E-32025 DSM Evaluation Reports
73 passages
Surveys and Interviews This subsection describes the data-collection activities conducted for the impact evaluations. › A participant survey was used to collect data on free-ridership and spillover for Business Energy Rebates – Application...
AI summary A participant survey was conducted by telephone between October and November 2025 to collect data on free-ridership and spillover for Business Energy Rebates – Application Rebates, involving 57 participants. The survey data is summarized in a table, which also includes additional surveys for process and market evaluations of other program components in the 2025 evaluation.
Table 2: 2025 Participant and Non-participant Surveys Program Component Number of Respondents BNI Business Energy Rebates – Application Rebates 57 Demand Response Residential Demand Response 103 Total 160 › In-depth interviews with program...
AI summary Table 2 presents survey data from 2025 participant and non-participant surveys, including 160 respondents across BNI programs such as Business Energy Rebates and Residential Demand Response. In-depth interviews were conducted with 70 market actors and stakeholders between May 2025 and January 2026 to evaluate program impacts, including free-ridership and spillover effects.
Site Visits and Project Reviews with Follow-up Site Visits or Interviews The Evaluator performed a total of 133 project reviews during the summer and fall of 2025, 49 of which were complemented through site visits and 24 were complemented...
AI summary The Evaluator conducted 133 project reviews in 2025, including site visits and phone interviews, to assess various energy efficiency programs. These reviews included validation of EFLHs for Affordable Multifamily Housing and technical reviews for Business Energy Rebates and other programs, with follow-ups to gather data on free-ridership and participant feedback.
Net-to-gross Assessment and Net Savings Calculations Free-ridership levels were established for select program components by conducting self-report surveys or in-depth interviews. Those surveys and interviews included questions used to est...
AI summary The document outlines methods for calculating free-ridership levels in energy efficiency programs using self-report surveys and interviews, considering factors like planning, cost, and cross-influence from prior participation. Weighted averages of participant savings estimate free-ridership, with updates applied to programs like Instant Savings, Business Energy Rebates, and Pay-for-Performance in 2025 evaluations.
Custom - › Custom achieved 30.487 GWh in net electrical energy savings and 6.372 MW in net peak demand savings at the generator in 2025, thereby surpassing by 26% the planned electrical energy savings of 24.160 GWh and by 32% the planned p...
AI summary Custom program achieved 30.487 GWh in electrical energy savings and 6.372 MW in peak demand savings in 2025, exceeding targets by 26% and 32% respectively. Participation trends, adjustment ratios (0.993–1.011 for Retrofit), free-ridership levels (8%–38%), and a 8% discrepancy between Evaluator and E1 savings tracking were reported.
Table 7: 2025 Free-ridership, Spillover, and NTGRs Program Component and Measure Type Free-ridership Levels Spillover Levels NTGRs Residential Appliance Retirementa Refrigerators 43% 0% 0.57 Freezers 45% 0.55 Air Conditioners 47% 0.53 Smal...
AI summary Table 7 presents the 2025 free-ridership, spillover, and net-to-gross ratios (NTGRs) for various energy efficiency programs and measures in residential settings. It highlights the proportion of free-ridership and spillover for different appliance types and efficiency measures, along with their corresponding NTGRs.
Free-ridership Level Margin of Error The Evaluator used the margin of error calculation of the free-ridership level for BER-AR LED lighting in 2025 as an example. Below are the steps followed to calculate this margin of error. The same cal...
AI summary The Evaluator demonstrated the margin of error calculation for BER-AR LED lighting free-ridership levels in 2025, using a method applicable to installation rates and adjustment ratios for non-stratified samples by substituting relevant variables.
Calculation of the Weighted Average of Free-ridership Levels The weighted average was calculated by using the following formula. $$Weighted\ Average\ FR = \frac{\sum_{i=1}^{n} Free\text{-}ridership\ Level}_{i} \times Revised\ Gross\ Electr...
AI summary The weighted average free-ridership level was calculated at 6% using a formula that multiplies each participant's free-ridership level by their revised gross electrical energy savings, with n representing the number of LED lighting installations surveyed in 2025. The Evaluator confirmed this 6% figure as the weighted average.
Calculation of the Standard Error Since the free-ridership level is based on a weighted average, the Evaluator also calculated a weighted standard error for the free-ridership level instead of a simple standard error. The same formula as t...
AI summary The Evaluator calculated a weighted standard error for the free-ridership level using a formula similar to that for adjustment ratios, yielding a result of 0.0191. The calculation involved participant data on LED lighting savings from 2025, with the weighted average of free-ridership savings compared to revised gross savings.
Calculation of the Margin of Error The margin of error on the LED lighting free-ridership level was established by using the following formula that is the general equation linking the standard error to the margin of error. $\textit{Margin...
AI summary The margin of error for LED lighting free-ridership in 2025 was calculated using a formula involving standard error, a t-value (1.7613), and a finite population correction factor. With N=187 participants and a sample size of 15, the margin of error was determined to be 3.2%. The calculation included 2024 and 2025 BER-AR program participants to ensure sufficient response rates.
APPENDIX III NTGR Calculations This appendix provides an example of net-to-gross ratio (NTGR) calculations. The example details the calculations of participant free-ridership levels and resulting NTGRs for BER-AR lighting measures. The Eva...
AI summary Appendix III explains net-to-gross ratio (NTGR) calculations for BER-AR lighting measures, including participant free-ridership analysis. The Evaluator applied similar methods to other program components, with detailed evaluations in individual program reports.
NTGR Calculations Free-ridership algorithm Low Free-i Partici • High Free-ric Participa Medium Free-ri Participa Questions Calculation Algorithm Calc. Answer Calc. Answer Calc. D1. Before learning about the Business Energy Rebates Program,...
AI summary This section discusses the calculation algorithm for free-ridership in the context of the Business Energy Rebates Program, focusing on whether businesses had already decided to install energy-efficient LED lighting before learning about the program.
The Evaluator determined the net electrical energy and peak demand savings, that is the electrical energy and peak demand savings that can be reliably attributed to the program component, by establishing a NTGR for each appliance type. For...
AI summary The Evaluator calculated net electrical energy and peak demand savings for appliance retirements by establishing NTGRs, considering free-ridership and secondary market impacts. The methodology aligns with the Uniform Methods Project guidelines, accounting for gross unitary energy savings and adjusting for spillover effects.
3.3.1 Free-ridership and Secondary Market Impacts For appliance retirements, free-ridership corresponds to the energy consumption of appliances that would have been disposed of in the absence of the program, and secondary market impacts co...
AI summary This section discusses free-ridership and secondary market impacts for appliance retirements. It notes that data from 2025 was not collected, so 2022 data was used for full-sized refrigerators and freezers, while 2018 data was used for air conditioners and small appliances due to low participation levels. The results are presented in Table 8, referencing a 2017 report by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.
Table 8: 2025 ARet Free-ridership Levels Appliance Type Free-ridership (with Secondary Market Impacts) Level Margin of Error Refrigerators 43% 6.3% Freezers 45% 5.5% Air Conditioners 47% 13.0% Small Refrigerators 32% 10.3% Small Freezers 3...
AI summary Table 8 presents free-ridership levels for various appliance types under the ARet program in 2025, showing percentages and margins of error. The section 'Participant Spillover' is introduced, likely discussing how program participation may influence broader market impacts.
3.3.3 Net-to-gross Ratio Calculation NTGR values were calculated using the following equation. $$NTGR = (1 - \% Free-ridership + \% Spillover)$$ Using the average free-ridership levels established for each appliance type, the Evaluator cal...
AI summary The Net-to-Gross Ratio (NTGR) was calculated using the formula (1 - % Free-ridership + % Spillover), with results based on average free-ridership levels for each appliance type and presented in Table 9.
Table 14: 2025 Instant Savings Evaluation Approach Evaluation Objective Research Question Methodology Calculate gross results › Are the data in the tracking sheet complete, accurate, and consistent? › Are the unitary savings for appliance...
AI summary This section outlines the evaluation approach for the 2025 Instant Savings program, focusing on calculating both gross and net results. It includes methods such as tracking sheet audits, DSM Measure Assessment updates, literature reviews, and GHG emission reduction calculations.
7.3.1 Free-ridership For LED fixtures with motion sensors and solar fixtures, the free-ridership levels established in the 2024 Instant Savings evaluation were used. For certain non-lighting measures, namely clothes washers, clothes dryers...
AI summary The document discusses the free-ridership levels for various energy-efficient products, including LED fixtures with motion sensors, solar fixtures, and non-lighting measures such as clothes washers and dehumidifiers, referencing the 2024 Instant Savings evaluation and a literature review.
Table 20: Free-ridership Levels Established in the 2025 Instant Savings Evaluation Product Free-ridership Level Efficient Clothes Washers 51% ENERGY STAR Certified Clothes Dryers 48% Efficient Combined Washers/Dryers 50% ENERGY STAR Certif...
AI summary Table 20 presents free-ridership levels for various energy-efficient products as established in the 2025 Instant Savings Evaluation. The data is based on Nova Scotia Power's 2024 emissions and electricity generation data, as well as a report by Econoler for E1.
7.3.2 Spillover For LED fixtures with motion sensors and solar fixtures, the spillover levels established in the 2024 Instant Savings evaluation were used. For non-lighting measures for which free-ridership levels were established, namely...
AI summary The text discusses the use of spillover levels for LED fixtures with motion sensors and solar fixtures based on the 2024 Instant Savings evaluation, as well as for non-lighting measures like clothes washers and pool pumps, determined through a literature review.
Introduction For Instant Savings, free-ridership occurs when participants would have installed the same energy efficient products in the absence of the program component. The Net-to-Gross Ratio Review[1](#page-133-1) report recommends that...
AI summary The text discusses free-ridership in Instant Savings programs, where participants might have adopted energy-efficient measures without program incentives. It notes challenges in measuring net-to-gross (NTG) ratios for all measures, leading to reliance on literature reviews for NTG estimates.
Table 1: Jurisdictions Consulted Within Literature Review Jurisdiction Scope of Available Information on NTGRs Whether the Jurisdiction Was Retained Rationale California Found in program evaluation reports No Reviewed reports with NTG eval...
AI summary The table reviews jurisdictions consulted in a literature review, focusing on the availability of Net-to-Gross Ratios (NTGRs) related to instant rebate programs. Most jurisdictions only provided final NTGR values, while Illinois included additional context with free-ridership and spillover values.
DEFINITIONS Accuracy Reflects the proximity of measurements to the true value. 15.2 Gross Savings .2.1 Installation Rates .2.2 Unitary Energy Savings .2.3 Unitary Peak Demand Savings 15 .2.4 Interactive Effects 71 15.3 Effective Useful Lif...
AI summary The text defines key terms related to energy efficiency programs and evaluations, including Gross Savings, Net Savings, Free-ridership, and Net-to-gross Ratio Calculation. It outlines various metrics and methods used to assess program effectiveness and savings realization.
11.3 Net Savings The Evaluator determined the net electrical energy and peak demand savings that can be reliably attributed to a program component by estimating the NTGR. In the case of EPI, the NTGR is established considering the free-rid...
AI summary The Evaluator calculates net energy and peak demand savings using NTGR, adjusting for free-ridership and spillover effects in EPI programs. This approach accounts for both positive and negative impacts on energy savings from participant behavior and broader program influences.
11.3.1 Free-ridership For EPI, free-ridership occurs when participants would have installed the same energy efficient products in the absence of the program component. For low-income participants, the free-ridership level is assumed to be...
AI summary This section discusses the free-ridership levels for various energy efficiency products under the EPI program. It outlines methods used to determine these levels, including self-reporting surveys, literature reviews, and assumptions based on product rarity and complexity. The 2024 levels were used in the 2025 evaluation due to a lack of updated data.
15.5.1 Free-ridership For Green Heat, free-ridership occurs when participants would have still installed a new, more efficient heating system in the absence of the program component. Free-ridership was assessed during the 2023 evaluation u...
AI summary Free-ridership in the Green Heat program occurs when participants would have installed more efficient heating systems without the program. Free-ridership levels from 2023 were used for the 2025 evaluation due to a lack of updated data collection activities.
Table 36: 2025 Green Heat Average Free-ridership Levels Measure Average Free-ridership Level Sample Size Population Size Margin of Error MSHPs 48% 90 1,132 5.5% Biomass Measures 47% 29 213 8.2% Demand Reduction Measures 9% 5 314 13.4% Cent...
AI summary Table 36 presents the 2025 average free-ridership levels for various Green Heat measures in Nova Scotia, including MSHPs, biomass measures, and heat pumps. The data is based on sample sizes and includes margin of error estimates. The Nova Scotia-specific factor was derived from Nova Scotia Power's 2024 emissions and generation data.
15.5.2 Net-to-gross Ratio Calculation The NTGR was calculated using the following equation. $$NTGR = (1 - \% Free-ridership)$$ Using the free-ridership level established for each measure category, the Evaluator calculated the NTGR values p...
AI summary The Net-to-gross Ratio (NTGR) is calculated using the formula (1 - % Free-ridership), with the free-ridership level for each measure category used to determine the NTGR values presented in Table 37.
19.3.1 Free-ridership For HEA, free-ridership occurs when participants would have implemented energy efficiency measures and/or solar PV systems in the absence of the program component. Free-ridership was assessed in 2023 through a partici...
AI summary Free-ridership in the Home Energy Assessment (HEA) program refers to participants who would have implemented energy efficiency measures or solar PV systems without the program. In 2023, a participant survey was used to assess free-ridership levels, and these levels were carried forward for the 2025 evaluation due to no new data collection in 2025.
Table 46: 2025 HEA Free-ridership Levels Measure Average Free-ridership Level Sample Size Population Size Margin of Error Energy Efficiency Measures 17% 77 3,995 4.20% Solar PV Measures 26% 29 1,520 6.50% 31 At the time of writing, 2025 da...
AI summary Table 46 presents free-ridership levels for Energy Efficiency Measures and Solar PV Measures in 2025. The data is based on Nova Scotia Power's 2024 emissions and generation data, with references to external sources for the information.
19.3.2 Participant Spillover For HEA, participant spillover occurs when participants implement additional measures recommended in their initial energy assessments after their participation in the program component, that is after having com...
AI summary Participant spillover in the Home Energy Assessment (HEA) program occurs when participants implement additional energy efficiency measures after completing their initial assessments. The 2023 spillover level was used in the 2025 evaluation due to a lack of updated data collection.
23.3 Net Savings The Evaluator determined the net energy and peak demand savings, i.e. the electrical energy and peak demand savings that can be reliably attributed to the program component, by estimating a net-to-gross ratio (NTGR). More...
AI summary The Evaluator calculated net energy and peak demand savings using a net-to-gross ratio (NTGR) of 1.00, attributing this to the unique financial context of Mi'kmaw communities with limited housing budgets. The NTGR accounts for spillover and free-ridership effects on gross savings.
Table 6: 2025 BER Evaluation Approach Evaluation Objectives Research Questions Methodology Calculate net results › What is the free-ridership level for BER-AR in 2025? › What is the spillover level for BER-AR in 2025? › What are the evalua...
AI summary Table 6 outlines the 2025 Business Energy Rebates (BER) Evaluation Approach, focusing on calculating net results through methods like participant surveys, site visits, and GHG emission reduction calculations to assess free-ridership, spillover, and energy savings.
Application Rebates Participant Survey In the fall of 2025, Narrative Research conducted a telephone survey with a total of 57 Application Rebates participants to collect information on free-ridership. An online version of the survey was c...
AI summary In fall 2025, Narrative Research conducted a telephone survey with 57 Application Rebates participants and two online respondents to assess free-ridership. The survey took 11 minutes (telephone) and 5 minutes (online), with methodology details in Appendices III and IV.
Note on Margin of Error For evaluation activities that yield quantitative results based on a sample, the Evaluator aimed to achieve a maximum margin of error of 10% at a confidence level of 90%. This means that, if measurements were conduc...
AI summary The evaluation methodology for BER-AR includes a 10% margin of error at 90% confidence level for free-ridership and adjustment ratios, while BER-IR evaluations omitted margin-of-error calculations. Examples of margin-of-error calculations are referenced in Appendix II of the 2025 DSM Program Evaluation Executive Summary.
3.3.1 Free-ridership In the case of Application Rebates, free-ridership occurs when participants would have still implemented the energy efficiency measures in the absence of the service. The free-ridership level was assessed during the 20...
AI summary The free-ridership level for Application Rebates was assessed in 2025 using a self-report approach through telephone surveys. Participants from both 2024 and 2025 were included in the sample due to the lack of major changes to the service, allowing for a reasonable assessment of free-ridership levels.
Table 11: 2025 Free-ridership Levels for Application Rebates Measure Category Average Free-ridership Level Margin of Error Lighting 6% 2.5% HVAC 17% 8.7% Total (including lighting, HVAC, agriculture, motor, and refrigeration measures) 9% 3...
AI summary Table 11 presents 2025 free-ridership levels for application rebates, showing 6% for lighting, 17% for HVAC, and 9% overall. The assessment approach was modified compared to 2021, when the overall free-ridership level was 26%. Data for 2025 were not yet available, and Nova Scotia-specific factors were derived from Nova Scotia Power and Emera Inc. sources.
3.3.2 Spillover For Application Rebates, spillover refers to instances whereby participants implement eligible energy efficiency measures because of prior participation in the service or other efficiency programs without receiving any addi...
AI summary Spillover in Application Rebates refers to participants implementing energy efficiency measures without additional support. The Evaluator determined that in 2025, spillover was nil, resulting in a 0% application.
3.3.3 Net-to-gross Ratio Calculation The NTGR is calculated using the following equation. $$NTGR = (1 - \% Free-ridership + \% Spillover)$$ [Table](#page-166-3) 12 presents the NTGR values calculated by the Evaluator using the free-ridersh...
AI summary The Net-to-gross Ratio (NTGR) is calculated using the formula (1 - % Free-ridership + % Spillover). The Evaluator used free-ridership and spillover levels to calculate NTGR values for Application Rebates. Since the measure was discontinued in 2025, the NTGR for renewable generation (solar PV) was not reassessed, and a value of 1.00 was retained.
Table 12: 2025 Application Rebates NTGR Measure Category Free-ridership Spillover NTGR Lighting 6% 0% 0.94 HVAC 17% 0% 0.83 Total (including lighting, HVAC, agriculture, motor, kitchen, pumping, and refrigeration measures) 9% 0% 0.91 3.3.4...
AI summary Table 12 presents the 2025 Application Rebates NTGR with free-ridership and spillover percentages for various measure categories, including lighting and HVAC. The table also includes the NTGR values for each category and a total that encompasses multiple measures.
4.3.1 Free-ridership For Instant Rebates, free-ridership corresponds to the proportion of savings attributed to natural market trends. Thus, the free-ridership assessment is aimed at estimating the level of sales of energy efficient produc...
AI summary The free-ridership assessment for Instant Rebates estimates savings attributable to natural market trends, not program influence. A self-report method via telephone interviews with participants and distributors was used. Due to no 2025 data, 2024 levels were applied. The evaluation considered distributor influence on product promotion and stocking.
4.3.2 Net-to-gross Ratio The NTGR is calculated using the following equation. $$NTGR = (1 - \% Free-ridership)$$ As presented in [Table](#page-176-1) 20 below, the NTGRs for the main measure categories were established using the 2024 free-...
AI summary The Net-to-Gross Ratio (NTGR) is calculated as (1 - % Free-ridership). For 2024, NTGRs for main measure categories were established using free-ridership levels, while Instant Rebates used an NTGR of 1.00. Data on emissions and electricity generation were sourced from Nova Scotia Power and Emera Inc.
Business Energy Rebates Appendix I BER: Application Rebates Tracking Sheet Audit Appendix II BER: Instant Rebates Tracking Sheet Audit Appendix III BER: Application Rebates Participant Survey Questionnaire Appendix IV BER: Application Reba...
AI summary The document outlines appendices for the Business Energy Rebates (BER) program, including tracking sheets, surveys, free-ridership algorithms, adjustment ratio calculations, on-site visit protocols, and distributor interview guides. It also includes a Quebec City address and images, suggesting administrative and evaluation components of the BER initiative.
Table 1: Overview of Data Collection Activity Descriptor This Instrument Instrument Type Telephone survey Estimated Time to Complete 15 minutes Target Audience 2025 program participants Expected Number of Completions 40 Contact List Source...
AI summary The document outlines data collection activities through a telephone survey targeting 2025 program participants, with a timeline from October 24th to November 14th, 2025. It also describes research objectives related to free-ridership and cross-influence in various energy efficiency measures.
D. Free-Ridership (Lighting)
AI summary The section addresses free-ridership concerns in lighting programs, examining how participants may benefit without contributing to program costs. It explores implications for fairness, cost allocation, and potential regulatory measures to mitigate unintended benefits.
E. Free-Ridership (Others)
AI summary The section addresses free-ridership concerns related to non-participating stakeholders or programs, potentially examining how third parties may benefit from energy efficiency initiatives without contributing to their costs or implementation.
Table 1: BER-AR Participant Survey Free-ridership Algorithm (Heat Pumps) INTENTION 1 – Heat Pump Question Answer Score Planning C1. Had you already decided to purchase and install a heat pump before you heard about Efficiency Nova Scotia's...
AI summary This table outlines a free-ridership algorithm used in the BER-AR Participant Survey to assess whether participants in the Business Energy Rebates Program would have installed heat pumps without the rebate. It includes questions about prior decisions and likelihood of installation without the rebate.
Table 2: BER-AR Participant Survey Free-ridership Algorithm (Lighting) INTENTION D6. [ASK IF LIGHTING QTY>1 AND (D2=1 OR D4=1, 2 OR 3)] Without the rebate, which of the following scenarios would have most likely occurred? You would have pu...
AI summary Table 2 presents a survey question from the BER-AR Participant Survey focusing on free-ridership algorithm for lighting. It asks respondents about their likely behavior without rebates, with response options indicating how many energy-efficient lighting products they would have purchased.
Free-ridership Percentage of gross savings attributable to participants who would have implemented the same or similar energy efficiency measures, with no change in timing, in the absence of the program.
AI summary The document defines free-ridership as the percentage of gross savings from energy efficiency programs that would have been achieved by participants even without the program, assuming no change in timing of their actions.
Custom General Key Findings and Recommendations 2025 Custom-Finding: Custom achieved 30.487 GWh in net electrical energy savings and 6.372 MW in net peak demand savings at the generator in 2025, thereby surpassing by 26% the planned electr...
AI summary The 2025 Custom program exceeded energy savings targets by 26% and 32% for electrical energy and peak demand, respectively. Participation shifted toward BOpt and New Construction, while Retrofit participation declined. Adjustment ratios varied across services, and free-ridership levels decreased for most categories. Evaluated savings were 8% higher than E1-tracked savings.
Table 6: 2025 Custom Evaluation Approach Evaluation Objectives Research Questions Methodology Calculate gross results › Are the data in the tracking sheet complete, accurate, and consistent? › Are the gross savings calculated for a sample...
AI summary Table 6 outlines a 2025 Custom Evaluation Approach focusing on calculating gross and net results of energy efficiency programs. It includes evaluation objectives, research questions, and methodologies, such as tracking sheet audits, site visits, participant interviews, and GHG emission calculations.
Project File Reviews and Participant Site Visits or Follow-up Phone Interviews In the fall of 2025 and January 2026, Econoler and its subcontractor CDM Energy Solutions carried out a full technical review of project documentation for 18 re...
AI summary In 2025-2026, Econoler and subcontractors conducted technical reviews for 18 Retrofit, 1 P4P, and 9 Building Optimization projects, with site visits and interviews. For 12 New Construction projects, reviews relied on project files without site visits, but non-technical interviews collected free-ridership data. Appendices VI, I, X, and IX outline review protocols and interview guides.
3.3.1 Free-ridership In the case of Retrofit, free-ridership occurs when participants would have still implemented energy efficiency upgrades and measures in the absence of the service. For solar PV projects, the NTGR measured as part of t...
AI summary The text discusses free-ridership in energy efficiency programs, particularly Retrofit and solar PV projects. Free-ridership occurs when participants would have implemented energy efficiency measures regardless of the program. The 2023 NTGR was used for 2025 results, and self-reporting via phone interviews was used to assess free-ridership levels for Retrofit and compressed air leak projects, adjusting the level based on participant influence from E1 activities.
Table 14: 2025 Retrofit Free-ridership Level per Project Category Retrofit Project Category Free-ridership Level Margin of Error Regular Retrofit 8% 1.7% Solar PV 38% 9.5% Compressed Air Leak Audit 8% 19.2% \ Free-ridership for solar PV pr...
AI summary Table 14 presents the 2025 retrofit free-ridership levels for different project categories, including Regular Retrofit, Solar PV, and Compressed Air Leak Audit, along with their respective margins of error. Note that the Solar PV free-ridership level is based on the 2023 evaluation due to lack of 2025 data.
4.3.1 Free-ridership In the case of P4P, free-ridership occurs when participants would have still implemented energy efficiency upgrades and measures in the absence of the service. The 2025 free-ridership level was assessed using a self-re...
AI summary The 2025 free-ridership level for the P4P program was assessed at 8% via self-reported phone interviews, adjusting for influence from E1 programs. However, this level was not applied to partial savings claims, with the Evaluator assuming nil free-ridership for some participants until 2025 data became available. Data sources included Nova Scotia Power and Emera Inc.'s 2024 reports.
4.3.2 Spillover For P4P, participant spillover occurs when participants implement eligible energy efficiency measures due to the influence of previous participation in the service without receiving any kind of additional support. The Evalu...
AI summary The analysis of spillover effects in the Pay-for-Performance (P4P) program found no spillover for the 2025 project. The Evaluator used phone interviews and an algorithm to assess spillover, assuming nil for projects with partial savings claims, with retroactive adjustments possible if needed.
5.3 Net Savings The NTGR is applied to calculate net savings, that is, the savings that can be reliably attributed to a service. For New Construction, the NTGR was established by considering free-ridership. Spillover was assumed to be zero...
AI summary The NTGR is used to calculate net savings by accounting for free-ridership. For new construction, spillover was assumed zero due to low non-participant spillover potential, as evidenced by 2022 evaluations. This assumption led to spillover not being measured in the 2025 evaluation.
5.3.1 Free-ridership In the case of New Construction, free-ridership occurs when participants would have still implemented energy efficiency measures in their new building in the absence of the service. The free-ridership level was assesse...
AI summary The free-ridership level for New Construction was assessed at 18% through self-reported interviews with decision-makers, factoring in influences like E1 programs, energy models, and technical assistance. Adjustments were made for prior program participation and awareness, with a 9.4% and 8.1% margin of error for energy and peak demand savings, respectively.
Gross Savings NTGR Net Savings Realization Rate Value Unit Value Value Unit Value Electrical Energy Savings Tracked Savings by E1 18.713 GWh 0.72 13.473 GWh Evaluation Results 18.447 GWh 0.82 15.057 GWh 112% Peak Demand Savings Tracked Sav...
AI summary The evaluated gross electrical energy and peak demand savings were lower than those tracked by E1 due to adjustments in energy models. However, evaluated net savings were higher due to lower free-ridership in 2025, leading to a positive realization rate.
6.3.1 Net-to-gross Ratio Calculation The NTGR was calculated using the following equation. NTGR = (1 – % Free-ridership + % Participant Spillover) [Table](#page-98-4) 30 outlines the free-ridership and spillover levels established for Buil...
AI summary The Net-to-Gross Ratio (NTGR) is calculated using the formula (1 – % Free-ridership + % Participant Spillover). Table 30 provides free-ridership and spillover levels for Building Optimization, along with the resulting NTGR value.
Table 30: Evaluated 2025 Building Optimization NTGR Value for Savings Claimed in 2025 Free-ridership Level 9% (±7.2%) Participant Spillover Level 0% NTGR 0.91 Free-ridership and spillover levels were not measured in 2025; hence, results fr...
AI summary Table 30 evaluates the 2025 Building Optimization NTGR, reporting a free-ridership level of 9% (±7.2%) and a net-to-gross ratio (NTGR) of 0.91. The free-ridership and spillover levels were not measured in 2025, so results from the 2021 Custom evaluation were used.
General Custom Key Findings and Recommendations 2025 Custom - Finding: Custom surpassed the net electrical energy and peak demand savings targets in 2025. Custom achieved 30.487 GWh in net electrical energy savings and 6.372 MW in net peak...
AI summary Custom exceeded 2025 energy savings targets (30.487 GWh and 6.372 MW) but saw reduced participation compared to 2024. Adjustments to savings metrics were applied, with free-ridership levels decreasing for Retrofit and New Construction. Evaluated savings were 8% higher than E1-tracked values.
Custom APPENDIX I Retrofit and Pay-for-Performance Participant Interview Guide APPENDIX II Compressed Air Leak Participant Interview Guide APPENDIX III Retrofit and Pay-for-Performance Algorithm for Free-Ridership Calculation APPENDIX IV R...
AI summary The document outlines appendices related to custom programs, including interview guides, algorithms for free-ridership and spillover calculations, tracking sheets, and 2025 recommendations. These materials focus on methodologies for assessing program participation and performance metrics.
C. Free-ridership - C1. Had your organization finalized the design and planning of the energy efficiency project BEFORE learning that you would receive an incentive from Efficiency Nova Scotia? - 1. Yes - 2. No - 98. Don't know - 99. Refus...
AI summary The section includes survey questions about free-ridership in energy efficiency projects, focusing on whether incentives from Efficiency Nova Scotia influenced project decisions, the impact on payback periods, and the likelihood of project implementation without incentives.
E. Spillover - E1. Since taking part in the Custom Retrofit program, have you implemented any additional energy efficiency measures outside of the program? - 1. Yes - 2. No [GO TO SECTION F] - 98. Don't know [GO TO SECTION F] - 99. Refused...
AI summary The section explores spillover effects from the Custom Retrofit program, inquiring about additional energy efficiency measures, financing, influence of prior projects, and reasons for not using Efficiency Nova Scotia programs. It seeks details on measures implemented outside the program and their impact.
APPENDIX III Retrofit and Pay-for-Performance Algorithm for Free-Ridership Calculation Question Answer Score Identifying Key Decision Makers We would like to speak with someone that 1) Yes A1a played a key role in the financial decision to...
AI summary This appendix outlines a retrofit and pay-for-performance algorithm used to calculate free-ridership in energy efficiency programs. It includes a survey with questions aimed at identifying key decision-makers involved in implementing energy efficiency projects and assessing their confidence in receiving incentives from Efficiency Nova Scotia.
I. Free-ridership I1. [CAPTURE VERBATIM; KEEP CODE 98 & 96 EXCLUSIVE] Why did your organization decide to build a better-than-code building? CAPTURE VERBATIM - 98. I am unsure - 99. I prefer not to say - I2. [SINGLE RESPONSE] Was the desig...
AI summary The section discusses free-ridership in the context of building incentives, asking respondents about their confidence in receiving Efficiency Nova Scotia incentives and whether building designs were finalized before incentive knowledge. It focuses on program participation and incentive structures.
B. Free-ridership - B1. Why did your organization decide to build a better-than-code building? [DO NOT READ. MULTIPLE RESPONSE] - 1. Lower operation costs - 2. Energy policy in my organization - 3. Environmental reasons/energy efficiency -...
AI summary The section explores free-ridership in energy efficiency programs through questions about motivations for building better-than-code structures, pre-incentive design decisions, and confidence in receiving incentives from Efficiency Nova Scotia. It focuses on organizational behavior and program participation dynamics.
Table 1: Participant Interview Questionnaire and Free-ridership Algorithm Question Answer Score A4 [IF A1=NO, DK or REFUSED] Who were the key decision-makers that played a role in the decision to build a better-than-code building? Can you...
AI summary The table outlines a questionnaire used to gather information on decision-making processes related to building better-than-code buildings, including reasons for such decisions and key decision-makers involved. It also includes questions about incentives and free-ridership algorithms.
Note on Margins of Error For evaluation activities that yield quantitative results based on a sample, the Evaluator aimed to achieve a maximum margin of error of 10% at a confidence level of 90%. This means that, if measurements were condu...
AI summary The Evaluator aimed for a 10% margin of error at 90% confidence in quantitative evaluations. For the 2025 SBES evaluation, no margins were calculated, but 2023 results included them. Margins only account for random sampling errors, excluding nonsampling biases like data entry errors or non-response.
3.3.1 Free-ridership For SBES, free-ridership occurs when participants would have implemented energy efficiency upgrades in the absence of the program component. The free-ridership levels for DIY and Audit projects were assessed during the...
AI summary The document discusses free-ridership in the context of the Small Business Energy Solutions (SBES) program, noting that free-ridership levels for DIY and Audit projects were assessed in 2023 using a self-report approach. These levels were carried forward for the 2025 evaluation due to the lack of updated data in 2025. Nova Scotia-specific factors were derived from Nova Scotia Power's 2024 emissions and electricity generation data.
Table 12: 2025 SBES Free-ridership Levels Project Path Average Free-ridership Level Margin of Error DIY (based on 2023 results) 20% 5.2% Audit (based on 2019 results) 12% 6.5% 3.3.2 Participant Spillover
AI summary Table 12 outlines the 2025 free-ridership levels for the Small Business Energy Solutions (SBES) program, showing 20% for DIY and 12% for Audit, along with their respective margins of error. Section 3.3.2 discusses participant spillover, indicating an analysis of how program participation may influence non-participants.
ent of Energy, Energy Conservation Standards for General Service Lamps (EISA 2007 Backstop, 45 lm/W) — Enforcement Timelines, National Law Review summary , May 2, 2022 (retail enforcement July 2023). While the latest regulations establishe...
AI summary The text discusses the shift from CFL to LED lamps in Nova Scotia, noting market maturity and implications for EPI programs. It highlights that LED technology is now the standard, with E1's direct-install programs assuming one-year savings from replacing non-LED bulbs, as LED replacements are expected post-2025.