E-22010 DSM Evaluation Reports - Final Report - February 28, 2011 2/28/2011
122 passages
ENT PRODUCTS – RETAIL PROGRAM (POWER DOWN - PD) ............................................................... 14 3.4.1 CFL Component ...........................................................................................................
AI summary The document outlines energy efficiency programs including retail and direct installation initiatives, home energy assessments, new housing programs, appliance retirement/replacement, and support for low-income households. It also references an executive summary evaluating program impacts and processes.
Small Business Lighting Solutions program, which fell short of its program target by 20%, or 2.8 GWh; and the New Houses program, which fell short of its program target by 66%, or 1.3 GWh. The C&I Custom program nearly achieved its program...
AI summary The 2010 DSM program evaluations highlight shortfalls in the Small Business Lighting Solutions (20% below target) and New Houses (66% below target) programs, while the C&I Custom program nearly met its goal. The Low Income Households program struggles with recruitment, BER is a new program expected to improve, and SLC may become obsolete due to future T8 lighting legislation. The 2010 building code's energy efficiency standards also influence program effectiveness.
n of implementing electric DSM programs in the province, Efficiency Nova Scotia has an opportunity to create relationships anew, not only with customers, but with stakeholders and interest groups.6 5 The Appliance Retirement and Replacemen...
AI summary Efficiency Nova Scotia aims to rebuild stakeholder relationships post-DSM program transitions. The 2010 DSM program evaluation focused on documenting objectives, estimating energy savings, and identifying performance improvements. The Appliance Retirement and Replacement program differed from other efficiency initiatives. Evaluations used surveys, on-site data, and net-to-gross ratios to account for free ridership.
f 2010. However, even the new minimum requirement of EnerGuide 83 did not set significant stretch goals for participants, who could exceed this rating simply by installing a heat pump. The Business Energy Rebates program was a new program...
AI summary The Business Energy Rebates program's prescriptive measures led to higher free-ridership due to high transaction volumes. Table 2-1 shows net-to-gross ratios for various programs, with the LIH program exempt from free-ridership calculations as it offers free participation. The Efficient Products –Retail: CFLs program used a difference-of-differences approach to estimate its net-to-gross ratio.
family sector. Pursuant to developing NMR Evaluation 2010 DSM Programs Executive Summary Page 17 program offerings for the multi-family sector, the DSM Administrator should seek to gain a better understanding of this market in Nova Scotia....
AI summary The evaluation of the 2010 DSM Programs highlights the need for better understanding of the multi-family sector and the importance of addressing split incentives as barriers to energy efficiency. The LIH program is delivered through REAP Delivery Agents and Energy Advisors, with positive participant feedback on comfort and energy bill reductions, though opportunities for improvement in program design and communication were identified.
Program Finding Recommendation Low LIH-F1. LIH-R1. Income Although the participant sourcing process worked effectively, the flow Increase program marketing and outreach efforts to assure a Households of names of prospective participants th...
AI summary The Low Income Households Program faced challenges in participant recruitment due to insufficient outreach and low eligibility thresholds. Outreach Agents reported falling short of recruitment goals, leading to inefficiencies. Recommendations include expanding marketing efforts and increasing income eligibility thresholds, especially in rural areas.
Program Finding Recommendation Low LIH-F4. LIH-R4. Income Customers were motivated to participate in the program primarily Continue to promote the savings benefits of the program with an Households because of energy savings and the associa...
AI summary The Low Income Households Program was found to motivate participation through energy savings and financial benefits. Participants reported significant reductions in energy bills and improved comfort. The program was successfully promoting savings, but there was some skepticism about it being free. The recommendation is to emphasize the program's cost-free nature and the comfort benefits of the installed measures.
respondents noticed fewer drafts (80%) and consistent temperatures throughout the house (79%). LIH-F7. LIH-R7. Nearly all of the respondents (97%) also reported that they would As an additional participant recruiting mechanism, the program...
AI summary The evaluation of the 2010 DSM programs indicates high satisfaction among participants, with most reporting consistent temperatures and recommending the program to others. The DSM Administrator collaborated effectively with SNSMR to identify eligible households for the Heating Assistance Rebate Program, which was found to be efficient and cost-effective.
Program Finding Recommendation Low LIH-F9. LIH-R9. Income There is a misperception amongst delivery agents, that only homes that Training and communications of Delivery Agents should clearly Households required significant building envelop...
AI summary The Low Income Households Program faces challenges due to misunderstandings among delivery agents about eligibility criteria and participant expectations. Outreach agents report higher expectations from participants, including incorrect beliefs about receiving appliances or insulation, leading to dissatisfaction.
Program Finding Recommendation Low LIH-F12. LIH-R12. Income The LIH the program is not consistently referred to by the same name The DSM Administrator should establish a single name for the Households throughout the program delivery proces...
AI summary The Low Income Households (LIH) program faces challenges with inconsistent naming, leading to customer confusion. The program was referred to as both 'Nova Scotia Low Income Households' and 'REAP,' causing misunderstandings. Additionally, the reduction in Delivery Agents from four to three in 2010 raised concerns about adequate program delivery.
Program Finding Recommendation Low LIH-F16. LIH-R16. Income As reported in the 2009 evaluation, the LIH program tracking The DSM Administrator should introduce a unique identifier as Households information did not include a unique identifi...
AI summary The Low Income Households (LIH) program lacks a unique identifier for participants, leading to inefficiencies in tracking. Delivery Agents submit multiple invoices for Scope I and Scope II upgrades, increasing administrative burden. The report recommends integrating Outreach and Delivery Agents as full program partners.
Program Finding Recommendation Low LIH-F20. LIH-R20. Income Some respondents reported a substantial discrepancy between the Continue to require the Delivery Agent to walk participants around Households measures that were recorded as having...
AI summary The Low Income Households Program faced issues with verification of installed energy efficiency measures, with a drop in verification rates from 95% in 2009 to 77% in 2010. Quality control activities increased in 2010, including third-party inspections and participant sign-off. Education on energy efficiency practices was highlighted as beneficial for long-term energy savings.
ntial had a limited target for the number of refrigerators to be replaced. opportunities in the multi-family sector: Program promotions consisted solely of cold calls to potential Affordable housing property owners. This may be one the e...
AI summary The pilot program had limited success in engaging the multi-family sector due to limited outreach and a small target for refrigerator replacements. Opportunities include targeting affordable housing property owners and bundling incentives for multiple appliance replacements to overcome split incentives barriers.
additional electric measure rebates from Nova Scotia Power? 34. How does the pre-retrofit evaluation serve the customers‘ needs? How often does the information provided confirm what they already know about their homes? How often does it le...
AI summary The text includes a series of questions about the effectiveness of energy efficiency programs, including customer satisfaction, program barriers, and program improvements. It also references an evaluation report on the Low Income Households Program from 2010, submitted to Efficiency Nova Scotia Corporation.
Program 2010 February 25, 2011 Final Report Submitted to: Efficiency Nova Scotia Corporation Submitted by: NMR Group, Inc. Principal Investigators: Rohit Vaidya David Barclay Lauren Abraham NMR Group, Inc. Tom Ledyard Tim Hennessy KEMA, In...
AI summary The final report evaluates the 2010 Low Income Households Program, submitted by NMR Group, Inc. to Efficiency Nova Scotia Corporation. The report was prepared by a team of principal investigators and includes contact information for NMR Group, Inc.
nc. 50-2 Howard Street, Somerville, MA 02144 Phone: (617) 284-6230 Fax: (617) 284-6239 www.nmrgroupinc.com Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program
AI summary The document presents an evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households Program, focusing on its effectiveness and impact on low-income households.
NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program Page I Executive Summary This report presents the results of the 2010 process and impact evaluation of the residential Low Income Households program (LIH) conducted by NMR Group, Inc. (N...
AI summary This report evaluates the 2010 Low Income Households (LIH) program, also known as the Residential Energy Affordability Program (REAP), administered by Conserve Nova Scotia (CNS). The evaluation was conducted by NMR Group, Inc. for Nova Scotia Power and Efficiency Nova Scotia Corporation, and included interviews with staff and contractors, as well as a telephone survey with 62 participants.
variety of program topics including goals, theory, structure, design, delivery, roles of individuals and marketing. The telephone survey was conducted with a sample of sixty-two program participants. Impact Evaluation Findings The impact e...
AI summary The impact evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households (LIH) program found that it achieved 895.4 MWh of energy savings and 199.2 kW of demand savings, which were below the program's goals of 5,260 MWh and 1,170 kW. The evaluation used billing analysis and reviews of HOT2000 reports.
ogram Savings Summary Peak Demand (kW) Energy (MWh) Net annual savings at generator 199.2 895.4 Findings and Recommendations The LIH program uses three primary REAP Delivery Agents who implement the program. Each Delivery Agent employs or...
AI summary The LIH program uses three REAP Delivery Agents to implement energy efficiency measures. Most participants reported satisfaction and improved comfort. Delays in contract execution in 2010 impacted program delivery. Savings estimates were lower than alternative calculations based on CNS data.
risdictions. NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program Page II of five (40%) reported that the program measures had reduced their energy bills (40%). Three out of five respondents (60%) reported behavior changes such as turning...
AI summary An evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households Program found that 40% of participants reported reduced energy bills, while 60% reported behavior changes like turning off lights and adjusting thermostats. The evaluation also noted a 46% increase in energy efficiency knowledge and identified opportunities to improve program design, marketing, and communications.
Program Outreach and Marketing Finding Recommendation LIH-F1. LIH-R1. Although the participant sourcing process worked effectively, the Increase program marketing and outreach efforts to assure flow of names of prospective participants tha...
AI summary The outreach and marketing efforts for the Low Income Households (LIH) program were insufficient, leading to a lack of consistent participant recruitment. Outreach Agents believe increasing income eligibility thresholds, especially in rural areas, could improve recruitment and delivery efficiency.
ncies of time and travel expenses. LIH-F3. LIH-R3. One in three respondents (34%) to the participant survey reported first Consider increasing targeted media advertising of the learning about REAP from outreach activities: a letter (19%) o...
AI summary The evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households Program found that outreach activities like letters and direct calls were the main sources of awareness for the Residential Energy Affordability Program (REAP). Participants were primarily motivated by energy savings and financial benefits, though some remained skeptical about the program being free.
NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program Page III
AI summary The document evaluates the 2010 Low Income Households Program, focusing on its effectiveness and impact on low-income households in Nova Scotia.
only about one in eight participants (13%) reported that they found out about the program through word-of-mouth. LIH-F8. LIH-R8. The DSM Administrator (via CNS) worked effectively with SNSMR Identifying eligible participants through the pa...
AI summary The DSM Administrator, through CNS, collaborated with SNSMR to identify income-eligible electrically heated households for the Heating Assistance Rebate Program. However, there was a misperception among delivery agents regarding eligibility criteria, leading to potential screening issues.
t. NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program Page IV Program Outreach and Marketing (continued) Finding Recommendation LIH-F11. LIH-R11. Participants who apply to the program through the Outreach Agents Reduce time from particip...
AI summary The 2010 Low Income Households Program faced delays in participant recruitment, with Outreach Agents reporting a five to six month delay between application and first contact. A recommendation is made to reduce this time to four to six weeks and improve communication with the program administrator.
y and record the homes with the greatest potential Agents in the determinations regarding making such a energy savings from Scope I measures. change. NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program Page V
AI summary The document discusses the evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households Program, focusing on identifying homes with the greatest potential for energy savings through Scope I measures.
e. NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program Page V
AI summary This document evaluates the 2010 Low Income Households Program, focusing on its effectiveness and impact on low-income households.
Program Delivery Structure and Design (continued) Finding Recommendation LIH-F16. LIH-R16. As reported in the 2009 evaluation, the LIH program tracking The DSM Administrator should introduce a unique information did not include a unique id...
AI summary The LIH program's tracking system lacks unique identifiers for participants, leading to inefficiencies. Delivery agents submit multiple invoices per home, increasing administrative burden. Recommendations include assigning unique identifiers early and integrating outreach and delivery agents for better program delivery.
Delivery Agent to walk measures that were recorded as having been installed and what they participants around their homes after installation is thought actually was installed. In particular, verification of building complete and attest to...
AI summary The evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households Program found that verification of installed energy efficiency measures decreased from 95% in 2009 to 77% in 2010, possibly due to poor recall or incomplete installation. Quality control activities were increased in 2010, including third-party inspections and participant sign-off on installed measures.
and the quality of the work completed. 95% to 84%. Lastly, satisfaction with the quality of the work completed declined from 95% to 81%. While about one out of four respondents (24%) offered a recommendation to improve the program, the top...
AI summary The evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households Program shows a decline in customer satisfaction, with satisfaction levels dropping from 95% to 84% and the quality of work completed declining from 95% to 81%. The top recommendation for improvement was to enhance the quality of work.
NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program Page 1 1 Program Description and Data Tracking
AI summary The document evaluates the 2010 Low Income Households Program, focusing on program description and data tracking. It provides an overview of the program and outlines how data is collected and managed.
1.1 Program Description The 2010 Low Income Housing (LIH) program was administered by Conserve Nova Scotia (CNS),4 which called it the Residential Energy Affordability Program (REAP); and was funded by CNS, the DSM Administrator, Natural R...
AI summary The 2010 Low Income Housing (LIH) program, administered by Conserve Nova Scotia (CNS) and known as the Residential Energy Affordability Program (REAP), aimed to assist low-income homeowners with energy efficiency upgrades. Key changes included the addition of an Outreach Agent, reduction in Delivery Agents, and the use of third-party inspections. The program targeted energy savings in 875 homes.
ocation of the REAP funds. The regions were: Western region including the Lunenburg, Queens, Shelburne, Yarmouth, Digby, Annapolis and Kings counties; Central region including the Halifax Regional Municipality and Hants county; North...
AI summary The REAP funds were distributed across four regions in Nova Scotia, targeting low-income households in older homes with building envelope and water-saving improvements. Conserve Nova Scotia was scheduled to shut down in 2011.
ation will shut down in 2011. NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program Page 2 Insulation of basement and/or crawlspaces, exposed floors, main walls and attics/ceilings; Draft-proofing areas such as windows, doors, attic hat...
AI summary The document outlines the various home energy efficiency upgrades provided under the 2010 Low Income Households Program, including insulation, draft-proofing, thermostat installation, and the replacement of inefficient appliances with ENERGY STAR-rated alternatives.
elp reduce moisture levels in homes that are have draft proofing measures installed In order to facilitate implementation of the 2010 program, CNS contracted with three service providers. NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Progra...
AI summary The 2010 Low Income Households Program aimed to reduce moisture levels in homes with draft proofing measures. CNS contracted with three service providers to implement the program.
d with three service providers. NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program Page 3
AI summary The document evaluates the 2010 Low Income Households Program, focusing on its implementation and impact. It involves three service providers and is part of a regulatory proceeding in Nova Scotia.
1.1.1 Program Theory Program Background The LIH program is a Resource Acquisition program. As a Resource Acquisition program, LIH‘s primary goal is to increase the energy efficiency levels of low-income customer-owned households in Nova Sc...
AI summary The LIH program aims to improve energy efficiency in low-income households through a whole-house approach, with Scope I and Scope II measures. The DSM Administrator funds Scope I measures in electrically heated homes, and CNS identifies potential participants through various sources and outreach efforts.
a detailed renovation plan including photographs of areas of homes requiring upgrades and the proposed costs for each upgrade for those homes considered to have enough potential for energy efficiency upgrades. Once CNS has approved the ren...
AI summary The REAP program provides energy efficiency upgrades to low-income households through a detailed renovation plan, including educational discussions and final evaluations. CNS recruits delivery agents and trains energy evaluators, while DCS and SNSMR refer eligible households. Outreach agents also help recruit participants.
iting potential participants. NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program Page 4
AI summary The document discusses the evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households Program, focusing on its effectiveness and potential participants.
number of Delivery Agents to provide services throughout the province. Sufficient Training to Delivery Agents. Sufficient training is provided to Delivery Agents to perform EnerGuide Energy evaluations. Skills and Equipment. Delivery A...
AI summary The document outlines the key factors for the successful delivery of energy evaluations under the Low Income Households Program, including the availability of trained delivery agents, financial constraints of participants, and the potential for energy savings through program participation.
Program Barriers Mistrust. Potential participants may not believe that the program is offered for free. Information Sharing. Due to privacy concerns, participant information is not shared freely between the national and provincial gove...
AI summary The document outlines program barriers such as mistrust, information sharing challenges, and lack of a comprehensive participant pool. It also highlights short-term and mid-term outcomes, including increased energy knowledge, bill reductions, and improved comfort for low-income households.
ngs estimates for energy efficiency improvements. Increased awareness of the LIH program in Nova Scotia low-income population. Through word-of-mouth and other channels, awareness of the LIH program and its benefits spreads among the low-...
AI summary The document outlines the expected outcomes of the Low Income Households (LIH) program in Nova Scotia, focusing on increased awareness, participation, and long-term benefits such as energy savings, bill reductions, improved economic well-being, and emission reductions. It also mentions the program's logic model.
10 Low Income Households Program Page 7 1.1.2 Program Logic Figure 1-1: Residential Energy Affordability Program Logic Model NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program Page 8 2 Impact Evaluation
AI summary The document discusses the evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households Program, focusing on its impact and program logic. It includes a logic model for the Residential Energy Affordability Program, indicating a focus on low-income households and energy affordability.
l NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program Page 8 2 Impact Evaluation
AI summary This section of the document evaluates the impact of the 2010 Low Income Households Program, focusing on its effectiveness and outcomes.
2.1 Background to the Analysis For the Low Income Households program, we assessed electric savings through an independent billing analysis of Nova Scotia Power Inc. (NSPI) billing data. Consistent with the Savings Verification Report dated...
AI summary The analysis of the Low Income Households (LIH) program uses billing data from Nova Scotia Power Inc. (NSPI) to assess electric savings. The approach involves comparing participants and non-participants using a time series cross-sectional design, with results from 2009 used to estimate 2010 impacts. The program saw minor operational changes, such as a reduction in service providers and increased radio marketing in 2010.
he type of activity within the LIH program participants in 2009 versus 2010. The data in this table provides support for the transferability between the results of the billing analysis of 2009 participants to 2010 participants. In particul...
AI summary The text compares program activity in the LIH program between 2009 and 2010, showing similar proportions of participants receiving Scope I and Scope II upgrades. It also notes that the percentage of electric heat in participant homes was nearly the same in both years, which may explain higher consumption patterns in 2010.
rticipants later in this report. NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program Page 9
AI summary The document evaluates the 2010 Low Income Households Program, focusing on its implementation and impact. It discusses the program's objectives and outcomes, particularly in relation to energy efficiency and affordability for low-income households.
hese participants from the analysis, the installation was assumed to have occurred during 2009. The next data management step checked the participant accounts to verify that there was enough data in NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Househ...
AI summary The evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households Program involved verifying participant accounts to ensure sufficient data for analysis, resulting in 210 participants available for billing analysis after data editing.
e-participation and post-participation period to be accurately analyzed. At the end of the editing of the participant billing data a total of 210 participants were available for the billing analysis. 2.4 Develop Representative Control Grou...
AI summary The analysis involved 210 participants in the LIH program and the creation of a control group of 1,860 customers to assess the program's impact on electricity consumption. The control group was selected based on similar temperature, rate class, and heating source. Matching criteria included annualized usage and rate code, with four control group customers selected for each participant. The distribution of annualized usage showed similar consumption patterns between the groups.
station as the participants. NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program Page 11 2.5 Temperature Normalize Billing Information One of the most important steps in the assessment of the effect of the LIH program is the comparison of...
AI summary This section discusses the temperature normalization process used to evaluate the 2010 Low Income Households Program. By controlling for weather influences using heating and cooling degree-days, the program's impact on energy usage was isolated. Results show a decrease in normalized annual consumption for participants and an increase for the control group, indicating the program's effectiveness.
logy is described in detail in Appendix A. 8 Details of this analysis can be found in Appendix A. 9 The normal temperatures used in this analysis are based on the historical daily temperatures. NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households...
AI summary The document evaluates the 2010 Low Income Households (LIH) program by comparing participant and control group Normal Annual Consumption (NAC) before and after program participation. Two methods—Augmented Comparison Method (PRISM) and Regression—were used to estimate energy savings.
e average control group pre- and post-installation usage along with the participant data were used to estimate net savings. Table 2-5 shows the mean savings for the program derived from this analysis. Table 2-5: Comparison of 2009 Net Savi...
AI summary The evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households (LIH) program uses control group data and participant usage to estimate energy savings. Table 2-5 shows mean savings by stratum, with overall net savings of 13%. The distribution of savings is roughly normal, and initial analysis confirms the program's impact on reducing electric consumption.
thods. NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program Page 13 Figure 2-1 Distribution of 2009 PRISM Savings Distribution of Net Savings 25 20 Participants 15 10 5 0 -5000 -4000 -3000 -2000 -1000 0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 Net Savings
AI summary This section evaluates the 2010 Low Income Households Program by analyzing the distribution of 2009 PRISM savings, illustrating the range of net savings among participants.
Estimated Savings Comparison of Estimated Savings 1,400 1,200 1,000 Average Savings 800 1,297 600 1,059 1,044 400 586 200 - PRISM OLS-SAE OLS-PreNac Proxy WLS-PreNac Proxy Estimation Approach NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Pr...
AI summary The 2010 Low Income Households Program's estimated savings were calculated using 2009 results and normalized billing data. The average expected savings was 1,117 kWh (9%) with a 90% confidence interval of 854 to 1,381 kWh per year.
e stratum level savings, the 2010 average expected savings was 1,117 kWh, (or 9%) with a 90% confidence interval of 854 kWh per year to 1,381 kWh per year. This was a 24% relative confidence interval. Table 2-8: 2010 Savings Estimates per...
AI summary The 2010 Low Income Households Program achieved an average energy savings of 1,117 kWh per participant, or 9%, with a 90% confidence interval ranging from 854 kWh to 1,381 kWh per year. The savings varied across different consumption strata.
12,870 1,117 9% NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program Page 18 2.6.4 2010 Program Savings Compared to Other Jurisdictions To put these results in context, we undertook a limited research effort to compare the performance of t...
AI summary The 2010 Low Income Households (LIH) Program's energy savings were compared to similar programs in the northeastern United States. Results show the LIH program's savings were comparable, with some programs having higher or lower savings depending on the metric used.
sumption, the LIH program is higher than the PECO study (5.6% and 7.4%) but less than the 2010 CT Low Income study (12.4%), which were the only two studies identified that provided such a benchmark. Table 2-9: Comparison of Savings to Othe...
AI summary The document compares the savings achieved by the LIH program with other programs across different jurisdictions. The LIH program's savings (5.6% and 7.4%) are lower than the 2010 CT Low Income study (12.4%) but higher than the PECO study (5.6% and 7.4%). The table provides a detailed comparison of average savings per participating home across various programs.
AP%20Evaluation%20Report.pdf NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program Page 19 Table 2-10 presents the final estimates of savings for the LIH program based upon the billing analysis results described above. This table utilizes t...
AI summary The 2010 Low Income Households (LIH) Program achieved 800.3 MWh in energy savings at the meter and 895.4 MWh at the generator. The program had a 30% realization rate compared to the tracking estimate. Demand savings were estimated at 178 kW at the meter and 199.2 kW at the generator.
tive estimate of impacts for the LIH program. In the interest of producing this alternative estimate conservatively, we used the lower bound of the Conserve Nova Scotia space heating use combined with 17 We used a factor of 1.1188 to calcu...
AI summary This section provides an alternative impact estimate for the Low Income Households (LIH) program using a conservative approach based on space heating data and billing analysis. The estimated energy savings range from 1,129 MWh to 1,264 MWh, with corresponding demand savings of 251 kW to 281.2 kW.
Meter Generator Energy (MWh) 1,129 1,264 Demand (kW) 251 281.2 In the final analysis, however, the billing data approach was based on actual consumption data for the low income population and thus may be considered more reliable than extra...
AI summary The evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households (LIH) program used billing data for low-income households, which was considered more reliable than estimates from Conserve Nova Scotia's survey. The program's process evaluation involved interviews and surveys to assess its effectiveness in implementing energy-saving measures in low-income homes.
gy-saving measures in residential low income customer-owned households. The DSM Administrator‘s funding is directed to DSM measures that target cost-effective electrical energy savings opportunities. 3.1 Methodology 3.1.1 In-depth Intervie...
AI summary The document outlines the methodology used to evaluate the 2010 Low Income Households Program, including in-depth interviews with program administrators and participants, and a telephone survey to assess satisfaction, program effectiveness, and areas for improvement.
utilized four Delivery Agents, each one operating in one of the four program regions. The Delivery Agent that left the program was unsuccessful in its bid to remain a REAP delivery agent in 2010.19 In addition to the reduction in the numbe...
AI summary The REAP program reduced the number of Delivery Agents, with one leaving due to an unsuccessful bid. Additional changes included hiring a second Outreach Agent to increase participation among low-income electrically heated homes and enhanced quality control procedures in 2010.
y the previous Delivery Agent. NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program Page 23
AI summary The document evaluates the 2010 Low Income Households Program, focusing on its effectiveness and impact on low-income households in Nova Scotia.
ators and freezers. The guidebook is contained as an appendix within the LIH program manual. If the age of the appliance could not be determined from the guidebook, Delivery Agents were expected to consult web- based resources in order to...
AI summary The LIH program manual provided guidance for identifying appliance ages, but initial lack of information caused challenges for Delivery Agents. Program administrators are considering separating Scope I and Scope II audits to improve cost-effectiveness, with Scope II audits focusing on homes with higher energy savings potential.
3.4 Production of Participant Lists In 2010, the proportion of participants recruited through DCS decreased while the proportion recruited by the Outreach Agents increased. In addition, a third recruitment method was implemented to generat...
AI summary In 2010, the recruitment of participants for energy efficiency programs in Nova Scotia shifted from DCS to Outreach Agents, with a third method introduced through CNS and SNSMR. While this method was deemed cost-effective, it led to an insufficient number of participant names, causing inefficiencies and inconsistent work for Delivery Agents. Screening processes were also criticized as inadequate.
be an additional program weakness. NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program Page 25
AI summary The document evaluates the 2010 Low Income Households Program, identifying it as having an additional program weakness. This assessment likely relates to its effectiveness or implementation.
3.5 Role of the Outreach Agents The Outreach Agents were responsible for recruiting eligible low-income homeowners who heated their homes primarily with electricity. The service territory was divided between the two Outreach Agents. One Ou...
AI summary The Outreach Agents were responsible for recruiting low-income homeowners in Nova Scotia for a program, using various methods like flyers, community organizations, and radio ads. They fell short of recruitment goals and identified the Good Neighbour Energy Fund as a successful source of applicants.
e of the local radio stations, and classified ads were placed in circulars distributed to households in rural areas. Both of the Outreach Agents believed that incorporating an advertising budget into the program would allow them to recruit...
AI summary The REAP program faced challenges in participant recruitment and communication. Outreach Agents believed expanding income eligibility, especially for rural areas, would increase participation. Communication gaps existed between Outreach Agents and CNS, leading to unresolved customer concerns and significant delays in the program process.
a welcome letter from CNS in several weeks. However, the Outreach Agents reported process delays of five to six months. The program design identifies the Outreach Agent as a source of program participants and therefore they have no influen...
AI summary The Outreach Agents faced process delays of five to six months, leading to communication gaps with program participants. The DSM Administrator has since addressed these issues by discussing them with the Outreach Agents and implementing regular check-ins.
an invoice along with receipts at the end of each month to CNS. It is important to note that at no point during the data tracking process was a single unique identifier assigned to program participants. Instead, program records were mainta...
AI summary The document discusses data tracking procedures used by CNS for the 2010 Low Income Households Program, noting that customer names were used as identifiers despite being prone to errors. It also highlights the effectiveness of onsite visits and contractor services during energy audits.
been done over the summer. The one exception was that as a result of the new water heater wrap and insulation, she was now getting hot water immediately. The customer was very happy with the work. NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Househol...
AI summary The document discusses a survey of participants in the 2010 Low Income Households Program, focusing on eligibility criteria and heating practices. It highlights that participants primarily use electricity for heating water (100%) and space heating (73%).
9% 5% Advertisement 2% 3% Other 5% β Don‘t know 13% 24% β Significantly different from 2009 LI REAP sample at the 90% confidence level. NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program Page 29
AI summary The evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households Program shows that 9% of participants were aware of the Residential Energy Affordability Program (REAP), while 5% were aware of the Low Income Cut-Offs (LICO). A significant difference in awareness between 2009 and 2010 is noted at the 90% confidence level.
the 90% confidence level. NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program Page 29
AI summary This document evaluates the 2010 Low Income Households Program, focusing on its effectiveness and impact at the 90% confidence level.
lect the sources for the participants in each year. As noted previously, in 2009, the participants came primarily from DCS, whereas in 2010 the participants came from the Outreach Agents and SMSNR. NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Househo...
AI summary The text discusses the sources of participants in the Low Income Households Program for 2009 and 2010, noting a shift from DCS in 2009 to Outreach Agents and SMSNR in 2010.
R Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program Page 30 Table 4-3: Reasons for Participating
AI summary The document evaluates the 2010 Low Income Households Program, focusing on the reasons for participation as outlined in Table 4-3.
home 2 To improve resale 2% value Other 2 4% 3 2% Don‘t know 5 35% 10 52% β Refused 4% 5% β Significantly different from 2009 LI REAP sample at the 90% confidence level. NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program Page 31 Responde...
AI summary The evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households Program found that only four respondents had concerns about participating, including worries about potential costs and contractor behavior, despite the program offering free services and installations.
AP program measures installed from one to six months ago, a larger proportion of respondents (45%) reported that the measures had been installed more than seven months ago. Nevertheless, it is also NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Househo...
AI summary The evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households Program indicates that some respondents may have inaccurately reported the timing of installed program measures, possibly due to incomplete installations by Delivery Agents.
5 100% freezer replacement Second refrigerator and freezer 3 100% 2 50% 50 removal Electric kettle with auto shut-off 26 77% 23 11 82% 18 Power bars to facilitate reduction in β 33 64% 36 15 93% 7 standby electricity loss Replacement of ce...
AI summary The evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households Program indicates that nearly one in five respondents received measures not tracked in the DSM Administrator database, such as fans and child safety plugs. There was confusion regarding the inclusion of televisions and lamps in the program.
66% 60% No 29 35 DK/Refused 5 5 More than one-half of the respondents (51%) now turn off lights when they may not have before. Additionally, over one in five (22%) now set their heating thermostats lower and turn off appliances. (Table 4-1...
AI summary The data shows that 51% of respondents now turn off lights, and 22% set their heating thermostats lower and turn off appliances. These behavioral changes were observed in a survey of low-income households, with a sample size of 36 in 2009 and 37 in 2010.
eduling of work 93% β Significantly different from 2009 LI REAP sample at the 90% confidence level. NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program Page 39 In addition to high levels of satisfaction, almost four out of five respondent...
AI summary The evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households Program shows high satisfaction and perceived value among participants, with 79% reporting substantial value and 58% reporting immense value. Most respondents would recommend the program, although a few expressed dissatisfaction with eligibility criteria and service quality.
They say it is a mini home and therefore it does not qualify,‖ and, ―They made promises to fix the hole and they didn‘t. They pulled the freezer out and didn‘t put it back. I expected better service.‖ Table 4-16: Value of the program 2009...
AI summary The text includes customer feedback about poor service and a table evaluating the value of a program for low-income households in 2009 and 2010. The table shows high levels of satisfaction with the program, with most respondents indicating they would recommend it.
2 NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program Page 40 Nine respondents (15%) stated that they had not recommended the program to a family member or friend. When asked to explain why they had not recommended the program to anyone,...
AI summary The evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households Program found that 15% of respondents did not recommend the REAP program to others, primarily due to eligibility requirements. Additionally, 11% of respondents did not install recommended energy efficiency measures, with reasons varying among participants.
8 None 66% 76% β Significantly different from 2009 LI REAP sample at the 90% confidence level. Both of the Delivery Agents interviewed did some outreach for the program. One agent would like to see the program increase its advertising in a...
AI summary The evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households Program found that over half of the respondents expressed interest in additional energy savings measures, particularly building envelope improvements like insulation and windows. Delivery agents suggested increasing advertising and program scope to address health and safety issues.
3% Ventilation 9% Lighting 5% Programmable Thermostat 5% Stove Furnace 5% Other 5% 9% β Significantly different from 2009 LI REAP sample at the 90% confidence level. NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households Program Page 44 4.8 Demograp...
AI summary The evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households Program discusses demographic data, including housing types, number of bedrooms, and household composition. The majority of respondents lived in single-family homes and had two or three bedrooms, with most being sole full-time residents.
4 3 6 2 Don‘t know/refused 2 Full time inhabitants 2009 2010 Sample size 55 62 1 56% 56% 2 33 27 3 6 6 4 2 5 5 4 6 3 8 2 β Significantly different from 2009 LI REAP sample at the 90% confidence level. NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Hous...
AI summary The evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households Program found that the majority of respondents were aged forty-five or older, with nearly one-third being sixty-five or older, and nearly seven out of ten being female.
uation certificates. Fewer than one in ten (8%) held university certificates or diplomas. Two out of five of the respondents (40%) had total annual household incomes of less than $15,000. (Table 4-23) Table 4-23: Education and Income Educa...
AI summary The data shows that a significant portion of respondents (40%) had household incomes below $15,000, and only 8% held university certificates or diplomas. Education levels and income distribution are presented in Table 4-23, highlighting disparities in education and income between 2009 and 2010.
Refused 11 23β β Significantly different from 2009 LI REAP sample at the 90% confidence level. NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households program Page A1
AI summary The document discusses the evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households program, noting that results were significantly different from the 2009 LI REAP sample at the 90% confidence level.
e 90% confidence level. NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households program Page A1
AI summary This document evaluates the 2010 Low Income Households program, focusing on its effectiveness and impact at a 90% confidence level.
Appendix A Billing Analysis Methodology Detailed Methodology to Develop the Participant Analysis Group The first step in the analysis of the Low Income Household Program was to identify all participants that could contribute to the analysi...
AI summary This section outlines the methodology used to analyze the Low Income Household Program. It describes the process of identifying participants and constructing a control group using specific criteria, such as annualized usage, to ensure accurate comparisons.
the optimal model. However, in building mathematical regression models, the R2 statistic has a tendency to increase as the number of independent variables increases. Therefore, when comparing models with different numbers of regressors, th...
AI summary This text discusses the use of statistical methods in evaluating the 2010 Low Income Households program. It highlights the limitations of the R2 statistic when comparing models with different numbers of variables and suggests the use of mean squared error (MSE) as an alternative approach to determine the optimal model.
sor is added to the equation. NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households program Page A5
AI summary The document evaluates the 2010 Low Income Households program, focusing on its effectiveness and impact on low-income households in Nova Scotia.
the estimated mean. NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households program Page A8
AI summary The document evaluates the 2010 Low Income Households program, focusing on its estimated mean and other relevant metrics.
e the RMSE to find the best choice of z and use this particular WLS regression to obtain the best estimate of savings. During this step, a residual analysis is performed. If heteroscedasticity is suspected, the models are estimated using W...
AI summary The text discusses a statistical approach for estimating energy savings using WLS regression and references academic sources. It also includes a table from an evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households program, showing that all 55 respondents inhabited the same house.
2 14 Don‘t know 6 31 Refused 3 Table B-3: Reason for Dissatisfaction Respondents n Overall ―snarky‖ when respondent made inquires of the 1 program Energy Audit Auditor ―skipped out on jobs‖ 1 Table B-4: Barriers to Action Faced Barriers Re...
AI summary The text presents data from evaluations of the 2010 Low Income Households program, including reasons for dissatisfaction and barriers to action. It includes tables showing responses from respondents, such as dissatisfaction with program interactions and barriers faced by participants.
Yes 4 NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households program Page B2 Table B-5: Impact of Measures 2009 2010 Rating: 5= ‘considerable Rating: 5= ‘considerable improvement’ improvement’ and 1 = ‘no improvement’ and 1 = ‘no improvement’ n 5 4...
AI summary The document evaluates the impact of the 2010 Low Income Households program by analyzing survey responses on comfort, value of the house, energy bill reduction, and energy efficiency knowledge. It includes a questionnaire used during interviews with participants.
(Don‘t know) 9. Refused NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households program Page C2 SC3. Do you use ELECTRICITY to heat the hot water heater in your home? 1. (Yes) 2. (No) 8. (Don‘t know) 9. (Refused)[IF SC2 OR SC3 = 1 (YES), CONTINUE. OT...
AI summary The text presents a survey related to the Residential Energy Affordability Program (REAP), focusing on participants' awareness, reasons for participation, and whether they still live in the homes that underwent the program. It includes screening questions and response options.
NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households program Page C3 3. Were there any other reasons? [DO NOT READ. ACCEPT MULTIPLE] 1 (To save money) 2 (save on my electricity bill) 3(To receive a new refrigerator) 4(My old refrigerator was not w...
AI summary The text presents survey responses from low-income households participating in a 2010 program, highlighting reasons for participation such as saving money, receiving appliances, and environmental concerns. It also includes questions about concerns participants had before joining the program, such as eligibility, costs, and impact on other assistance programs.
(Concern that participation will affect eligibility for other assistance programs – social assistance, heating assistance rebate) 8. Don‘t know 9. Refused 6. Thinking of your OVERALL experience with the Residential Energy Affordability Pro...
AI summary The text discusses customer feedback on the Residential Energy Affordability Program (REAP), including concerns about eligibility for other assistance programs and overall satisfaction with the program. Dissatisfaction reasons include delays in installation, product dissatisfaction, and poor evaluator experiences.
n you received from the energy evaluation changed your behavior in terms of how you use energy at home? 1. Yes [ASK Q#17] 2. No 8. Don‘t know 9. Refused 17. [IF Q#16=1] How has your behavior changed? [DO NOT READ. ACCEPT ALL RESPONSES] 1....
AI summary The text outlines a survey process to evaluate changes in energy behavior and verify program installations for the 2010 Low Income Households program. It includes questions about behavior changes and verification of installed energy efficiency measures.
NSTALLED, 8=REFUSED, 9=DON'T KNOW) NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households program Page C6 1. Building envelope measures such as: insulation, air sealing, weather stripping, or exterior door installation or replacement (Electric Space...
AI summary The document outlines the 2010 Low Income Households program, listing energy efficiency measures provided, such as insulation, programmable thermostats, and appliance replacements. It also asks about additional actions taken by participants beyond the program's offerings.
ecommendations for program improvements 33. Do you have any recommendations that you think would help improve the REAP program? Section 10 - Demographic characteristics [ASK ALL RESPONDENTS] These final questions are asked for statistical...
AI summary The text includes a question about improving the REAP program and demographic questions related to housing and energy use. The demographic questions aim to collect statistical data on residence type, bedroom count, ownership, electricity bill payment, and home occupancy.
E TIME TO RESPOND TO THIS SURVEY.] NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households program Page C12
AI summary The document discusses the evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households program, focusing on its impact and effectiveness in addressing energy affordability for low-income households.
Staff Interview Guide for NSPI, 2010 Date: Name: Programs responsible for: Introduction: [This interview should take about an hour] Your comments are confidential. By the way, if I ask you about areas you don‘t know about, please feel free...
AI summary This document outlines an interview guide for NSPI programs, focusing on program responsibilities, stakeholder interactions, and operational timelines, particularly for the Low Income REAP program and its associated partners.
program? When did it start? When will it end? 6. What are the 2010 energy savings goals for [PROGRAM(s)]? Do you think you will achieve these goals? 7. We‘ll be going into a number of specific areas later in the interview, but from an over...
AI summary The text outlines a series of questions related to a 2010 Low Income Households program, including its start and end dates, energy savings goals, and overall successes in planning and implementation.
mplementing the program(s) this year? NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households program Page C13
AI summary The text refers to the evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households program, likely in the context of assessing its effectiveness or outcomes.
speak to about the program? Thank You NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households program Page C14
AI summary The text appears to be a heading or title related to an evaluation of a 2010 Low Income Households program. It lacks detailed content or discussion about the program's performance, outcomes, or stakeholders involved.
Staff Interview Guide for LI REAP Delivery Agents Primary Contact Date: Name: Organization: Introduction: [This interview should take about 30 minutes] Your comments are confidential. By the way, if I ask you about areas you don‘t know abo...
AI summary This document outlines an interview guide for Low Income Residential Energy Affordability Program (LI REAP) delivery agents, focusing on their roles, training, program goals, business impact, and reimbursement processes. It seeks to gather feedback on program effectiveness and areas for improvement.
ow you are paid for your work on the LI REAP program. Are the payments timely? How might the reimbursement process be improved? 9. Is the program set up in a way that works for you and your business? What specifically works? What does not?...
AI summary The LI REAP program's reimbursement process and effectiveness are being evaluated. Questions focus on payment timeliness, program structure, and improvements. The evaluation considers the 2010 Low Income Households program as a reference.
main goals of the LI REAP Program? NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households program Page C15
AI summary The document text references the evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households program, focusing on its main goals. It is part of a regulatory proceeding, likely related to energy efficiency or affordability initiatives.
Program Coordination and Communications 11. What organizations and individuals do you primarily interact with for this program? What is the nature of these interactions? How frequently are you in contact with them? [PROBE IF NOT MENTIONED:...
AI summary The text outlines a series of questions related to program coordination, communication, and reporting for an energy efficiency initiative. It asks about interactions with organizations and individuals, vendor relationships, and challenges in collaboration. It also inquires about data tracking and reporting requirements for the LI REAP Program.
ganization‘s effort for the LI REAP Program is spent on fulfilling data tracking requirements? [PROBE IF ISSUE IS NOT BROUGHT UP: What tracking and reporting data do you provide specifically regarding electric measures that are rebated by...
AI summary The text discusses the LI REAP Program, including its Scope I and Scope II upgrades, and asks about the effort spent on data tracking and reporting related to electric measures rebated by Nova Scotia Power. It also outlines the types of energy-efficient upgrades covered under each scope.
ot water tank and piping, installing low flow shower heads and faucet aerators, providing power bars and electric kettles and replacing eligible freezers and fridges with Energy Star.] NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households program P...
AI summary The text describes energy efficiency measures implemented in the 2010 Low Income Households program, including installation of low flow shower heads, faucet aerators, and replacement of eligible freezers and fridges with Energy Star models.
rs and fridges with Energy Star.] NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households program Page C16
AI summary The document evaluates the 2010 Low Income Households program, focusing on its effectiveness and impact on low-income residents in Nova Scotia.
k with more often than others? IF YES: Who are they and why do work with them and not with others? a. Is there anything that you would change about the process of selecting vendors or obtaining or ordering supplies for the program? What wo...
AI summary The text outlines questions for evaluating the Low-Income Residential Energy Assistance Program (LI REAP), focusing on vendor selection, program impact, process effectiveness, and customer awareness. It seeks input on improving program delivery and increasing consumer awareness among low-income households.
ntial customers? How does this work? NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households program Page C17 27. Are there any customer segments who have really low participation in the program? Why? Are there any geographic areas where there is low...
AI summary The text presents a series of questions aimed at evaluating the 2010 Low Income Households program, focusing on participation rates, customer satisfaction, program strengths and weaknesses, and areas for improvement. It also requests contact information for an energy advisor from an unspecified organization.
information for an energy advisor? NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households program Page C18
AI summary The document discusses the evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households program, focusing on its effectiveness and impact on low-income residents. It examines how the program helped reduce energy costs and improve energy efficiency for qualifying households.
LI REAP OUTREACH CONSULTANT INTERVIEW GUIDE FOR NSPI 2010 Date: Name: INTRODUCTION [This interview should take about 30-45 minutes] Your comments are confidential. By the way, if I ask you about areas you don‘t know about, please feel free...
AI summary This document outlines an interview guide for a LI REAP outreach consultant at NSPI, focusing on their role, time allocation, and interactions with various stakeholders involved in the LI REAP program.
ly? Have the various players all been clear as to program goals, the roles and responsibilities of different organizations, needs for coordination? What problems have arisen, if any, and how have they been resolved? Did you encounter any s...
AI summary The text asks about clarity of program goals, coordination among organizations, communication barriers, and successes in promoting the LI REAP program. It emphasizes collaboration, challenges faced, and opportunities for improvement in program implementation.
oting the LI REAP program this year? NMR Evaluation of 2010 Low Income Households program Page C19
AI summary The document discusses the evaluation of the 2010 Low Income Households program, focusing on its effectiveness and impact on low-income residents.
c. Again at the broadest level, what were the areas that were not so successful? d. To what do you trace the difficulties you encountered? How might they be addressed in future programs? PROGRAM OUTREACH 11. Do you have any goals for the p...
AI summary The text focuses on evaluating the success and challenges of the Low-Income Residential Energy Assistance Program (LI REAP), including outreach efforts, awareness levels, participation barriers, and opportunities for improvement, particularly in reaching low-income consumers and renters.
ularly good about program outreach? How could program outreach be improved? STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES / WRAP-UP 18. What would you say are the greatest strengths of the LI REAP program? And what would you say are the greatest weaknesses? Wh...
AI summary The document includes questions about the Low-Income Residential Energy Assistance Program (LIREAP), focusing on its outreach strengths and weaknesses, and potential improvements. It also references an evaluation report on the 2010 New Houses Program conducted by NMR Group, Inc. for Efficiency Nova Scotia Corporation.
barriers to participation because they were a non-profit company,10 one said they had difficulties communicating with a contractor, and one said their remote location had created a barrier.
AI summary The text highlights barriers to participation in a program, including being a non-profit company, communication difficulties with a contractor, and challenges due to a remote location.
E-7ENSC (Multeese) IR-1 to IR-31 3/29/2011
47 passages
Table of Contents Table of Contents i Recommendations for Increasing the Effectiveness of Demand Side Management among Low-income renters in Nova Scotia38 Efficiency Nova Scotia DSM Plan38 Short Term Low-income-renter DSM Program Strategie...
AI summary The document outlines recommendations to improve demand-side management (DSM) programs for low-income renters in Nova Scotia. It suggests modifying existing programs to provide no-cost or subsidized options, increasing funding, and implementing new initiatives such as the DSM Captain and Energy Leader Programs.
A convergence of recent trends including rising and unpredictable costs of energy, the increasing desire and need to mitigate environmental damage, and the focus on energy security has resulted in an expansion of Demand Side Management (DS...
AI summary The text discusses the need to expand Demand Side Management (DSM) programming in Nova Scotia to include low-income renters, who have been excluded from current initiatives. It highlights the challenges in identifying eligible participants and determining eligibility criteria, funding, and program scope for this group.
Introduction A convergence of recent trends including rising and unpredictable costs of energy, the increasing desire and need to mitigate environmental damage, and the focus on energy security has resulted in an expansion of Demand Side M...
AI summary The document discusses the need to expand Demand Side Management (DSM) programming in Nova Scotia to include low-income-renters, who are currently excluded and thus miss out on energy efficiency benefits. Energy poverty is defined as insufficient heating and ventilation due to economic hardship, disproportionately affecting low-income individuals. The report highlights the environmental and social benefits of addressing energy poverty and outlines a structure for identifying barriers, existing programs, and recommendations for expanding DSM programming.
Defining the Low-Income-Renter in Nova Scotia for Demand Side Management Identifying eligible candidates for low-income-renter DSM programming is an initial consideration in DSM Program design. This part of the paper begins with a discussi...
AI summary The text discusses the importance of identifying eligible low-income renters for Demand Side Management (DSM) programs in Nova Scotia. It highlights the need to address energy poverty and outlines various methods for determining eligibility, noting the varying circumstances of low-income renters across rural and urban areas.
Methods to Define Low-Income in Nova Scotia Although a general description of low-income status is linked to measuring poverty, a functional definition of low-income will depend on context. Poverty is the inability to provide for basic nee...
AI summary The text discusses the definition of low-income in Nova Scotia, emphasizing the need to consider both basic and varying needs such as food, housing, healthcare, and transportation. It highlights the importance of comparing the cost of these needs to income and support received, particularly for those aided by the Income Assistance Program.
Identifying Low-Income-Renters in Nova Scotia for Demand Side Management Programming In Nova Scotia, rental housing is a common form of housing, and includes a range of housing situations: single family homes and mobile homes, duplexes, fl...
AI summary This document discusses the challenges of implementing Demand Side Management (DSM) programming for low-income renters in Nova Scotia. It highlights the diversity of rental housing and energy contract situations, which create a principle-agent problem between landlords and tenants. Efficiency Nova Scotia is tasked with continuing DSM programming, including the development of low-income-renter initiatives, while NSPI plays a key role in customer engagement and data collection.
Next Steps to Identify Low-Income-Renters The purpose of this discussion has been to indicate the scope of considerations that should inform the eligibility of low-income-renters in Nova Scotia for specialized DSM programming. Determining...
AI summary This section outlines the importance of identifying low-income renters in Nova Scotia for specialized demand-side management (DSM) programming. It emphasizes the need for clear eligibility criteria and the use of existing data to streamline the process and conserve program resources for implementation. The discussion also references external programs and plans to provide a frame of reference for further analysis.
Low-Income-Renter Demand Side Management Models In this paper, we have profiled several DSM programs that provide some benefit to low-incomerenters. Fact sheets that profile the nineteen programs examined in our research are included in th...
AI summary This section of the paper highlights various Demand Side Management (DSM) programs that benefit low-income renters, noting that while many are viable, some stand out for their innovative approaches or unique successes. Fact sheets on nineteen programs are included in the appendix.
Retrofit Program Models DSM programming often brings with it an increase in property value that can lead a landlord to increase rent or target a different segment of the rental market with the improved property. A landlord's motivation to...
AI summary DSM programming can increase property value, potentially leading landlords to raise rents, which conflicts with the needs of low-income renters. Two programs have attempted to address this issue by preventing energy savings from being used as a justification for rent increases.
Ontario: Social Housing Retrofit Renovation Program Ontario's Social Housing Retrofit Renovation Program (SHRRP) offers significant funds for energy efficiency upgrades to a maximum funding of $32,000 per housing unit, provided landlords c...
AI summary Ontario's Social Housing Retrofit Renovation Program (SHRRP) provides up to $32,000 per unit for energy efficiency upgrades, contingent on landlords maintaining low-income social housing for ten years. The program includes support from a program administrator and requires rigorous accounting and reporting to ensure accountability and efficiency.
U.K.: Warm Front Identification of an appropriate class of potential beneficiaries for low-income-renter DSM programming may be problematic. A number of variables including income, living costs, type of housing, family size and other facto...
AI summary The U.K. Warm Front Program addresses challenges in identifying low-income beneficiaries for energy efficiency programs by leveraging existing government eligibility criteria. It avoids creating new administrative burdens by qualifying applicants based on their receipt of income assistance and other benefits, offering extensive energy efficiency consultation and grants.
New York: Assisted Multi-Family Loan Program Although many DSM programs offer funding to carry out energy efficiency work, many rely on some investment of capital by property owners. Particularly where renters pay heating bills directly, l...
AI summary The Assisted Multi-Family Loan Program (AMFP) in New York provides low-interest loans and grants to landlords for energy efficiency upgrades, addressing the split incentive problem by aligning landlord and tenant interests. The program ensures that investments are proportional to energy savings, benefiting low-income consumers and providing predictability for utilities and sponsors.
U.S.: Weatherization Assistance Program Although many of the factors important in the design and delivery of DSM programming have been dealt with by the programs studied in our research, some consistent gaps remain: particularly reporting...
AI summary The U.S. Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) provides accountability reports to Congress and the public, including 'In Progress Peer Reviews' and 'Process Assessments.' In contrast, programs like Peaksaver and Warm Up Winnipeg have limited reporting on program effectiveness. The paper highlights gaps in reporting and accountability in DSM programs and discusses barriers facing low-income renters in accessing energy savings.
Low-Income-Renter Demand Side Management Barriers The term "efficiency gap" is used to describe the difference between actual energy consumption and a lower level of energy consumption that would make sense due to the savings that follow f...
AI summary The paper discusses the 'efficiency gap' and the barriers to energy-efficient behavior, particularly affecting low-income renters. It highlights the complex relationship between landlords and renters, and the need for coordinated policy approaches to address these barriers effectively.
The Efficiency Gap The goal of DSM programming is to narrow the efficiency gap. Through the use of education, information and technology, a DSM program communicates and assists energy consumers in making good choices and implementing measu...
AI summary The document discusses the concept of the efficiency gap in the context of Demand-Side Management (DSM) programming, emphasizing the need to address barriers to energy efficiency, particularly in low-income renter households. Effective DSM programs must be tailored to specific circumstances and informed by data analysis, with a strategic and flexible approach required for success.
Barriers In this section of the paper, barriers are addressed under five main headings: market barriers, information barriers, technology barriers, behavioral barriers and policy barriers. While all barriers inform the issues behind the en...
AI summary This section discusses barriers to energy efficiency, focusing on market, information, technology, behavioral, and policy barriers. It highlights how these barriers affect both landlords and tenants differently, particularly in relation to energy poverty and the indirect costs of energy in monthly rent.
s of energy production. In the low-income-renter context, work on this barrier will have limited impact due to the low-income-renter's limited economic power and marketplace participation constraints. Under the present regime, the most sig...
AI summary The text discusses market function barriers in the context of low-income renters, highlighting how the current DSM Program's cost recovery rider disproportionately affects them. It notes that low-income renters face challenges due to limited economic power and inefficient rental housing infrastructure, suggesting that investing DSM funds into rental housing should be a priority in the 2012 DSM Plan.
hmsenergy>. & lt;sup>60 Golove, supra note 34 at 22-24. high; this includes consideration of interest rate and discount rate reflecting payback period and investment risk). $^{61}$ The lack of capital barrier is the most significant invest...
AI summary The text discusses the significant investment barriers faced by low-income renters in Nova Scotia due to a lack of capital, making it difficult for them to invest in energy-efficient technologies despite potential long-term savings. It highlights that subsidy, incentive, and rebate programs that do not fully cover costs are insufficient, and suggests solutions such as full funding or deferred payment options.
Informational Barriers Informational barriers include lack of information, cost of information, accuracy of information and the ability to use or act on information. Issues related to these barriers include whether information is available...
AI summary The text discusses informational barriers that hinder decision-making in energy efficiency, particularly in the context of DSM programs. These barriers include lack of information, cost of information, accuracy, and the ability to use information. It highlights issues such as bounded rationality, information asymmetry, and the importance of outreach strategies to improve program uptake, especially among low-income renters.
Technological Barriers Technological barriers include a range of technological issues associated with energy efficiency decision-making. These include the availability of technology, 92 the effectiveness of technology, and the implementati...
AI summary The text discusses technological barriers to energy efficiency, focusing on the availability and accessibility of energy-saving technologies for low-income renters in Nova Scotia. It highlights existing programs and potential solutions, such as the BC Hydro Energy Savings Kit and the Peaksaver Program, which use smart-grid technology to manage energy consumption.
Behavioral Barriers Behavioral barriers 102 help to explain the decisions of energy consumers that reach beyond market forces and difficulties understanding information and technology. Distrust of Low-Income-Renter Demand Side Management i...
AI summary The document discusses behavioral barriers to low-income-renter participation in demand-side management (DSM) programming in Nova Scotia, focusing on distrust of information and privacy concerns. Examples include skepticism about DSM program benefits and concerns that upgrades may lead to increased property taxes.
Policy Barriers Low-income-renter DSM programming in Nova Scotia takes place in a rich policy context. In many ways, government policy aligns with the objectives of DSM programming. For example, a range of federal, 110 provincial, 111 and...
AI summary The document discusses policy barriers to low-income-renter DSM programming in Nova Scotia, highlighting the lack of special programming for renters and landlords, as well as the requirement of homeownership for participation in DSM programs. It also notes the DSM cost recovery rider as a concern.
A Coordinated Approach There is not a single barrier that is responsible for the efficiency gap in the context of lowincome-renter DSM. A spectrum of barriers, including market, informational, technology, behavioral and policy barriers int...
AI summary The text discusses the complexity of addressing barriers to low-income-renter demand-side management (DSM) programming. It emphasizes that multiple barriers interact and that no single solution exists. A case-specific approach is necessary, comparing the challenge to untying a complex knot, requiring careful unraveling and tailored strategies.
Next Steps to Identify Low-Income-Renter Barriers The purpose of the discussion in this part of the paper has been to outline the scope of barriers and policy options that should be considered in the development of responsive and effective...
AI summary The text outlines the need to address barriers faced by low-income renters in energy efficiency programs. It emphasizes the importance of cooperative efforts among government departments and NGOs, and suggests policy approaches such as energy market reforms and third-party investment mechanisms like PAYS. The goal is to develop effective DSM programming that alleviates energy poverty.
Part IV: Recommendations for Increasing the Effectiveness of Demand Side Management among Lowincome-renters in Nova Scotia The challenge of low-income-renter DSM programming is complicated by the challenges of identifying and providing res...
AI summary The text outlines recommendations to improve demand-side management (DSM) for low-income renters in Nova Scotia. It highlights the challenges in identifying and supporting this group and suggests short-term and long-term solutions, including policy and legislative changes. The recommendations emphasize the need for comprehensive strategies to address energy poverty beyond DSM.
2. Establish a simple process to qualify and inform low-income-renters about DSM programming A number of methods were identified in Part I of the paper to identify low-income individuals. Determining eligibility requirements, identificatio...
AI summary The document discusses establishing a simple process to qualify and inform low-income renters about demand-side management (DSM) programming. It references existing programs like Warm Front and Enbridge Home Weatherization Retrofit Program, which use eligibility criteria based on government benefits or pension schemes.
3. Ensure that the cost recovery rider charges paid by low-income-renters and their landlords are invested in low-income-renter DSM programming Initial approaches to qualification can also be used to estimate the Low-income-renter DSM Prog...
AI summary The text discusses ensuring that cost recovery rider charges from low-income renters and their landlords are invested in low-income-renter DSM programming. It outlines initial approaches to estimate the funding stream and refine the budget as the program develops.
4. Modify the Power Down Program to offer products at no cost The Power Down Program is available to low-income-renters but still requires an investment on their part. The Power Down products could be offered at no cost to qualifying low-i...
AI summary The Power Down Program, aimed at low-income renters, could be modified to offer energy efficiency products at no cost. Delivery would be through various community outlets, leveraging community networks and outreach agents to ensure effective distribution.
5. Modify the Pull the Plug II Program to cover full replacement cost The Pull the Plug II Program is nominally available to low-income-renters who own appliances. This program offers a cash rebate that can be applied to the cost of a new,...
AI summary The text proposes modifying the Pull the Plug II Program to cover full replacement costs for low-income renters, suggesting either free replacement or deferred payment arrangements. It also recommends bulk purchasing coordination with other jurisdictions and soliciting charitable contributions to reduce costs and improve access for low-income renters. Additionally, it suggests modifying the LED Holiday Lighting Exchange Program to provide a direct exchange for low-income renters.
10. Implement an Energy Leader Program to celebrate low-income-renter DSM success An Energy Leader Program could be designed to celebrate success stories in DSM implementation. This kind of a program brings recognition to the value of DSM...
AI summary An Energy Leader Program is proposed to celebrate successes in demand-side management (DSM) among low-income renters. The program aims to recognize and promote effective DSM implementation through real-life examples, fostering community culture change and encouraging proactive leadership.
1. Identify low-income-renters and manage cost recovery rider contributions to support low-income-renter DSM programming The work required to identify low-income-renters, and ensure that the DSM Program funding contributions of low-income-...
AI summary The text discusses the need to identify low-income renters and manage cost recovery rider contributions to support low-income-renter DSM programming. It suggests continuing from the 2012 DSM Plan and proposes exemptions or rebates for low-income Nova Scotians, similar to California's approach.
2. Provide no cost DSM programming to low-income-renters and attractive grants or financing terms to landlord property owners Low-income-renters are not in a position to invest in energy efficient technology. Energy poverty can only be rel...
AI summary The text advocates for no-cost demand-side management (DSM) programming for low-income renters and attractive grants or financing terms for landlord property owners. It highlights examples from New York, Manitoba, and New Brunswick that use financing mechanisms to support energy efficiency improvements in rental properties.
5. Continue to develop capacity to provide efficient assessment and program design services to minimize transaction costs Competent service providers, using systematic assessment methods, play a critical role in controlling transaction cos...
AI summary The text emphasizes the importance of competent service providers using systematic assessment methods, such as EnerGuide ratings, to control transaction costs of efficiency upgrades. It highlights the integration of EnerGuide ratings with existing programs and the need to build capacity for tailored programming in low-income housing contexts.
8. Incorporate training requirements into low-income-renter DSM programming Low-income-renter DSM programming must plan for delivery of training to service providers, investors and users of technology. Service providers must understand exi...
AI summary Low-income-renter DSM programming should include training for service providers, investors, and users to ensure effective implementation of conservation measures. Trained individuals can assist energy consumers in becoming independent and proficient in using energy-saving technologies.
9. Use a community-based model to deploy low-income-renter DSM programming Strong relationships that already exist within a community can provide important support for low-income-renter DSM programming. Community-based DSM program models h...
AI summary The document advocates for a community-based model to deploy low-income-renter DSM programming in Nova Scotia, citing successful examples such as Warm Up Winnipeg and outreach through church communities. It emphasizes the need for flexible program design that can accommodate varying community needs, ranging from small-scale initiatives like BC Hydro's Energy Savings Kit to larger projects like Ontario's Social Housing Renovation and Retrofit Program.
Long Term Low-Income-Renter DSM Policy Strategies Low-income-renter DSM must be supported outside of the Efficiency Nova Scotia framework. Although the DSM Plan is an important policy vehicle, successful implementation of lowincome-renter...
AI summary The document outlines the need for comprehensive policy strategies to support low-income-renter demand-side management (DSM) outside the Efficiency Nova Scotia framework. It emphasizes the importance of intergovernmental cooperation, integrated policy development, and synergies between low-income-renter DSM and broader DSM initiatives.
4. Consider the use of other policy tools to enhance the low-income-renter DSM policy package The current DSM Plan takes a cooperative approach to DSM policy, using mainly economic incentive and voluntary educational and program policy too...
AI summary The document recommends expanding the low-income-renter DSM policy package by using a broader range of policy tools, analyzing deferred cost models like PAYS, developing long-term funding strategies, implementing building energy codes and efficiency labeling systems, and amending the Residential Tenancies Act to protect low-income renters.
10. Use the Employment and Income Assistance Act as a vehicle to support and implement low-income-renter DSM policy The Employment and Income Assistance Act should be used as a vehicle to support and implement low-income-renter DSM policy....
AI summary The Employment and Income Assistance Act is proposed as a vehicle to support low-income-renter DSM policy. Income Assistance recipients could be required to participate in DSM programming, with personalized delivery and support from caseworkers to facilitate access, especially for those with ability issues.
Short and Long Term Energy Poverty Reduction Strategies Low-income-renter DSM programming and policy is an important part of addressing energy poverty in Nova Scotia, but it is not the whole solution. Low-income individuals may still exper...
AI summary The document discusses the importance of low-income-renter DSM programming and policy in addressing energy poverty in Nova Scotia, but emphasizes that it is not sufficient on its own. The Universal Service Program (USP) is proposed as a comprehensive solution, offering rate affordability, arrearage management, crisis intervention, and consumer protections.
Conclusion Energy Poverty is a reality in Nova Scotia, but it can be understood and addressed. Low-incomerenter DSM programming and policy is an important part of the solution, but there are a complex set of barriers that must be overcome...
AI summary The conclusion highlights the importance of addressing energy poverty in Nova Scotia through targeted low-income-renter DSM programming. It emphasizes the need for resource commitment, research, inter-organizational cooperation, and community support to overcome barriers and achieve positive outcomes in energy conservation and living conditions.
British Columbia: Energy Conservation Assistance Program Program Name Energy Conservation Assistance Program Jurisdiction British Columbia Date of Inception N/A Level of Government, Sponsor or Delivery Agent BC Hydro Inter-Program, Inter G...
AI summary The Energy Conservation Assistance Program in British Columbia is available only to BC Hydro residential customers whose electricity bills exceed $500 or 8,000 kWh/yr, and who meet specific low-income criteria based on Statistics Canada's Low Income Cut-Off table.
Research Reports Angella MacEwen and Christine Saulnier, The Cost of Poverty in Nova Scotia , (Halifax: Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, 2010). Blair Hamilton, project manager, Frances Huessy, ed., A Comparison of Energy Efficiency...
AI summary The document lists various research reports on energy efficiency, poverty, and housing in Nova Scotia and internationally, focusing on programs and policies aimed at improving energy efficiency, particularly for low-income households.
Papers Andrew J. Hoffman and Rebecca Henn, Overcoming the Social and Psychological Barriers to Green Building , 21 Org[anization Environment 4 (2008).](http://dspace.mit.edu/bitstream/handle/1721.1/44348/276307447.pdf?sequence=1) Beth Will...
AI summary The document includes a collection of academic papers and reports focusing on barriers to energy efficiency in residential and rental housing, incentives for green building, and financial mechanisms to support energy-efficient investments. The papers discuss topics such as split incentives, landlord-tenant dynamics, and policy responses to financial barriers in the residential sector.
Interviews and Correspondence Comments of Blair Hamilton (19 November 2010) at PDWG Low Income Subcommittee Meeting. Comments of Darlah Purdy (19 November, 2010) at PDWG Low Income Subcommittee Meeting. Comments of Helen Langille (22 July...
AI summary The text lists comments and communications from various individuals and organizations related to the PDWG Low Income Subcommittee Meeting, focusing on low-income housing and energy assistance programs.
Telephone conversation with Colleen, OPA, November 8, 2010. 1 Request IR-14: 3 principles and establish an open and transparent methodology for allocating 4 common costs between the two segments of electricity and other fuels. 5 6 Produc...
AI summary The document outlines requests and responses related to cost allocation frameworks, TRC application levels, and program consolidation. ENSC plans to submit a cost allocation framework to the UARB in 2011, and there is a discussion about the TRC application level and the rationale for collapsing the Low-Income program into the Existing Houses program.
specific measures in which a client may be interested, ENSC will encourage them to contact program staff. - As a result, low-income components are embedded in the Existing Houses and other 2012 - programs. However, ENSC will continue to id...
AI summary ENSC ensures that low-income components are embedded in existing programs and continues to promote special measures for low-income households. Program costs related to low-income participants will be tracked and reported.
- income clients. 1 Request IR-18: 2 3 With respect to Appendix A, page 6, line 20 4 a) Please comment on the appropriateness of including "small commercial, industrial 5 and institutional customers" in a Residential program. 6 7 b) Please...
AI summary The document contains requests and responses related to energy efficiency programs, including the inclusion of commercial and institutional customers in a residential program, tracking expenditures and savings by rate class, and the unique opportunity for low-income customers in the Efficient Products program. It also discusses the Home Energy Report as a stand-alone program and the evaluation of its energy savings.