on DSIRE and below, Maryland has enabled Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing and has one active program. For additional information on PACE, visit PACENation. Smart Energy Communities Program: Loca...

AI summary Maryland has implemented Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing and a Smart Energy Communities Program offering grants and technical assistance to local governments. Chapter 2 of Maryland's Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act (GGRA) Plan emphasizes climate justice and equity through engagement with the Commission on Environmental Justice and Sustainable Communities and the Maryland Climate Change Commission.

ion electrificiation There is no current mandate or formalized goal for equitable deployment of electric vehicle charging infrastructure; however, equitable access is being addressed in other ways. The Maryland Public Service Commission (P...

AI summary The text discusses efforts to ensure equitable access to electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in Maryland, including initiatives by the Public Service Commission (PSC) and the Electric Corridors Grant Program. It also outlines funding provisions from the Maryland Metro/Transit Funding Act of 2018 for public transit systems.

g closely with the VCC and their consultants to coordinate on this stakeholder engagement, so as to not overburden communities and make sure insights from the process are incorporated into both plans. All VT EEU's have low-income sector mi...

AI summary The text discusses stakeholder engagement efforts in Vermont, including coordination with the VCC and consultants, low-income sector spending requirements, energy burden studies, and the development of equity impact assessment tools and guiding principles for a just transition.

easier, and hopefully will encourage greater utilization by clients who have been discouraged by complexity of navigating different systems and payments. Equity in transportation electrification

AI summary The text discusses efforts to simplify transportation electrification processes to encourage greater client utilization, particularly focusing on equity considerations in the transition.

der agencies throughout Nevada. An energy assessment is conducted at the participating senior's home in order to develop a scope of work. Each home may receive up to $6,000 in energy saving measures. Direct Energy Assistance Loan (DEAL) Pr...

AI summary The Nevada DEAL Program provides zero-interest loans to state employees for energy assessments and upgrades, funded by the Renewable Energy Fund. The state's climate strategy emphasizes equity and climate justice but lacks specific goals, metrics, or protocols to evaluate the impact on marginalized groups or clean energy workforce development. There is no disclosure policy in place.

ssociated with transportation. The group will consider the needs of all types of transportation users, including car drivers, transit users, bicyclists and pedestrians, alongwith social equity issues. Equity in vehicle electrification SB 4...

AI summary The text discusses a transportation equity group and SB 448, which includes a $100 million investment in electric vehicle charging stations by NV Energy. It also covers Nevada's lighting efficiency standards and related legislative actions.

Last Updated: July 2018 ","The Clean Energy Act calls for the Board to adopt programs that “ensure universal access to energy efficiency measures, and serve the needs of low-income communities,” and the Energy Master Plan establishes that...

AI summary The Clean Energy Act and Energy Master Plan emphasize universal access to energy efficiency, focusing on affordability, equity, and environmental justice. The Board of Public Utilities established an Office of Clean Energy Equity and an Equity Working Group to integrate equity metrics into energy efficiency programs and promote economic development for minority- and women-owned businesses.

Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE North Carolina). The state does enable Property Assessed Clean Energy Financing (PACE), but it does not have any active PACE programs. Last Updated: July 2018 ","The state's...

AI summary North Carolina enables PACE financing but has no active programs. The state has climate and energy policies focusing on low-income communities, including job creation, public health, and workforce development. There is currently no disclosure policy in place.

ement Program (TGM) provides local governments with funding for planning projects that lead to more livable, economically vital, transportation-efficient, sustainable, pedestrian-friendly communities. Last Updated: July 2018 ","OHCS leads...

AI summary The text discusses programs and initiatives aimed at reducing energy burdens for low-income households in Oregon, including research on energy burden by race, engagement with BIPOC communities, and workforce development strategies for low-income multifamily projects. It also outlines diversity, equity, and inclusion performance metrics applied by OPUC to Energy Trust.

creation of low-income housing near transit facilities, but it does consider the proximity of transit facilities when distributing federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits to qualifying property owners. Oregon Department of Transportation is...

AI summary The Oregon Department of Transportation is conducting a Transit and Housing Study to improve housing and transit access for low-income households. The study will explore policies to increase equitable access to transportation and housing, with a focus on electrification and affordability.

electrify Oregon’s transportation system. STIF program funding prioritizes and measures public transportation improvements benefiting low income households. Equity in transportation electrification

AI summary The text emphasizes the importance of electrifying Oregon’s transportation system, with a focus on equity by prioritizing public transportation improvements that benefit low-income households through the STIF program.

able bond financing for clean, advanced energy projects also are available through the Pennsylvania Economic Development Financing Authority (PEDFA). PEDFA did not allocate any funds in the past year. Last Updated: June 2018 ","In 2020, PA...

AI summary The Pennsylvania Economic Development Financing Authority (PEDFA) did not allocate funds for able bond financing in the past year. In 2020, PADEP’s Energy Programs Office collaborated with the Office of Environmental Justice to educate organizations on the 2018 Climate Action Plan and gather feedback, and provided bilingual education sessions and training on climate action and equity.

lically-accessible facilities, and supports the purchase or lease of electric vehicles (EVs) for integration into public sector fleets. Last Updated: July 2018 ","Community and stakeholder engagement The Office of Energy Resources has deve...

AI summary The Office of Energy Resources (OER) is focused on improving community and stakeholder engagement by collecting demographic data from public workshops and implementing pilot programs to support low-income participation in clean energy initiatives, including Community Solar and electric vehicle integration into public fleets.

ties across Rhode Island, and the beginning of an effort to map current deployment of clean energy assets and investments, as can be seen in the map of electric vehicle charging stations in the State. Other state reports and utility-based...

AI summary The text discusses efforts in Rhode Island to map clean energy assets and investments, including electric vehicle charging stations, and highlights targeted funding and recommendations aimed at increasing investment in marginalized communities. The State and utilities are working to track the success of these initiatives and develop metrics with community input to evaluate their impact on marginalized groups.

ed. Last Reviewed: July 2019 ","No policy in place or proposed. Last Reviewed: July 2019 ",0 out of 3,"South Carolina has not set appliance standards beyond those required by the federal government. Last Reviewed: June 2019 ", South Dakota...

AI summary South Carolina has not set appliance standards beyond federal requirements. South Dakota does not offer financial incentives for energy efficiency but requires residential energy use disclosure. South Dakota government benchmarks energy use in public buildings but lacks major research centers on energy efficiency. South Dakota has not engaged with marginalized groups in energy initiatives and lacks clean energy workforce development measures. SB 64 in South Dakota requires energy efficiency disclosure for new residential buildings at the time of sale.

nergy retrofits, residential- and commercial-scale solar installations, anaerobic digesters to treat dairy and organic waste, and combined heat and power projects using woody biomass as a fuel source. Community Energy Efficiency Program: T...

AI summary The text discusses energy efficiency initiatives, including community-based programs and equity-focused strategies in the 2021 State Energy Strategy. It highlights efforts to engage historically marginalized communities and integrate environmental justice into policy design, while noting that these strategies are still under development.

ergy assistance need, or increase of 15% from 2018, by 2030; and (B) 90% current energy assistance need by 2050. Utilities are mandated to make progress on these goals as part of compliance with CETA. CETA also included equity provisions a...

AI summary Washington State's CETA mandates utilities to meet energy assistance goals and ensure equitable distribution of clean energy benefits. The legislation includes provisions for equity in utility planning, requiring integrated resource plans to consider cumulative impacts on vulnerable communities. Clean energy workforce development is also emphasized as part of the initiative.

E1 Responses to Synapse Energy Economics (Synapse) Information Requests NON-CONFIDENTIAL Energy efficiency is of extra importance to low-income households and qualifying businesses because energy bills tend to make up a larger portion of i...

AI summary The text emphasizes the importance of addressing energy inequities for low-income households through tailored energy efficiency programs. It critiques traditional cost-effectiveness tests for perpetuating inequities and advocates for a participant cost test (PCT) to ensure returns on energy efficiency investments. It also argues against isolating non-energy benefits to low-income segments alone.

Proposed Low Income Program elements The Affordable Energy Coalition vigorously supports the proposed low income programs in the application submitted by EfficiencyOne and endorsed by Nova Scotia Power. Low income households and many moder...

AI summary The Affordable Energy Coalition supports EfficiencyOne's and NS Power's low-income programs, emphasizing no-cost, turn-key solutions. They highlight HomeWarming's success in saving $500/year for 17,000 households and advocate for 50% energy savings targets. The coalition also supports expanding Mi'kmaw programming and ensuring equity in the zero-carbon transition.

17 Q. HOW IS E1 ADDRESSING UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES? - 18 A. E1, with feedback from the DSMAG, has worked to make equity and diversity a central 19 aspect of its balanced plan approach, as highlighted in Section 4 of their DSM Resource 20 P...

AI summary E1 addresses underserved communities through equity-focused initiatives, including 17-22% low-income investment in energy efficiency, expanded education/outreach for diverse groups, increased diversity in energy savings, and improved accessibility across market sectors, as outlined in their DSM Resource Plan Filing.

- Provides expert analysis, ongoing stakeholder support, and consulting services in regulatory proceedings regarding energy efficiency program design and performance, funding and incentive mechanisms, cost-effectiveness screening, potentia...

AI summary The text details expertise in energy efficiency program design, regulatory proceedings, and research on cost-effectiveness, low-income initiatives, and system resilience. It highlights work on advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), equity studies, and strategic energy management integration.

PUBLICATIONS Hopkins, A. S., A. Napoleon, K. Takahashi. 2021. A Framework for Long-Term Gas Utility Planning in Colorado . Synapse Energy Economics for the Colorado Energy Office. Kallay, J., A. Napoleon, K. Takahashi, E. Sinclair, T. Wool...

AI summary The document lists publications by Synapse Energy Economics on energy planning, resilience, and equity topics, including gas utility planning, low-income energy efficiency programs, and utility resilience investments. These studies were conducted for clients such as the Colorado Energy Office, Sierra Club, and Sandia National Laboratories.

PUBLICATIONS Wilson, R., I. Addleton, K. Takahashi, J. Litynski. 2021. Clean, Affordable, and Reliable: A Plan for Duke Energy's Future in the Carolinas . Synapse Energy Economics for North Carolina Sustainable Energy Association, Carolina...

AI summary The document lists publications by Synapse Energy Economics on energy topics, including energy efficiency programs, gas utility planning, and emissions standards. Reports evaluate initiatives in Mississippi, Colorado, and Kansas, and outline frameworks for utility planning and equity in energy programs.

Proposed level of expenditure on low income programs Targeting energy-poor and hard to reach households is a common gap in energy programs that needs to be addressed. An increased level of investment in low-income households allows the pro...

AI summary The text advocates for increased investment in low-income energy programs to address structural barriers and energy poverty. It supports a 21% funding allocation ($36M over three years) but emphasizes the need for better data on low-income households. Effective programs should be no-cost and turn-key to ensure affordability and participation in climate initiatives.

M10473, Exhibit E-1, EfficiencyOne 2023-2025 DSM Resource Plan Filing, Appendix A EfficiencyOne 2023-2025 DSM Resource Plan, Page 19, Figure 6. M07543, Efficiency One Application for Approval of 2016-2018 DSM Resource Plan Matter deferred...

AI summary The document discusses the 50/50 investment allocation between Residential and BNI sectors in DSM plans, emphasizing alignment with the Standardized Filing Framework. It highlights concerns about equitable access and cost-effectiveness, noting that prioritizing cost-effectiveness alone would contradict agreed design principles.

7.1 LOW-INCOME AND UNDERSERVED MARKETS - Industrial Group - In testimony submitted on behalf of the Industrial Group, Mark Drazen has stated that E1 is not minimizing - the cost of its proposed DSM measures within the 2023-2025 DSM Resourc...

AI summary The Industrial Group argues E1's subsidies for low-income/underserved markets in its DSM plan increase costs, while E1 defends these subsidies as essential for equity and access. E1 emphasizes stakeholder support for addressing historic inequities through increased DSM funding for underserved communities.

2.2.2 PORTFOLIO-WIDE ASSUMPTIONS & DESIGN OBJECTIVES - E1's key global assumptions and design objectives for all modelled scenarios align with both the Plan's - Guiding Principles and the Standardized Filing Framework (SFF). Specifically,...

AI summary E1's assumptions and design objectives for the DSM Plan scenarios align with the Plan's Guiding Principles and the Standardized Filing Framework. The DSM Standards emphasize balancing energy and capacity avoidance, program delivery costs, and non-energy benefits. The Balanced Portfolio section discusses how E1 is incorporating these principles, with a focus on accessibility and equity. DR lifetime benefits are calculated assuming programs do not continue beyond 2025.

2.2.2 PORTFOLIO-WIDE ASSUMPTIONS & DESIGN OBJECTIVES - E1's key global assumptions and design objectives for all modelled scenarios align with both the Plan's - Guiding Principles and the Standardized Filing Framework (SFF). Specifically,...

AI summary The document outlines E1's portfolio-wide assumptions and design objectives for the 2023-2025 DSM Plan, emphasizing alignment with the Plan's Guiding Principles and the Standardized Filing Framework. Key aspects include balancing energy and capacity avoidance, program delivery costs, and ensuring accessibility and equity across all market sectors.

t reducing energy burdens for this population produces benefits for these customers in energy cost savings, and for all ratepayers through, for example, a reduction in arrears and collection expenses. [55] In its rebuttal evidence, E1 ackn...

AI summary E1 acknowledges pandemic-related challenges in meeting 2020-2021 savings targets for underserved communities but remains confident in achieving Settlement Plan goals. It proposes a 15.8 GWh performance target (90% threshold) for specific programs and designates 23.6 GWh of incidental savings as a performance indicator, with the CA deeming this reasonable.

4.5 Allocation of Program Costs [74] Ei said it applied the following "guiding principles" in developing its 2023 2025 DSM Resource Plan: Transparency - E1 will provide stakeholders and customers with information and insight into the analy...

AI summary E1 outlines guiding principles for its 2023–2025 DSM Resource Plan, emphasizing transparency, accessibility, equity, and affordability. It aligns with the 'Balanced Plan Approach' from the 2016 Consensus Agreement, referencing Exhibit E-1, Appendix A, p. 19.

4.3.1 BALANCED PLAN APPROACH EfficiencyOne 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 (E1) outlines a balanced DSM Resource Plan emphasizing energy and capacity avoidance, cost efficiency, non-electric benefits, and equitable access. The Settlement Plan includes 17-22% low-income investment, 50/50 residential-to-BNI splits, and increased innovation funding. E1 aligns these objectives with census data and load forecasts, prioritizing equity and diverse community outreach.

6.0 STANDARDIZED FILING FRAMEWORK [191] As noted earlier in this decision, it appeared to the Board that there was some question over the application of the Framework, particularly around the factors for achieving a balanced DSM portfolio....

AI summary The Board approves additional Performance Targets beyond the existing Framework and encourages the DSMAG to consider updates due to evolving DSM programming in Nova Scotia. It highlights the need for early consensus discussions ahead of the next three-year DSM plan and references legislative goals under the Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act and Public Utilities Act.

Request IR-20: - On p. 41 of 65, E1 stated that the Settlement Plan "proposes an increase in DSM investment that is critical to counteracting lower investment levels of previous years". - a) Please provide a table showing the Board approve...

AI summary E1 argues that increasing DSM investment is critical to offsetting lower investment levels from previous years. The request seeks a table comparing Board-approved DSM spending to E1's actual spending since 2012 and challenges E1's rationale for countering past approved spending levels determined to align with ratepayer interests.

Recommendations: - 1. We recommend that the Affordable Single-family Homeowner program increase the level of savings from 30% to 50% of previous bills and GHGs for each participating household. This makes compelling sense from an overall s...

AI summary The document recommends increasing savings in the Affordable Single-family Homeowner program to 50%, overcoming participation barriers in African Nova Scotian communities, and promoting Beneficial Electrification via heat pumps. It supports continued funding for the Affordable Multi-family Housing program, opposes rental increase limits tied to inadequate definitions of affordable housing, and advocates for expanded Mi'kmaw programming in the Green Economy.

1 1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY - 2 On March 11, 2022, EfficiencyOne ("E1") filed its Application for approval of its 2023-2025 Demand Side - 3 Management Resource Plan ("DSM Plan") and Supply Agreement with Nova Scotia Power Incorporated - 4 ("NS...

AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) filed a 2023-2025 Demand Side Management (DSM) Plan with NS Power, supported by stakeholders. The plan, developed through extensive engagement, achieved consensus on energy savings and investment levels. The NSUARB approved a paper process, with evidence submissions and rebuttals filed by parties. The plan aims to deliver affordable, equitable DSM services aligned with climate goals.

han the previous average of 8% for the 2015 to 2020. This increased goal is a very important step in making the plan more equitable and helping address broader issues in Nova Scotia ."[31](#page-13-1) M10473, E1 2023-2025 DSM Plan Applicat...

AI summary The document discusses increasing Nova Scotia Power's DSM goal from 8% to address equity issues, with support from organizations like the Consumer Advocate and Ecology Action Centre. E1 proposes a 15.8 GWh performance target for programs targeting underserved communities, including low-income and Indigenous groups, while maintaining incidental savings as indicators.

t reducing energy burdens for this population produces benefits for these customers in energy cost savings, and for all ratepayers through, for example, a reduction in arrears and collection expenses. [55] In its rebuttal evidence, E1 ackn...

AI summary E1 acknowledges pandemic-related challenges in meeting energy savings targets for underserved communities but remains confident in achieving Settlement Plan goals. E1 proposes a 15.8 GWh target for specific programs and designates 23.6 GWh of incidental savings as a performance indicator. The CA deems this counter-proposal reasonable.

4.5 Allocation of Program Costs [74] Ei said it applied the following "guiding principles" in developing its 2023 2025 DSM Resource Plan: Transparency - E1 will provide stakeholders and customers with information and insight into the analy...

AI summary E1 outlined guiding principles for its 2023-2025 DSM Resource Plan, emphasizing transparency, accessibility/equity, and affordability. It aligned its approach with the 'Balanced Plan Approach' from the 2016 Consensus Agreement, referencing section 4.3.1.

4.3.1 BALANCED PLAN APPROACH EfficiencyOne 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 (E1) outlines a Balanced Plan Approach for Demand Side Management (DSM) that balances energy avoidance, costs, equity, and accessibility. The plan includes specific investment targets (e.g., 17-22% low-income focus) and emphasizes diversity, innovation, and outreach. It aligns with NS Power's forecasts and aims to ensure equitable access for all rate classes.

ther there are barriers to participation that should be addressed to ensure that all customers can equitably benefit from electricity service under a balanced DSM program at the lowest long-term cost. [107] DSM programs in this jurisdictio...

AI summary The text discusses the need to consider factors beyond cost-effectiveness in DSM programs to ensure equitable access, referencing the 2016 Consensus Agreement and the Board's decision in Re EfficiencyOne, which balanced budgets to maintain funding for under-served communities.

6.0 STANDARDIZED FILING FRAMEWORK [191] As noted earlier in this decision, it appeared to the Board that there was some question over the application of the Framework, particularly around the factors for achieving a balanced DSM portfolio....

AI summary The Board notes concerns about the application of the Standardized Filing Framework, particularly regarding DSM portfolio balance. It approved additional Performance Targets and encourages DSMAG to reconsider the Framework due to developments in Nova Scotia's DSM programming over six years. The Board references legislative goals under the Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act and the Public Utilities Act, which may influence future energy efficiency targets.