Topic/Matter Intersection

Topic:"Incentive Structures" in M12780

Matter: EfficiencyOne - 2027-2031 Demand Side Management (DSM) Plan Application
350 passages 35 documents

Incentive Structures across all matters →

E-12027-2031 DSM Plan Application 26 passages
14 4.1 THE 2027–2031 DSM PLAN CONTINUES TO PRIORITIZE CUSTOMERS p. p. 44
14 4.1 THE 2027–2031 DSM PLAN CONTINUES TO PRIORITIZE CUSTOMERS E1's DSM Plan continues to prioritize customers by ensuring that the investment in customer incentives remains not only the largest portion of the $63.75 million per year but...

AI summary E1's 2027–2031 DSM Plan prioritizes customers by increasing customer incentives from 66% to 71% of total investment compared to the 2026 DSM Extension, with annual funding of $63.75 million. This reflects a shift toward greater customer-focused spending within the overall DSM strategy.

5.2 PROGRAM DELIVERY COSTS p. p. 52
5.2 PROGRAM DELIVERY COSTS The Preferred Plan gives due consideration to program delivery costs. E1 has heard some concerns from stakeholders that program delivery costs have increased unreasonably since the last plan. However, E1 submits...

AI summary The Preferred Plan addresses stakeholder concerns about rising program delivery costs by attributing increases to structural and market factors beyond E1's control. Customer incentives now account for 71% of costs, reflecting increased customer need for financial support. E1 cites a 2015 memo by Philippe Dunsky to justify cost management strategies.

2.2.3 PROGRAM ADJUSTMENTS p. p. 91
2.2.3 PROGRAM ADJUSTMENTS In 2025, E1 ended two program components - Green Heat and Appliance Retirement. Green Heat continued to experience a steady decline in participation and energy savings in 2025, consistent with trends observed in 2...

AI summary E1 ended two programs in 2025: Green Heat and Appliance Retirement. Green Heat's decline was due to the Canada Greener Homes Grant and reduced savings from DSM evaluations. Appliance Retirement closed due to rising costs, declining savings from newer units, and limited service providers. Deadlines were December 31, 2025 for Green Heat and January 8, 2025 for Appliance Retirement.

Key observations of the Preferred Plan include: p. p. 109
Key observations of the Preferred Plan include: - annual investment for the Preferred Plan is maintained at the 2026 DSM Extension approved investment level of $63.75 million, with no annual inflationary increases to the investment, to sup...

AI summary The Preferred Plan maintains a fixed annual investment of $63.75 million with no inflationary increases, aiming to support affordability. Energy savings have declined due to market shifts and program closures. The plan supports Mi'kmaw communities and shows strong cost-effectiveness with a 114% ROI and a 30-year solar-PV measure life. However, some low-income programs have lower PAC scores.

Table 8: 2027–2031 DSM Preferred Plan Savings and Investment by Program Component p. p. 115
Table 8: 2027–2031 DSM Preferred Plan Savings and Investment by Program Component 2027-2031 Investment ($ million) Lifetime Benefits ($ million) First Year Energy Savings (GWh) Lifetime Energy Savings (GWh) Peak Demand Savings (MW) Availab...

AI summary Table 8 outlines the 2027–2031 DSM Preferred Plan Savings and Investment by Program Component, detailing investment amounts, energy savings, and other metrics for residential and BNI EE programs, as well as Enabling Strategies.

- 4 Table 9: 2027 DSM Preferred Plan Savings and Investment by Program Component p. p. 116
- 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 investment amounts, lifetime benefits, energy savings, and other metrics for residential and BNI EE programs, as well as Enabling Strategies (ES).

1 Table 10: 2028 DSM Preferred Plan Savings and Investment by Program Component p. p. 117
1 Table 10: 2028 DSM Preferred Plan Savings and Investment by Program Component 2028 Investment ($ million) Lifetime Benefits ($ million) First Year Energy Savings (GWh) Lifetime Energy Savings (GWh) Peak Demand Savings (MW) Available Dema...

AI summary Table 10 outlines the 2028 DSM Preferred Plan Savings and Investment by Program Component, detailing investment amounts, energy savings, and benefits for residential and BNI EE programs, as well as Enabling Strategies (ES). The data includes metrics such as first-year and lifetime energy savings, peak demand savings, and program administrator cost tests.

1 Table 11: 2029 DSM Preferred Plan Savings and Investment by Program Component p. p. 118
1 Table 11: 2029 DSM Preferred Plan Savings and Investment by Program Component 2029 Investment ($ million) Lifetime Benefits ($ million) First Year Energy Savings (GWh) Lifetime Energy Savings (GWh) Peak Demand Savings (MW) Available Dema...

AI summary Table 11 presents the 2029 DSM Preferred Plan Savings and Investment by Program Component, including residential and BNI EE programs, with details on investment, energy savings, and program administrator cost tests.

1 Table 12: 2030 DSM Preferred Plan Savings and Investment by Program Component p. pp. 118-119
1 Table 12: 2030 DSM Preferred Plan Savings and Investment by Program Component 2030 Investment ($ million) Lifetime Benefits First Year Energy Lifetime Energy Peak Demand Available Demand Response Solar-PV Generation Weighted Average Prog...

AI summary Table 12 outlines the 2030 DSM Preferred Plan Savings and Investment by Program Component, detailing energy efficiency (EE) programs, enabling strategies (ES), demand response (DR), and solar-PV programs. It includes investment amounts, savings, and other metrics for residential, business, and institutional programs, as well as equity and low-income impacts.

1 Table 13: 2031 DSM Preferred Plan Savings and Investment by Program Component p. p. 120
1 Table 13: 2031 DSM Preferred Plan Savings and Investment by Program Component 2031 Investment ($ million) Lifetime Benefits ($ million) First Year Energy Savings (GWh) Lifetime Energy Savings (GWh) Peak Demand Savings (MW) Available Dema...

AI summary Table 13 presents the 2031 DSM Preferred Plan Savings and Investment by Program Component, including details on investment, benefits, energy savings, and cost tests for various residential and BNI EE programs, as well as enabling strategies.

Energy Efficiency p. pp. 122-124
ives provide direct support to Nova Scotians participating in DSM programs and are 7 directly linked to the DSM resource savings targets. Incentive types for E1's DSM programs include the 8 following: - 9 rebates paid directly to customers...

AI summary The text outlines E1's DSM programs, detailing incentive types such as rebates, customer upgrade costs, and third-party delivery agent costs. It highlights categories like Home Energy Assessment, Demand Response, and Solar-PV, with a figure illustrating 2027–2031 DSM expenditure categories.

Preamble p. p. 129
- 4 DSM programs included in the 2027–2031 DSM Preferred Plan portfolio include Residential and BNI - 5 energy efficiency programs, a demand response program, and a solar-PV program. Sections 5-10 describe - 6 the programs for the 2027–203...

AI summary The 2027–2031 DSM Preferred Plan includes four DSM programs, such as Residential and BNI, along with five energy efficiency programs, one demand response program, and one solar-PV program. Detailed program measure level information is provided in Attachments 3 and 4.

6.1 RESIDENTIAL EFFICIENT PRODUCT REBATES PROGRAM p. pp. 131-132
6.1 RESIDENTIAL EFFICIENT PRODUCT REBATES PROGRAM - 6.1.1 OVERVIEW, OBJECTIVES, OPPORTUNITY - [Table 16](#page-133-0) provides a description of the Residential Efficient Product Rebates program for 2027–2031. DATE FILED: March 31, 2026 Pag...

AI summary The Residential Efficient Product Rebates Program (2027–2031) is outlined in Table 16. The document provides an overview of objectives and opportunities for residential energy efficiency initiatives, filed on March 31, 2026.

15 6.4 BNI EFFICIENT PRODUCT REBATES PROGRAM p. p. 149
15 6.4 BNI EFFICIENT PRODUCT REBATES PROGRAM

AI summary The BNI Efficient Product Rebates Program is part of a Nova Scotia regulatory proceeding, focusing on demand-side management and energy efficiency initiatives. It operates under frameworks like the Public Utilities Act and Energy and Regulatory Boards Act, aiming to promote energy-efficient products for business, non-profit, and institutional sectors.

1 Table 31: BNI Efficient Product Rebates - Overview, Objectives, Opportunity p. pp. 149-150
1 Table 31: BNI Efficient Product Rebates - Overview, Objectives, Opportunity BNI Efficient Product Rebates Overview • BNI customers can access prescriptive rebates or financing on eligible equipment with predictable savings and applicabil...

AI summary The BNI Efficient Product Rebates program provides prescriptive rebates and financing for energy-efficient equipment to businesses, non-profits, and institutions. The program aims to increase market penetration of efficient technologies and transform standard practices by addressing barriers such as upfront costs, lack of knowledge, and time constraints.

Section 392 p. p. 150
4 [Table 32](#page-150-1) summarizes the five-year investment and savings for the Business Energy Rebates program 5 component, including design and implementation strategy details.

AI summary The text references Table 32, which summarizes the five-year investment and savings for the Business Energy Rebates program component, including design and implementation strategy details.

7 Table 32: 2027–2031 Business Energy Rebates Program Component p. p. 150
7 Table 32: 2027–2031 Business Energy Rebates Program Component Business Energy Rebates Annual Plan Investment ($M) Energy Savings (GWh) Demand Savings (MW) Participation (products) 2027 Total 4.1 14.4 2.6 19,063 2028 Total 4.2 14.3 2.6 19...

AI summary Table 32 outlines the 2027–2031 Business Energy Rebates Program Component, detailing annual investments, energy savings, demand savings, and participation numbers for each year from 2027 to 2031.

DATE FILED: March 31, 2026 Page 63 of 112 p. p. 150
DATE FILED: March 31, 2026 Page 63 of 112 Business Energy Rebates Overview • The Business Energy Rebates program component offers two services – Instant Rebates and Application Rebates. • 2010 – program component launched • 2019 – program...

AI summary The Business Energy Rebates program offers Instant and Application Rebates to businesses. Launched in 2010, it saw increased adoption of LED products by 2019, leading to the removal of several lighting categories. In 2020, new measures such as system peak demand and electric thermal storage were introduced, along with pilots for demand control ventilation.

12 6.5 CUSTOM INCENTIVES PROGRAM p. p. 153
12 6.5 CUSTOM INCENTIVES PROGRAM

AI summary Section 6.5 of the Nova Scotia regulatory proceeding discusses the Custom Incentives Program, focusing on demand-side management (DSM) and energy efficiency (EE) initiatives. The program involves entities like NS Power, NSEB, and DSMAG, with considerations for cost recovery, rate design, and regulatory compliance under the ERBA and PUA frameworks.

6 Table 41: 2027–2031 Small Business Energy Solutions Program Component p. p. 160
6 Table 41: 2027–2031 Small Business Energy Solutions Program Component Small Business Energy Solutions Overview • Provides small business customers with access to technical assistance and financial incentives for the installation of energ...

AI summary The Small Business Energy Solutions Program provides technical assistance and financial incentives to small business customers for the installation of energy-efficient and system-peak demand reduction equipment. Access is available through self-directed or facilitated pathways.

9 10 p. p. 326
9 10 Table 3: 2027–2031 Alternate Scenario Savings and Investment by Program Component 2027-2031 Investment ($ million) Lifetime Benefits ($ million) First Year Energy Savings (GWh) Lifetime Energy Savings (GWh) Peak Demand Savings (MW) Av...

AI summary The table provides a detailed overview of energy efficiency (EE) and demand response (DR) programs for the 2027–2031 period, including investment, lifetime benefits, energy savings, and program administrator cost test (PAC) data. It highlights the contribution of various programs, such as residential and business EE initiatives, enabling strategies, and solar-PV programs, to overall energy savings and investment.

1 Table 5: 2028 Alternate Scenario Savings and Investment by Program Component p. pp. 327-328
1 Table 5: 2028 Alternate Scenario Savings and Investment by Program Component 2028 Investment ($ million) Lifetime Benefits ($ million) First Year Energy Savings (GWh) Lifetime Energy Savings (GWh) Peak Demand Savings (MW) Available Deman...

AI summary Table 5 outlines the 2028 Alternate Scenario Savings and Investment by Program Component, highlighting energy efficiency (EE) programs, enabling strategies (ES), demand response (DR), and solar-PV programs. It provides data on investment, lifetime benefits, energy savings, peak demand savings, and other metrics for residential and business, non-profit, and institutional (BNI) programs, as well as overall portfolio totals.

1 Table 6: 2029 Alternate Scenario Savings and Investment by Program Component p. p. 329
1 Table 6: 2029 Alternate Scenario Savings and Investment by Program Component 2029 Investment ($ million) Lifetime Benefits ($ million) First Year Energy Savings (GWh) Lifetime Energy Savings (GWh) Peak Demand Savings (MW) Available Deman...

AI summary Table 6 outlines the 2029 Alternate Scenario Savings and Investment by Program Component, focusing on Energy Efficiency (EE) Programs Total (Residential + BNI), with figures on investment, benefits, energy savings, and program administrator costs.

1 Table 7: 2030 Alternate Scenario Savings and Investment by Program Component p. pp. 329-330
1 Table 7: 2030 Alternate Scenario Savings and Investment by Program Component 2030 Investment ($ million) Lifetime Benefits ($ million) First Year Energy Savings (GWh) Lifetime Energy Savings (GWh) Peak Demand Savings (MW) Available Deman...

AI summary Table 7 outlines the projected investment, benefits, and savings across various energy efficiency (EE), enabling strategies (ES), demand response (DR), and solar-PV programs for 2030. The data highlights the financial and energy-saving impacts of these initiatives, including residential and business programs, and emphasizes the overall savings and investment required for the DSM portfolio.

Table 8: 2031 Alternate Scenario Savings and Investment by Program Component p. pp. 330-331
Table 8: 2031 Alternate Scenario Savings and Investment by Program Component 2031 Investment ($ million) Lifetime Benefits ($ million) First Year Energy Savings (GWh) Lifetime Energy Savings (GWh) Peak Demand Savings (MW) Available Demand...

AI summary Table 8 presents the 2031 alternate scenario savings and investment by program component, including energy efficiency (EE), enabling strategies (ES), demand response (DR), and solar-PV programs. It outlines investments, lifetime benefits, energy savings, and other metrics for residential, business, and institutional programs, as well as the Mi'kmaw community initiatives.

7 Electricity Efficiency and ConservationDemand-Side Management Activities p. p. 357
7 Electricity Efficiency and ConservationDemand-Side Management Activities The figure below identifies the scope of savings (3 5 year cCumulative Annual eEnergy sSavings, cCumulative Annual pPeak dDemand sSavings, cCumulative Annual eEnerg...

AI summary The document outlines Energy Efficiency Corporation (EECA) Demand-Side Management (DSM) performance targets over a five-year plan, including energy and peak demand savings, solar-PV generation, and low-income equity programs. Compliance requires achieving 90% of targets; otherwise, a regulatory process is triggered. Schedule B addresses compensation mechanisms.

E-22025 DSM Annual Progress Report 16 passages
2.2 2025 Participation Result[s](#page-11-0) p. pp. 9-11
2.2 2025 Participation Result[s](#page-11-0) - [Table 2](#page-11-0) presents E1's 2025 participation results. The table provides a comparison of 2025 - participation results to those modelled in the 2025 Plan and the four-year Plan period...

AI summary E1's 2025 participation results show mixed outcomes compared to the 2025 Plan. Higher participation occurred in Instant Savings, Affordable Homes programs, and Business Energy Rebates due to retailer sales, faster project completion, and rebate promotions. Lower participation was observed in Efficient Product Installation (phasing out lighting measures), Green Heat (ended in 2025), and Demand Response (unpursued pathways). The Custom program exceeded energy savings despite lower participation.

1 Table 2: 2025 Participation p. p. 11
1 Table 2: 2025 Participation Participation Results Unit 2023-2026 Plan as Approved 2025 Plan as Approved 2025 Results % of 2025 Results to 2025 Plan as Approved % of 2025 Results to 2023-2026 Plan as Approved Participation Unit Efficient...

AI summary Table 2 outlines the 2025 participation results for various energy efficiency programs under the 2023-2026 plan, showing performance metrics such as participation rates and units rebated. Many programs exceeded their 2025 targets, with some programs achieving over 100% of their planned participation.

2.4 2025 Unit Cost p. p. 14
- Affordable Single-family Homes' unit cost was lower than the 2025 Plan, as the energy savings were higher than expected, driven primarily by increased participation; and costs were lower, in part due to the transition in 2025 to managing...

AI summary The 2025 unit costs for DSM programs show mixed results: Affordable Single-family Homes had lower costs due to higher energy savings and project transitions, while Efficient Product Installation and Green Heat exceeded the 2025 Plan due to cost shifts and reduced savings. Home Energy Assessment costs were lower due to grant incentives. Factors like heating source splits and program adjustments influenced outcomes.

4.2.1 Residential Efficient Product Rebates p. p. 24
4.2.1 Residential Efficient Product Rebates The Residential Efficient Product Rebates program consists of two program components: - 1 Appliance Retirement; and - 2 Instant Savings.

AI summary The Residential Efficient Product Rebates program includes two components: Appliance Retirement and Instant Savings, aimed at promoting energy efficiency in residential settings.

Instant Savings Highlights p. p. 25
Instant Savings Highlights - As of January 1, 2025, the Instant Savings program component ended rebates for dehumidifiers, and LED bulbs, fixtures, and recessed downlights. Dehumidifiers had reached baseline efficiency (nonenergy-efficient...

AI summary The Instant Savings program ended rebates for dehumidifiers, LED bulbs, and fixtures by 2025 due to efficiency baselines shifting to LED. Rebate eligibility changed mid-2025 to manage spending under the 2023-2025 Plan, excluding several products until 2026. Other products like heat pump water heaters retained rebates.

Affordable Multifamily Housing and Non-Profit Organizations Highlights p. p. 27
Affordable Multifamily Housing and Non-Profit Organizations Highlights - Affordable Multifamily Housing energy savings achieved were consistent with 2024, but lower than set out in the 2025 Plan as Approved, with 98 projects being complete...

AI summary Affordable Multifamily Housing energy savings in 2025 were lower than the 2025 Plan's targets, with 98 projects completed and 71 initiated (down from 2024). Key factors included reduced prescriptive mini-split heat pump savings due to 2024 Green Heat evaluation adjustments and the end of provincial DSM incentive top-ups since 2021. Mitigation efforts included process improvements, cross-team collaboration, and targeted marketing.

Green Heat Highlights p. pp. 27-29
Green Heat Highlights - Green Heat continued to experience a steady decline in participation and energy savings in 2025, consistent with the trend seen in 2023 and 2024. This trend precipitated the decision by E1 to close the program compo...

AI summary Green Heat program participation and energy savings declined steadily from 2023 to 2025, leading E1 to close the program by December 2025. Factors included competition from the federal Canada Greener Homes Grant and evaluation findings showing reduced savings from key measures. Biomass and other measures were removed in May 2025 due to low uptake and minimal savings.

1 Table 8: 2025 BNI Efficient Product Rebates p. pp. 31-32
1 Table 8: 2025 BNI Efficient Product Rebates BNI EFFICIENT PRODUCT REBATES (2025) BNI Efficient Product Rebates Energy Savings (GWh) Demand Savings (MW) Expenditure ($ million) 2025 Results 40.2 5.3 8.2 2025 Plan 38.5 7.2 8.4 • As compare...

AI summary The 2025 BNI Efficient Product Rebates exceeded energy savings targets (40.2 GWh vs. 38.5 GWh) but underperformed on demand savings (5.3 MW vs. 7.2 MW). Lower demand savings were attributed to high uptake of solar PV projects, which provided no demand savings despite being a pilot program from Q2 2024 to Q2 2025. Expenditure remained slightly below the plan at $8.2 million.

Business Energy Rebates Highlights p. p. 32
Business Energy Rebates Highlights - Business Energy Rebates achieved 40.2 GWh in energy savings and 5.3 MW in demand savings in 2025, meeting its 2025 Plan as Approved energy savings target, while demand savings were lower than the Plan t...

AI summary Business Energy Rebates met 2025 energy savings targets (40.2 GWh) but fell short on demand savings (5.3 MW). Program adjustments included rebate reductions, removal of solar PV and T8 LED rebates, and marketing campaigns targeting contractors. Market research indicated LED dominance in commercial fixtures, aligning with program shifts toward sustainable technologies.

BNI EFFICIENT PRODUCT REBATES (2025) p. p. 32
BNI EFFICIENT PRODUCT REBATES (2025) recommendation, E1 will end rebates on LED fixtures in the Instant Rebates service as of June 30, 2026. • Given the transition in the lighting market, the Business Energy Rebates team has accelerated it...

AI summary E1 will terminate LED fixture rebates in the Instant Rebates service by June 30, 2026, due to market transitions. The Business Energy Rebates team is accelerating research for new 2026 measures, though no specific alternatives are detailed.

2 4.3.2 Custom Incentives p. pp. 32-33
2 4.3.2 Custom Incentives - 3 The Custom Incentives program consists of the following two program components: - 4 Custom; and - 5 Strategic Energy Management. 6

AI summary The Custom Incentives program includes two components: 'Custom' and 'Strategic Energy Management.' This section outlines the structure of the program within the context of a Nova Scotia regulatory proceeding involving utility and energy board oversight.

7 Table 9: 2025 Custom Incentives p. p. 33
7 Table 9: 2025 Custom Incentives CUSTOM INCENTIVES (2025) Custom Incentives Energy Savings (GWh) Demand Savings (MW) Expenditure ($ million) 2025 Results 34.5 6.7 8.5 2025 Plan 26.8 5.1 8.6 • Custom Incentives exceeded its 2025 Plan as Ap...

AI summary The Custom Incentives program exceeded its 2025 Plan targets for energy and demand savings (34.5 GWh and 6.7 MW, respectively), driven by high-savings projects completed in 2025. Expenditures aligned with the Plan's $8.6 million budget, continuing a trend from 2024.

CUSTOM INCENTIVES (2025) p. p. 33
CUSTOM INCENTIVES (2025) The Retrofit and Pay-for-Performance services also had some partial savings claims. [10](#page-34-0) The Retrofit and New Construction services accounted for most of the energy and demand savings achieved. - o The...

AI summary In 2025, Nova Scotia's Retrofit and New Construction services achieved significant energy savings, while Pay-for-Performance faced delays due to a cybersecurity incident at NS Power. The New Construction team is preparing for the 2020 NECB Tier 1 code adoption, with impacts expected by 2026-2027. Partial savings claims were reported across multiple programs.

Program Components p. p. 36
Program Components - The Residential Demand Response program component, marketed as Eco Shift, aims to help facilitate a more flexible residential load that provides residential customers with economic incentives and more visibility and co...

AI summary The Residential Demand Response (Eco Shift) program offers economic incentives and load control for residential customers using specific devices. The BNI Demand Response (Smart Synergy) program targets non-residential loads through commercial/industrial curtailment, providing similar incentives. Both aim to enhance load flexibility.

4.8 Incentive Reporting p. pp. 48-49
4.8 Incentive Reporting - In the NSUARB's Decision on the 2023-2025 DSM Plan, E1 was directed to "identify any instances - where E1 has adjusted the per unit incentive amount for a measure by more than 10% from the - amount included in its...

AI summary The NSUARB directed E1 to report any adjustments exceeding 10% in per-unit incentive amounts from the 2023-2025 DSM Plan. E1 confirmed no such adjustments occurred in Q4, complying with the directive.

1 Table 4: 2025 BNI Efficient Product Rebates Rate Class Results p. p. 55
1 Table 4: 2025 BNI Efficient Product Rebates Rate Class Results BNI Efficient Product Rebates (2025) First-Year Energy Savings (GWh) Lifetime Energy Savings (GWh) Peak Demand Savings (MW) Expenditures ($ million) Units Rebated (#) Residen...

AI summary Table 4 presents the 2025 BNI Efficient Product Rebates Rate Class Results, showing energy and demand savings across various rate classes, along with expenditures and number of units rebated. Savings are net of free-ridership and spillover, and expenditures are unaudited.

E-32025 DSM Evaluation Reports 114 passages
1.2 Process and Market Evaluation Objectives and Scopes p. pp. 12-13
1.2 Process and Market Evaluation Objectives and Scopes One market evaluation was completed in 2025. Market evaluation activities were aimed at achieving the following objectives: - › Validate 2024 market evaluation results and determine t...

AI summary A 2025 market evaluation validated 2024 results for Business Energy Rebates (BER) LED fixtures baseline timing and assessed implications for BER Application Rebates and Small Business Energy Solutions (SBES). A separate process evaluation for Residential Demand Response (DR) collected feedback on participation and operational improvements, with results in evaluation reports.

Table 3: 2025 Interviews Completed p. pp. 15-16
Table 3: 2025 Interviews Completed Program Component 1 Program Manager/ E1 Staff/Business Development Manager Service Providers/ Distributors/Retailers/Builders Participants Program Manager in Other Jurisdictions Residential Appliance Reti...

AI summary Table 3 outlines the number of interviews conducted in 2025 for various program components, including Residential, Business Energy Rebates, and Demand Response. The data indicates the involvement of program managers, service providers, participants, and managers from other jurisdictions.

Site Visits and Project Reviews with Follow-up Site Visits or Interviews p. p. 16
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 p. p. 19
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.

2.2 Process and Market Evaluations p. pp. 19-20
2.2 Process and Market Evaluations Process and market evaluations were conducted using a range of activities such as program component documentation as well as secondary data reviews, jurisdictional scans, participant and non-participant s...

AI summary Process and market evaluations were conducted using program documentation, secondary data reviews, surveys, and interviews. Key tasks included evaluating Business Energy Rebates (BER) Application Rebates and Residential Demand Response (RDR) processes.

Jurisdictional Scans p. p. 20
Jurisdictional Scans The Evaluator conducted two jurisdictional scans across other jurisdictions in Canada and the United States (US), one for Business Energy Rebates – Instant Rebates, and the other for Residential Demand Response. As par...

AI summary The Evaluator conducted two jurisdictional scans: one for Business Energy Rebates – Instant Rebates, focusing on BNI lighting offers and TRM baseline/EUL values, and another for Residential Demand Response, examining strategies for program scaling from pilot to full implementation.

Table 5: Comparison of 2025 Evaluated and Tracked Electrical Energy Savings at the Generator a p. pp. 23-24
Table 5: Comparison of 2025 Evaluated and Tracked Electrical Energy Savings at the Generator a Program Component Tracked Results Evaluated Results DSM Program Annual Gross Savings (GWh) Annual Net Savings (GWh) Annual Gross Savings (GWh) N...

AI summary Table 5 compares the evaluated and tracked electrical energy savings from various programs in 2025. It includes data on residential and BNI programs, showing gross and net savings, net-to-gross ratios, lifetime savings, and net realization rates for each component.

Table 6: Comparison of 2025 Evaluated and Tracked Peak Demand Savings at the Generator a p. pp. 24-25
Table 6: Comparison of 2025 Evaluated and Tracked Peak Demand Savings at the Generator a Program Component Tracked Results Evaluated Results Difference DSM Program Annual Gross Savings (MW) Annual Net Savings (MW) Available Capacity (MW) A...

AI summary Table 6 compares the evaluated and tracked peak demand savings at the generator for various programs in 2025. It highlights differences in net savings and available capacity across residential, BNI, and demand response programs, with varying net realization rates.

Efficient Product Rebates p. p. 29
Efficient Product Rebates Efficient Product Rebates is comprised of one program component, Business Energy Rebates, which is further comprised of two services, namely Application Rebates and Instant Rebates. In 2025, Business Energy Rebate...

AI summary The Efficient Product Rebates program includes Business Energy Rebates, which achieved 40.244 GWh in net electrical energy savings and 5.332 MW in net peak demand savings in 2025. The program comprises Application Rebates and Instant Rebates services.

Business Energy Rebates p. p. 29
Business Energy Rebates - › In 2025, BER achieved 40.244 GWh in net electrical energy savings and 5.332 MW in net peak demand savings at the generator, thus exceeding by 5% the planned net electrical energy savings of 38.451 GWh and fallin...

AI summary In 2025, Business Energy Rebates (BER) exceeded planned electrical energy savings by 5% but fell 26% short of peak demand savings targets. Participation in Application Rebates dropped 36%, reducing overall savings. Adjustments to ratios for lighting and HVAC measures, along with higher NTGR values, impacted tracking accuracy. Revisions to the tracking sheet slightly increased savings but raised error risks.

Table 8: 2025 Evaluated Net Lifetime Electrical Energy Savings at the Generator p. pp. 35-36
Table 8: 2025 Evaluated Net Lifetime Electrical Energy Savings at the Generator DSM Program Program Component Annual Net Electrical Energy Savings (GWh) Lifetime Net Electrical En ergy Savings (GWh) Weighted Average EUL (years) Share of An...

AI summary Table 8 presents the 2025 evaluated net lifetime electrical energy savings at the generator for various DSM programs, including appliance retirement, efficient product rebates, and home energy assessments. The table highlights the contribution of residential and BNI programs to annual and lifetime energy savings, with the residential subtotal contributing 36% of annual and 45% of lifetime savings, and BNI programs contributing 64% of annual and 55% of lifetime savings.

Table 11: Evaluated Net Electrical Energy Savings at the Generator, 2020-2025 p. pp. 38-39
Table 11: Evaluated Net Electrical Energy Savings at the Generator, 2020-2025 Electrical Energy Savings (GWh) Electrical Energy Savings (%) DSM Program Program Component 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Residenti...

AI summary This table presents evaluated net electrical energy savings by program and year from 2020 to 2025, highlighting contributions from residential and BNI (Business, Non-profit, and Institutional) programs. It includes energy savings from initiatives like appliance retirement, efficient product rebates, and home energy assessments, with percentages indicating the share of total savings.

Table 12: Evaluated Net Peak Demand Savings at the Generator, 2020-2025 p. pp. 39-40
Table 12: Evaluated Net Peak Demand Savings at the Generator, 2020-2025 DSM Peak Demand Savings (MW) Peak Demand Savings (%) Program Program Component 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Residential Residential Appl...

AI summary Table 12 evaluates the net peak demand savings from various energy efficiency programs in Nova Scotia from 2020 to 2025, highlighting the contributions of residential, BNI, and overall portfolio programs in reducing peak demand in megawatts and percentages.

Residential Demand Response p. p. 42
nstances whereby the EPI installer does not accurately collect the required device information, leading to difficulty identifying and auto-enrolling devices in Residential DR post-device installation. › Non-participants shared key perceive...

AI summary The text highlights challenges with EPI installers not collecting accurate device data, hindering Residential DR enrollment. Non-participants cite incentives and peak demand reduction as benefits but face barriers like enrollment complexity, privacy concerns, and lack of clarity. Maximizing enrolled devices per household is recommended as a key strategy.

7 Market Evaluation Results p. pp. 42-45
7 Market Evaluation Results For the 2025 evaluation, the Evaluator conducted one market evaluation for Business Energy Rebates – Instant Rebates focused on the BNI lighting market.

AI summary The 2025 market evaluation focused on Business Energy Rebates – Instant Rebates, specifically targeting the BNI lighting market. The Evaluator conducted this assessment to analyze program effectiveness and market dynamics within this sector.

Business Energy Rebates – Instant Rebates p. p. 45
Business Energy Rebates – Instant Rebates To validate 2024 market evaluation results and determine timing for when a baseline for Business Energy Rebates – Instant Rebates LED fixtures should take effect as well as to identify the implicat...

AI summary A market study evaluated the Business Energy Rebates – Instant Rebates program, noting increased LED adoption in commercial lighting markets, declining prices, and shifts in distributor practices. The study also identified implications for baseline adjustments and program adaptations in response to market transformation.

Calculation of the Margin of Error p. p. 69
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 p. pp. 69-70
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.

1.3 Participation History p. pp. 88-89
1.3 Participation History Since 2012, ARet has retired or replaced a total of 77,981 old and inefficient appliances from homes and schools. These appliances were recycled so that they could not be refurbished, sold second hand, or left plu...

AI summary ARet retired 77,981 appliances from 2012-2024, with 285 in 2025. Discontinuation in 2025 caused a 95% drop. Incentives increased in 2021, and eligibility criteria changed in 2020 and 2023.

5.2 Follow-up on Past Evaluation Report Recommendations p. p. 102
5.2 Follow-up on Past Evaluation Report Recommendations No recommendations were made for Instant Savings in the 2024 evaluation. 9 No power bars with integrated timers were rebated in 2025.

AI summary The section notes no recommendations were made for Instant Savings in the 2024 evaluation. It also states no power bars with integrated timers were rebated in 2025, referencing a footnote. The text includes an image but no further details.

7.2.1 Installation Rates p. p. 107
7.2.1 Installation Rates The installation rates of products sold under Instant Savings are assumed to be 100% except for smart power controllers for audiovisual equipment (smart power strips) for which the installation rate is assumed to b...

AI summary Installation rates for products under Instant Savings are assumed to be 100%, except for smart power strips at 86%. The 2025 DSM MA provides further details on these assumptions.

1.1 AMH Description p. p. 162
1.1 AMH Description AMH provides affordable housing owners and non-profit organizations, such as rehabilitation or transition houses, with incentives for building-wide energy retrofit projects with the intent of reducing electrical and non...

AI summary AMH provides incentives for energy retrofits in affordable multifamily housing and non-profits, requiring energy audits unless prescriptive measures are used. Funding comes from electricity ratepayers and the Province of Nova Scotia, with updated incentive amounts and energy savings targets for 2025. Two project paths (comprehensive and prescriptive) are outlined, with savings calculated via modeling tools or the 2025 DSM MA.

Table 31: 2025 Green Heat Incentives p. pp. 25-26
Table 31: 2025 Green Heat Incentives Measure Incentive Heat Pumps Ductless Mini-split Heat Pumps $200/refrigeration tonne Centrally Ducted Air-source Heat Pumps $400/refrigeration tonne Air-to-water Heat Pumps $400/refrigeration tonne Grou...

AI summary Table 31 outlines the 2025 Green Heat Incentives, providing financial incentives for various heating measures such as heat pumps, biomass systems, and demand reduction technologies. Certain measures were discontinued as of May 1, 2025, though installations completed within 180 days of the cutoff remained eligible for rebates.

19.2.4 Supplemental File Adjustments p. p. 50
19.2.4 Supplemental File Adjustments Supplemental files refer to a new entry in the tracking sheet due to a participant having an approved application that was reopened and reprocessed following changes to the project file. Supplemental fi...

AI summary Supplemental files arise when approved applications are reopened due to project file changes, potentially affecting energy savings. E1 previously analyzed and claimed incremental savings from these files in HEA, but the process is now discontinued due to its time-consuming nature and minimal savings impact.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY p. pp. 137-138
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY This report presents the 2025 demand-side management (DSM) results of the Efficient Product Rebates program administered by EfficiencyOne (E1). This program comprises the Business Energy Rebates (BER) program component. T...

AI summary This report outlines the 2025 demand-side management (DSM) results for EfficiencyOne's Efficient Product Rebates program, focusing on Business Energy Rebates (BER) through Application Rebates (BER-AR) and Instant Rebates (BER-IR). The program provides financial incentives to business, non-profit, and institutional (BNI) participants to reduce electricity consumption and demand.

Table 2: Evaluated 2025 BER Program Savings and Participation p. pp. 138-139
Table 2: Evaluated 2025 BER Program Savings and Participation Participation Level Gross Savings NTGR Net Savings Value Unit Value Unit Value Value Unit Application Rebates ' Electrical Energy Savings 143 Projects 9.214 GWh 0.93 8.586 GWh L...

AI summary Table 2 evaluates the 2025 Business Energy Rebates (BER) program's savings and participation. The program exceeded its net electrical energy savings target by 5% but fell short of its peak demand savings target by 26%. Instant Rebates was the largest contributor to the program's overall savings.

BER Findings and Recommendations p. pp. 139-141
BER Findings and Recommendations This subsection highlights the key findings and provides recommendations from the 2025 BER evaluation. 2025 BER-Finding: In 2025, BER achieved 40.244 GWh in net electrical energy savings and 5.332 MW in net...

AI summary The 2025 BER evaluation achieved 40.244 GWh net electrical savings (5% over target) but fell 26% short of peak demand savings targets. Business participation in Application Rebates dropped 36% (vs. 2024), while Instant Rebates grew 79%, driven by T8 LED promotions. Adjustment ratios for lighting/HVAC (1.117/1.006) and agriculture/commercial measures (0.951/0.514) were calculated, though the 0.514 ratio has high uncertainty.

1 BER Overview p. pp. 144-145
1 BER Overview This section describes the Business Energy Rebates (BER) program component, follows up on past evaluation recommendations, and presents participation history.

AI summary This section outlines the Business Energy Rebates (BER) program, addresses past evaluation recommendations, and provides an overview of participation history within the program.

1.1 BER Description p. p. 145
1.1 BER Description BER provides financial incentives in the form of prescriptive rebates or interest-free financing to business, non-profit, and institutional (BNI) participants to reduce electricity consumption and peak demand in Nova Sc...

AI summary Business Energy Rebates (BER) offer prescriptive rebates and interest-free financing to BNI participants in Nova Scotia to reduce electricity use and peak demand. The program includes Application Rebates (AR) and Instant Rebates (IR), with eligibility criteria based on efficiency standards. In 2025, solar PV rebates were discontinued, rebate levels reduced, and certain technologies (e.g., T8 lighting) became ineligible. BER aimed for 38.451 GWh in energy savings and 7.241 MW in peak demand reduction by 2025.

Table 5: Implementation Status of Past Recommendations for BER p. p. 146
Table 5: Implementation Status of Past Recommendations for BER # Recommendation Status Comments BER-R8 Analyze opportunities for increasing interest around controlled lighting products. Complete E1 has explored opportunities to increase in...

AI summary Table 5 outlines the implementation status of past recommendations for the Business Energy Rebates (BER) program. Recommendation BER-R8, which involves analyzing opportunities for increasing interest in controlled lighting products, has been marked as complete. E1 has explored the opportunities and concluded that the Business Development team is best suited to identify key lighting control measures for inclusion in the BER program.

BER Application Rebates p. pp. 148-149
BER Application Rebates In 2025, a total of 4,340 units were rebated through 143 projects implemented by 128 distinct participants[3](#page-148-2) under Application Rebates. [Figure](#page-148-1) 2 below illustrates the trends in Applicati...

AI summary In 2025, 4,340 units were rebated through 143 projects under BER Application Rebates, but participation dropped by 36% due to Q4 2025 budget restrictions. Energy savings per participant fell 8%, with 98% of savings from lighting, solar PV, HVAC, and motor measures.

BER Instant Rebates p. pp. 149-151
BER Instant Rebates Although participant tracking has improved in recent years and the tracking sheet captures the total number of rebated measures, data collected from distributors do not enable the for identification of unique Instant Re...

AI summary The BER Instant Rebates program saw a 79% increase in rebated measures in 2025, though participation is measured by total measures rather than unique participants. Product participation varied significantly, with LED linear lamps rising 196% due to temporary program changes, while other categories declined. LED linear fixtures accounted for 40% of energy savings in 2025.

BER Overall p. p. 151
BER Overall As presented in [Figure](#page-151-1) 7 below, BER generated a total of 45.081 GWh in gross electrical energy savings at generator in 2025, which represents a 4% decrease compared to 2024 results. In 2025, gross peak demand sav...

AI summary BER generated 45.081 GWh in gross electrical energy savings in 2025, a 4% decrease from 2024, and 6.046 MW in gross peak demand savings, a 11% decline. Lower participation in Application Rebates drove the reductions.

2 BER Evaluation Approach p. pp. 151-152
2 BER Evaluation Approach The 2025 BER-AR evaluation consisted of a comprehensive impact evaluation. In contrast, BER-IR consisted only of a condensed impact evaluation. The objectives of the 2025 BER evaluation were as follows: - › Calcul...

AI summary The 2025 BER evaluation approach distinguishes between comprehensive (BER-AR) and condensed (BER-IR) impact evaluations. Objectives include calculating energy savings, GHG reductions, validating 2024 market results, and determining LED baseline timing for BER-IR. Research questions and methods are outlined to achieve these goals.

Unitary Savings Review p. p. 153
Unitary Savings Review Drawing on findings from both a literature review and the analysis of tracking sheet data, the Evaluator examined the equations, parameters, and assumptions used to calculate unitary savings for BER-AR measures. Addi...

AI summary The Evaluator reviewed equations, parameters, and assumptions for calculating unitary savings for BER-AR measures, as well as assumptions for two new measures: VFDs for pumps and HVLS fans in commercial applications, using literature and tracking sheet data.

Interviews with New Brunswick Distributors p. pp. 153-155
Interviews with New Brunswick Distributors The Evaluator selected to use the New Brunswick market as a comparator as, up until very recently, New Brunswick Power (NB Power), the DSM program administrator for the Province of New Brunswick,...

AI summary The Evaluator used New Brunswick as a comparator due to the recent launch of its Midstream Business Rebates Program (MBRP), similar to BER-IR. Six New Brunswick distributors were interviewed, revealing varied operational scopes and participation levels in the program. The study aimed to assess market evolution in business lighting, with data collection methods emphasizing pre-MBRP market conditions.

3 Impact Evaluation for Application Rebates p. pp. 155-157
3 Impact Evaluation for Application Rebates The objectives of the 2025 Application Rebates impact evaluation were to determine gross and net electrical energy savings and peak demand savings.

AI summary The 2025 Application Rebates impact evaluation aimed to assess gross and net electrical energy savings and peak demand savings, focusing on quantifying the program's effectiveness in reducing energy consumption and demand.

3.2.1 Adjustment Ratios p. p. 157
3.2.1 Adjustment Ratios As part of the 2025 evaluation, the Evaluator conducted on-site visits (n=40) to establish adjustment ratios and determine evaluated savings. The visits were focused on lighting and HVAC measures as these respective...

AI summary The 2025 evaluation involved on-site visits to calculate adjustment ratios for Application Rebates, focusing on lighting (40%) and HVAC (20%) measures. The Evaluator sampled 54% of savings, calculated average adjustment ratios, and extrapolated results when margins of error were below 10% at 90% confidence. Findings are detailed in Appendix VI.

3.2.2 Interactive Effects p. pp. 159-160
3.2.2 Interactive Effects Interactive effects occur when the implementation of energy efficiency measures has an impact on the energy consumption of other elements such as heating and cooling; these are considered in the gross savings stan...

AI summary Interactive effects refer to impacts of energy efficiency measures on heating/cooling systems, considered in E1's gross savings calculations. For BER-AR, these effects apply only to indoor lighting projects. The Evaluator updated interactive effects factors in the 2025 DSM MA based on building type and lighting characteristics, confirming correct application through site visits.

4.2.1 In-service Rates p. p. 169
4.2.1 In-service Rates Research indicates that a percentage of measures purchased through rebate programs can be stored by customers for later use. For the 2025 evaluation, the Evaluator maintained the ISR of 85% for LED linear lamps and t...

AI summary Research indicates that some rebate-program measures are stored by customers. The Evaluator maintained an 85% ISR for LED linear lamps and 100% for other items (fixtures, sensors, pumps), referencing past evaluations from 2016 and 2024.

4.3.1 Free-ridership p. p. 175
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.

6 BER Market Evolution p. pp. 179-180
6 BER Market Evolution E1 has been active in the light-emitting diode (LED) market of the business, non-profit, and institutional (BNI) sector through Business Energy Rebates (BER) since 2010. Market evolution assessments of the BNI lighti...

AI summary E1 has managed Business Energy Rebates (BER) for BNI sector LED lighting since 2010, with market evaluations conducted in 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, and 2024. The 2024 evaluation recommended further research to validate findings, focusing on LED linear lamps, fixtures, and outdoor fixtures, and using New Brunswick as a comparator for incentive impact analysis.

6.1 BER-IR Lighting Market Study Results p. p. 180
6.1 BER-IR Lighting Market Study Results The results of interviews conducted with New Brunswick distributors and one non-participating Atlantic Canada distributor to gauge the market evolution of LED fixtures and lamps is explored first in...

AI summary The BER-IR Lighting Market Study analyzes LED fixture and lamp market evolution through interviews with New Brunswick and Atlantic Canada distributors, a jurisdictional scan of eight North American regions offering business lighting rebates, and insights from Mass Save program administrators, highlighting rebate program trends and market dynamics.

6.3.1 Baseline Approach and Effective Useful Life (EUL) Assumptions for Application Programs p. pp. 189-190
6.3.1 Baseline Approach and Effective Useful Life (EUL) Assumptions for Application Programs The Evaluator also investigated the baseline approach and EUL assumptions utilized for LED lighting in midstream and application rebate programs f...

AI summary The Evaluator examined baseline approaches and Effective Useful Life (EUL) assumptions for LED lighting in rebate programs across eight jurisdictions. Existing lighting baselines and EUL assumptions vary, with some programs sunsetting in 2026 due to LED market changes. Nova Scotia's current approach for BER-AR lighting measures does not account for recent LED fixture market transformations.

7 BER Key Findings and Recommendations p. pp. 192-193
7 BER Key Findings and Recommendations The main objectives of the 2025 BER evaluation were as follows: - › Calculate BER gross and net results, namely first-year and lifetime electrical energy savings, peak demand savings, as well as avoid...

AI summary The 2025 BER evaluation found BER exceeded net electrical energy savings targets by 5% (40.244 GWh) but missed peak demand savings by 26% (5.332 MW vs. 7.241 MW target). Application Rebates participation declined, while Instant Rebates achieved record participation since 2019, boosting savings compared to 2024.

Business Energy Rebates p. pp. 199-1
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.

APPENDIX III BER Application Rebates Participant Survey Questionnaire p. pp. 5-6
APPENDIX III BER Application Rebates Participant Survey Questionnaire

AI summary This document outlines a survey questionnaire for participants in the Business Energy Rebates (BER) program, part of a regulatory proceeding in Nova Scotia. It focuses on gathering feedback related to rebate application processes and participant experiences.

A. INTRODUCTION A – Business with a contact name p. pp. 6-7
A. INTRODUCTION A – Business with a contact name Could I speak with ? - 1. Yes [GO TO INTRODUCTION] - 2. No [SAY "PERHAPS YOU CAN HELP ME ANYWAY." GO TO INTRODUCTION] Hello, I am with Narrative Research, and we are performing an evaluation...

AI summary This text outlines an introductory script for a survey conducted by Narrative Research evaluating Efficiency Nova Scotia's Business Energy Rebates Program. It seeks feedback on participants' experiences with installed energy-efficient equipment (e.g., lighting, heat pumps) and offers a $50 VISA gift card as incentive.

B. INTRODUCTION B – Business with no contact name p. p. 7
B. INTRODUCTION B – Business with no contact name Hello, I am with Narrative Research, and we are performing an evaluation of energy efficiency programs and services provided by Efficiency Nova Scotia. We have a few questions about your re...

AI summary The text outlines a questionnaire by Narrative Research evaluating Efficiency Nova Scotia's Business Energy Rebates Program. It seeks to identify the most knowledgeable individual in businesses that installed energy efficiency measures (e.g., lighting, heat pumps) and requests contact details for follow-up.

[ASK SERIES IFHEAT PUMP=YES] p. pp. 7-10
[ASK SERIES IFHEAT PUMP=YES] I will now ask you a few questions about your participation in the Business Energy Rebates Program for the <> heat pump you installed in . - C1. Had you already decided to purchase and install a heat pump befor...

AI summary This survey assesses participation in the Business Energy Rebates Program, focusing on heat pump installations. It explores whether the rebate influenced the decision to purchase, the number of heat pumps installed, and the type chosen, while evaluating factors like program incentives and technical assistance.

[ASK SERIES IF LIGHTING=YES] p. pp. 10-11
[ASK SERIES IF LIGHTING=YES] I will now ask you a few questions about your participation in the Business Energy Rebates Program for the lighting products you installed in . - D1. Before learning about the Business Energy Rebates Program, h...

AI summary The text outlines a series of questions aimed at assessing participation in the Business Energy Rebates Program, focusing on whether businesses installed energy-efficient LED lighting before learning about the rebate and how the rebate influenced their decision to proceed with the installation.

[ASK SERIES IF OTHER=YES] p. pp. 12-14
[ASK SERIES IF OTHER=YES] I will now ask you a few questions about your participation in the Business Energy Rebates Program for the you installed in . - E1. Before learning about the Business Energy Rebates Program, had your business alre...

AI summary This survey evaluates the impact of the Business Energy Rebates Program on business decisions to install energy-efficient equipment. It assesses whether the rebate influenced purchase decisions, purchase timing, and the role of Efficiency Nova Scotia's support in the process.

[ASK FOR ALL MEASURE CATEGORIES] p. pp. 14-16
[ASK FOR ALL MEASURE CATEGORIES] - F1. Before participating in the Business Energy Rebates (BER) Program in , had your company/organization at any time in the past already participated in the Business Energy Rebates program or another Effi...

AI summary The document contains survey questions assessing prior participation in Efficiency Nova Scotia programs, influence of promotional materials on energy efficiency decisions, and the impact of previous program engagement on current choices regarding lighting, heat pumps, or other measures under the Business Energy Rebates (BER) Program.

G. Incentive p. p. 16
G. Incentive - G1. Finally, in closing, do you wish to receive a $50 VISA e-gift card in recognition of your time committed to today's survey? - 1. Yes, am interested [RECORD NAME: ____ EMAIL ADDRESS: ____ TEL #: ___] - 2. No, am not inter...

AI summary The document presents a closing question offering a $50 VISA e-gift card as an incentive to survey participants, with options to accept or decline. It emphasizes recognition for time spent on the survey.

Table 1: BER-AR Participant Survey Free-ridership Algorithm (Heat Pumps) p. p. 18
Table 1: BER-AR Participant Survey Free-ridership Algorithm (Heat Pumps) INTENTION 1 – Heat Pump F2. Before participating in the Business Energy Rebates Program, had you at any time in the past seen Efficiency Nova Scotia promotional mater...

AI summary This table outlines questions from a survey related to the Business Energy Rebates Program (BER-AR) and Efficiency Nova Scotia (ENS), focusing on participant awareness and influence of previous program participation on the decision to purchase heat pumps.

Table 2: BER-AR Participant Survey Free-ridership Algorithm (Lighting) p. p. 20
Table 2: BER-AR Participant Survey Free-ridership Algorithm (Lighting) INTENTION Cost D4. The Efficiency Nova Scotia Business Energy Rebates Program offered you a rebate of for the purchase of your energy-efficient LED lighting products. I...

AI summary This table presents a survey related to the BER-AR program, focusing on free-ridership algorithm for lighting. It asks participants about their likelihood of purchasing energy-efficient LED lighting products without the rebate and calculates cost and efficiency scores based on their responses.

APPENDIX V BER Application Rebates On-site Visit Sampling Methodology and Protocol p. pp. 26-27
APPENDIX V BER Application Rebates On-site Visit Sampling Methodology and Protocol

AI summary Appendix V outlines the methodology and protocol for on-site sampling visits to verify BER Application Rebates. It details procedures to ensure accurate assessment of rebate-eligible projects, including site selection, data collection, and compliance verification.

Sampling Methodology p. p. 27
Sampling Methodology The 2025 Business Energy Rebates (BER) sample included 40 sites for a total of 47 projects. Table 1 below presents the number of projects and measures in the sample, organized by measure category. The sampling plan was...

AI summary The 2025 Business Energy Rebates (BER) sample included 40 sites with 47 projects. The sampling plan was based on a tracking sheet with 135 completed projects by 127 participants, organized by measure category in Table 1.

APPENDIX VI BER Application Rebates Adjustment Ratio Calculation Example p. pp. 27-28
APPENDIX VI BER Application Rebates Adjustment Ratio Calculation Example This appendix displays a sample calculation to demonstrate the process of revising the energy and peak demand savings. Lighting measures accounted for the majority of...

AI summary Appendix VI provides an example of calculating adjustment ratios for BER Application Rebates, focusing on lighting measures as the primary contributor to energy and peak demand savings. It outlines algorithms for energy/peak demand savings calculations, compares tracked vs. revised savings, and explains adjustment ratio establishment.

LIGHTING MARKET STUDY - Midstream BUSINESS Rebate Program p. p. 33
LIGHTING MARKET STUDY - Midstream BUSINESS Rebate Program

AI summary The document outlines a Lighting Market Study focused on the Midstream BUSINESS Rebate Program, likely examining energy efficiency initiatives for commercial lighting. Key themes include rebate structures, market penetration, and program evaluation under Nova Scotia's regulatory framework.

Introduction p. pp. 33-163
Introduction Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today. I am interested in your perspective on the state of the lighting market in New Brunswick, as well as your initial feedback on the lighting incentives offered through NB Pow...

AI summary This introduction outlines a market research interview conducted by Econoler and Narrative Research on behalf of NB Power and Efficiency Nova Scotia, focusing on the lighting market in New Brunswick and feedback on the Midstream Business Rebate Program (MBRP). The discussion emphasizes confidentiality and seeks insights to improve the program.

A. Identification and Screening of Respondent p. pp. 33-34
A. Identification and Screening of Respondent - A1. To begin, what is your title, and could you briefly describe your role within the company? - A2. Can you provide a brief description of your company? Is your company a provincial, nationa...

AI summary The section outlines a structured interview to identify and screen a respondent, focusing on their role, company details, product inventory (specific LED lighting products), and participation in the NB Power Midstream Business Rebate Program.

C. Early Experience with NB Power Midstream Business Rebate Program p. p. 39
C. Early Experience with NB Power Midstream Business Rebate Program

AI summary The document discusses the early experience with the NB Power Midstream Business Rebate Program, focusing on its implementation and initial outcomes. Key themes include program evaluation and business energy rebates.

Preamble p. p. 44
- C1. Have you heard of the Efficiency Nova Scotia Business Energy Rebates Program that offers instant lighting rebates? - 1. Yes - 2. No - C2. [IF C1 = 2 (NOT PARTICIPATING)] A) The Business Energy Rebates Program is an energy efficiency...

AI summary The text is a survey questionnaire focused on the Efficiency Nova Scotia Business Energy Rebates Program, asking respondents about their awareness, interest, and insights into the lighting market in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.

CUSTOM INCENTIVES PROGRAM p. pp. 49-119
CUSTOM INCENTIVES PROGRAM Final Report

AI summary The document presents the final report on the Custom Incentives Program, detailing its structure, objectives, and implementation within Nova Scotia's regulatory framework. It outlines incentives for energy efficiency, affordability, and demand-side management initiatives, aligning with provincial energy goals.

ABBREVIATIONS p. p. 50
ABBREVIATIONS BDM Business Development Manager BER Business Energy Rebates BNI Business, non-profit, and institutional BOpt Building Optimization CPA Customer Project Agreement DR Demand response DSM Demand-side management DSM MA Demand-si...

AI summary A list of abbreviations and their expansions used in regulatory proceedings, including terms related to energy efficiency, demand-side management, and utility programs. Key acronyms include DSM, BER, and NSUARB, with definitions covering technical, programmatic, and organizational terms.

Custom Findings and Recommendations p. p. 60
Custom Findings and Recommendations This subsection provides the key findings and recommendations from the Custom evaluation. The Evaluator has no specific recommendation for Custom. & lt;sup>1 Completed SEM projects reference participants...

AI summary The Evaluator found no specific recommendations for Custom, noting that completed SEM projects generated savings. The Custom Incentives Program is mentioned as part of the discussion.

Section 1416 p. p. 63
EfficiencyOne (E1), an independent and non-profit organization, is responsible for helping Nova Scotians improve the energy efficiency of their homes and workplaces by designing, marketing, and delivering demand-side management (DSM) for N...

AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) is a non-profit organization responsible for delivering demand-side management (DSM) programs in Nova Scotia through the Efficiency Nova Scotia (ENS) franchise. E1 is funded by Nova Scotia Power (NS Power) ratepayers and has a portfolio of residential, BNI, and demand response programs. Econoler was commissioned to evaluate E1's 2025 DSM program portfolio, including the Custom Incentives program and its components, such as Strategic Energy Management (SEM). The evaluation focuses on baseline definitions, savings calculation methods, parameter values, and net-to-gross ratios.

1 Custom Overview p. pp. 63-64
1 Custom Overview This section describes the Custom component of the Custom Incentives program, follows up on past evaluation recommendations, and provides an overview of participation history.

AI summary This section outlines the Custom component of the Custom Incentives program, addresses past evaluation recommendations, and summarizes participation history within the program.

1.1 Custom Description p. p. 64
1.1 Custom Description Custom provides large business, non-profit, and institutional (BNI) participants with technical assistance, financial incentives, and project financing to help reduce their electricity consumption and peak demand. Bu...

AI summary The Custom program targets large business, non-profit, and institutional (BNI) participants by offering technical assistance, financial incentives, and project financing to reduce electricity consumption and peak demand. Business Development Managers (BDMs) support participants in advancing projects and identifying consultants, as illustrated in Figure 1, which outlines four services.

LIST OF APPENDICES p. pp. 117-118
LIST OF APPENDICES The following are presented in the Custom Incentives Program – Appendices document.

AI summary The document lists appendices from the Custom Incentives Program – Appendices document, though no specific appendices are detailed in the provided text.

B. Awareness and Participation p. p. 122
B. Awareness and Participation - B1. Without commenting on your participation in the Custom Retrofit program for now, why did your organization decide to implement the energy efficiency upgrades we are discussing today? [DO NOT READ] IF NE...

AI summary The section explores organizational motivations for participating in the Custom Retrofit program, focusing on reasons like cost reduction, energy policies, and environmental concerns. It also inquires about awareness channels and participation drivers, highlighting themes of program engagement and customer research.

C5. [ASK IF $ ≥0] p. pp. 124-125
C5. [ASK IF $ ≥0] As part of its Custom Retrofit program, Efficiency Nova Scotia provided your organization a $ incentive for the [Investigation or Feasibility] study. If this incentive had not been offered, would you have definitely, prob...

AI summary Efficiency Nova Scotia's Custom Retrofit program offers incentives for energy efficiency studies and implementation. The text asks respondents whether these incentives were necessary for conducting studies or implementing projects, and whether studies influenced project planning.

Pre-coded answers [DO NOT READ]: p. p. 132
Pre-coded answers [DO NOT READ]: - 1. Lower operation costs - 2. Energy policy in my organization - 3. Environmental reasons/energy efficiency (non-cost related) - 4. Competitors are doing it - 98. Don't know - 99. Refused - B2. How did yo...

AI summary The document presents pre-coded survey responses about motivations for participating in a Custom Retrofit program, including cost reduction, energy policy alignment, environmental concerns, and competitive pressures. It also asks how participants first learned about the program and their specific reasons for joining.

APPENDIX III Retrofit and Pay-for-Performance Algorithm for Free-Ridership Calculation p. p. 141
APPENDIX III Retrofit and Pay-for-Performance Algorithm for Free-Ridership Calculation Question Answer Score incentive from Efficiency Nova Scotia? [READ] 4) Not at all confident 100% 98/99) Don't know/Refused 50% Planning Score C1 Cost Ef...

AI summary The text discusses a survey regarding incentives provided by Efficiency Nova Scotia, including rebate amounts for studies and project implementations, and how these incentives impacted the payback period for projects. Respondents were asked to evaluate the significance of the financial impact.

Introduction – Telephone IDI p. p. 155
Introduction – Telephone IDI I am with Narrative, and we are conducting an evaluation of the Efficiency Nova Scotia Custom New Construction program. This interview should take about 15-20 minutes. Is this still a good time for you? The pur...

AI summary Narrative is conducting an evaluation of Efficiency Nova Scotia's Custom New Construction program through telephone interviews. The purpose is to understand motivations for building energy-efficient structures exceeding code requirements, with confidentiality assured for participants' responses.

I. Free-ridership p. pp. 157-159
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.

CAPTURE VERBATIM p. p. 160
CAPTURE VERBATIM - 98. I am unsure - 99. I prefer not to say - I10. [SINGLE RESPONSE PER STATEMENT; DO NOT RANDOMIZE] Rate the influence of the following factors in your decision to build a better-than-code building. - a. The program finan...

AI summary The text presents a survey question assessing factors influencing decisions to build energy-efficient buildings, focusing on financial incentives, technical assistance, and non-technical information provided by Efficiency Nova Scotia staff. Respondents rate the importance of these factors on a 0-10 scale.

B. Free-ridership p. p. 164
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.

1.1 SBES Description p. pp. 3-5
1.1 SBES Description SBES offers incentives and resources to Nova Scotia small businesses to encourage them to implement energy efficient upgrades in their facilities. To be eligible, businesses must annually consume less than 600,000 kWh...

AI summary SBES provides energy efficiency incentives and on-bill financing to Nova Scotia small businesses consuming under 600,000 kWh annually. It offers two participation paths: Audit (no-cost energy audit) and DIY (self-identified measures). Rebates depend on technology factors, with a 2025 target of 12.616 GWh energy savings and 2.621 MW peak demand reduction. The CDI Pilot was discontinued in 2025.

Residential DR Findings and Recommendations p. pp. 41-43
on in DR events and enrollment of more devices per household (additional device types and additional smart thermostats installed on heating systems in all contiguous living areas in regular use only). 2025 Res DR Recommendation 5 : Investi...

AI summary The text outlines 2025 residential DR recommendations, including improving EV participation via bidirectional chargers, adjusting incentive structures to require 50% event participation, and monitoring these changes. It notes varying incentive levels across jurisdictions and emphasizes enrollment growth and participation rates for DR program success.

Participant Eligibility Criteria p. p. 67
Participant Eligibility Criteria Eligibility criteria for participation in residential DR programs are similar across jurisdictions and device types. The standard requirements include: - > Being a customer of the utility and the account ho...

AI summary Residential DR program eligibility requires utility account ownership, eligible devices, and internet access. Tenants are eligible if they meet criteria. Rebates and incentives vary, with changes planned for 2026. Jurisdictions differ on variable pricing plan enrollment, with some automatically assigning variable rates to DR participants.

Incentive Structure and Levels p. pp. 67-78
Incentive Structure and Levels This section is organized by device type because the incentive structure and levels vary greatly between devices for most of the jurisdictions. For each subsection, incentives are organized by enrollment ince...

AI summary The incentive structure is organized by device type, with enrollment and participation incentives defined. Enrollment incentives are one-time benefits for joining programs, while participation incentives reward demand reduction or event participation. Comparisons across jurisdictions are complicated by regional differences in living and energy costs.

Enrollment Incentive p. p. 69
Enrollment Incentive Among the five jurisdictions with an EV program, three of them have an enrollment incentive ranging from $71 per device or household to $250 per household. By comparison, E1 provides $50 per household, which is lower t...

AI summary The text compares EV program enrollment incentives across five jurisdictions, noting that three offer $71–$250 per household, while E1 provides $50, which is lower than other programs.

Enrollment Incentive p. p. 70
Enrollment Incentive Only two of the five jurisdictions with a battery DR program offer an enrollment incentive, similar to E1. While the amount for E1 and BC Hydro are equal ($500 per household), PSE offers a higher incentive of $1,410 pe...

AI summary The text compares enrollment incentives for battery DR programs across jurisdictions, noting that only two out of five offer such incentives. E1 and BC Hydro provide $500 per household, while PSE offers a higher $1,410 per battery enrolled.

Enrollment Incentive p. p. 71
Enrollment Incentive PSE and BC Hydro offer an enrollment incentive of $28 and $100 per household respectively, while Yukon Energy offers a rebate of up to $750 to purchase and install hot water controllers and Hydro-Québec offers up to $1...

AI summary The text compares enrollment incentives offered by various utilities, including PSE ($28/household), BC Hydro ($100/household), Yukon Energy ($750 for hot water controllers), and Hydro-Québec (up to $125/device or free HWC). These examples highlight diverse approaches to incentivizing energy efficiency measures.

2025 Res DR-Finding: Residential DR participation grew substantially during the 2024/25 DR season. p. p. 94
ation. 2025 Res DR-Finding: Non-participants shared key perceived benefits and barriers that can be leveraged to enhance program messaging and communications as well as increase participation. All EPI participants interviewed (Residential...

AI summary Non-participants in Residential DR highlighted awareness through E1 communications, valued incentives and grid support, but faced barriers like enrollment complexity, privacy concerns, and system control issues. A recommendation emphasizes leveraging E1 channels, clarifying benefits, and addressing privacy to boost participation.

B. Program Processes p. pp. 131-132
B. Program Processes - B1. Could you describe the enrollment and registration process for participants who enter the program via the bring your own device (BYOD) path? [PROBE for: Any feedback from the participants' perspective?] - a. What...

AI summary The text outlines a series of questions about program processes, including enrollment/registration for BYOD and other Efficiency Nova Scotia programs, DR event execution, opt-out procedures, incentive issuance, and drop-out observations. It seeks participant feedback on effectiveness, challenges, and areas for improvement across technologies like smart thermostats and EVs.

This appendix summarizes all the recommendations made by the Evaluator as part of the 2025 evaluation of Residential DR. p. p. 145
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 6: Monitor the impact of introducing a participat...

AI summary The 2025 evaluation of Residential DR recommends monitoring the impact of a participation threshold for ongoing incentives. If participation rates do not improve, the incentive structure and thresholds should be reviewed to encourage higher enrollment and participation in DR programs.

2.6.3 Demand Reduction Measures p. p. 98
2.6.3 Demand Reduction Measures

AI summary The section titled '2.6.3 Demand Reduction Measures' introduces a subsection focusing on strategies and initiatives aimed at reducing energy demand through various programs and policies, including demand-side management, appliance retirement, and residential and business energy rebates.

In-service Rate p. p. 134
In-service Rate Based on a study conducted by DNV-GL for the Massachusetts Energy Efficiency Program Administrators,[190](#page-135-0) an in-service rate (ISR) of 85% is applied to LED lamps as part of BER-IR, which corresponds to the prop...

AI summary An in-service rate (ISR) of 85% is applied to LED lamps under BER-IR, based on a DNV-GL study for Massachusetts Energy Efficiency Program Administrators, reflecting the proportion of installed lighting technologies three years post-purchase through instant rebates.

Table 166: Directional and Architectural LED Fixture Baseline Wattages for BER-IR p. p. 139
Table 166: Directional and Architectural LED Fixture Baseline Wattages for BER-IR Category Lumens Baseline Wattage (W) Track or Mono-point Directional Luminaires ≥ 250 60.4 Wall-wash Luminaires 517 - 1199 50.0 ≥ 1,200 100 In-service Rate

AI summary Table 166 outlines baseline wattages for directional and architectural LED fixtures under the Business Energy Rebates – Instant Rebates (BER-IR) program. The table includes categories such as Track or Mono-point Directional Luminaires and Wall-wash Luminaires, along with their respective lumens and baseline wattage values.

6.2.3 Adjustment Ratios p. p. 147
6.2.3 Adjustment Ratios The adjustment ratios in [Table](#page-147-2) 177 were established as part of the 2025 BER-AR evaluation. They should be applied for all pump measures in BER-AR. No adjustment ratios were calculated for SBES.

AI summary Adjustment ratios in Table 177 were established as part of the 2025 BER-AR evaluation and should be applied for all pump measures in BER-AR. No adjustment ratios were calculated for SBES.

Table 177: Pump Gross Savings Adjustment Ratios p. pp. 147-148
Table 177: Pump Gross Savings Adjustment Ratios Source Energy Savings Peak Demand Savings Program Component Evaluation Report Adjustment Ratio Margin of Error Adjustment Ratio Margin of Error BER-AR 2025 0.951 5.8% 0.514 21.9% 6.2.4 Pump M...

AI summary Table 177 presents Pump Gross Savings Adjustment Ratios for the BER-AR program component in 2025, showing an energy savings adjustment ratio of 0.951 with a 5.8% margin of error and a peak demand savings adjustment ratio of 0.514 with a 21.9% margin of error. Section 6.2.4 discusses Pump Measures.

6.10.3 Adjustment Ratios p. pp. 30-31
6.10.3 Adjustment Ratios The adjustment ratios in [Table](#page-31-0) 287 were established as part of the 2025 BER-AR evaluation. They should be applied to all agricultural measures in BER-AR. No adjustment ratios were calculated for SBES.

AI summary The adjustment ratios in Table 287 were established as part of the 2025 BER-AR evaluation and should be applied to all agricultural measures in BER-AR. No adjustment ratios were calculated for SBES.

6.11.3 Adjustment Ratios p. pp. 53-54
6.11.3 Adjustment Ratios The adjustment ratios in [Table](#page-54-0) 319 were established as part of the 2025 BER-AR evaluation. They should be applied for all commercial kitchen measures in BER-AR. No adjustment ratios were calculated fo...

AI summary The adjustment ratios in Table 319 were established as part of the 2025 BER-AR evaluation and apply to all commercial kitchen measures in BER-AR. No adjustment ratios were calculated for SBES.

Table 319: Commercial Kitchen Gross Savings Adjustment Ratios p. p. 54
Table 319: Commercial Kitchen Gross Savings Adjustment Ratios Source Energy Savings Peak Demand Savings Program Component Evaluation Report Adjustment Ratio Margin of Error Adjustment Ratio Margin of Error BER-AR 2025 0.951 5.8% 0.514 21.9...

AI summary Table 319 presents the Commercial Kitchen Gross Savings Adjustment Ratios for the Business Energy Rebates (BER) program, including energy savings and peak demand savings with their respective adjustment ratios and margins of error. Section 6.11.4 discusses commercial kitchen measures.

Table 324: Electrical Unitary Energy Savings Values for Freezers/Refrigerators p. pp. 57-58
Table 324: Electrical Unitary Energy Savings Values for Freezers/Refrigerators Parameter Symbol BER-AR, SBES Reference Annual Days of Operation [days/year] DAYS Actual Measure specific - use information in TS Average Daily Operation [hours...

AI summary Table 324 provides energy savings values for freezers and refrigerators under the Business Energy Rebates program. The table outlines parameters such as annual days of operation, interior volume, and energy use, with references to the ENERGY STAR Commercial Food Services Calculator for calculations.

Table 325: Unitary Peak Demand Savings Values for Freezers/Refrigerators p. p. 58
Table 325: Unitary Peak Demand Savings Values for Freezers/Refrigerators Parameter Symbol BER-AR, SBES Reference Peak Coincidence Factor PCF 1 As per Subsection 6.11.2 Unitary Peak Demand Savings [kW] 𝑃𝑒𝑎𝑘 𝐷𝑒𝑚𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑆𝑎𝑣𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑠𝑘𝑊 Calculation base...

AI summary Table 325 provides unitary peak demand savings values for freezers and refrigerators under the Business Energy Rebates program. It includes parameters such as the peak coincidence factor and calculation methods for peak demand savings based on specification data for each rebated unit.

Table 328: Unitary Peak Demand Savings Values for Fryers p. p. 60
Table 328: Unitary Peak Demand Savings Values for Fryers Parameter Symbol BER-AR, SBES Reference Peak Coincidence Factor PCF Actual or 0.68 As per Subsection 6.11.2 Unitary Peak Demand Savings [kW] 𝑃𝑒𝑎𝑘 𝐷𝑒𝑚𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑆𝑎𝑣𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑠𝑘𝑊 Calculation based o...

AI summary This table outlines the unitary peak demand savings values for fryers under the Business Energy Rebates program. It includes parameters such as the Peak Coincidence Factor and the calculation method for unitary peak demand savings.

Table 329: Griddle Measure Summary p. pp. 60-61
Table 329: Griddle Measure Summary Parameter BER-AR SBES Reference Measure Description and Identification Measure rebated after installation ENERGY STAR® rated griddle, - Baseline Standard electric griddle - General Parameters Installation...

AI summary Table 329 presents a summary of the Griddle Measure under the Business Energy Rebates (BER) program, detailing parameters such as installation rates, energy savings adjustment ratios, and useful life. The table references specific subsections for additional details on calculations and factors related to energy and peak demand savings.

Table 334: Unitary Peak Demand Savings Values for Hot Food Holding Cabinets p. p. 64
Table 334: Unitary Peak Demand Savings Values for Hot Food Holding Cabinets Parameter Symbol BER-AR, SBES Reference Peak Coincidence Factor PCF Actual or 0.68 As per Subsection 6.11.2 Unitary Peak Demand Savings [kW] 𝑃𝑒𝑎𝑘 𝐷𝑒𝑚𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑆𝑎𝑣𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑠𝑘𝑊...

AI summary This table outlines the unitary peak demand savings values for hot food holding cabinets under the Business Energy Rebates (BER) program. It includes parameters such as the peak coincidence factor and peak demand savings, with references to relevant subsections and calculation methods.

Table 335: Ice Machine Measure Summary p. pp. 64-65
Table 335: Ice Machine Measure Summary Parameter BER-AR SBES Reference Measure Description and Identification Measure ENERGY STAR® rated ice machine, rebated after installation - Baseline Standard ice machine - General Parameters Installat...

AI summary Table 335 provides a summary of the Ice Machine Measure under the Business Energy Rebates (BER) program. It outlines parameters such as installation rates, energy savings adjustment ratios, and useful life for ENERGY STAR® rated ice machines compared to standard models. The table references specific subsections in the Technical Reference Manuals for detailed calculations and definitions.

Table 338: Oven Measure Summary p. pp. 66-67
Table 338: Oven Measure Summary Parameter BER-AR SBES Reference Measure Description and Identification Measure ENERGY STAR® rated oven, rebated after installation - Baseline Standard oven - General Parameters Installation Rate 100% See det...

AI summary Table 338 presents a summary of the Business Energy Rebates (BER-AR) program for ENERGY STAR® rated ovens, including parameters such as energy savings adjustment ratios, peak demand savings adjustment ratios, and unitary energy savings calculations. The table also references specific subsections in the Technical Reference Manuals (TRMS) for additional details.

Table 347: Commercial Washing Machine Measure Summary p. pp. 72-73
Table 347: Commercial Washing Machine Measure Summary Parameter BER-AR, SBES Reference Measure Description and Identification Measure ENERGY STAR® rated commercial washing machine used for commercial purposes, rebated after installation •...

AI summary Table 347 outlines the parameters for the Business Energy Rebates (BER-AR, SBES) program, focusing on ENERGY STAR® rated commercial washing machines. It includes details such as measure description, baseline, installation rate, useful life, and energy savings calculations.

Table 349: Unitary Peak Demand Savings Values for Commercial Washing Machines p. p. 74
Table 349: Unitary Peak Demand Savings Values for Commercial Washing Machines Parameter Symbol BER-AR, SBES Reference Length of Average Cycle [h/load] RUNTIME Actual or 1 Use information in TS Peak Coincidence Factor PCF 0.34 See Subsectio...

AI summary Table 349 presents unitary peak demand savings values for commercial washing machines, including parameters such as runtime, peak coincidence factor, and calculated peak demand savings. The table references subsections and provides data for the BER-AR, SBES program.

Table 351: Electrical Unitary Energy Savings Values for Commercial Heat Pump Clothes Dryers p. pp. 75-76
Table 351: Electrical Unitary Energy Savings Values for Commercial Heat Pump Clothes Dryers Parameter Symbol BER-AR, SBES Reference Quantity QTY Actual Use information in TS Loads per Year [loads/year] Cdry Multi-unit Residential 1,083 Lau...

AI summary Table 351 presents energy savings values for commercial heat pump clothes dryers, including parameters like loads per year, average load, and energy efficiency factors. The table references data from the U.S. Department of Energy and Vermont TRM for baseline and efficient equipment calculations.

Table 353: Server-based Power Management Software Measure Summary p. p. 77
Table 353: Server-based Power Management Software Measure Summary Parameter BER-AR, SBES Reference Measure Description and Identification Measure Power management utility must be network-based, rebated after installation - • Must enable bo...

AI summary Table 353 outlines the parameters for the Server-based Power Management Software Measure under the Business Energy Rebates (BER) program. The measure requires a network-based power management utility that enables monitor shut-down and computer sleep mode within 30 minutes of inactivity. The baseline assumes no network-based management system, and the effective useful life is 5 years.

Table 357: Electrical Unitary Energy Savings Values for Server Virtualization and Decommissioning p. pp. 79-80
Table 357: Electrical Unitary Energy Savings Values for Server Virtualization and Decommissioning Parameter Symbol BER-AR, SBES Reference Servers to Be Retired RS Actual (minimum of 8) Use information in TS Power Use in Idle [W] of a Serve...

AI summary Table 357 outlines the parameters and calculations used to determine electrical unitary energy savings from server virtualization and decommissioning. It includes details such as server power use, utilization rates, and energy savings calculations. The table is used to evaluate the impact of energy efficiency programs like Business Energy Rebates (BER).

Table 358: Unitary Peak Demand Savings Values for Server Virtualization and Decommissioning p. pp. 80-81
Table 358: Unitary Peak Demand Savings Values for Server Virtualization and Decommissioning Parameter Symbol BER-AR, SBES Reference Hours of Use [h/year] HOU 8760 Assumption Unitary Peak Demand Savings [kW] ∆𝑘𝑊 Calculation based on specifi...

AI summary Table 358 outlines unitary peak demand savings values for server virtualization and decommissioning, including parameters such as hours of use and unitary peak demand savings. The table references the Business Energy Rebates program and provides calculation methods based on specification data.

Table 359: Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) Measure Summary p. p. 81
Table 359: Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) Measure Summary Parameter BER-AR, SBES Reference Measure Description and Identification Measure ENERGY STAR® certified UPS to reduce energy losses, rebated after installation - Baseline No UPS...

AI summary Table 359 outlines the Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) measure summary, focusing on the Business Energy Rebates (BER-AR, SBES) program. It details parameters such as measure description, baseline, installation rate, and energy savings, with specific emphasis on energy losses reduction through ENERGY STAR® certified UPS units.

Table 360: Electrical Unitary Energy Savings Values for Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) p. pp. 81-82
Table 360: Electrical Unitary Energy Savings Values for Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) Parameter Symbol BER-AR, SBES Reference Energy Use per Rated kVA - 204 CMUA California 2017 TRM UPS Power [kVA] 𝑘𝑉𝐴 Actual Use information in TS Uni...

AI summary Table 360 provides electrical unitary energy savings values for Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) systems, including energy use per rated kVA, UPS power in kVA, and unitary energy savings in kWh/year. The table references the CMUA California 2017 TRM and specifies that calculations are based on specification data for each rebated unit.

Table 361: EUL Values for BNI LED Lamps and Fixtures p. p. 83
Table 361: EUL Values for BNI LED Lamps and Fixtures Measure Program Component Average Rated Lifetime (hours) Annual HOU (hours/year) Equipment Life 2025 Equivalent EUL LED Linear Fixtures 1 x 4 Luminaires BER-IR, BER-AR, SBES 20,000 4,209...

AI summary Table 361 presents Effective Useful Life (EUL) values for various LED lamps and fixtures under the Business Energy Rebates (BER) and other programs. The data includes average rated lifetimes, annual hours of use, equipment life, and equivalent EUL for 2025.

KEMA. Focus on Energy Evaluation Business Programs: Measure Life Study. Prepared for PA Consulting Group Inc., August 2009. p. p. 87
KEMA. Focus on Energy Evaluation Business Programs: Measure Life Study. Prepared for PA Consulting Group Inc., August 2009. Measure Program Component EUL Value Reference Commercial Washing Machines BER-AR, SBES 11 DEER 2011 (Value for high...

AI summary The document provides a measure life study for various energy efficiency programs, including Business Energy Rebates (BER) and Small Business Energy Solutions (SBES), with Effective Useful Life (EUL) values for equipment such as commercial washing machines, variable frequency drives, circulator pumps, and refrigeration components. References to studies and reports are included for each measure.

E-7E1 (CA) RIRs 1-19 1 passage
Section 32 p. p. 20
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.

E-8E1 (EE) RIRs 1-10 10 passages
2.4. New Industrial Facilities: Eligible Process Load Savings p. pp. 7-8
2.4. New Industrial Facilities: Eligible Process Load Savings Industrial new construction projects are eligible for additional incentives based on reduced energy consumption of process equipment. Projects must meet the following criteria:...

AI summary The section outlines eligibility criteria for new industrial facilities to receive incentives based on energy consumption reductions. Facilities must meet NC eligibility, have industrial process loads accounting for at least 40% of total energy use, achieve 10% electrical savings, and provide documentation to ENS on the costs of energy-efficient equipment. Modeling requirements are detailed in section 7.10.

6. Project Agreement p. p. 10
6. Project Agreement - ENS prepares the Custom Project Agreement (CPA), which confirms the value of the implementation incentive - The CPA must be reviewed and signed by the Customer (or Representative) - Following receipt of the signed CP...

AI summary Efficiency Nova Scotia (ENS) prepares a Custom Project Agreement (CPA) to confirm implementation incentives. The CPA requires customer or representative review and signature before the Energy Modeling Incentive is paid. A post-signature questionnaire may be required for NC Program evaluation.

8. Incentive Payment p. pp. 10-11
8. Incentive Payment - ENS adjusts energy savings based on the site visit and as-built energy model - If the savings are less than 85% of the initial model results, the implementation incentive will be adjusted - - Following any required a...

AI summary ENS adjusts energy savings based on site visits and as-built models, reducing implementation incentives if savings fall below 85% of initial projections. Adjustments are made before final incentive payments to customers.

4. Incentive Structure p. p. 11
4. Incentive Structure

AI summary The section titled '4. Incentive Structure' introduces the discussion on the design and implementation of incentive mechanisms within the regulatory proceeding, though no specific details or arguments are provided in the text.

4.1. Energy Modeling Incentive p. p. 11
4.1. Energy Modeling Incentive ENS offers an Energy Modeling Incentive that covers 50% of eligible modeling fees, up to $15,000. To qualify, the proposed project must meet the eligibility criteria outlined in section [2](#page-6-0) above....

AI summary ENS provides a 50% Energy Modeling Incentive (up to $15,000) for eligible projects, requiring pre-approval and a Project Development Agreement. Incentives are paid post-model approval, with deductions applied if energy savings fall between 100,000–250,000 kWh.

4.2. Implementation Incentive p. pp. 11-12
4.2. Implementation Incentive The NC Program provides an Implementation Incentive to help offset the capital costs of efficient technologies. The Implementation Incentive is calculated based on the modeled energy savings between the Baseli...

AI summary The NC Program offers an Implementation Incentive to offset capital costs of efficient technologies by calculating energy savings between the NECB reference building (Baseline) and the project's final design (Proposed case), with ENS supporting the measures. The incentive rate is determined using Table 1.

Table 1: Tiered Incentive Structure p. p. 12
Table 1: Tiered Incentive Structure Tier Criteria Incentive Rate Tier 1 Total performance >25% better than baseline $0.13 per kWh Tier 2 Total performance >50% better than baseline $0.14 per kWh Tier 3 Total performance >60% better than ba...

AI summary Table 1 outlines a tiered incentive structure for energy efficiency, with increasing incentive rates based on performance improvements over a baseline. Not-for-profit and charitable organizations receive an additional incentive, subject to approval from Efficiency Nova Scotia.

5.2. As-Built Energy Model Update p. pp. 13-14
5.2. As-Built Energy Model Update If any design changes occurred during construction that may affect the building energy consumption, the energy modeler must complete an update to the energy model (As-Built Energy Model) to reflect the act...

AI summary The As-Built Energy Model must be updated if design changes affect energy consumption during construction, with submission and ENS approval required for Implementation Incentive payments. If no changes, a developer statement confirming as-built alignment with original plans is mandatory.

6.7. Lighting Savings p. pp. 16-17
6.7. Lighting Savings Lighting savings will not be incentivized through the ENS NC program, because incentives are included in the sale price when purchased via provincial distributers through the ENS Business Energy Rebates (BER) Instant...

AI summary Lighting savings are not incentivized through the ENS NC program due to existing incentives in the ENS Business Energy Rebates (BER) Instant Rebates program. Lighting load reductions must be included in energy models to account for interactive effects.

- 2 same, and no MT interventions were launched. p. p. 51
- 2 same, and no MT interventions were launched. Request IR-08: (a) Please provide E1's opinion on whether E1 can provide incentives that would support the adoption of hybrid gas/electric space heating systems in new buildings. (b) If not,...

AI summary The document contains two requests (IR-08 and IR-09) related to E1's ability to provide incentives for hybrid gas/electric space heating systems and the performance of the Custom New Construction program. E1 refers to a previous response for IR-08, while data is provided for IR-09 regarding energy savings and expenditures from 2023 to 2025.

E-9E1 (IG) RIRs 1-29 36 passages
- 4 Attachment 2 to this IR response. p. p. 19
- 4 Attachment 2 to this IR response. Residential Instant Savings - Cost and Energy Savings Analysis Energy Savings (GWh) 2026 Energy Savings 0.35 MHEEP Whole Home - Includes Heat Pump - program wind up - 0.32 Programmable thermostats - pr...

AI summary The document presents a cost and energy savings analysis for residential and affordable multi-family housing programs in Nova Scotia. It details energy savings projections, cost breakdowns, and changes in both costs and savings for various initiatives, including heat pump water heaters, lighting projects, and incentive adjustments.

BNI Programs p. pp. 45-46
BNI Programs Business programs show more moderate increases in unit costs than residential programs, though similar structural drivers are evident. Small Business Energy Solutions experiences a gradual increase in unit cost from 2025 throu...

AI summary Business programs show moderate increases in unit costs, driven by the elimination of direct install and declining energy savings. Custom and Strategic Energy Management programs remain stable due to increased energy savings offsetting higher costs. Lighting measures being phased out also impact unit costs in Business Energy Rebates.

Section 63 p. p. 52
Request IR-11: Reference: Exhibit E-1, Application, pages 47–49/71; and Exhibit E-1(ii). Page 47 of 71, E1 states that: Notably, customer incentives account for 71 percent of total costs in the Preferred Plan, an increase from 66 percent i...

AI summary The document discusses E1's incentive setting methodology, highlighting that customer incentives account for 71% of total costs in the Preferred Plan, an increase from 66% in the 2026 DSM Plan. This increase is attributed to rising costs related to customer incentives rather than administrative costs. E1 has also implemented a formal Incentive Setting Process following the CLEAResult study.

1 (a) Please provide a copy of or detailed explanation of the "formal Incentive Setting Process" p. pp. 52-55
DATE FILED: May 28, 2026 E1 (IG) IR-11 Page 3 of 8 1 (a) Please provide a copy of or detailed explanation of the "formal Incentive Setting Process" 2 including how the incentive setting methodology is currently utilized, and address 3 whet...

AI summary The document requests a detailed explanation of the formal Incentive Setting Process, including its methodology, third-party reviews, and changes in incentive levels over time. It also asks for a table comparing incentive levels and the rationale for changes from 2026 to 2031.

Section 68 p. pp. 55-57
(b) Please refer to Attachment 1 of this IR response for the Apex Analytics report on the review of E1's incentive setting methodology. The scope of work provided to Apex Analytics was as follows: • Conduct jurisdictional scans for DSM inc...

AI summary The Apex Analytics report reviewed E1's incentive setting methodology and found it to be more rigorous than industry peers. While no changes to the methodology were recommended, improvements to internal processes were suggested.

M08604, E1 2019 DSM Plan, Exhibit 3, 2017 Program Support Process Evaluation Reports, PDF page 56. (Date Filed: March 29, 2018) p. p. 57
M08604, E1 2019 DSM Plan, Exhibit 3, 2017 Program Support Process Evaluation Reports, PDF page 56. (Date Filed: March 29, 2018) 1 • Utilize a decision tree – In some cases there is rationale for offering 26 • Retro fit projects only, no ne...

AI summary The document discusses changes to incentive structures in the 2019 DSM Plan, citing rising costs and the need for updated measure characterizations. It references Synapse reports and highlights standardization of rebates for similar measures, including adjustments to mini-split heat pump presentations based on 2025 program evaluation results.

Background p. p. 62
Background In 2016, E1 engaged CLEAResult, a third-party consulting firm, to develop an incentive setting methodology. The methodology was memorialized in a report that was initially filed in June 2016 with subsequent revisions in March 20...

AI summary In 2016, E1 engaged CLEAResult to develop an incentive setting methodology, which was accepted by stakeholders and the NSUARB. However, questions have emerged about best practices for setting incentives, especially for measures with short payback periods. The NSUARB's 2022 decision in docket M10473 required E1 to provide additional information on incentive levels for measures with payback periods under 36 months.

Overview of Apex Process p. pp. 62-63
Overview of Apex Process E1 engaged Apex in late 2023 to perform several research tasks related to incentive development and incentive setting best practices. Specifically, Apex was engaged to conduct the following tasks: - Review E1's exi...

AI summary E1 engaged Apex in late 2023 to review its incentive setting methodology, analyze previous Board decisions and stakeholder comments, conduct research on best practices, and provide recommendations for improving the incentive setting process.

E1 Incentive Setting Process p. pp. 63-66
"Updating Incentives on Existing Measures or Programs Template." 2 E&P is responsible for validating technical and energy saving assumptions as part of the ISP. 3 There is a third spreadsheet tool utilized by the E&P team called the financ...

AI summary The Incentive Setting Process (ISP) relies on spreadsheet tools, including a financial simulation tool, to validate technical and energy-saving assumptions and determine incentive levels. Program Managers and Service Delivery Managers use these tools to input detailed information and make final decisions on incentives.

Incentive Design Basics p. p. 66
Incentive Design Basics The incentive design research conducted by Apex showed that there are multiple different methodologies that EE PAs are using to set incentives and that there is a general lack of standardization in incentive develop...

AI summary Apex's research on incentive design for energy efficiency programs reveals a lack of standardization among Program Administrators (PAs), with varying methodologies such as percentage of incremental cost, flat rates per kWh or MMBtu, and caps based on project costs. Similar findings were noted in a report for Xcel Energy. E1 is highlighted as a leader in incentive setting procedures.

Key Takeaways p. pp. 66-68
Key Takeaways • Variability . None of the PAs with whom Apex spoke set incentives in exactly the same way. Within a single PA, there was variability in terms of how incentives were 6 [https://www.xcelenergy.com/staticfiles/xe](https://www....

AI summary The document highlights variability in incentive-setting practices among PAs, with a focus on budget considerations, lack of formalized processes, and the importance of cost-effectiveness and technology maturity. Incentives are generally not updated frequently but are re-evaluated during progress review periods.

General Incentive Setting Process p. p. 68
General Incentive Setting Process Throughout the course of the interviews, it became clear that peer PAs do not have a standard methodology for setting incentives. The most common approach involved relying upon market research to understan...

AI summary The document discusses varying methodologies used by Program Administrators (PAs) in setting incentives for energy efficiency projects. These include market research, cost-effectiveness analysis, adoption curves, and threshold-based approaches to ensure incentives are appropriately aligned with project costs and market needs.

Incentive Updates p. pp. 68-69
Incentive Updates All interviewed PAs discussed the importance of flexibility and the ability to change incentive levels if necessary. One interviewee indicated that incentives are oftentimes updated when that PA performs a periodic review...

AI summary PA representatives emphasized the importance of adjusting incentives based on performance reviews and external factors. Some PAs conduct regular reviews, while others use ad hoc methods or bonuses to boost participation. An RFP process was highlighted as a way to achieve cost-effective savings and ensure transparency.

New Measures p. p. 69
New Measures When introducing new measures into a portfolio, the initial incentive setting process can look a bit different. For one PA, the initial incentive setting for a measure will go through a defined new measure process with cost-ef...

AI summary The document describes two approaches taken by Program Administrators (PAs) when introducing new measures into their portfolios. One PA follows a defined new measure process with cost-effectiveness screening and data gathering, while another uses a standardized \/MMBtu value to determine incentives based on energy savings.

Technology Maturity p. pp. 69-70
Technology Maturity All the interviewed PAs discussed the need to offer higher incentives for newer technologies and the willingness to provide enhanced incentives for immature technologies. One PA stated that newer measures that follow a...

AI summary PA discussions emphasize the need for higher incentives for newer technologies and consistent incentives for certain measures like weatherization retrofits. One PA highlights the importance of considering the total incentive package, including rebates, financing, and bonuses, to align with technology adoption curves.

Key Assumption Updates p. p. 70
Key Assumption Updates Incentives are frequently set based on assumptions of the cost of efficient equipment, the cost of standard/baseline equipment, energy savings values, and the life of the measure. These assumptions need to be updated...

AI summary The document discusses the frequency of updating assumptions related to energy efficiency incentives, such as equipment costs, energy savings, and measure lifespans. Some PAs update these assumptions annually, especially in rapidly evolving markets like lighting, while others update them as needed or based on evaluations. In some cases, incentives may be discontinued if market saturation is detected.

Payback Period p. pp. 70-71
Payback Period Apex asked PAs to discuss their views on using payback as criteria for incentive setting. One PA said they will use payback criteria for specific C&I[7](#page-70-0) customers if it is important for that customer. Another PA...

AI summary Apex asked Program Administrators (PAs) about using payback period as a criterion for setting incentives. PAs noted that while some C&I customers may request specific payback thresholds, it is not commonly used for most customers. Payback periods vary from one to ten years, with typical thresholds of two to four years. Some customers may pursue projects for reasons beyond financial payback, such as sustainability goals.

Process Documentation and Controls p. pp. 71-72
Process Documentation and Controls None of the interviewed PAs had a formal documented process for setting incentives. Three of the four had no documented incentive setting process while the fourth thought there was a written process for C...

AI summary The document discusses the lack of formal documented processes for setting incentives among Program Administrators (PAs), with some having informal internal policies. Enhanced incentives for custom C&I programs require approval from multiple directors, and periodic BCR reviews are in place to ensure incentives are reasonable.

Jurisdictional Scan p. pp. 72-73
Jurisdictional Scan Apex performed a literature review for best practices associated with incentive design and development. The existing literature is rather limited, but the U.S. Department of Energy has published multiple reports focused...

AI summary Apex conducted a literature review on incentive design best practices, referencing reports from the U.S. Department of Energy. The key takeaways from these reports are highlighted, though the existing literature on the topic is limited.

Table 1. Comparison of E1 to Peers p. pp. 73-74
Table 1. Comparison of E1 to Peers Category Description Below Typical Better Best Incentive Change Owner Who reviews and evaluates incentive level changes? E1, Peers Documentation Process Documentation How well documented is the incentive...

AI summary Table 1 compares E1 to peers in various categories related to incentive processes, documentation, budget considerations, and technology maturity. It highlights how E1 performs relative to peers in terms of incentive approval, process variability, and use of payback periods for incentive criteria.

Preamble p. pp. 74-75
- Incentive Change Owner. There was no PA, including E1, that had a clear uniform process in the evaluation and accounting for incentive levels. This was typically performed by many different groups. - Process Documentation. E1 has clear l...

AI summary The document discusses differences in incentive management processes among various Program Administrators (PAs), highlighting E1's more structured and rigorous approach compared to others. E1 has clear documentation, a robust approval process, and uses metrics like payback period and third-party data to inform decisions, while many other PAs lack formal frameworks and rely on ad hoc methods.

Payback Period Considerations p. pp. 75-76
ducted and determined that an efficient high-speed fan only saved 200 kWh, then the payback period changes to $150/(200 kWh x $0.15/kWh) = 5 years. Or a financial crisis causes a drop in natural gas 10 Market Adoption or Willingness-to-Pay...

AI summary The text discusses the limitations of using payback period as a metric for determining energy efficiency incentives, highlighting how external factors like market conditions and natural gas prices can affect calculations. It also mentions that marketing is another key driver for participation in energy efficiency programs, and that limiting incentives based on payback period may not impact overall budget if savings targets are still met.

Table 2. Common Need for Incentives p. pp. 77-78
Table 2. Common Need for Incentives Topic Justification Sector/Customer Segment Certain customer segments, such as small business and low-income, typically need higher incentives due to lack of resources to handle upfront costs. Maturity o...

AI summary The table outlines various factors that influence the need for higher incentives in energy efficiency programs. These include customer segments with limited resources, maturity of technology, technical awareness, and program delivery models, among others. Each factor highlights a scenario where customers may require greater financial motivation to adopt energy-efficient measures.

Prioritization Framework p. pp. 79-80
Prioritization Framework Many different factors can impact the development of an incentive level. Incentive levels are normally based on some combination of incremental cost between the standard and high-efficiency unit, the level of energ...

AI summary The document discusses a prioritization framework for updating incentive levels in energy efficiency programs. Factors considered include importance, history, uncertainty, and timing of measures. It highlights the need to focus on measures with high savings potential, outdated information, volatile fundamentals, and appropriate lifecycle stages.

Emerging Trends p. pp. 80-81
cts that are most valuable to the grid, which in turn can reduce costs to all ratepayers. However, it does not consider whether the full incentive is needed for motivating the customer to participate. As more and more jurisdictions increas...

AI summary The text discusses the need to adapt energy efficiency (EE) incentives to support public policy goals as electrification efforts increase. It highlights the importance of considering overall costs and greenhouse gas emissions, rather than just traditional EE savings calculations, and suggests that incentives should evolve to encourage electrification and higher electric consumption during times of high renewable output.

Recommendations p. pp. 81-83
Recommendations Apex's overarching conclusion is that E1 is currently employing many practices that are more rigorous than their peers from an incentive design perspective. E1's documented incentive setting process is detailed and provides...

AI summary Apex concludes that E1's incentive setting practices are rigorous and superior to peers. However, Apex recommends E1 consider using a decision tree for short payback measures, as required by the Board's Order in docket M10473, and consult Table 2 for justification when offering incentives for measures with a payback period shorter than 36 months.

Standard Incentive Setting Process p. pp. 83-84
Standard Incentive Setting Process Step 1: Determine what type of program or measure is being assessed. The customer's Decision Type (i.e., whether the measure is Replace on Burnout [ROB], New Construction [NEW], or Retrofit [RET]) impacts...

AI summary This section outlines the Standard Incentive Setting Process, which involves determining the type of program or measure being assessed and identifying appropriate incentive ranges using an Incentive Matrix. The process considers whether a measure is a Retrofit, New Construction, or Replace on Burnout and uses either project cost or incremental cost to set incentives.

Step 3: Compare incentive to historic levels. p. p. 84
Step 3: Compare incentive to historic levels. This step is critical to ensure there are not unintended disruptions or shocks to the market by unknowingly increasing or decreasing the incentive significantly from historical levels. While si...

AI summary Step 3 involves comparing a new incentive to historic levels to avoid unintended market disruptions. If the incentive is significantly different from historical levels, additional review is required. The decision should be based on professional judgment rather than a fixed percentage deviation.

Step 4 : Discuss alternatives with the ISS and SDM. [14](#page-84-1) p. pp. 84-85
Step 4 : Discuss alternatives with the ISS and SDM. [14](#page-84-1) If the new incentive value differs significantly from historical values, the PM has several options that they can explore in consultation with the ISS and their SDM. Opti...

AI summary In Step 4, the Program Manager (PM) must consult with the ISS and SDM if the new incentive value differs significantly from historical values. Options include revising the incentive, proceeding to the Exception Process, or continuing to Step 5. Step 5 allows for adjustments to the base incentive level based on measure-specific considerations, while Step 6 involves validating the incentive level against savings, budget, and jurisdictional benchmarks.

Step 7: Final sign off. p. pp. 85-87
Step 7: Final sign off. Once all steps have been completed, the PM, SDM, and ISS will all sign off on the incentive level. The ISS will retain all documentation and workpapers related to the setting of the incentive and have them readily a...

AI summary Step 7 outlines the final sign-off process for setting an incentive level, requiring the PM, SDM, and ISS to sign off. The ISS is responsible for retaining all related documentation and workpapers for regulatory purposes.

Exception Process p. pp. 88-89
Exception Process In limited and unique circumstances, the PM, in consultation with the ISS and SDM, may determine that the Standard Incentive Setting Process is not appropriate for the specific measure being evaluated. In these circumstan...

AI summary The Exception Process allows the Program Manager (PM) to bypass the Standard Incentive Setting Process under specific circumstances, such as market disruption or stakeholder feedback. It involves documentation of reasons, development of alternative incentive values, consultation to avoid adverse impacts, and final approval.

Date Filed: May 28, 2026 IG IR-12, Attachment 1, Page 1 of 1 p. p. 89
Date Filed: May 28, 2026 IG IR-12, Attachment 1, Page 1 of 1 DSM Statement of Operations ($ millions) 2031 Instant Savings Affordable Multifamily Affordable Single Family Efficient Product Installation Residential Behaviour Home Energy Ass...

AI summary The document presents a DSM Statement of Operations for 2031, outlining direct costs across various programs and initiatives, including incentives, evaluation and verification, and program support, with specific figures for different categories such as Affordable Multifamily, Efficient Product Installation, and Business Energy Rebates.

Section 176 p. p. 89
2 Metering costs for BNI Demand Response are a service delivery fee of $15/kW to $20/kW 3 depending on whether basic metering is required or a power meter. 4 5 (h) Smart Synergy is a demand-side resource intended to reduce system peak dema...

AI summary The text discusses metering costs for BNI Demand Response and the Smart Synergy program, which aims to reduce system peak demand. It also outlines custom incentives for non-profit and commercial customers to overcome barriers in implementing energy efficiency projects.

- Attachment 3 from the 2026 DSM Plan) on the custom program components: p. p. 89
- Attachment 3 from the 2026 DSM Plan) on the custom program components: 2026 Proposed 2027 Preferred Plan 2028 Preferred Plan Measure Name First Year Savings (MWh) Per Unit Incentive Participation Units Total Incentive PAC Ratio First Yea...

AI summary Attachment 3 from the 2026 DSM Plan outlines the proposed and preferred plans for custom program components, including Pay for Performance, New Construction, Industrial Retrofit, Commercial Retrofit, Building Optimization, and Equity Deserving Retrofits, with details on savings, incentives, participation units, and PAC ratios for each year from 2026 to 2028.

Table 1: Custom Incentives Program: Investment, Savings, and Participation p. p. 89
Table 1: Custom Incentives Program: Investment, Savings, and Participation Custom Incentive s Program Year Program Measure Investment ($M) First Year Energy Demand Savings Participation rear Component rieasure Incentives Administration Tot...

AI summary The table presents data on the Custom Incentives Program, including investment amounts, energy savings, and participation numbers for 2027 and 2028. It details various components of the program, such as Pay for Performance, New Construction, Industrial Retrofit, and Commercial Retrofit, along with their associated costs and savings.

Section 193 p. p. 89
4 (h) E1 has customer agreements in place for many Custom projects that are expected to be 5 completed in the early years of the Preferred Plan at current incentive levels. The program 6 delivery structures, types of projects, and associat...

AI summary E1 has customer agreements for Custom projects expected to be completed in the early years of the Preferred Plan at current incentive levels. The program delivery structures and incentives vary, but the pipeline of projects provides near-term cost certainty. Longer-term, E1 expects more complex projects to be a focus, and has increased future incentives based on current averages excluding lower-cost projects.

E-12E1 (NSEB) RIRs 1-66 - Redacted 72 passages
E1 Responses to Nova Scotia Energy Board (NSEB) Information Requests NON-CONFIDENTIAL p. p. 3
E1 Responses to Nova Scotia Energy Board (NSEB) Information Requests NON-CONFIDENTIAL Impact of 2027-2031 DSM Plan on Residential Customers Bills 4 that has been assumed under this measure? 5 d) Please identify the PAC score for each of 20...

AI summary The text outlines a series of questions from the Nova Scotia Energy Board (NSEB) directed at E1 regarding the impact of the 2027-2031 Demand Side Management (DSM) Plan on residential customer bills, including queries about incentive amounts, PAC scores, and program specifics.

Heat pump configuration p. p. 3
Heat pump configuration Number of outdoor units Number of indoor units Average price per visit 1 1 $277.97 1 2 $372.71 1 3 $472.73 1 4 $562.14 1 5 $650.44 E1 Responses to Nova Scotia Energy Board (NSEB) Information Requests NON-CONFIDENTIA...

AI summary The document outlines E1's responses to the Nova Scotia Energy Board's information requests regarding heat pump configurations and incentive calculations. E1 assumed an average of two outdoor and two indoor units per customer and provided estimated PAC results for heat pump cleaning measures using a $200 incentive. The calculations were manually performed and are presented as approximations.

25 • For the "Solar Security Fixture" measure under the "Efficient Products 26 Installation" program: p. p. 3
25 • For the "Solar Security Fixture" measure under the "Efficient Products 26 Installation" program: 1 a) Efficient Product Installation appointments are focused on installing 26 • For the "Energy Star Certified Combination Washer/Dryer U...

AI summary The text discusses the 'Solar Security Fixture' measure under the 'Efficient Products Installation' program and provides details on the 'Energy Star Certified Combination Washer/Dryer Units' measure under the 'Instant Savings' program, including incentive amounts, cost estimates, and data collection methods by E1.

E1 Responses to Nova Scotia Energy Board (NSEB) Information Requests NON-CONFIDENTIAL p. p. 3
E1 Responses to Nova Scotia Energy Board (NSEB) Information Requests NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 that this is a measure that many retailers can offer so it helps us provide a 2 more robust offering. This measure also has added health benefits, as i...

AI summary E1 discusses the potential of Energy Star certified Room Air Purifiers, noting their energy savings and health benefits, but highlights low adoption rates. It also outlines a Custom Strategic Energy Management program with short payback periods, aligning with practices in other jurisdictions.

23 only confidential). p. pp. 120-127
23 only confidential). 1 c) E1 is providing the Board approved Incentive Setting Methodology that 2 E1 follows as Attachment 1.1 This matter was subject to a regulatory 3 proceeding under Matter 07544 which was approved by the Board in Jul...

AI summary E1 is providing the Board approved Incentive Setting Methodology as Attachment 1.1. This matter was subject to a regulatory proceeding under Matter 07544, approved by the Board in July 2017. E1 also provides internal audits conducted since 2023 and a comparison of diversification in various DSM Plans.

Preamble p. pp. 26-198
As a result of the regulatory process for the 2016-2018 Demand Side Management (DSM) Resource Plan, EfficiencyOne was asked to review its current incentive level setting methodology. The Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board (UARB) recogniz...

AI summary EfficiencyOne was asked by the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board (UARB) to review its incentive level setting methodology for energy efficiency programs. CLEAResult was retained to analyze best practices from other jurisdictions and develop a comprehensive approach for Efficiency Nova Scotia's programs, including an incentive update protocol.

Analysis and Recommendations p. p. 137
Analysis and Recommendations The final analysis included a review of the theoretical underpinnings of incentive setting methodologies and established a framework, informed by jurisdictional best practices, on which CLEAResult's recommendat...

AI summary The analysis reviews incentive setting methodologies for energy efficiency programs in Nova Scotia, comparing current practices with recommended frameworks. It highlights the exclusion of financing impact on upfront incentives and the creation of a tool to support future incentive setting, considering the province's market characteristics.

Incentive Setting for Energy Efficiency Programs p. p. 137
program administration costs be minimized as a portion of the total program delivery budget to ensure participants receive the majority of financial benefit from the programs via financial incentives. Often, direct financial incentives to...

AI summary The text discusses the importance of minimizing program administration costs to maximize financial benefits for participants in energy efficiency programs. It highlights the use of convenience incentives, such as in-home appliance pickup and direct installation by pre-qualified contractors, which reduce barriers to participation and should be tracked as costs.

Financial Considerations as Related to Participant Perceived Value p. p. 143
Financial Considerations as Related to Participant Perceived Value There are several different costs and metrics that may affect the financial considerations involved a participant's perceived value: - 1. Retail Price - 2. Project Costs -...

AI summary The text outlines key financial considerations affecting a participant's perceived value, including retail price, project costs, project payback, and incremental equipment costs. Incremental equipment costs are defined as the net present value of the difference between efficient and base case options, with the base case being critical for accurate analysis.

General Description of PC Test Influence of PC Test on Incentive Levels p. pp. 146-147
General Description of PC Test Influence of PC Test on Incentive Levels The PC test can be used in incentive setting, since it allows the program administrator to quantify the financial impact that a technology or service has on a particip...

AI summary The PC test is a financial metric used to assess the value of energy efficiency technologies to participants, influencing incentive levels. A PC test ratio below 1.0 indicates that the financial benefits to the customer are less than the costs, requiring higher incentives to encourage participation. The test involves comparing benefits and costs, with considerations for O&M and fuel costs depending on the program.

THEORETICAL THRESHOLDS FOR INCENTIVES p. p. 152
THEORETICAL THRESHOLDS FOR INCENTIVES Based on the return on investment criteria as well as perceived value considerations, there are three theoretical thresholds for incentives that are based on quantitative analysis: - 1. Customer Cost -...

AI summary The document outlines three theoretical thresholds for incentives based on return on investment and perceived value: Customer Cost, PAC Benefits (Cost Effectiveness), and Budget. These thresholds are derived from quantitative analysis.

Customer Cost Threshold p. p. 152
Customer Cost Threshold The Customer Cost theoretical threshold for incentive setting is based on a customer's perception of what they are paying for a product. There are several considerations that may go into determining Customer Cost (s...

AI summary The Customer Cost threshold is determined based on a customer's perception of the cost of an efficient option. Parameters such as retail price, project cost, incremental equipment cost, and participant cost test/payback analysis are considered. The choice of parameter depends on the customer type, the efficient option, and the replacement decision. Customer education is also emphasized to help customers understand the long-term benefits of efficient options.

Unique Combination Customer Cost Considered Rationale for Selection p. pp. 152-154
Unique Combination Customer Cost Considered Rationale for Selection Residential Customer LED A Lamp Purchase Current Incandescent A Lamp Burned Out (Replacement on Burnout) Retail Price Residential customers for small purchases look at ret...

AI summary The text discusses how different customer segments consider various cost parameters when making energy-related purchases. Residential customers typically focus on retail price for small purchases, while larger purchases involve project costs, incremental equipment costs, and payback. Commercial customers also consider upfront costs, lifecycle operations, and payback when evaluating incentives.

Application of Thresholds p. pp. 154-155
Application of Thresholds Incentives can exceed all three of these thresholds (and often do), but they provide a reference point that can be used during the design process. The thresholds are independent of one another. They can all contri...

AI summary The document discusses the use of thresholds in the design of incentive programs, noting that incentives can exceed these thresholds but they serve as reference points. The thresholds are independent and can contribute to determining the maximum eligible incentive for a measure.

The Role of Financing p. p. 155
The Role of Financing If upfront costs are an issue, but not monthly or annual cash flows, the provision of low-interest or zero-interest financing may be valued by customers, either as a stand-alone incentive, or in combination with an up...

AI summary The document discusses the role of financing in energy efficiency programs, noting that low-interest or zero-interest financing can be valuable for customers facing upfront costs but not cash flow issues. It also mentions that customers generally prefer upfront incentives over financing if both are mutually exclusive, and highlights the inclusion of financing costs in program budget analysis.

SUMMARY OF INFLUENCES ON INCENTIVE RATES p. p. 155
SUMMARY OF INFLUENCES ON INCENTIVE RATES The different components involved in incentive setting are listed below in Table 6. The table lists how a change in each component can influence measure level incentives. This highlights the multipl...

AI summary The summary outlines the various components affecting incentive rates, noting that changes in these components can influence measure-level incentives. It emphasizes the complexity involved in setting or adjusting incentives and highlights that feedback from interviewees suggests this process is both an art and a science.

Incentive Setting Component Factors that can Place Upwards Pressure on Incentive Rates p. pp. 155-157
Incentive Setting Component Factors that can Place Upwards Pressure on Incentive Rates Factors that can Place Downwards Pressure on Incentive Rates Budget Impact  Reduction in administration costs, leaving additional space in the budget....

AI summary The document presents a table summarizing factors influencing incentive rates in energy efficiency programs. It outlines various components such as budget impact, customer research, technology research, and financing, and details factors that can place upward or downward pressure on incentive rates.

FINDINGS AND IDENTIFIED BEST PRACTICES p. p. 160
FINDINGS AND IDENTIFIED BEST PRACTICES Our jurisdictional research has shown that the majority of jurisdictions employ similar methodologies and approaches to setting incentives. All of the jurisdictions have broad program design, TRM and/...

AI summary The jurisdictional research highlights that most regions use similar methodologies for setting incentives, though no single consolidated process exists. EfficiencyOne already performs many of these steps, so the recommendations focus on detailed nuances. The process involves program design, TRM, and market research, with analysis conducted in parallel rather than sequentially.

Incentive Setting Best Practices Methodology Research and Engagement Customer Technology Supply Chain Consolidation of Findings Incentive Thresholds Other Considerations Data Analysis Participation Forecasts Cost-Effectiveness Testing Model Incentive Rates Measure and Program level reporting Customer and Supply Chain Engagement Monitor and Manage Implementation Financial Impact & Risks Periodic Updating/Refinement p. pp. 160-161
Incentive Setting Best Practices Methodology Research and Engagement Customer Technology Supply Chain Consolidation of Findings Incentive Thresholds Other Considerations Data Analysis Participation Forecasts Cost-Effectiveness Testing Mode...

AI summary The document outlines a methodology for setting incentive rates in energy efficiency programs, focusing on best practices, data analysis, cost-effectiveness testing, and implementation strategies. It emphasizes the need for ongoing monitoring, financial impact analysis, and periodic refinement of incentive structures.

Research and Engagement Phase p. pp. 163-164
Table 7: Research Engagement Phase Research and Engagement Phase Other Considerations When considering the inclusion of a measure in programs, efficiency administrators may include other considerations aside from the measure savings potent...

AI summary The table discusses considerations for including energy efficiency measures in programs, including policy goals, supply chain availability, and market readiness. It also notes that NYSERDA allows higher incentive rates for agricultural customers to promote energy efficiency in that sector.

18 Email Communication from EfficiencyOne Program Management Staff – May 25, 2016 p. p. 175
18 Email Communication from EfficiencyOne Program Management Staff – May 25, 2016 Program Identified Barriers Incentive Strategy 1) Residential customers worry about upfront costs. For example, LED penetration, despite dropping upfront cos...

AI summary The email communication discusses the barriers faced by residential customers in adopting energy-efficient appliances, such as upfront costs and complexity of incentive applications, and outlines strategies like point-of-sale incentives and instant discounts to address these barriers.

SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS p. p. 176
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS - 1. It is recommended that EfficiencyOne consider all of the general principles for incorporation into an incentive setting process. - CLEAResult has provided a documented, incentive setting process (that incorp...

AI summary The summary of recommendations outlines the need for EfficiencyOne to adopt a structured incentive setting process, incorporating general principles, conducting customer and technology research, implementing a TRM approach, and developing a consolidated calculator to support the evaluation of current incentive levels in their programs.

GENERAL PRINCIPLES FOR INCENTIVE RATE SETTING p. p. 176
GENERAL PRINCIPLES FOR INCENTIVE RATE SETTING Based on CLEAResult's experience and research on best practices, it is recommended that any incentive level setting methodology should include the following general principles to understand: -...

AI summary The text outlines general principles for incentive rate setting, emphasizing the need to consider customer motivations, technology savings, supply chain considerations, financial impacts, and jurisdictional benchmarking to ensure effective incentive levels.

CUSTOMER MOTIVATIONS AND BARRIERS p. p. 176
CUSTOMER MOTIVATIONS AND BARRIERS As discussed, understanding customer motivations and barriers to participation are important. A key component of the customer research is understanding how customers view costs associated with the efficien...

AI summary The document discusses the importance of understanding customer motivations and barriers to participation in energy efficiency programs. It highlights the use of price sensitivity research and conjoint analysis for incentive modeling, with a recommendation to use these methods only for high-value incentive expenditures over $400,000 annually.

TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH p. p. 180
TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH Technology research can provide both the basis for the value of the incentive investment through understanding the energy savings and it can provide insight into how often the incentive should be reviewed. It is very im...

AI summary The document outlines parameters for evaluating technology research in the context of energy efficiency programs. It emphasizes the importance of understanding factors such as technology penetration, cost, and energy savings to determine appropriate incentive levels. Reviews of these parameters are conducted annually or bi-annually through the Technology Research Methodology (TRM) process.

FINANCIAL IMPACT ANALYSIS p. pp. 180-182
FINANCIAL IMPACT ANALYSIS Any incentive setting exercise needs to incorporate the financial impacts into the analysis. It is important to understand how changes in incentives could affect the financial performance of a program. There are s...

AI summary The document outlines the importance of incorporating financial impacts into incentive setting exercises, highlighting six components for analysis, including current incentives, forecasted participation, and market penetration. It references incentive thresholds from figures used in the financial impact analysis.

3. What is the acceptable incentive threshold in terms of Customer Cost? p. p. 182
3. What is the acceptable incentive threshold in terms of Customer Cost? With respect to Customer Cost, there may be an acceptable incentive level threshold that is based on the retail price, project cost, Incremental Equipment Cost or pro...

AI summary The acceptable incentive threshold for Customer Cost is based on factors like retail price, project cost, and payback period, with a suggested limit of 100% of Incremental Equipment Cost. This limit can be exceeded with justification. Guidelines suggest thresholds of 50-70% of retail price or project costs, or a minimum one-year payback period, but these are not hard limits.

4. What is the acceptable incentive threshold in terms of program budget? p. p. 183
4. What is the acceptable incentive threshold in terms of program budget? With respect to program budgets, there may be an acceptable incentive level threshold that is based on total expenditure or unit costs. For certain programs, this th...

AI summary The acceptable incentive threshold for program budgets may be based on total expenditure or unit costs, with some programs setting a maximum incentive or using a unit cost parameter like \/kWh. Budget considerations should set ceilings, but customer cost should remain the priority in determining incentive amounts.

Basis for Program Budget Incentive Threshold p. pp. 183-184
Basis for Program Budget Incentive Threshold Customer and Decision Basis Suggested Upper Limit Low Income Customer, Direct Install Model $/kWh $1.20/kWh Residential Customer, Small Purchase at Retailer $/kWh $0.50/kWh Residential Customer,...

AI summary The document outlines suggested upper limits for program budget incentive thresholds for various customer types and purchase models, including low-income customers, residential customers, and commercial and industrial customers, with specific values per kWh and total incentives.

5. What is the acceptable incentive threshold in terms of cost effectiveness? p. p. 184
5. What is the acceptable incentive threshold in terms of cost effectiveness? With respect to cost effectiveness, there may be an acceptable incentive level threshold that is based on measure, program or portfolio cost effectiveness target...

AI summary The acceptable incentive threshold for cost effectiveness should be determined based on measure, program, or portfolio targets for the Potential Annual Cost (PAC). An upper limit could be based on forecasted PAC benefits minus program administration costs, similar to a lifetime energy savings approach. However, cost effectiveness should not dictate incentive amounts, and understanding customer cost remains the priority. A consolidated calculator is recommended to determine individual incentive thresholds.

Substantiation for Upper Limits p. p. 184
Substantiation for Upper Limits The values for the upper limits have been recommended from the jurisdictional studies and CLEAResult's experience from program design and incentive setting activities. The concept of setting Upper Limits for...

AI summary The document discusses the recommendation of upper limits for incentive levels based on jurisdictional studies and CLEAResult's experience. It suggests 50% for small purchases and 70-100% for small business direct install programs, acknowledging the need for annual review as market conditions change.

As mentioned above, the actual incentives should be below the upper limits in almost all situations. p. pp. 184-185
As mentioned above, the actual incentives should be below the upper limits in almost all situations. Jurisdiction Specific Example Type of Threshold Incentive Threshold Upper Limit BC Hydro During the interview, it was indicated that incen...

AI summary The text discusses upper limits for energy efficiency incentives across various jurisdictions, including BC Hydro, PG&E, NYSERDA, Union Gas, Ontario LDCs, and ETO. These limits range from 25% to 100% of incremental or project costs, depending on the jurisdiction and type of measure.

http://energy.novascotia.ca/sites/default/files/Our-Electricity-Future.pdf p. pp. 185-189
http://energy.novascotia.ca/sites/default/files/Our-Electricity-Future.pdf General Principle Current Activities Recommended Activities Understand Financial Impacts EfficiencyOne conducts cost effectiveness testing using the TRC test. The T...

AI summary EfficiencyOne currently uses the TRC test for cost effectiveness at the measure and program levels, but does not conduct ex-post analysis. A new software system is being implemented to track measure implementations. Recommendations include improving incentive screening thresholds and increasing data tracking frequency for better budget risk insight.

FORMAL & DOCUMENTED INCENTIVE SETTING PROCESS p. p. 189
FORMAL & DOCUMENTED INCENTIVE SETTING PROCESS It is recommended that ENS use a formal and documented incentive setting process for all incentive setting exercises. This does not necessarily mean that every step of the process needs to be f...

AI summary The document recommends that Efficiency Nova Scotia Corporation (ENSC) use a formal and documented incentive setting process for all incentive exercises. It highlights the importance of considering other market incentives in customer research, technology research, and financial impact analysis. Three potential processes are outlined: initial, existing incentive development, and new incentive development.

INITIAL PROCESS p. pp. 189-191
INITIAL PROCESS The initial process should be followed for the beginning of all incentive setting exercises. Figure 11: Initial Process for Incentive Setting Date Filed: May 28, 2026

AI summary The initial process for incentive setting is outlined, with a figure illustrating the process and a date of May 28, 2026, indicating when the document was filed.

EXISTING INCENTIVE DEVELOPMENT PROCESS p. pp. 191-192
EXISTING INCENTIVE DEVELOPMENT PROCESS The existing incentive development process should be followed for all existing incentives. While it does not necessarily need to be step-wise, all four steps should be covered in the analysis. It woul...

AI summary The existing incentive development process requires following four steps in analysis, even if not strictly step-wise. Completing step (4) is difficult without first completing steps (1)-(3). A figure is referenced but not detailed in the text.

NEW INCENTIVE DEVELOPMENT PROCESS p. pp. 192-193
NEW INCENTIVE DEVELOPMENT PROCESS The new incentive development process should be followed for all new incentives. While it does not necessarily need to be step-wise, all five steps should be covered in the analysis. It would be difficult...

AI summary The document outlines a new incentive development process that should be followed for all new incentives. It emphasizes that while the process may not be strictly step-wise, all five steps must be covered in the analysis, with step (5) depending on the completion of steps (1)-(3).

DOCUMENTATION p. p. 193
DOCUMENTATION To complement the processes, CLEAResult is providing a template document that can be used for review and approval of any incentive setting exercise. This template document can provide a record of the considerations involved i...

AI summary CLEAResult is providing a template document to facilitate the review and approval of incentive setting exercises, ensuring a record of considerations and serving as a platform for the process.

Program Evaluation p. p. 198
Program Evaluation Through the annual program evaluation process, participant surveys are conducted to determine free ridership and spillover savings. For the Custom Program, EfficiencyOne gains an understanding of technology savings, pric...

AI summary The document discusses the evaluation of energy efficiency programs, focusing on methods to collect energy savings data, track market penetration, and set incentive thresholds. It emphasizes the use of feasibility studies, project applications, and supply chain engagement to improve program effectiveness and cost management.

For the Business Energy Rebates program, CLEAResult has the following recommendations: p. p. 198
For the Business Energy Rebates program, CLEAResult has the following recommendations: General Principle Current Activities Recommended Activities

AI summary CLEAResult provides recommendations for the Business Energy Rebates program, outlining general principles, current activities, and recommended activities. The table structure suggests a comparison or evaluation of program activities.

Other Considerations for Business Energy Rebates Program p. p. 198
Other Considerations for Business Energy Rebates Program From reviewing program operations, the Business Energy Rebates program tracks retail pricing through the application process. This allows program managers to understand if incentive...

AI summary The Business Energy Rebates program tracks retail pricing to ensure incentive levels are appropriate. It forecasts a high Program Administration Committee (PAC) score, assuming cost-effectiveness thresholds are not breached. However, the lack of customer/project information for Instant Rebates and challenges in aligning with local avoided costs may impact the program's effectiveness.

For the Home Energy Assessment program, CLEAResult has the following recommendations: p. p. 198
h the following activities: 1. Market Research; 2. Ongoing Program Management; 3. Program Benchmarking; and 4. Program Evaluation. Market Research EfficiencyOne conducted research with the participants in the Home Energy Assessment program...

AI summary EfficiencyOne conducted market research and ongoing program management for the Home Energy Assessment program. Research found that initial audits provided value to homeowners and helped lower unit costs through tracking enabled savings. A 25% incentive was found to be more effective than interest-free financing for major efficiency upgrades. Ongoing management involves interacting with contractors and service organizations to understand customer motivations and barriers.

Other Considerations for the Home Energy Assessment Program p. p. 198
Other Considerations for the Home Energy Assessment Program The Home Energy Assessment program recently introduced an updated incentive structure, which featured an increased incentive for the initial audit, and premiums associated with bu...

AI summary The Home Energy Assessment Program introduced updated incentives, including higher initial audit incentives and bundled incentives to encourage larger projects. Early data shows increased savings and lower unit costs, though it is difficult to isolate the effect of bundling from other changes. Bundling is seen as an effective strategy for customer acquisition, and the program's delivery through service organizations allows for localized incentive adjustments.

Incentive Level-Setting Excel-Based Tool for Review Protocol p. p. 198
Incentive Level-Setting Excel-Based Tool for Review Protocol To assist with determining incentive levels, CLEAResult has developed an Excel-based tool (which is provided as a separate file). The tool requires certain parameter inputs, and...

AI summary CLEAResult has developed an Excel-based tool to assist in determining incentive levels. The tool requires inputs such as sector, program delivery channel, financial motivation, and financial impact to provide considerations for setting incentive levels. It does not provide specific financial recommendations but serves as a platform for analysis.

Once these parameters are selected, a set of considerations are provided that should be used in the incentive setting process. p. p. 198
Once these parameters are selected, a set of considerations are provided that should be used in the incentive setting process. Prote ocol Select the Sector: Residential Select the Program Delivery Channel: Retailers Select the Financial Mo...

AI summary The text discusses the selection of parameters for the incentive setting process, focusing on residential sectors, retailers as the program delivery channel, and small financial impacts under $100,000 annually. It highlights the need for periodic review of incentives for certain sectors.

Measure 2014 Retail Price 2014 PMI 2014 PME Estimated 2016 Retail Price 2016 Cost to Consumer (Estimated 2016 Retail Pr p. p. 198
Measure 2014 Retail Price 2014 PMI 2014 PME Estimated 2016 Retail Price 2016 Cost to Consumer (Estimated 2016 Retail Price – Current Incentive) Estimated 2016 PME Cost to Consumer Less than PME? Current Incentive as % of Retail Price ENERG...

AI summary The table provides a comparison of retail prices, program measure incentives, and cost-to-consumer estimates for various energy efficiency products and measures between 2014 and 2016. It includes details such as incentives, cost reductions, and percentages of retail prices covered by incentives.

Program Budget Incentive Level Threshold p. p. 198
Program Budget Incentive Level Threshold As discussed in the Financial Impact Analysis section of the General Principles recommendations, a program that features residential customers making small purchases at retailers should use $/kWh fo...

AI summary The document discusses the program budget incentive level threshold for residential customers, suggesting a maximum of $0.50/kWh based on CLEAResult's recommendation, while EfficiencyOne currently uses $0.26/kWh. Program administration costs are estimated to be between 20-30% of total expenditures.

Each measure in the Instant Savings program has its associated program budget incentive level threshold listed below. p. p. 198
Each measure in the Instant Savings program has its associated program budget incentive level threshold listed below. Measure Current Incentive ($) Per Unit Net Energy Savings (kWh) Program Budget Incentive Level Threshold at 30% Program A...

AI summary The table lists the current incentive levels, program budget incentive level thresholds at 30% and 20% program administration expenditure, and whether the current incentive is lower than the threshold for various measures in the Instant Savings program.

Cost Effectiveness Incentive Level Threshold p. p. 198
Cost Effectiveness Incentive Level Threshold EfficiencyOne has a PAC target of 1.9 for this program. For the calculation, it is assumed that program administration costs are 30 percent of total expenditure, which leaves the incentive costs...

AI summary EfficiencyOne has a PAC target of 1.9 for its program. The calculation assumes program administration costs are 30% of total expenditure, with 70% allocated to incentives. CLEAResult recommends developing a more accurate cost effectiveness calculator for incentive level setting and program design.

Comparison of Current Incentive to Incentive Level Thresholds p. p. 198
Comparison of Current Incentive to Incentive Level Thresholds Measure Current Incentive Cost to Customer Threshold Exceeded? Program Budget Threshold Exceeded? Cost Effectiveness Threshold Exceeded? ENERGY STAR® LED A Lamp $3.00 No No No E...

AI summary This table compares current incentive levels for various energy efficiency measures against thresholds related to cost to customer, program budget, and cost effectiveness. Some measures exceed the program budget threshold, while others do not exceed any of the thresholds.

Program Name Program Area Program Measures p. p. 26
APPENDIX A-2: ONTARIO GAS (UNION GAS) Program Name Program Area Program Measures Links Retailer (Coupons, Instant Rebates) Residential This program features prescriptive incentives for qualifying measures, purchased from participating reta...

AI summary This document outlines a residential program by Retailer offering prescriptive incentives for energy-efficient measures such as LEDs, controls, and power strips. Incentives are provided at the point of purchase and are based on the up-front cost to the customer, with cost-effectiveness setting a secondary ceiling. Prior to 2010, incentives were capped at 30% of the retail price.

INCENTIVE RATE SETTING p. p. 37
INCENTIVE RATE SETTING Union Gas is responsible for setting incentive levels for their programs. Periodic reviews of the appropriateness of incentive levels is conducted and adjustments to financial incentives are made. Below is an overvie...

AI summary Union Gas is responsible for setting incentive levels for their programs and conducting periodic reviews to ensure appropriateness, making adjustments to financial incentives as needed. The process for examining new measures or significant changes to existing ones is outlined.

2. Technical Reference Manuals p. p. 37
2. Technical Reference Manuals The Technical Evaluation Committee approve/deny measures for TRMs which are used for savings and assumptions and enables Union Gas to include solutions in programs. Measures with large savings potential can w...

AI summary The Technical Evaluation Committee approves or denies measures for Technical Reference Manuals (TRMs), which are used for savings and assumptions, enabling Union Gas to include solutions in programs. Measures with significant savings potential may qualify for higher incentive levels.

5. Incentive Rate Finalized p. p. 37
5. Incentive Rate Finalized Once the incremental measure cost is finalized, Union Gas will set a standard incentive using the above considerations. The above process is used for prescriptive measures. For custom measures, a similar process...

AI summary Once the incremental measure cost is finalized, Union Gas will establish a standard incentive based on the outlined considerations. A similar process is applied for custom measures, with additional factors like customer rate class being considered.

5. Incentive Rate Finalized p. p. 46
5. Incentive Rate Finalized Once the incremental measure cost is finalized, BC Hydro will set a standard incentive using the above considerations. Other considerations include: - Interaction with conservation rates - Interaction with codes...

AI summary Once the incremental measure cost is finalized, BC Hydro will set a standard incentive, taking into account interactions with conservation rates, codes and standards, and estimated free-ridership and spillover effects.

INCENTIVE LEVEL SETTING METHODOLOGY p. p. 59
INCENTIVE LEVEL SETTING METHODOLOGY PG&E's Energy Efficiency Products organization was formed approximately six years ago in part to standardize and streamline the measures developed and marketed through PG&E's breadth of energy efficiency...

AI summary PG&E's Energy Efficiency Products organization was established to standardize and streamline energy efficiency measures. The organization evaluates new technologies and sets appropriate incentive levels, using a structured process called SPARC. PG&E employs a streamlined version of the E3 Cost Effectiveness model to ensure incentives are set appropriately while maintaining portfolio-level cost effectiveness.

2. Work Paper p. p. 59
2. Work Paper Once measure level data is acquired from the market, the Products organization will engage its engineering staff to produce a Work Paper. The Work Papers, similar to TRMs found in other jurisdictions, are documents which deta...

AI summary The Work Paper is a document created by the Products organization to detail how measure savings are calculated, including EM&V protocols and measure costs. Once approved by the Commission, the measure can be offered in a PA's program portfolio. Incentive rates are determined separately by the PA and reviewed with the CPUC through Program Implementation Plans. Incremental costs for measures are calculated based on technology maturity and market penetration.

3. Incentive Rate Finalized p. p. 59
3. Incentive Rate Finalized Once the incremental measure cost is finalized, the Products team will set a standard incentive using the above considerations. Currently, PG&E is attempting to standardize this process in order to cascade the i...

AI summary PG&E is finalizing an incentive rate process, aiming to standardize it across its own programs and third-party administered programs. Incentives are based on historical project costs, payback periods, and cost effectiveness at the program level, with updates occurring less frequently for variable incentives like \/kWh or \/kW.

12 p. p. 66
12 2013 2014 2015 2016 Electricity Savings (aMW) 50.3 57.7 53.1 55.1 Natural Gas Savings (MM Therms) 6.0 6.1 5.8 6.0 INCENTIVE-TO-ADMINISTRATION EXPENSE RATIOS

AI summary The table presents electricity and natural gas savings for the years 2013 to 2016. It is followed by a section on incentive-to-administration expense ratios, indicating a focus on efficiency programs and their financial management.

MEASURE DEVELOPMENT & INCENTIVE SETTING PROCESS p. p. 70
MEASURE DEVELOPMENT & INCENTIVE SETTING PROCESS The Energy Trust has created a standardized, four step process (see Appendix A for flow chart) by which to introduce new measures to their product portfolio and set their maximum eligible inc...

AI summary The Energy Trust has established a four-step standardized process for introducing new measures and setting maximum eligible incentives. This process allows the Energy Trust and its program delivery agents to balance measure incentives with delivery and administration expenses while meeting their goals.

Incentive Setting Considerations p. p. 70
Incentive Setting Considerations When setting a measure incentive the following components are some of the key considerations taken by the Energy Trust and their program delivery agents: - Relationship of incentive to measure incremental c...

AI summary The Energy Trust considers several factors when setting measure incentives, including the relationship to incremental costs, market uptake, and portfolio cost effectiveness. It was noted that setting incentives is complex and requires regular updates. The Energy Trust follows a guideline for maximum LUEC and is evaluated against annual performance measures set by the Commissions.

INCENTIVE RATE SETTIN[G](#page-78-1) 2 p. p. 82
INCENTIVE RATE SETTIN[G](#page-78-1) 2 The incentive setting process involves collaborative discussions between the utilities, NYSERDA and other interested stakeholders. The goal is to achieve statewide uniformity in terms of qualifying te...

AI summary The incentive rate setting process involves collaboration between utilities, NYSERDA, and stakeholders to achieve statewide uniformity in qualifying technology and incentive levels, while still tailoring program designs to individual utility customers.

NATIONAL GRID CORE PROGRAM OFFERINGS (RESIDENTIAL AND BUSINESS) p. p. 122
NATIONAL GRID CORE PROGRAM OFFERINGS (RESIDENTIAL AND BUSINESS) Program Name Program Area Program Measures Links Large Retrofit Program Commercial  Provides incentives for lighting and lighting controls, variable speed drives, food servic...

AI summary The Large Retrofit Program offers incentives for energy efficiency improvements in commercial settings, including lighting, variable speed drives, and food service equipment. Custom incentives are available for non-prescriptive measures, and engineering studies are supported with partial cost reimbursement.

3. Review Protocol Section p. p. 122
3. Review Protocol Section This section will display the considerations for the frequency of review for the incentive, and help set the guidelines for the size of the incentive.

AI summary This section outlines the considerations for reviewing the frequency of incentives and establishes guidelines for determining the size of incentives.

Inputs p. p. 122
Inputs - Incentive screening threshold in terms of Customer Cost (From Measure Library); - Incentive screening threshold in terms of the program budget (From Measure Library); - Incentive screening threshold in terms of cost effectiveness;...

AI summary The text outlines various criteria and factors related to incentive screening, including customer cost, program budget, cost effectiveness, sector, program delivery channel, financial motivation, and financial impact, as derived from the Measure Library and Cost Effectiveness Calculator.

The table below outlines key findings and recommendations derived from our documentation review. p. p. 172
r>sig n h ig he su cc es err ca w se cu re a p os n. inc tiv ts for "h ard -to -hi re" les to fer ral s f en e a mo un ro en co ura ge re or the itic al ies ( E 1 m be ch all d t o i lem t th is se cr va ca nc ay en ge mp en nd ati du e t...

AI summary The text discusses the importance of addressing challenges in hiring for critical roles, the need for incentives to attract talent, and the necessity of ensuring that the Public Service Commission (PSC) and Finance Committee (FC) are adequately resourced. It also highlights the need for further discussion on potential solutions and opportunities for improvement.

12 3.3.5 INCREMENTAL COST p. pp. 67-69
12 3.3.5 INCREMENTAL COST - 13 Value: $382,537.50 (in $2025) - 14 Unit: per GWh of energy savings - 15 Source: Incremental Costs were developed by Apex Analytics in 2024. - 16 Details: The incremental cost of this measure is assumed to be...

AI summary The incremental cost for the measure is estimated at $382,537.50 per GWh of energy savings, based on an average incentive of 15 cents per kWh multiplied by 2.5. This multiplier was recommended due to insufficient program tracking data, with Apex Analytics citing the EmPOWER 2023 report as a reference. Future evaluations should collect more specific data for Nova Scotia.

3.5 CUS-P4P_001 CUSTOM - PAY FOR PERFORMANCE p. pp. 72-73
3.5 CUS-P4P_001 CUSTOM - PAY FOR PERFORMANCE - Custom provides large business, non-profit, and institutional (BNI) participants with technical assistance, - financial incentives, and project financing to help reduce their electricity consu...

AI summary The Pay-for-Performance (P4P) program provides financial support for energy efficiency upgrades to large businesses, non-profits, and institutions, with incentives based on verified energy savings. Eligibility requires annual electricity consumption of at least 1,000,000 kWh and a 10% reduction in consumption. EfficiencyOne (E1) claims savings over multiple years, and savings are normalized on a per GWh basis.

3.6.6.1 Energy Savings (kWh) p. p. 80
3.6.6.1 Energy Savings (kWh) Value: 1,000,000 Source: By construction. - Details: Due to the heterogenous nature of this bundled measure, the unit basis of "per GWh of savings" - is used to determine the appropriate costs and incentives ne...

AI summary This section discusses energy savings measured in kWh, with a value of 1,000,000. The savings are calculated using a unit basis of 'per GWh of savings' to determine the costs and incentives required to achieve 1 GWh of savings, due to the heterogenous nature of the bundled measure.

3.7.6.1 Energy Savings (kWh) p. p. 83
3.7.6.1 Energy Savings (kWh) - Value: 1,000,000 - Source: By construction. 2024 Custom Incentive Evaluation, Net Savings, page 68 (PDF 840/1442) - 1 Details: Due to the heterogenous nature of this bundled measure, the unit basis of "per GW...

AI summary The section discusses energy savings in kWh, highlighting 1,000,000 kWh of savings achieved through a bundled measure. The savings are calculated on a per GWh basis, reflecting the heterogenous nature of the measure and the costs and incentives required to achieve 1 GWh of savings.

3.8.1 MEASURE IDENTIFIERS & DEFINING CHARACTERISTICS p. p. 85
3.8.1 MEASURE IDENTIFIERS & DEFINING CHARACTERISTICS Measure ID (Plan) BER-AR__LGT_INHORT_001__0 Replacement Type RET DI Flag 0 Measure ID (Incremental Cost) BNI__LGT_INHORT_001__0 Common Measure Name AR - Indoor - Horticultural Lighting S...

AI summary This section outlines a specific measure within the BNI Efficient Product Rebates program, detailing the measure ID, replacement type, DI flag, incremental cost measure ID, common name, sector, program name, program component, and unit basis.

1 3.9.1 MEASURE IDENTIFIERS & DEFINING CHARACTERISTICS p. pp. 89-90
1 3.9.1 MEASURE IDENTIFIERS & DEFINING CHARACTERISTICS Measure ID (Plan) BER-AR__HVAC_MSHP_MURB_001__0_A Sector BNI Replacement Type RET Unit Basis Per unit DI Flag 0 Measure ID (Incremental Cost) BNI__HVAC_MSHP_MURB_001__0_A Common Measur...

AI summary This section outlines a specific energy efficiency measure under the BNI Efficient Product Rebates program, focusing on the AR - Small Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump for MURB (Multi-Unit Residential Buildings) with no baseline cooling. The measure includes identifiers, sector, replacement type, and program details.

E-14E1 (SBA) RIRs 1-8 5 passages
Section 3 p. p. 6
future planned maintenance projects. Customers may also elect to use third party service providers to assist with opportunity identification and development, as explained in more detail in SBA IR-02. Request IR-02: Refer to M12780, Exhibit...

AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) uses third-party consultants to assist customers with energy efficiency programs, including feasibility studies and energy modeling. Consultants are educated through the Efficiency Preferred Network, and customers pay for their services. E1 provides incentives to offset costs, with no overlap in services between E1 and consultants. The discussion centers on the Custom Incentives Program and DSM Plan.

Section 4 p. p. 6
rs prepare and submit program applications. E1 offers incentives to customers to reduce the costs of feasibility studies and energy modelling, and customers pay these third parties for their services. There can be some overlap between the...

AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) collaborates with third-party consultants and Energy Managers to deliver energy efficiency programs. E1 provides incentives for feasibility studies and energy modelling, with third-party consultants offering specialized expertise. Small businesses receive free assessments, and incentives are adjusted if third-party consultants are engaged.

Section 13 p. pp. 6-8
SBA) IR-03 Page 5 of 5 3 M12186, Exhibit E-2, 2024 DSM Programs Evaluation Reports, Direct Installation Program, March 25, 2025, Section 3, page 939-941 of 1442. Request IR-04: Refer to M12780, Exhibit E-1, the DSM Plan, Appendix A, page 2...

AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) responds to questions about its DSM Plan, confirming current incentives for lighting control measures like occupancy sensors and plans to expand these in 2026. It notes traditional lighting rebates will phase out by 2028 but emphasizes flexibility to adapt programs if market conditions change.

Section 14 p. p. 8
tes - Instant Rebates offering in 2026. While rebates for these measures have historically been available through the Business Energy Rebates - Application Rebates stream, the phase-out of traditional

AI summary The text discusses the phase-out of traditional Business Energy Rebates - Application Rebates (BER-AR) in favor of Instant Rebates starting in 2026, indicating a shift in rebate programs for energy efficiency measures.

Section 15 p. p. 8
lighting measures starting in 2026 will shift greater emphasis toward the opportunities presented by advanced lighting controls. The phase-out of incentives for LED lamps and fixtures is being driven by a market assessment conducted by E1'...

AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) plans to phase out LED lamp and fixture incentives by 2029, citing market saturation where LED products will become baseline technologies. The shift emphasizes advanced lighting controls, which E1 deems less complex and disruptive. This aligns with a third-party market assessment predicting LED dominance post-2028, reducing opportunities for energy savings through traditional incentives.

E-15E1 (SNS) RIRs 1-15 5 passages
Section 14 p. p. 5
(d) Over 2023–2025, E1 administered a provincially funded portion of HEA for customers who primarily heat their homes with non-electric fuels, along with a moderate-income rebate top up for eligible customers. Many homes use a mix of elect...

AI summary E1 administered a provincially funded portion of the Home Energy Assessment (HEA) program and a moderate-income rebate top-up from 2023–2025. They also co-administered the Canada Greener Homes Grant, which provided substantial incentives. The program's participation and savings grew significantly since 2021, with DSM recovering $3.2 million from the Canada Greener Homes Grant between 2023–2025. No further recoveries are expected after 2026.

Preamble p. p. 5
ts program planning and evaluation activities. If warranted, findings will inform future program design and any recommended amendments to the Plan. DATE FILED: May 28, 2026 E1 (SNS) IR-06 Page 2 of 2 Request IR-07: Small Business Energy So...

AI summary The request focuses on the Small Business Energy Solutions (SBES) program under the 2027-2031 DSM Plan, asking for participation forecasts, cost details for heat pump measures, consideration of federal incentives, alternative delivery models, and the reasons behind rising unit costs over time.

Response IR-12: p. p. 5
Response IR-12: (a) EfficiencyOne (E1) has not performed a formal analysis of how saturation of low-cost measures, including lighting, affect the economics of deeper retrofit projects. Such measures offer lower paybacks and are often packa...

AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) acknowledges it has not formally analyzed how saturation of low-cost energy efficiency measures impacts deeper retrofit economics but expects higher saturation and baseline changes, proposing increased incentives for deeper retrofits. E1 cites past experience where raising lighting product incentives led to a 200% participation increase but notes external factors complicate rebate elasticity analysis.

Section 46 p. p. 5
rams 2 and goals of E1's activities and to elicit feedback from our partners and industry 3 stakeholders to ensure that offerings are pertinent and to identify and address potential 4 issues early. 5 6 (b) The core role of the EPP network...

AI summary E1 seeks feedback to optimize program delivery, improve rebate structures, and address risks in the market. Examples include campaigns against risky heat pump contractor practices, reducing HomeWarming program backlogs by 47% in 2025, and modifying HPWH rebate access for contractors. These actions enhance program efficiency and customer experience.

Section 47 p. p. 5
wholesalers and suppliers led to modifications to heat pump water heater rebates to ensure contractors could access those rebates and pass them on to their customers, easing access to the technology. - 1 (c) As described in part (a) above,...

AI summary Modifications to heat pump water heater rebates were implemented to ensure contractor access and customer affordability. Ongoing EPP feedback drives continuous program improvements within the DSM process, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness.

E-16E1 (Synapse) RIRs 1-90 16 passages
Strategic Electrification p. pp. 9-10
Strategic Electrification Strategic Electrification, as modelled in Round 1 (2027-2031 DSM Plan) reflects participation that ramps up over the five-year period as implementation of the resource becomes more established. Strategic Electrifi...

AI summary Strategic Electrification is modeled in the 2027-2031 DSM Plan using existing program components (Instant Savings, BER, Custom), avoiding new resource deployment costs. Incentive levels are reviewed against E1's methodology and similar measures, though low-income/equity support is absent in current models. Section 3.5 provides further details.

Solar-PV p. p. 10
Solar-PV Solar-PV, as modelled in Round 1 (2027-2031 DSM Plan) reflects participation that ramps up over the fiveyear period as implementation of the resource becomes more established. Solar-PV measures, as modelled, will specifically targ...

AI summary The 2027-2031 DSM Plan models Solar-PV participation increasing over five years, targeting low-income and equity groups. Incentive levels for Solar-PV remain under review and refinement. Details on modelling results are referenced in Section 3.4.

Table 6: Scenario 1EE-Base – Round 1 Modelling Results p. p. 14
Table 6: Scenario 1EE-Base – Round 1 Modelling Results Scenario 1EE - Base (2027-2031) Investment ($ million) Lifetime TRC & PAC Benefits ($ million) NS Cost Test Lifetime Benefits ($ million) First Energy Savings (GWh) Lifetime Energy Sav...

AI summary Table 6 presents the results of Scenario 1EE-Base – Round 1 Modelling, detailing investment, energy savings, and cost benefits for residential and business energy efficiency programs in Nova Scotia from 2027 to 2031. The table highlights the financial and energy-saving impacts of various programs, including residential and business initiatives, as well as enabling strategies.

4.3.4 DSM PROGRAMS p. p. 67
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. Historically, DSM programs have included:: - Resid...

AI summary E1 will propose DSM programs for residential and BNI sectors, including rebates, incentives, and demand response initiatives. These programs have historically included a variety of efficiency and energy-saving measures for both residential and business sectors.

Table 2: Scenario 1EE-Base – Round 2 Modelling Results p. p. 82
Table 2: Scenario 1EE-Base – Round 2 Modelling Results Scenario 1EE - Base (2027-2031) Investment ($ million) Lifetime PAC Benefits ($ million) First Energy Savings (GWh) Lifetime Energy Savings (GWh) Peak Demand Savings (MW) Weighted Aver...

AI summary Table 2 presents the results of Scenario 1EE-Base for the period 2027–2031, detailing investment amounts, energy savings, and program administrator costs for various residential and business energy efficiency programs in Nova Scotia.

Table 9: 1SE-Base Scenario - Round 2 Modelling Insights p. pp. 86-87
Table 9: 1SE-Base Scenario - Round 2 Modelling Insights Scenario 1SE-Base RES BNI Total Carbon Emissions Avoided Five-Year Annual Total (kilotonne) 1 6 8 Cumulative Lifetime (kilotonne) 20 111 131 Energy & Demand Impacts Lifetime Net Energ...

AI summary Table 9 presents the 1SE-Base Scenario - Round 2 Modelling Insights, showing carbon emissions avoided, energy and demand impacts, investment splits, and benefits and costs associated with RES and BNI programs. Key metrics include carbon emissions, energy savings, investment distribution, and cost-benefit analysis.

DSM programs may include:as follows: p. p. 99
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.

4.3.4 DSM PROGRAMS p. p. 150
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.

4.3.4 DSM Programs p. p. 163
4.3.4 DSM Programs E1 will propose DSM programs for Residential and the Business, Not-for-Profit and Institutional (BNI) sectors which may include Residential Efficient Product Rebates, Existing Residential, New Residential, BNI Efficient...

AI summary E1 is proposing a range of DSM programs targeting residential and BNI sectors, including rebates, direct installation, and demand response initiatives.

10 p. p. 40
10 Date Events January 1, 2028 The effective useful life of remaining lamp products is anticipated to be reduced by roughly 66%, which will diminish lifetime savings potential. January 1, 2029 Evaluation baseline change is planned that wil...

AI summary The effective useful life of remaining lamp products is expected to decrease by 66%, reducing potential savings. In 2029, E1 will no longer offer incentives for BNI LED lamps or fixtures, impacting several programs including Business Energy Rebates and Affordable Multifamily Housing.

Section 651 p. p. 40
- Incentive setting Please refer to Attachment 1 of E1's response to IG IR-11. E1 updated the thresholds within the incentive setting methodology to align with the APEX recommendation. - First year unit cost analysis Please refer to Attach...

AI summary The document refers to E1's responses to various inquiries regarding incentive settings, first-year unit costs, and energy savings determination. E1 has updated thresholds based on APEX recommendations and aligned unit costs with other jurisdictions. Energy savings are calculated as a percentage of load and split between residential and business programs.

1 Request IR-37: p. p. 72
1 Request IR-37: 2 3 Page 39 of Appendix A – Preferred Plan states, "The conclusion of the federal government's 4 Canada Greener Homes Grant program in 2025 which provided incentive top ups and 5 subsidized energy audit costs directly impa...

AI summary The response to IR-37 discusses the impact of the Canada Greener Homes Grant program ending in 2024, which led to a significant decline in energy evaluations. E1 proposes increased incentives for the Home Energy Assessment program to boost enrollments and affordability, though at a lower level than the federal program due to cost considerations.

Section 685 p. p. 72
coverage that Apex Analytics suggested is typical in other jurisdictions during the development of the Preferred Plan. (e) E1 considered different incentive levels and how those changes would likely impact participant uptake, free-ridershi...

AI summary E1 has adjusted incentive levels for the Affordable Multifamily Housing program due to the end of provincial funding in May 2025. The response outlines that E1 considered various incentive levels and their impacts on participation, free-ridership, and cost effectiveness, and has proposed incentives that align with Apex Analytics' recommendations.

Section 686 p. p. 72
s a range of prescriptive and performance-based incentives. The estimated average incentive payments per project type are listed in Appendix A – Attachment 3 – 2027–2031 Energy Efficiency and Solar-PV - Technical Tables of E1's 2027–2031 D...

AI summary The document discusses proposed incentive levels for the 2027–2031 DSM Plan, noting that they are higher than previous levels but significantly lower than those when provincial top-up funding was available. E1 argues that the proposed incentives are reasonable and sustainable, aiming to increase customer participation and energy savings. However, the end of provincial top-up funding has led to a significant drop in customer pre-approval applications.

Device Type Incentive p. p. 122
Device Type Incentive Smart Thermostat $30/participant/year Water heater controller $20/participant/year - (b) Yes. E1 considered incentive changes to improve cost-effectiveness. E1 has removed enrollment incentives and is retaining only p...

AI summary The document outlines incentive amounts for specific devices and notes that E1 has removed enrollment incentives to focus on device performance rather than enrollment, aiming to improve cost-effectiveness.

1 Table 1: 2027-2031 - Relationship between Portfolio, Resource, Sector, Program and Program Components p. p. 187
1 Table 1: 2027-2031 - Relationship between Portfolio, Resource, Sector, Program and Program Components 2027–2031 Portfolio Resource Sector Program Program Components Energy Efficiency Residential Residential Efficient Product Rebates Inst...

AI summary The text presents Table 1 outlining the 2027–2031 portfolio, resource, sector, program, and program components. It also includes a request (IR-88) for clarification on the metrics E1 will provide for the energy efficiency and demand-side management programs, including questions about the inclusion of the modified PAC, GHG emissions reductions, and solar PV generation.

E-17Savings Verification Report - BCC H. Gil Peach 2 passages
Operation p. p. 68
Operation Incentive sizes are based on verified facility energy performance over the reporting period. Eligible interventions span both capital upgrades (equipment retrofits, controls) and behavioural / operational changes. Because incenti...

AI summary Incentive sizes are determined by verified energy performance over a reporting period, covering both capital upgrades and behavioral changes. P4P transfers implementation risk to participants and aligns their returns with realized savings, with one project completed in 2025.

4. BNI Small Business Energy Solutions Program (SBES) p. pp. 85-86
4. BNI Small Business Energy Solutions Program (SBES) SVR25-SBES-17: Examine why the Audit pathway accounts for less than 1% of units rebated and whether it remains a cost-effective channel given DIY dominance. SVR25-SBES-18: Investigate t...

AI summary The document discusses the BNI Small Business Energy Solutions Program (SBES), focusing on the low participation in the Audit pathway, challenges in meeting savings targets, and the need for baseline transition planning with the EPR / BER-AR roadmap due to upcoming lighting baseline shifts.

E-21Evidence - CA 5 passages
1 Q. WHAT CAN E1 DO TO MITIGATE THE LARGE INCREASE IN UNIT COSTS? p. pp. 32-34
1 Q. WHAT CAN E1 DO TO MITIGATE THE LARGE INCREASE IN UNIT COSTS? 2 A. The main tool that E1 has available is to set incentives at the right level. They should be 3 high enough to drive participation but no higher than necessary. E1 has no...

AI summary E1 is asked how it can mitigate a large increase in unit costs. The response highlights that E1's main tool is setting incentives at the right level, but it has not conducted a full analysis of its incentive design in nearly a decade. The current process is based on a study from 2016–2018, and for the 2027–2031 Plan, E1 engaged Apex Analytics for a methodology review and benchmarking, which concluded that E1's practices are more rigorous than its peers.

1 Q. WHAT DO YOU RECOMMEND REGARDING WAYS TO RESTRAIN p. p. 34
1 Q. WHAT DO YOU RECOMMEND REGARDING WAYS TO RESTRAIN 2 SAVINGS ACQUISTION COSTS? 3 A. I recommend that the Board: d irect E1 to undertake measure-specific primary 4 research (e.g., price-sensitivity or conjoint analysis) for high-value me...

AI summary The respondent recommends that the Board direct E1 to conduct measure-specific primary research, such as price-sensitivity or conjoint analysis, for high-value measures to ensure incentive levels are set at the minimum necessary to secure participation. This research should inform updates to incentives by January 1, 2028.

2 Q. WHAT TYPES OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY MEASURES ARE DELIVERING 3 SAVINGS TO THE RESIDENTIAL SECTOR IN E1'S PREFERRED PLAN? p. p. 41
2 Q. WHAT TYPES OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY MEASURES ARE DELIVERING 3 SAVINGS TO THE RESIDENTIAL SECTOR IN E1'S PREFERRED PLAN? 4 A. The following graph breaks out the percentage of first year savings, net benefits under the 5 PAC test, and incen...

AI summary The response outlines the types of energy efficiency measures in E1's preferred plan, highlighting thermostats and air purifiers, building envelope measures, and heat pumps for HVAC. It notes their contributions to savings, net benefits, and incentives, while also addressing challenges like market saturation and the need for updated analysis.

19 Q. WHAT DO YOU RECOMMEND REGARDING HEAT PUMP INCENTIVES IN 20 THE INSTANT SAVINGS PROGRAM? p. p. 43
19 Q. WHAT DO YOU RECOMMEND REGARDING HEAT PUMP INCENTIVES IN 20 THE INSTANT SAVINGS PROGRAM? - 21 A. I recommend that the Board: - 22 Direct E1 to offer incentives for mini-split and centrally ducted HPs as soon as 23 possible. Ideally th...

AI summary The respondent recommends that the Board direct E1 to offer incentives for mini-split and centrally ducted heat pumps in the Instant Savings Program, with specific rebate amounts and timelines. They also suggest maintaining current incentive levels and adjusting them if needed based on participation and freeridership rates.

1 should then be used to inform updates to incentives no later than January 1, p. p. 52
1 should then be used to inform updates to incentives no later than January 1, 2 2028. 3 8. Require tracking and reporting of pre-weatherization barriers. E1 should 4 record and report, by program component, the number and proportion of 5...

AI summary The text outlines several requirements for EfficiencyOne (E1), including updating incentives by 2028, tracking pre-weatherization barriers, allocating funds for addressing barriers in low-income retrofit programs, offering rebates for heat pumps, maintaining incentive levels, and approving demand response programs. It also confirms eligibility restrictions for certain customers.

E-21-(i)Resume - Theodore Love 1 passage
Incentive Calculations for the Project Cost-effectiveness Analysis Tool (CAT) p. p. 0
Incentive Calculations for the Project Cost-effectiveness Analysis Tool (CAT) Efficiency Vermont – Burlington, Vermont (November 2008 – June 2010) - Aided in the design of a new approach to calculating incentives for custom energy efficien...

AI summary Efficiency Vermont worked on designing a new approach to calculate incentives for custom energy efficiency projects, focusing on financing and desired rate of return, and modified the CAT's cash-flow projection engine to support this new method.

E-22Evidence - NSPI 1 passage
A. E1's Treatment of Demand Response p. pp. 13-14
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.

E-23Evidence - Synapse 1 passage
Q. What do you recommend? p. p. 43
Q. What do you recommend? A. To address these local air-quality impacts and to fill a gap in E1's offerings (E1 has no BNI pathway dedicated to batteries) I recommend that E1 develop a higher incentive for battery-based BNI standby resourc...

AI summary The recommendation is to develop a higher incentive for battery-based BNI standby resources compared to fossil-fueled generators to address local air-quality impacts and fill a gap in E1's offerings.

E-24Evidence - SNS 4 passages
2.2 Lighting Saturation Is Changing the Business Portfolio p. p. 4
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.

2.3 Energy Manager-Supported Projects Are the Main Source of Custom Savings p. p. 4
2.3 Energy Manager-Supported Projects Are the Main Source of Custom Savings EfficiencyOne stated in response to Solar Nova Scotia information request E1 (SNS) IR-08(e) that 94 percent of Custom Program savings under the Existing Buildings...

AI summary EfficiencyOne reported that 94% of Custom Program savings under the Existing Buildings stream in 2024 and 90% in 2025 were achieved through Energy Manager-supported projects. However, DSM-funded Energy Manager capacity is limited, with only four partially funded positions as of Q1 2026, none dedicated to small businesses. Solar Nova Scotia recommends expanding Energy Manager support to enable deeper projects and access to federal incentives.

3.3 Federal Incentive Leverage p. p. 6
3.3 Federal Incentive Leverage This design issue is especially important for heat pumps and other clean technology investments. Where a business incurs an eligible capital cost, it may be able to access the federal Clean Technology Investm...

AI summary This section discusses the importance of federal incentive leverage for clean technology investments, particularly heat pumps. It highlights how federal tax credits and capital cost allowances depend on the capital cost base, which can be affected by the design of DSM programs such as fully free installations versus cost-share approaches.

Preamble p. p. 6
Illustrative only. Assumes a $50,000 eligible installed cost; a 30 percent refundable Clean Technology ITC; a first-year CCA deduction of up to 100 percent on the post-ITC capital base (available for eligible Class 43.1 property in use bef...

AI summary The text discusses how federal incentives, such as the Clean Technology Investment Tax Credit and accelerated capital cost allowance, can reduce the required DSM contribution for projects, thereby lowering program unit costs. EfficiencyOne currently does not incorporate these incentives into its program design, but Solar Nova Scotia recommends adjusting the unit-cost target for SBES to leverage these incentives.

E-26CV - Sanem Sergici - The Brattle Group - NSPI 1 passage
UTILITY REGULATORY AND BUSINESS MODELS p. p. 14
UTILITY REGULATORY AND BUSINESS MODELS - Assisted the New York Department of Public Service to develop a comprehensive financial model of a representative (downstate) New York utility capable of demonstrating the impacts of REV initiatives...

AI summary The Brattle Group has assisted various utilities in developing regulatory and business models, including financial modeling for REV initiatives, performance incentive metrics, and alternative regulatory frameworks. Work included stakeholder engagement, analysis of incentive regulation frameworks, and evaluation of performance-based regulation (PBR) models.

E-29CA (IG) RIR 1 to 5 2 passages
24 Response IR-08: p. p. 5
to both scenarios, the comparison between them is consistent, though the 45 ratio should not be read as a pure energy-efficiency unit cost. 1 Request IR-09: 2 3 Reference: Pages 32-34. 4 Preamble: Mr. Love notes that customer incentives ac...

AI summary Mr. Love highlights that customer incentives make up 71% of total plan costs under the Preferred Plan, up from 66% in the 2026 Plan. He recommends E1 conduct measure-specific primary research, such as price-sensitivity or conjoint analysis, to ensure incentive levels are set at the minimum necessary for participation. This research should inform incentive updates by January 1, 2028.

1 Response IR-09: p. p. 5
ach, capping non-incentive cost categories (10% administration, 12 6% marketing, 4% EM&V, and a 20% direct-implementation non-incentive target) rather than 13 requiring a specific incentive share. 14 15 First, this comparison is not always...

AI summary The text discusses the challenges in comparing incentive shares across different programs, noting that spending data are rarely tracked comprehensively. It emphasizes that incentive levels should be set at the minimum necessary to secure participation and highlights best practices such as differentiating incentives based on measure, customer segment, and delivery channel.

E-30EE - Posterity (IG) RIR 1 to 5 1 passage
- d) Please see the response above. p. p. 2
- d) Please see the response above. 1 Nova Scotia Energy Board 5 6 7 8 2. Revise the incentive structure of the custom NC program to recognize the system-level impacts associated with building design decisions. This should include explicit...

AI summary The Nova Scotia Energy Board is being asked to revise the incentive structure of the custom new construction (NC) program to account for system-level impacts of building design decisions, including hybrid heating systems that manage peak electricity demand. Posterity Group acknowledges the recommendation and notes similar work has been done for MURBs and industrial process facilities.

E-34SNS (IG) RIR 1 to 6 1 passage
Response to Request IR-2:
Board direct EfficiencyOne to file an annual first-year unitcost target, supported by measure-level assumptions and sensitivity analysis, that moves SBES materially toward its historical performance. The reduction could be pursued through...

AI summary The Board directs EfficiencyOne to set an annual first-year unit cost target for the SBES program, supported by assumptions and analysis. The program's focus on lighting and heat pumps requires incentives calibrated to cost, savings, and barriers, with cost-sharing strategies to reduce unit costs while maintaining participation.

E-35SNS (SBA) RIR 1 to 7 1 passage
(b) What is meant by "reasonable cost-share incentives" and how would the reasonableness be determined?
(b) What is meant by "reasonable cost-share incentives" and how would the reasonableness be determined? A reasonable cost-share incentive is one set high enough to enable the customer to proceed with a cost-effective project, but no higher...

AI summary A reasonable cost-share incentive is one that enables customers to proceed with cost-effective projects without being overly subsidized. The determination of reasonableness involves considering the customer's financial position, comparable programs in other jurisdictions, and the cost-effectiveness of the DSM program relative to a direct install baseline.

E-37Synapse (E1) RIR 1 to 4 1 passage
Summary of the DSM Plan p. p. 7
- Funding from other sources (which LMI programs rely on completely) is variable and uncertain for the 2025/26 and 2026/27 plan years and seems set to decline substantially in these years. Additionally, NB Power has a considerable waitlist...

AI summary The DSM Plan faces challenges including uncertain funding, program gaps, high costs, and potential misalignment with carbon reduction goals. NB Power's programs lack comprehensive coverage for LMI customers and miss key demand response measures. Incentives for demand response and energy efficiency may be too high, and renewable program offerings are unclear.

E-38Synapse (IG) RIR 1 to 10 1 passage
Preamble p. p. 13
- (b) Please refer to my response to part (a) above, where I state that I have not developed an incentive level for BNI battery BUGs. Additionally, please refer to E1 response to Synapse IR-90, attachment 1, where E1 implies nearly identic...

AI summary The text discusses recommendations regarding incentive levels for BNI battery BUGs and fossil-fuel BUGs, suggesting that battery incentives should be higher and fossil-fuel incentives could be reduced to reflect pollution costs. It also recommends allowing fossil-fuel BUGs customers to participate in battery BUGs and setting realistic participation and savings targets based on achievable potential.

E-40Michael Goldman Resume - E1 2 passages
Energy Efficiency & DSM Planning p. p. 1
Energy Efficiency & DSM Planning Multi-year plan development, portfolio strategy, budgets, savings goals, incentive structures, program narratives, and filing support.

AI summary The text outlines the development of a multi-year energy efficiency and demand-side management (DSM) plan, including portfolio strategy, budgets, savings goals, incentive structures, program narratives, and filing support.

Transforming utility customer service: Incentive structures for peak load reduction p. p. 3
Transforming utility customer service: Incentive structures for peak load reduction Power Grid · Oct 8, 2019

AI summary This document discusses the transformation of utility customer service, focusing on incentive structures aimed at reducing peak load. It explores how utilities can encourage customers to manage their energy use during high-demand periods through various incentives.

E-41Rebuttal Evidence - E1 11 passages
Consumer Advocate p. p. 14
Consumer Advocate At page 29, lines 5 – 16, Mr. Love states: If a heat pump now produces roughly half the evaluated savings it was previously credited with, the cost of acquiring each kWh through that measure has effectively doubled, and t...

AI summary The Consumer Advocate argues that if heat pumps now provide only half the previously estimated savings, E1 should explore ways to improve the economic efficiency of the program, such as adjusting incentive levels, requiring minimum heating temperatures, and ensuring that incentives target installations that displace the most fossil or resistance heating.

E1 Rebuttal Evidence p. p. 14
E1 Rebuttal Evidence E1 accepts the 2024 evaluation savings for residential heat pumps as the appropriate baseline, but does not accept the implication that it has treated the resulting higher cost per kWh as fixed or has failed to pursue...

AI summary E1 accepts the 2024 evaluation savings for residential heat pumps but argues that higher cost per kWh is not fixed and that program levers are still being pursued. Incentive levels are set using the Board-approved methodology and are lower than those in other jurisdictions. E1 is exploring mid-stream rebates starting in 2028 but will continue offering energy assessments. E1 also addresses concerns about mandatory heating switchover temperatures and backup heating systems in Nova Scotia's cold climate.

Q. WHAT DO YOU RECOMMEND REGARDING WAYS TO RESTRAIN SAVINGS ACQUISTION p. p. 14
Q. WHAT DO YOU RECOMMEND REGARDING WAYS TO RESTRAIN SAVINGS ACQUISTION COSTS? A. I recommend that the Board: direct E1 to undertake measure-specific primary research (e.g., price-sensitivity or conjoint analysis) for high-value measures, c...

AI summary The respondent recommends that the Board direct E1 to conduct measure-specific primary research, such as price-sensitivity or conjoint analysis, for high-value measures to ensure incentive levels are set at the minimum necessary to secure participation, with updates to be informed by this research by January 1, 2028.

Q. DO YOU HAVE ANY OTHER CONCERNS WITH E1'S APPROACH TO MINI-SPLIT AND CENTRALLY DUCTED HPS IN THE RESDIENTIAL SECTOR? p. p. 17
Q. DO YOU HAVE ANY OTHER CONCERNS WITH E1'S APPROACH TO MINI-SPLIT AND CENTRALLY DUCTED HPS IN THE RESDIENTIAL SECTOR? A. Yes. I am concerned that E1 is increasing incentives unnecessarily in its current plan. E1 has not provided any justi...

AI summary The respondent is concerned about E1's plan to increase incentives for mini-split and centrally ducted heat pumps in the residential sector by 67% to 80% over four years without justification or an updated potential study, especially given affordability concerns and rising unit costs.

Q. IS THERE ANY PROGRAMATIC RATIONALE UNDER WHICH ESCALATING INCENTIVES MIGHT BE APPROPRIATE? p. p. 17
Q. IS THERE ANY PROGRAMATIC RATIONALE UNDER WHICH ESCALATING INCENTIVES MIGHT BE APPROPRIATE? A. In some circumstances, escalating incentives are appropriate. For example, when a program is targeting progressively harder-to-reach customers...

AI summary The text discusses the rationale for escalating incentives in demand-side management programs. It suggests that escalating incentives may be appropriate in certain circumstances, such as when targeting harder-to-reach customers or addressing high freeridership rates. However, it notes that E1 has not made this argument and that participation may drop as rebates increase. Mr. Love recommends maintaining current incentive levels for specific programs.

E1 Rebuttal Evidence p. p. 17
E1 Rebuttal Evidence E1 submits that having the Board direct E1 to cap incentives over the five-year period to the levels proposed by Mr. Love would limit E1's ability to adapt to changing product costs, fluctuating free ridership levels a...

AI summary E1 argues that capping incentives as recommended by Mr. Love would hinder its ability to adapt to market changes and achieve performance targets. E1 notes that current heat pump incentives are below recommended thresholds and proposes a gradual increase to address free ridership and improve savings.

E1 Rebuttal Evidence p. p. 31
E1 Rebuttal Evidence E1 did not include Strategic Electrification in the 2027–2031 DSM Preferred Plan because no programs or measures were identified during plan development that satisfy the legislated definition of Strategic Electrificati...

AI summary E1 did not include Strategic Electrification in the 2027–2031 DSM Preferred Plan due to the lack of programs meeting the legislated definition and passing the modified PAC test. E1 acknowledges the potential of managed EV charging but highlights challenges related to customer participation, cost, and system benefits, suggesting further evaluation through the Innovation framework.

5.1.2 SMALL BUSINESS ENERGY SOLUTIONS AND BUSINESS ENERGY p. p. 35
5.1.2 SMALL BUSINESS ENERGY SOLUTIONS AND BUSINESS ENERGY REBATES

AI summary This section discusses small business energy solutions and business energy rebates, focusing on financial incentives provided to support energy efficiency initiatives in the small business sector.

Eastward Energy p. p. 46
Eastward Energy At page 3 – 4 of its evidence, the Posterity Group states: The NC Program uses a tiered incentive structure, where incentives are calculated based solely on the electrical energy savings, excluding lighting savings. As a re...

AI summary The Posterity Group argues that the NC Program's tiered incentive structure only considers electrical energy savings and excludes lighting and peak demand reductions, thereby failing to incentivize hybrid gas/electric heating systems that can reduce peak electricity demand and benefit the electricity system.

Q. Why is Apex's benchmarking more meaningful than a broad comparison with large U.S. utilities? p. p. 51
Q. Why is Apex's benchmarking more meaningful than a broad comparison with large U.S. utilities? In performing a benchmarking analysis, peers must be similar enough to make comparisons meaningful. Broadly comparing the cost of savings in N...

AI summary Apex's benchmarking is more meaningful because it compares with similar entities rather than large U.S. utilities, which have different service areas and programs. The intervenors acknowledge factors driving E1's rising costs, such as inflation and program changes, but question if a raw fleet average can capture these factors accurately.

Q. Have incentives been set in accordance with industry best practices? p. pp. 57-58
Q. Have incentives been set in accordance with industry best practices? A. Separate from any benchmarking exercise, the Consumer Advocate recommends examining the absolute level of costs from incentives. As a way to control costs, the Cons...

AI summary The Consumer Advocate recommends examining the absolute level of costs from incentives and ensuring they are aligned with market conditions and industry best practices. Apex reviewed E1's incentive-setting process, found it consistent with industry standards, and provided updated incremental cost assumptions and best practices for future program years.

E-44Opening Statement - Posterity Group, on behalf of EE 1 passage
Custom New Construction Program Incentive Structure p. p. 0
Custom New Construction Program Incentive Structure Our evidence also identifies an issue with the Program's incentive structure. Incentives are determined using a tiered approach based solely on electrical energy savings, with no direct c...

AI summary The document highlights an issue with the Custom New Construction Program's incentive structure, noting that it is based solely on electrical energy savings and does not account for peak demand reduction, which could help manage system peaks and avoid future electricity investments.

E-57-(i)Appendix A 1 passage
Incentive Level Research Study
Incentive Level Research Study - 1. In recognition of the importance of ensuring that customer incentive levels are set at the minimum necessary to secure participation in energy efficiency programs, EfficiencyOne (E1) and the Consumer Adv...

AI summary EfficiencyOne and the Consumer Advocate agree to jointly develop a study to determine appropriate incentive levels for energy efficiency programs. The study will analyze customer price sensitivity and may result in adjustments to incentive levels, with E1 responsible for all associated costs and reporting progress to the Nova Scotia Energy Board and DSMAG.

101899NSEB (E1) IR 1 to 66 2 passages
Request IR-7:
ng horizon, and will inform the development of Candidate Resource Plans for the IRP." Please describe any work E1 and the NSIESO have completed to date related to commissioning of a DSM Potential study. - iii. Page 7 of 13 of Appendix F (p...

AI summary The document contains several requests related to demand-side management (DSM) studies, avoided cost calculations, and energy efficiency incentives. It asks for updates on work completed by E1 and the NSIESO, a jurisdictional scan from APEX, and clarification on the alignment of increased incentive percentages with legal requirements and affordability considerations.

Request IR-65:
Request IR-65: - With respect to the 2025 setting targets for the net peak demand savings within Custom - Incentives, does E1 do an assessment of the customers to determine the customer's energy - usage during peak demand before the custom...

AI summary Request IR-65 inquires whether E1 assesses customer energy usage during peak demand before offering incentives to ensure net peak demand savings. The 2025 targets for reducing net peak demand through Custom Incentives are central to the inquiry, with a focus on screening mechanisms to validate incentive effectiveness.

101900Synapse (E1) IR 1 to 90 1 passage
NON-CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REQUESTS
? If so, please provide it. If not, when will it be available? - c. Regarding Table 5. Cost Difference of DSM and Fuel, does E1 have projected values for 2026-2031? If so, please provide these values. Request IR-21: Page 47 of the Evidence...

AI summary The text includes a request for projected DSM and fuel cost values for 2026-2031 and detailed data on lighting measures in the Instant Savings program. It explains the shift from low-cost LEDs to more complex measures, increasing first-year costs but offering long-term benefits.

101905SBA (E1) IR 1 to 8 1 passage
Request IR-2:
Request IR-2: Refer to M12780, Exhibit E-1, the DSM Plan, Appendix A – Preferred Plan. On page 67 of 112, under Barriers, it refers to Industry awareness and references a lack of familiarity with the Custom Incentives Program. - a) What ty...

AI summary The request seeks clarification on Third-Party consultants referenced in the DSM Plan, focusing on their role, collaboration with E1, financial arrangements, service overlap with E1, and impact on customer incentives under the Custom Incentives Program.

101907IG (E1) IR 1 to 29 2 passages
- 28 (a) Please provide a table explaining the increase in first-year unit cost from 29 $0.49/kWh (2026) to $0.66/kWh (2027–2031), broken down by the 30 following drivers: p. p. 5
- 28 (a) Please provide a table explaining the increase in first-year unit cost from 29 $0.49/kWh (2026) to $0.66/kWh (2027–2031), broken down by the 30 following drivers: 1 (i) Change in measure mix (e.g., shift away from lighting); 2 (ii...

AI summary The document requests a detailed breakdown of the increase in first-year unit costs for energy efficiency programs from 2026 to 2027–2031, including factors like changes in measure mix, incentive levels, and participation volumes. It also asks for methodology, lifetime unit cost data, and benchmarking against other jurisdictions.

9 Reference: N-3, DSM Evaluation Report. p. p. 5
9 Reference: N-3, DSM Evaluation Report. - 10 (a) With respect to the Custom Incentives and SEM, please explain the drivers 11 for the change in net-to-gross ratios (NTGRs) compared to earlier 12 evaluations. - 13 (b) Please confirm that t...

AI summary The document contains three questions related to the DSM Evaluation Report, addressing changes in net-to-gross ratios (NTGRs), their impact on credited savings and customer incentives, and the timing of incentive payments.

101909SNS (E1) IR 1 to 15 2 passages
26 IR-7: Small Business Energy Solutions (SBES)
26 IR-7: Small Business Energy Solutions (SBES) 27 Reference: 2027-2031 DSM Plan; SBES; 2027-2031 Technical Tables. - 29 a) For each year from 2027 to 2031, provide the forecast number of unique participating small 30 business customers or...

AI summary The document requests detailed information on the Small Business Energy Solutions (SBES) program, including participation forecasts, heat pump measures, federal incentive considerations, alternative delivery models, and cost trends from 2020 to 2031.

2 Requests:
2 Requests: - 3 a) Provide all strategic electrification measures and scenarios considered for the 2027-2031 4 Plan. - 5 b) For each measure or scenario for which analysis was prepared, provide the modified PAC 6 inputs and outputs and the...

AI summary The document outlines seven requests for information regarding strategic electrification measures, cost assumptions, delivery approaches, federal incentives, portfolio assessments, rate impacts, and EV incentives for Nova Scotia's 2027-2031 DSM Plan. It seeks details on cost-effectiveness analyses, inclusion of measures failing PAC criteria, and integration of federal incentives like the Clean Technology Investment Tax Credit and EV incentives.

102579Letter NSPI re: requests that its third-party experts, Sanem Sergici and/or Sai Shetty of The Brattle Group, participate virtually 1 passage
UTILITY REGULATORY AND BUSINESS MODELS p. p. 15
UTILITY REGULATORY AND BUSINESS MODELS - Assisted the New York Department of Public Service to develop a comprehensive financial model of a representative (downstate) New York utility capable of demonstrating the impacts of REV initiatives...

AI summary The text outlines various regulatory and business model assistance projects undertaken by The Brattle Group for utilities across North America. These include developing financial models, incentive regulation frameworks, performance incentive metrics, and alternative regulatory proposals to support utility operations and energy efficiency goals.

102635IG (Posterity Group - EE) IR 1 to 5 1 passage
Section 5
13 8 Reference: E-20, Page 3. 9 The NC Program uses a tiered incentive structure, where incentives are 10 calculated based solely on the electrical energy savings, excluding lighting savings.Error! Bookmark not defined. 11 12 Please provid...

AI summary The NC Program utilizes a tiered incentive structure based on electrical energy savings, excluding lighting savings. A footnote referenced in the document is requested for clarification.

102637IG (T. Love - CA) IR 1 to 13 2 passages
11 Request IR-9:
11 Request IR-9: 12 Reference: Pages 32-34. - 13 Preamble: Mr. Love notes that customer incentives account for approximately 71% of 14 total plan costs under the Preferred Plan, up from the 66% in the 2026 Plan. Mr. Love 15 criticizes the...

AI summary Mr. Love highlights that customer incentives make up 71% of total plan costs under the Preferred Plan, up from 66% in the 2026 Plan. He recommends that E1 conduct measure-specific research to ensure incentive levels are set at the minimum necessary to secure participation, with updates no later than January 1, 2028.

- 29 (d) What does Mr. Love expect a "fresh, ground-up incentive-design study" to 30 involve in terms of scope, methodology, data collection, and cost?
- 29 (d) What does Mr. Love expect a "fresh, ground-up incentive-design study" to 30 involve in terms of scope, methodology, data collection, and cost? 1 (e) Has Mr. Love taken into consideration the cost, timing, and administrative 2 burd...

AI summary The text outlines questions directed to Mr. Love regarding the scope, methodology, data collection, and cost of a proposed 'fresh, ground-up incentive-design study' for demand-side management (DSM) programs. It also asks whether incentive reductions should be considered before the study is complete and whether the Board should approve increased DSM spending until the study is finalized.

Disclaimer: These summaries were generated by AI from the filings they describe. We take care to make them accurate, but errors are possible - and they aren't advice. Only the filings themselves are the record: if you're relying on something here, confirm it against the source documents or the Nova Scotia Energy Board's own record. Full disclaimer →