Topic:"Low Income Programs" in M12780

1 2.2.3.1 COMPLIANCE WITH 2026 DSM EXTENSION DECISION 2 As demonstrated in Section 2.2.3, E1 has satisfied each of the 2026 Extension directives. The key 3 compliance responses are summarized below. 5 First, E1 has continued to engage with...

AI summary E1 (EfficiencyOne) asserts compliance with the 2026 DSM Extension directives by engaging with the DSMAG on the Standardized Filing Framework, revising its 'balanced plan' approach, and aligning with the NSEB's Matter M12282 decision. Adjustments include shifting from fixed investment splits to data-driven low-income support allocations, ensuring alignment with balanced plan principles.

9 5.4 NON-ELECTRIC AND NON-ENERGY BENEFITS - Non-electric and non-energy benefits—such as improved comfort, health and safety, housing quality, - productivity, and market awareness—are realized as ancillary outcomes of cost-effective DSM -...

AI summary The section discusses non-electric and non-energy benefits from DSM programs, highlighting their role in improving living conditions and operational reliability, particularly in residential, low-income, and business sectors. The Plan emphasizes affordability and cost-effectiveness, ensuring these benefits support, but do not override, long-term system value and ratepayer savings.

DIVERSE MARKETS - The Preferred Plan also engages in a diverse range of markets. The investment in the Residential and - BNI sectors is focused on reducing barriers to reach a wide, diverse range of customers. The target markets - include:...

AI summary The Preferred Plan targets diverse markets, including homeowners, renters, and small businesses, while allocating 11% of residential savings to low-income and equity customers. It also dedicates solar-PV resources to Mi'kmaw communities.

5.7 ACCESS TO PROGRAMS BY ALL MARKET SECTORS AND RATE CLASSES BY ADDRESSING BARRIERS TO PARTICIPATION In developing the Preferred Plan portfolio, E1 ensured equitable access to programs across all market sectors and rate classes by explici...

AI summary The Preferred DSM Plan ensures equitable access to energy programs across all market sectors and rate classes by addressing structural, financial, and informational barriers. It includes targeted initiatives for low-income households, Mi'kmaw communities, and small businesses, with streamlined processes, no-cost options, and community partnerships to improve participation and equity.

Currency is expressed in nominal dollars. For the five-year total row, currency is a straight sum of 5 years of nominal values. Energy efficiency first-year and lifetime unit cost includes Enabling Strategies investment. Levelized unit cos...

AI summary The text outlines cost calculations for energy efficiency and demand response programs over a five-year period, including the use of net present value and weighted average cost of capital. It also highlights energy savings from low-income and equity-focused initiatives.

- 5 Table 9: 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) Ava...

AI summary Table 9 presents the investment and savings projections for various residential energy efficiency programs under the 2027–2031 DSM Preferred Plan. The table highlights program components such as efficient product rebates, home energy assessments, and initiatives targeting low-income and equity impacts, detailing investments, lifetime benefits, energy savings, and other metrics.

2.2.4 LOW-INCOME AND EQUITY ENERGY SAVINGS The performance target of energy savings applicable to E1's dedicated low-income and equity program components (i.e., Affordable Multifamily Housing, Affordable Single-family Homes, and the Mi'kma...

AI summary E1's low-income and equity energy savings programs faced challenges in meeting 2023 targets due to capacity constraints and software modeling updates. Adjustments in 2024 and 2025, including increased participation and process improvements, led to progress toward the 2023–2026 performance target, with expectations to meet it by 2026.

3.2.1 RESOURCE SCENARIO DESIGN In developing the Plan's design approach, E1 considered feedback from the DSMAG indicating limited support for the three design objectives historically used to guide recent DSM Plans: a 50/50 investment DATE...

AI summary E1 revised its DSM Plan design approach based on feedback from the DSMAG, maintaining the annual investment level, adjusting energy savings targets and allocations, and ensuring support for low-income and equity communities. The plan aligns with recommendations from APEX and includes a residential/BNI energy savings split of 29/71, with dedicated low-income savings of 11% of residential savings.

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 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 investment and benefits of various Demand Side Management (DSM) programs in Nova Scotia from 2027 to 2031, including energy savings, peak demand reductions, and program-specific metrics such as the Program Assessment Criteria (PAC).

Currency is expressed in nominal dollars. For the five-year total row, currency is a straight sum of 5 years of nominal values. Lifetime benefits for energy efficiency, demand response and solar-PV are expressed as the net present value of...

AI summary The document discusses the calculation of lifetime benefits for energy efficiency, demand response, and solar-PV programs using net present value of avoided costs. It also highlights low-income and equity impacts based on participation in specific programs. The text references Table 13 and includes some numerical data.

Columns may not add correctly due to rounding. Currency is expressed in nominal dollars. For the five-year total row, currency is a straight sum of 5 years of nominal values. Lifetime benefits for energy efficiency, demand response and sol...

AI summary The document discusses the calculation of lifetime benefits for energy efficiency, demand response, and solar-PV programs using net present value of avoided costs. It also highlights the inclusion of low-income and equity impacts from both targeted and non-targeted programs.

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.

Currency is expressed in nominal dollars. For the five-year total row, currency is a straight sum of 5 years of nominal values. Lifetime benefits for energy efficiency, demand response and solar-PV are expressed as the net present value of...

AI summary The text discusses how lifetime benefits for energy efficiency, demand response, and solar-PV programs are calculated using net present value of avoided costs. It also highlights how low-income and equity impacts are assessed, considering both dedicated and incidental program participation.

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.

Currency is expressed in nominal dollars. For the five-year total row, currency is a straight sum of 5 years of nominal values. Lifetime benefits for energy efficiency, demand response and solar-PV are expressed as the net present value of...

AI summary The text discusses the calculation of lifetime benefits for energy efficiency, demand response, and solar-PV programs using net present value and utility WACC. It also highlights the inclusion of low-income and equity impacts from both targeted and non-targeted programs.

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.

1 4.5.1 LOW-INCOME AND EQUITY INVESTMENT AND SAVINGS - 2 E1's 2027–2031 DSM Preferred Plan includes dedicated program components that exclusively serve low- - 3 income and equity communities. These program components include Affordable Mul...

AI summary E1's 2027–2031 DSM Preferred Plan includes dedicated low-income and equity programs (e.g., Affordable Multifamily Housing, Mi'kmaw projects) accounting for 11% of residential savings. The Solar-PV program is also targeted at these communities. Incidental impacts from non-targeted programs like Efficient Product Installation are also noted, with details in Attachment 1 and Table 14.

11 Table 19: Existing Residential - Overview, Objectives, Opportunity Existing Residential Overview • The program has five components: Affordable Multifamily Housing; o Affordable Single-family Homes; o Efficient Product Installation; o Ho...

AI summary The Existing Residential program has five components aimed at improving energy efficiency in homes, targeting homeowners, renters, low-income households, and affordable housing providers. It seeks to enhance customer understanding of energy efficiency, reduce energy costs, and support equity deserving communities and Mi'kmaw communities.

7 Table 26 provides the program performance indicators. Table 27 provides the low-income and equity performance 8 indicators, including both dedicated and incidental low-income and equity impacts.

AI summary The text references two tables that provide program performance indicators and low-income and equity performance indicators, including both dedicated and incidental impacts.

1 Table 27: 2027–2031 Existing Residential Low-Income and Equity Performance Indicators Year Investment ($ million) First-Year Energy Savings (GWh) Lifetime Energy Savings (GWh) Peak Demand Savings (MW) Participation (homes) Participation...

AI summary Table 27 outlines projected residential low-income and equity performance indicators from 2027–2031, detailing investments, energy savings, and participation metrics across programs like Affordable Single-family Homes and Mi'kmaw Home Energy Efficiency Projects. Total participation spans 2,735 homes, 73,904 products, and 595 projects, with energy savings declining slightly over time.

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.

- 3 [Table 33](#page-152-0) provides the program performance indicators an[d Table 34](#page-153-4) provides the provides the low-income - 4 and equity performance indicators. 1 DATE FILED: March 31, 2026 Page 65 of 112 19 The term 'prescr...

AI summary The text discusses program performance indicators and low-income and equity performance indicators, with a definition of 'prescriptive rebate' as a rebate value calculated before a participant purchases an eligible measure.

1 Table 33: 2027–2031 BNI Efficient Product Rebates Performance Indicators Year Investment ($ million) First-Year Energy Savings (GWh) Lifetime Energy Savings (GWh) Peak Demand Savings (MW) Participation (products) Lifetime Unit Cost ($/kW...

AI summary Table 33 presents performance indicators for the BNI Efficient Product Rebates program from 2027 to 2031, including investment, energy savings, peak demand savings, and participation numbers. A separate table (Table 34) outlines low-income and equity performance indicators for the same period. The section also references program alternatives.

11 Table 39: 2027–2031 Custom Incentives Low-income and Equity Performance Indicators Year Investment ($ million) First-Year Energy Savings (GWh) Lifetime Energy Savings (GWh) Peak Demand Savings (MW) Participation (participants) Participa...

AI summary Table 39 outlines projected investments, energy savings, and participation metrics for low-income and equity performance indicators under the Custom Incentives program from 2027 to 2031. The table shows minimal participation in the program during the forecasted years, with only one project expected in 2027 and decreasing participation in subsequent years.

- 3 [Table](#page-162-1) 42 provides the program performance indicators. [Table](#page-162-3) 43 provides the low-income and equity - 4 performance indicators.

AI summary The document references two tables that provide program performance indicators, including specific indicators related to low-income and equity performance.

2 8.1.3 PERFORMANCE INDICATORS - 3 [Table 51,](#page-175-2) below, provides the program performance indicators. Solar-PV is a dedicated low-income and - 4 equity program therefore, the low-income and equity performance indicators are the s...

AI summary The document outlines that Solar-PV, as a dedicated low-income and equity program, has performance indicators aligned with its program-specific metrics. Table 51 is referenced for detailed program performance indicators.

16 Table 62: 2027–2031 DSM Preferred Plan Performance Indicators DSM Resource Performance Indicators Annual incremental energy savings (reported by program and rate class) (GWh) Cumulative energy savings (reported by program and rate class...

AI summary Table 62 outlines performance indicators for the 2027–2031 DSM Preferred Plan, including annual and cumulative energy and peak demand savings by program and rate class, with a focus on low-income and equity programs such as Affordable Multifamily Housing and the Mi'kmaw Home Energy Efficiency Project.

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 presents the 2029 alternate scenario savings and investment by program component, focusing on residential total (incidental + dedicated) low-income and equity impacts. The table outlines investment, lifetime benefits, energy savings, and other metrics, highlighting the financial and energy-related outcomes of various programs.

Currency is expressed in nominal dollars. For the five-year total row, currency is a straight sum of 5 years of nominal values. Lifetime benefits for energy efficiency, demand response and solar-PV are expressed as the net present value of...

AI summary The text discusses the calculation of lifetime benefits for energy efficiency, demand response, and solar-PV programs, expressed as net present value of avoided costs. It also highlights the inclusion of low-income and equity impacts from targeted and non-targeted programs.

Currency is expressed in nominal dollars. For the five-year total row, currency is a straight sum of 5 years of nominal values. Lifetime benefits for energy efficiency, demand response and solar-PV are expressed as the net present value of...

AI summary The text discusses the calculation of lifetime benefits for energy efficiency, demand response, and solar-PV programs, using net present value of avoided costs. It also highlights the consideration of low-income and equity impacts, including participation from dedicated and non-targeted programs.

ngs (reported by program and rate class); - iii. Annual lifetime energy savings (reported by program and rate class); - iv. Cumulative lifetime energy savings (reported by program and rate class); Annual incremental system-peak demand savi...

AI summary The document outlines performance reporting requirements for energy efficiency, demand response, solar PV, and low-income programs. Metrics include energy savings, demand reductions, solar generation, and cost test results. Emphasis is placed on reporting for equity, census data, and program-specific outcomes like Affordable Homes and Mi'kmaw initiatives.

5 Schedule A 6 Demand-Side Management Activities 7 8 The figure below identifies the scope of savings (5 year cumulative energy savings, 9 cumulative peak demand savings, cumulative energy savings from Low Income & Equity (includes Afforda...

AI summary Schedule A outlines the scope of demand-side management (DSM) activities over a five-year term, including energy and peak demand savings, low-income and equity programs, demand response capacity, and solar-PV generation.

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

AI summary E1 must achieve 90% or more of approved performance targets under the Board-approved DSM Purchase Agreement. Failure below 90% may trigger Board action. E1 will propose specific DSM resource targets, including energy savings, peak demand reductions, low-income equity measures, and demand response capacity, for Board approval.

Performance Indicators - E1 will propose DSM resource specific performance indicators within each DSM Resource Plan - application for consideration and approval by the Board. Performance indicators may include - annual incremental and cumu...

AI summary E1 will propose DSM-specific performance indicators for approval by the Board, including energy savings, peak demand reductions, low-income impacts, demand response capacity, ratepayer benefits, spending, and PAC test results, with the Board retaining authority to order additional metrics.

1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY - EfficiencyOne ("E1") delivers demand side management ("DSM") programs and is the - administrator and operator of the Efficiency Nova Scotia ("ENS") franchise. The 2025 Annual - Progress Report ("APR") summarizes E1's...

AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) reports on its 2025 progress toward DSM program targets, including energy and demand savings. E1's 2023-2025 DSM Plan was approved by NSUARB in 2022, and its 2026 extension by NSEB in 2025. The approved plan includes $236.8M investment and four performance targets. In 2025, E1 achieved 82% progress toward the 528.7 GWh energy savings target.

Table 1: 2025 Results to 2025 Plan as Approved and 2025 Year-End Forecast 20: 25 Plan as Appro ved 2 025 Year-End Fo recast 2025 Results Results to Forecas t Resul its to Plan as App oved Low-Income 1 13.4 135.4 2.1 12.1 11.1 149.1 3.8 14....

AI summary This table compares the 2025 results of various programs to the 2025 plan as approved and the 2025 year-end forecast, highlighting differences in metrics such as participation, costs, and outcomes across programs like Low-Income, Efficient Product Rebates, Business Energy Rebates, and Custom Incentives.

14 т. L 13 Table 3: 2025 Unit Cost 2025 First-Year Unit Cost 2025 Plan as Approved ($/kWh) 2025 Year-End forecast ($/kWh) 2025 Results ($/kWh) Program Status2 Efficient Product Rebates 0.51 0.23 0.29 Existing Residential 0.39 0.65 0.70 Res...

AI summary The text presents a table showing unit costs for various energy efficiency programs in 2025, including Efficient Product Rebates and Low-Income programs, with discrepancies between approved, forecasted, and actual costs. The Mi'kmaw Home Energy Efficiency Project's unit cost exceeded the 2025 Plan.

1 3. 2023-2026 DSM PLAN PERIOD 2 E1's four-year Plan period outlook provides additional insight on the DSM Plan implementation after the first three years. It includes 3 E1's actual savings results and expenditures from 2023, 2024, and 202...

AI summary E1's 2023-2026 DSM Plan includes a $236.8 million investment, targeting 90% compliance on four performance metrics: energy savings, demand savings, available capacity, and energy efficiency in affordable housing and Mi'kmaw homes. The plan incorporates actual 2023-2025 results and the 2026 approved plan.

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.

2 4.5 Low-Income, Diverse, Underserved Communities - 3 In 2025, E1 updated its assumptions and estimation methodology for calculating impacts from - 4 E1's dedicated program components (Affordable Multifamily Housing, Affordable Single-Fam...

AI summary E1 updated its methodology for calculating low-income and equity impacts from its DSM programs in 2025. Dedicated programs like Affordable Multifamily Housing and the Mi'kmaw Home Energy Efficiency Project exclusively serve low-income communities. Non-targeted programs saw changes, including the Appliance Retirement program's end and revised assumptions for Business Energy Rebates. The methodology was filed with E1's 2026 DSM Extension Application.

4.5.1 Performance Target For the 2023-2026 Plan as Approved, the NSEB established a Performance Target of 19.8 GWh for cumulative annual energy savings applicable to Affordable Single-family Homes, Affordable Multifamily Housing, and Mi'km...

AI summary The NSEB set a 19.8 GWh energy savings target for the 2023-2026 Plan. E1 exceeded its 2025 target for Affordable Single-family Homes but fell short in Affordable Multifamily and Mi'kmaw projects, though overall targets were met. E1 forecasts achieving the 19.8 GWh cumulative target by 2026. Table 12 details 2025 results.

Table 12: 2025 Results Applicable to Affordable Single-family Homes, Affordable Multifamily Housing, and Mi'kmaw Home Energy Efficiency

AI summary Table 12 outlines 2025 energy efficiency results for affordable single-family and multifamily homes, as well as Mi'kmaw housing, under Nova Scotia regulatory proceedings. Key entities include NSUARB, NSEB, and E1, with topics focusing on energy efficiency and affordability.

4.5.2 Performance Indicator The NSEB also approved a Performance Indicator of incidental cumulative annual energy savings of 30.2 GWh applicable to low-income and underserved communities from non-targeted programs. [19](#page-42-1) 2025 en...

AI summary The NSEB approved a 30.2 GWh cumulative energy savings target for low-income and underserved communities via non-targeted programs. By 2025, cumulative savings reached 29.9 GWh (99% of the target), but 2025's 3.5 GWh fell short of the annual target due to E1's updated methodology, which reduced assumptions about low-income and equity impacts.

1 Table 13: 2025 Results Applicable to Low-Income and Underserved Communities, Non-Targeted Programs 2025 Plan Performance Indicators 2025 Forecast (Year-End) 2025 Results First-Year Energy Savings (GWh) Lifetime Energy Savings (GWh) Peak...

AI summary Table 13 presents 2025 results for low-income and underserved communities under non-targeted programs, including energy savings, participation numbers, and expenditures. The table covers various programs such as efficient product rebates, appliance retirement, and residential behavior initiatives, with data on first-year and lifetime energy savings, peak demand reductions, and investment figures.

6 In the 2023-2025 Plan, low-income performance indicators for the Custom Incentives program were calculated using 2020 actuals, consistent with the approach used for other programs. Since no low-7 income participation was reported in 2020...

AI summary The 2023-2025 Plan used 2020 data to calculate low-income performance indicators for the Custom Incentives program, but no low-income participation was reported in 2020. Low-income participation was reported in 2022-2024, leading to expectations of non-zero participation in 2025. Appliance Retirement and Instant Savings programs no longer include low-income participation. Low-income Nova Scotians are assumed to participate in proportion to the general population unless income information is provided.

Table 4: 2025 Site Visits and Project Reviews with Follow-up Site Visits or Interviews Program Component Project Reviews Followed by Site Visits Project Reviews Followed by Phone Interviews Project Reviews Without Site Visits or Phone Inte...

AI summary Table 4 outlines the 2025 site visits and project reviews conducted under various programs, including Affordable Multifamily Housing, Business Energy Rebates, Strategic Energy Management, and Demand Response, with specific numbers of reviews followed by site visits, phone interviews, or no follow-up.

Table 28: 2025 EPI Net-to-gross Ratios by Product Category Products Participant Type NTGR Proportion of Product Category Gross Savings by Participant Type Overall NTGR Values LED Lamps and Lighting Non-low-income Participants 0.92 37% Rela...

AI summary Table 28 presents the 2025 EPI Net-to-gross Ratios (NTGR) by product category, showing the proportion of gross savings attributed to low-income and non-low-income participants. The data highlights varying NTGR values for different product categories, including LED lamps, learning thermostats, DHW products, air sealing products, and humidity sensors.

Table 32: Implementation Status of Past Recommendations for Green Heat # Past Recommendations Status Comments 2024-GH-R1 In light of their very low savings and considering their low uptake, consider removing wood fireplace inserts and pell...

AI summary This table outlines the implementation status of past recommendations for the Green Heat program. It shows that wood and pellet fireplace inserts were removed from the program effective May 1, 2025. Marketing materials are distributed to contractors and participants. A recommendation to increase incentives for low- and moderate-income households was deferred due to reduced energy savings estimates.

1 Request IR-01: 2 3 On pages 16-17 of Appendix A (pages 104-5) of the application, in section 3.2.1, Resource 4 Scenario Design, you state that you changed the design objective regarding low income and 5 equity from 6 7 • 15–20 percent in...

AI summary The request asks for clarification on the practical difference of reframing low-income and equity investment objectives and how savings and investment percentages are calculated. The response refers to EfficiencyOne's previous explanation and details the calculation method using data from Appendix A, Table 8 of the DSM Resource Plan Application.

5 Table 1: Dedicated Low-income and Equity as Percentage of Residential Investment and Savings 2027-2031 Investment ($million) First-Year Energy Savings (GWh) Affordable Multifamily Housing 11.3 4.6 Affordable Single-family Homes 43.7 8.3...

AI summary Table 1 outlines the investment and energy savings associated with low-income and equity-focused residential programs in Nova Scotia from 2027 to 2031. The data highlights the allocation of funds and energy savings for specific initiatives, including affordable housing and Mi'kmaw energy efficiency projects, with 42% of residential energy efficiency investments dedicated to low-income and equity programs.

an period. Table 51 is structured to be directly comparable to the first-year and lifetime savings reported for other DSM programs as set out in the program performance indicator tables in Appendix A. Request IR-04: The New Residential pro...

AI summary The New Residential DSM program, targeting Mi'kmaw communities, offers energy efficiency measures for net-zero homes. A request questions why it wasn't extended to all low-income publicly funded housing. The response cites existing provincial programs like EnergyForward New Homes and the Affordable Rental Construction pilot, which already support similar measures, avoiding duplication.

le to all publicly funded affordable nonmarket housing serving low-income households, a separate DSM program component targeting that population was not considered necessary to avoid program overlap and duplication of ratepayer-funded inve...

AI summary The text discusses avoiding program duplication for low-income housing by not creating a separate DSM program. It highlights the Mi'kmaw Home Energy Efficiency Project's planned conclusion in 2027 and E1's focus on continuing support for Mi'kmaw communities. E1's report reveals 43% of Nova Scotia households experience energy poverty (6% income on energy).

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.

ENS's DSM portfolio currently does not feature an electricity DSM program exclusively directed towards the low income sector. However, there are plans for an energy efficiency incentive offering to this sector. CLEAResult has included a su...

AI summary Efficiency Nova Scotia (ENS) currently lacks a dedicated low-income electricity DSM program, but plans are in place to develop one. The pilot would offer full energy audits and rebates for efficiency measures in multi-unit buildings, modeled after the SBES program, with funding caps at the owner and project levels.

Figure 23: Union Gas Targets & Performance Metric[s](#page-37-0) 4 Resource Acquisition Scorecard Evaluation $ 35,000 $ 35,000 $ 35,000 $ 35,000 $ 35,000 $ 175,000 Administrative costs $ 215,000 $ 210,000 $ 215,000 $ 215,000 $ 215,000 $ 1,...

AI summary The text presents a detailed breakdown of Union Gas's targets and performance metrics, including budget allocations for various programs such as Home Weatherization, Low Income initiatives, and administrative costs. The table outlines financial figures and performance-based totals across multiple categories and years.

EXISTING MAIN PROGRAMS – UNION GAS [4](#page-37-1) Program Area Program Name Description Incentives Links Home Weatherization Program provides low-income qualified residential customers with a home energy assessment and weatherization at n...

AI summary Union Gas offers low-income and Aboriginal customers free energy efficiency measures, including home weatherization, insulation, and carbon monoxide detectors, as well as financial incentives for furnace upgrades. These programs aim to reduce energy costs and improve home safety for qualifying residents.

- 4. Net Levelized cost ($/kWh)1 = PV (costs all benefits except for electric energy benefits) / PV (energy savings) Benefits Costs Low Income Program6 The Low Income Program provides some low-cost energy savings measures that can easily b...

AI summary The text discusses the Net Levelized cost formula and outlines two programs: the Low Income Program, which provides free energy-saving measures for low-income residents, and the Appliances and Electronics program, which encourages the purchase of ENERGY STAR compliant appliances.

Figure 61: Benefit- Cost Ratios: Electric Programs 2015 [12](#page-110-0) Adjusted Gross Benefit-to-Cost-Ratio Net I Benefit-to-Cost-F Ratio Programs TRC PACT Last Evaluation Net to Gross Ratio TRC PACT Business Incentive Program Electric...

AI summary Figure 61 and Figure 62 present benefit-cost ratios for electric and natural gas programs in 2015, including programs such as the Business Incentive Program and Low-Income Direct Install Initiative. These figures highlight the adjusted gross benefit-to-cost ratios and net-to-gross ratios for various programs, providing insights into their cost-effectiveness.

Figure 63: Electric Program Expenditures 2015 [12](#page-110-0) Program Incentive Delivery Total Business Incentive Program Electric Measures $15,642,304 $1,520,601 $17,162,905 Large Customer Program Electric Measures $6,439,194 $544,245 $...

AI summary Figure 63 presents electric program expenditures in 2015, detailing various programs and their associated incentive, delivery, and total costs. Programs include business incentives, home energy savings, low-income initiatives, and cross-cutting strategies, with total expenditures reaching over $45 million for electric measures and additional costs for natural gas and other fuels.

MASSACHUSETTS ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAM INCENTIVE AND COST EFFECTIVENESS POLICY Massachusetts is viewed as one of the leading jurisdictions for promoting energy efficiency in North America. It is ranked as the #1 jurisdiction in ACEEE's 20...

AI summary Massachusetts is a leader in energy efficiency, with aggressive targets and a three-year planning cycle mandated by the Green Communities Act. The state aims to achieve 2.6% of retail sales in energy efficiency savings by 2015, with funding coming from sources like the Systems Benefit Charge and cap-and-trade programs. A portion of the budget is dedicated to low-income programs.

Comparison of Diversity of Program Delivery – 2023-2025 Plan, 2026 DSM Extension and 2027-2031 DSM Plan Item 2023-2025 DSM Plan 2026 DSM Extension 2027-2031 DSM Plan Diverse Markets Target markets include: • Homeowners o Renters and/or lan...

AI summary The document compares the diversity of program delivery across three DSM plans: 2023-2025, 2026 DSM Extension, and 2027-2031. The 2027-2031 plan includes a dedicated focus on low-income and equity customers and Mi'kmaw communities, while the 2023-2025 plan allocates 21% of investment to these groups.

- 16 ii) Please refer to part (b) of this IR response. 1 Request IR-24: 2 3 Evidence – Exhibit E-1, pp.1-71 (pdf pp. 8-78) 4 5 Exhibit E-1, page 56 of 71(pdf pg. 63), Table 7: 2027-2031 Plan – Portfolio Level Insights 6 7 (a) E1 notes that...

AI summary The document addresses two requests related to EfficiencyOne's (E1) 2027-2031 DSM Plan. It notes that 42% of residential energy efficiency program investment is dedicated to low-income and equity programs and explains that annual investment in the DSM Plan is constrained to the 2026 approved level of $63.75 million per year, resulting in downward trends in energy savings metrics.

1 Table 1: Justification for Program Components with a failing PAC result. Program Component PAC Result (NPV Lifetime Benefits / NPV Investment) Justification Affordable Single-family Homes 0.8 These programs serve households on lower inco...

AI summary Table 1 provides justification for program components with failing PAC results, highlighting support for affordability and equity-focused initiatives like Affordable Single-family Homes and the Mi'kmaw Home Energy Efficiency Project. These programs align with prior Board approvals and are consistent with ongoing efforts to improve energy efficiency and support First Nations communities.

Source: This value was drawn from Table 37 of the 2024 Existing Residential Evaluation. [34](#page-97-2) Products Participant Type NTGR Proportion of Product Category Gross Savings by Participant Type Overall NTGR Values LED Lamps and Ligh...

AI summary The table provides data on the Net Transmission and Generation Reduction (NTGR) values for various energy efficiency products, categorized by participant type (low-income and non-low-income), along with the proportion of gross savings by participant type. The data is sourced from Table 37 of the 2024 Existing Residential Evaluation.

Source: This value was drawn from Table 37 of the 2024 Existing Residential Evaluation. [38](#page-102-3) Products Participant Type NTGR Proportion of Product Category Gross Savings by Participant Type Overall NTGR Values LED Lamps and Lig...

AI summary The table presents data from Table 37 of the 2024 Existing Residential Evaluation, highlighting NTGR values and savings proportions for various energy efficiency products across different participant types, including low-income and non-low-income participants.

Source: This value was drawn from Table 37 of the 2024 Existing Residential Evaluation. [42](#page-106-4) Products Participant Type NTGR Proportion of Product Category Gross Savings by Participant Type Overall NTGR Values LED Lamps and Lig...

AI summary The table shows the proportion of product category gross savings by participant type, including non-low-income and low-income participants, for various energy efficiency products. It also includes NTGR values and overall NTGR values for each product category.

Source: This value was drawn from Table 37 of the 2024 Existing Residential Evaluation. [54](#page-119-3) Products Participant Type NTGR Proportion of Product Category Gross Savings by Participant Type Overall NTGR Values LED Lamps and Lig...

AI summary The table presents data from Table 37 of the 2024 Existing Residential Evaluation, showing the proportion of product category gross savings by participant type and NTGR values for various energy efficiency products. It highlights differences in savings between low-income and non-low-income participants.

4.10 HW_BE_EI HW BUILDING ENVELOPE - E1 INSTALLED ASFH provides energy efficient retrofits and heat pump installations to income-qualified Nova Scotian owners of both electrically heated and non-electrically heated homes at no cost to part...

AI summary The HomeWarming (HW) and Affordable Solutions for Home Efficiency (ASFH) programs provide energy efficiency retrofits and heat pump installations to income-qualified Nova Scotian homeowners. HW focuses on building envelope measures and is delivered by E1 since 2023, while ASFH targets homes primarily heated with electricity. Participants may also access the Efficient Product Installation (EPI) and Oil to Heat Pump Affordability (OHPA) programs.

1 (d) The higher per-unit cost of Residential sector programs reflects the structure of that 2 customer base, not an inefficient allocation of resources. Residential customers represent 3 approximately 519,000 customers, or 91 percent of N...

AI summary The Residential sector programs have higher per-unit costs due to the large customer base and the need for diverse and equitable program delivery. E1 emphasizes that the allocation of resources aligns with the Balanced Plan Principles and that shifting investment to BNI would not meet the needs of Residential customers or align with these principles.

- 26 Please refer to Attachment 1 of E1's response to IG IR-21. 1 (f) E1 confirms that the investment in Appendix A, Table 17 is correct. Please refer to 2 Attachment 1 of E1's response to NSEB IR-38. 3 (i) Please refer to E1's response to...

AI summary E1 confirms the correctness of investments in various appendices and tables, referencing attachments from their responses to NSEB information requests. They mention that certain low-income and equity programs did not pass the cost-effectiveness test but are fully funded or receive higher incentives, and reducing support for these programs could create barriers for low-income customers and Mi'kmaw communities.

ine-files/Focus-on-Energy-2024-TRM.pdf) for measure characterization details. E1 used the annual energy savings, peak demand savings, and effective useful life values from this resource. information. A net-to-gross (NTGR) ratio of 1.0 was...

AI summary The analysis assumes a net-to-gross ratio (NTGR) of 1.0 for a heat pump measure targeting low-income participants, consistent with E1's DSM Plan. Costs are based on 2025 procurement pricing for heat pump services under the Affordable Single-family Homes program. The measure focuses on equity-seeking participants who previously received heat pumps through E1's initiatives.

rting project development in substantial ways. It was determined that program 10 investment should remain focused on customer incentives as opposed to hiring additional 11 technical support staff. 12 (e) The Small Business Energy Solutions...

AI summary The Small Business Energy Solutions (SBES) program has undergone design changes to address rising costs and ensure equity. The Preferred Plan increases incentives for micro businesses and those in equity deserving communities to overcome financial barriers. A unit cost analysis comparing the 2026 DSM Extension and the 2027–2031 Preferred Plan is referenced.

Table 1: Design Objectives Objective Range Residential/Business, Non-Profit, Institutional 50/50 (+/-5) Aligned with historical Investment Split approach and stakeholder feedback Residential/Business, Non-Profit, Institutional 45/55 (+/-5)...

AI summary Table 1 outlines design objectives for energy efficiency investments, including a 50/50 investment split for residential and institutional sectors, a 45/55 energy savings split aligned with 2025 load forecasts, and a target of 15-20% low-income and equity investment in the energy efficiency portfolio, based on the 2021 Census data.

Table 2: Key Initiatives in Round 1 Program Program Component Initiative Description New Residential Advanced New Homes New program component to help Mi'kmaw communities build high performing homes Solar-PV Residential New DSM resource – t...

AI summary Table 2 outlines key initiatives in Round 1, including new program components for Mi'kmaw communities, non-profits, and new categories like Enabling Strategies. Section 2.3 discusses cost-effectiveness testing as a key consideration in the proceeding.

2.4 MODELLING Attachment 1 [(2027-2031 Round 1 Modelling Assumptions.xlsx)](https://efficiencyns.sharepoint.com/:x:/r/sites/DSMAdvisoryGroup/Shared%20Documents/2027-2031%20DSM%20Resource%20Plan/Round%201%20Modelling%20Assumptions%20and%20R...

AI summary Attachment 1 outlines the modelling assumptions for the 2027–2031 DSM Resource Plan, including considerations for low-income and equity factors.

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.

Table 7: Scenario 2EE-High – Round 1 Modelling Results Scenario 1EE - High (2027-2031) Investment ($ million) Lifetime TRC & PAC Benefits ($ million) NS Cost Test Lifetime Benefits ($ million) First Energy Savings (GWh) Lifetime Energy Sav...

AI summary The table presents the results of Scenario 2EE-High – Round 1 Modelling, detailing investment amounts, energy savings, and cost-benefit analyses for various energy efficiency programs in Nova Scotia, including residential, business, and enabling strategies. The data highlights the financial and energy-saving impacts of these programs.

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

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

NS Power Shareholder Charitable Contribution NS Power shareholders have indicated that they will provide up to $37 million dollars over ten years (2015-2024) to upgrade all electrically-heated homes owned by low-income Nova Scotians. In th...

AI summary NS Power shareholders are contributing up to $37 million over ten years to upgrade electrically-heated homes for low-income Nova Scotians. EfficiencyOne will avoid using DSM funds for these upgrades if they are already being covered by shareholder contributions.

Other Low Income & Equity Programming In accordance with Section 4.0, the Balanced Plan Approach, EfficiencyOne E1 will design and deliver programs and services that benefit low-income & equity customers. Nova Scotians not affected by the...

AI summary EfficiencyOne E1 is tasked with designing and delivering programs and services that benefit low-income and equity customers under the Balanced Plan Approach, as outlined in Section 4.0. The NS Power charitable donation does not affect Nova Scotians.

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

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

Other Low Income & Equity Programming In accordance with Section 4.0, the Balanced Plan Approach, E1 will design and deliver programs and services that benefit low-income & equity customers.

AI summary E1 is required to design and deliver programs and services that benefit low-income and equity customers, in accordance with Section 4.0 of the Balanced Plan Approach.

Energy Efficiency Energy Efficiency (EE) continues to be a crucial resource for Nova Scotia's electricity system as demonstrated in integrated resource planning by reducing system load and peak, improving grid reliability and lowering elec...

AI summary Energy efficiency (EE) is a critical resource for Nova Scotia's electricity system, reducing load and peak demand, improving grid reliability, and lowering costs. Nova Scotia Power's 2022 IRP identified Base EE as the optimal level, resulting in significant energy savings and cost-effectiveness. E1 has modeled scenarios based on stakeholder input and third-party recommendations, including energy savings targets and sectoral allocations.

Table 1: Energy Efficiency Insights - Scenario 1EE-Base and Scenario 2EE-High Scenario 1EE-Base Scenario 2EE-High EE Scenarios (2027-2031) RES BNI Total RES BNI Total Carbon Emissions Avoided Five-Year Annual Total (kilotonne) 20 51 71 26...

AI summary Table 1 presents energy efficiency insights comparing two scenarios, 1EE-Base and 2EE-High, focusing on carbon emissions avoided, energy and demand savings, investment distribution, and benefits. The 2EE-High scenario shows higher savings and a greater proportion of investment in low-income and equity programs.

Table 2: PROGRAM DESCRIPTION TEMPLATE ITEM DESCRIPTION cumulative), including A summary of expected low-income & equity impacts from dedicated and non-targeted programs (incidental impacts) includingto low-income Nova Scotians: E1 Inve...

AI summary The document outlines a template for describing energy efficiency programs, focusing on low-income and equity impacts, including energy and demand savings, participation rates, and program alternatives within the proposed DSM plan.

Performance Indicators may include: - i. Annual incremental energy savings (reported by program and rate class); - ii. Cumulative annual energy savings (reported by program and rate class); - iii. Annual lifetime energy savings (reported b...

AI summary The text outlines a list of performance indicators that may be included in regulatory proceedings, focusing on energy savings, demand response, customer satisfaction, and cost-effectiveness testing. These metrics are reported by program and rate class, and include both annual and cumulative data, as well as considerations for low-income communities and equity impacts.

Other Low Income and Equity Programming In accordance with Section 4.3.10, the Balanced Plan Approach, EfficiencyOne E1 will design and deliver programs and services that benefit low-income and equity customers. Nova Scotians not affected...

AI summary EfficiencyOne E1 is required to design and deliver programs and services that benefit low-income and equity customers in accordance with Section 4.3.10 of the Balanced Plan Approach. This initiative is not affected by the NS Power charitable donation.

Table 2: PROGRAM DESCRIPTION TEMPLATE ITEM DESCRIPTION 4.4 Low-Income & Equity Performance Indicators - E1 investment; - Incremental net Energy Savings (First-year); - Incremental net Demand Savings (First-year); - Incremental annual net E...

AI summary The document outlines performance indicators for low-income and equity considerations in a DSM plan, including energy and demand savings, cost-effectiveness, and investment metrics. It also mentions the comparison of program elements in the proposed DSM plan to alternate scenarios of DSM budgets.

Performance Indicators consist of:[34](#page-150-0) E1 will propose Performance Indicators within each DSM Resource Plan for consideration and approval by the NSEB. These performance indicators will be specific to the DSM resources propose...

AI summary E1 will propose performance indicators for each DSM Resource Plan for NSEB approval. These indicators include energy savings, demand response capacity, customer satisfaction, and cost-effectiveness testing, with a focus on equity and low-income communities.

Other Low Income and Equity Programming In accordance with Section 4.3.1, the Balanced Plan Approach, E1 will design and deliver programs and services that benefit low-income and equity customers. 35 M12249, NSEB Order, 2026 DSM Extension,...

AI summary E1 is required to design and deliver programs benefiting low-income and equity customers under the Balanced Plan Approach. It must include Program Administrator Cost (PAC) test results for 2023-2025 in its 2025 Annual Progress Report and report future results annually.

4.3.4.1 Low Income and Equity Considerations Consistent with the Balanced Plan Approach, E1 will design and deliver programs and services that benefit low-income and equity customers, including both dedicated programs and incidental impact...

AI summary E1 will design and deliver programs and services that benefit low-income and equity customers, consistent with the Balanced Plan Approach, including both dedicated programs and incidental impacts from non-targeted programs.

(c) Please compare the systems for the utilities identified in (b) with Nova Scotia's in terms of climate (including heating degree days and system peak) and DSM program mix. 1 (d) Given the mentioned affordability challenges, is there any...

AI summary The response discusses lower-than-expected enrollment in EV and battery pathways, attributing it to a smaller addressable market and customer behavior. It also references future census data to assess low-income trends in Nova Scotia.

2027– 2031 DSM Plan application, and E1 forecasts in 2025 and 2026, are based on rate class percentages from three years of historical data. (c) Please refer to E1's response to part (c) of IG IR-14. Request IR-31: Pages 16-17 of Appendix...

AI summary The document discusses the 2027–2031 DSM Plan application and E1's use of historical data for rate class percentages. It also requests clarification on low-income customer estimates, stakeholder feedback on investment splits, and spending on low-income and equity initiatives.

4 Table 1: 2027-2031 Low-income & Equity Participants as a % of All Participants by Plan Year 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 9.0% 8.5% 7.9% 8.1% 8.2% 6 Calculation: number of low-income & equity DSM participants divided by all participants in 7...

AI summary Table 1 shows the percentage of low-income and equity participants in the DSM program relative to all participants from 2027 to 2031. The calculation is based on the number of low-income and equity DSM participants divided by all DSM participants, with one participant representing one NS Power customer.

9 Table 2: 2027-2031 Low-income & Equity DSM Participants as a % of Residential DSM Participants by Plan Year 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 9.7% 9.1% 8.4% 8.5% 8.6% Calculation: number of low-income & equity DSM participants divided by resident...

AI summary Table 2 presents the projected percentage of low-income and equity Demand Side Management (DSM) participants relative to total residential DSM participants from 2027 to 2031. The percentages decrease slightly over the years, with a slight increase in 2031.

10 Table 3: Low-Income and Equity Investment as a Percentage of Total Investment Year Energy Efficiency Residential Low-income & Equity (Incidental + Dedicated) ($ million) Energy Efficiency BNI Low income & Equity (Incidental + Dedicated)...

AI summary Table 3 presents data on low-income and equity investments in energy efficiency and solar-PV programs from 2027 to 2031. It shows the distribution of investments across residential and BNI categories, with the percentage of low-income and equity investment relative to total plan investment increasing slightly over the years.

4. Energy Sufficiency Framework The energy sufficiency evaluation framework is different in that it incorporates a socialist perspective. Social identity increasingly is separate for a top group (for example, the tech billionaires) vs. soc...

AI summary The energy sufficiency framework incorporates a socialist perspective, emphasizing customer needs regardless of income and focusing on reducing energy waste. It centers low-income energy programs within an energy conservation context and aims to meet human needs within resource limits. This approach contrasts with traditional energy production models and aligns with climate change objectives.

re international product energy-efficiency policies becoming endangered species? European Councial for an Energy Efficient Economy, Proceedings of the 2017 Summer Study. Figure 9: Retired Appliances by Year. Figure 10: Yearly GWh Savings &...

AI summary The text discusses the importance of the Appliance Retirement Program (ARET) for low-income households, highlighting its benefits such as voluntary participation, ecological correctness, and proper disposal. It also recommends that the Evaluator analyze the impacts of ending or changing such a program.

1. Appliance Retirement Program (ARet) SVR25-AR-4: When there is a major change in a program, including ending a program, the Evaluator should discuss the change or provide a reference or link to the document in which the discussion is pro...

AI summary The document outlines requirements for evaluating changes to the Appliance Retirement Program (ARet), including analyzing the impacts of program closure on appliance recycling, market dynamics, and low-income households. It also asks for a report on the consequences of ending the program and references a benefit-cost analysis.

, service to low-income and moderate-income customers, and social inclusion as well as benefit-cost analysis' allowable under current legislation and Board orders? ( italics added. ) - Response: - The Verification Team has no information o...

AI summary The document raises questions about the inclusion of certain factors in benefit-cost analysis for low-income and moderate-income customers, as well as the impact of a cybersecurity incident on program evaluations. The Verification Team notes a lack of independent analysis and suggests these issues should be addressed by EfficiencyOne or through broader regulatory analysis.

9 A. Yes. The proposed thresholds operate at the program and rate-class level but do not 10 address one of the most persistent areas of under-delivery that E1 has had over the past 11 two plan terms. Specially, E1's underperformance in rea...

AI summary The text discusses the need for E1 to consolidate its low-income energy efficiency program components under a single 'Low Income Program' to address past underperformance in meeting planned savings targets, as illustrated by Figure 3 and discussed in Section V.

11 Q. HOW DOES THE PREFERRED PLAN PROPOSE TO SERVE LOW-INCOME 12 CUSTOMERS? 13 A. The Preferred Plan includes four program components that exclusively serve low-income 14 and equity customers: Affordable Multifamily Housing, Affordable Sin...

AI summary The Preferred Plan includes several components designed to serve low-income and equity customers, such as Affordable Multifamily Housing, Affordable Single-family Homes, and the Mi'kmaw Home Energy Efficiency Project. These components are expected to deliver approximately 11% of the total residential savings in the plan, aligning with the 2023-2026 target of 10.5%.

15 Q. DO YOU HAVE ANY CONCERNS ABOUT THE E1'S UPDATED APPROACH 16 TO SETTING LOW INCOME TARGETS? 17 A. Yes. My overarching concern is that E1 has set its targets for low-income and equity 18 customers by reference to its own past performan...

AI summary The respondent expresses concern that E1's updated approach to setting low-income targets is based on past performance rather than the actual needs of the population, which may result in insufficient bill relief for those who need it most.

1 Q. WHY IS A HISTORICAL BENCHMARK INAPPROPRIATE FOR THESE 2 CUSTOMERS? 3 A. Using a historical benchmark is circular. Benchmarking the next plan's goals to the last 4 plan's achievement measures E1 against itself, not against the needs of...

AI summary Using a historical benchmark is circular and fails to address current market needs. E1's past performance has been low, and anchoring future goals to this history perpetuates the gap. Savings targets for low-income customers are being reduced significantly in future plans, which is contrary to the need for increased targets.

3 Q. IF THE CUMULATIVE SAVINGS ARE FALLING BEHIND PLAN AND THE 4 CURRENT PLAN PROJECTS LESS SAVINGS, WHAT IS THE REMEDY? 5 E1 should anchor the savings target to the need of the community. In this case 14.9% of Nova Scotians are Low-Income...

AI summary The text discusses the need for E1 to align its savings targets with the needs of low-income Nova Scotians, noting that current low-income programs only account for 11% of residential savings despite low-income individuals making up 14.9% of the population. E1 has not defined equity in terms of load data for low-income customers, which is identified as a data gap.

1 Q. WHAT DO YOU RECOMMEND FOR A DEDICATED LOW-INCOME 2 SAVINGS TARGET? 3 A. I recommend that the Low-Income savings target for dedicated programs should be 4 set to 14.9% of the Residential Savings target, currently 3.76 GWh in the Prefer...

AI summary The respondent recommends setting the Low-Income savings target for dedicated programs to 14.9% of the Residential Savings target, which is currently 3.76 GWh in the Preferred Plan, to align with the low-income percentage of the population.

6 Q. HOW SHOULD THIS TARGET BE MADE ENFORCEABLE? 7 A. Through the plan-oversight mechanisms I discuss earlier in this testimony. As I 8 recommend in the section on plan reporting and review, the four dedicated low-income 9 components shoul...

AI summary The response suggests making the target enforceable by consolidating low-income components into a single program, using a 20% explanation threshold and a 14.9% savings level as performance targets. This would ensure consistent oversight and trigger remedies if targets are not met.

16 Q. WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO HAVE AFFORDABLE ENERGY? 17 A. There are many different definitions of affordability, and there has never been a clear one 18 used as it relates to the E1 DSM Plan. What is clear is that 40% of Nova Scotia homes,...

AI summary Affordable energy is defined in part by the impact on low-income households, many of whom spend over 6% of their after-tax income on energy. The E1 DSM Plan emphasizes the importance of direct-install and affordable housing programs for these customers, while market-rate programs benefit others. A full portfolio of DSM programs helps reduce overall energy bills and offsets DSM delivery costs.

10 Q. DO YOU HAVE OTHER CONCERNS ABOUT HOW LOW-INCOME 11 PROGRAMS ARE IMPLEMENTED? 12 A. Yes. Low-income participants often face barriers that prevent a home from being 13 weatherized. E1 confirms that customers in the Affordable Multifami...

AI summary The witness highlights concerns about the implementation of low-income programs, noting that barriers such as mold, asbestos, and electrical upgrades prevent weatherization in older buildings. E1 does not track the incidence of these barriers, making it difficult to assess how many low-income customers are turned away.

3 Q. HOW CAN E1 CLOSE THIS DATA GAP? 4 A. E1 should record, for each dedicated low-income and equity program component, the 5 number and proportion of customers who do not proceed because of pre-weatherization 6 barriers, the nature of tho...

AI summary E1 is advised to record data on pre-weatherization barriers faced by low-income and equity program participants, including the number of customers affected, the nature of barriers, and case dispositions. This data collection is seen as a recordkeeping change rather than a new program cost and is essential for understanding challenges and refining future plans.

7 Q. IS E1 DOING ANYTHING TO SPECIFICALLY ADDRESS THESE BARRIERS 8 FOR LOW-INCOME CUSTOMERS? 9 A. Not really. E1 confirms there is "no funding in the proposed 2027–2031 DSM Plan included for pre-weatherization barriers," 77 10 and that whe...

AI summary E1 acknowledges that there is no funding in the proposed 2027–2031 DSM Plan for pre-weatherization barriers for low-income customers and currently refers them to provincial housing authorities. The response suggests that a modest funding carve-out in the Low-Income Program would allow E1 to address these barriers directly, as it is already capable of doing so in cases with minimal risk and cost.

3 Q. WHAT DO YOU ESTIMATE A REASONABLE PRE-WEATHERIZATION 4 BARRIER CARVE-OUT SHOULD BE? 5 A. Most energy efficiency portfolios that have pre-weatherization budgets, set them at a 6 percentage of low-income weatherization spending. For exa...

AI summary The response estimates a reasonable pre-weatherization barrier carve-out at up to 10% of five-year budgets for low-income programs, with a $10,000 per home cap, citing examples from Illinois, Minnesota, and Pennsylvania.

15 Table 4. Example Calculation of Pre-Weatherization Carve-out for E1's Preferred Scenario Assumption Value ($M) Affordable Multifamily Housing Budget $11.3 Affordable Single-family Homes Budget $43.7 Mi'kmaw Home Energy Efficiency Projec...

AI summary Table 4 illustrates the calculation of a pre-weatherization carve-out for E1's preferred scenario, including dedicated low-income retrofit budgets and a 10% carve-out. References to the ACEEE 2025 State Scorecard are provided.

4 Q. WHAT EFFECT WILL THIS CARVE-OUT RECOMMENDATION HAVE ON 5 COST-EFFECTIVENESS? 6 A. Pre-weatherization budgets can allow E1 to go deeper on some projects and reduce 7 deferrals for projects that they may not have been able to do before,...

AI summary The carve-out recommendation may improve cost-effectiveness by allowing E1 to go deeper on some projects and reduce deferrals for projects that could not be done before. However, the exact positive effects are difficult to project. A table estimates the impact of shifting 10% of dedicated low-income retrofit funding to pre-weatherization.

Program PAC Benefits ($M) PAC Costs ($M) PAC BCR Affordable Multifamily Housing $12.7 $9.8 1.3 Affordable Single-family Homes $30.5 $38.1 0.8 Mi'kmaw Home Energy Efficiency Project $0.5 $0.6 0.9 Total Dedicated LI Retrofits $43.7 $48.4 0.9...

AI summary The table outlines the financial impacts of various programs under the Pareto Analysis Criterion (PAC), showing benefits, costs, and benefit-cost ratios (BCR). Most programs show a BCR below 1, indicating costs exceed benefits, with the exception of Affordable Multifamily Housing, which has a BCR of 1.3.

3 Q. PLEASE SUMMARIZE YOUR RECOMMENDATIONS REGARDING PRE- 4 WEATHERIZATION BARRIERS? - 5 A. I have two recommendations related to pre-weatherization barriers: - 6 Require tracking and reporting of pre-weatherization barriers. E1 should 7 r...

AI summary The respondent recommends tracking and reporting pre-weatherization barriers and establishing a carve-out for funding to address these barriers in low-income retrofit programs. This would help E1 hold itself accountable and ensure that low-income customers receive necessary weatherization services.

2 Q. DO YOU SUPPORT THE INCLUSION OF THE SOLAR-PV PROGRAM? 3 A. Yes I do. The installed costs for solar PV systems have declined dramatically in recent 4 years, but the upfront costs have been a barrier to low-income customers' ability to...

AI summary The respondent supports the inclusion of the Solar-PV program, noting that while upfront costs are a barrier for low-income customers, starting with Mi'kmaw communities aligns with the New Residential program and offers cost savings through integration during new construction. The investment is estimated at $2.8 million over five years.

19 Q. PLEASE SUMMARIZE YOUR KEY FINDINGS AND OBSERVATIONS - 20 A. In summary, I respectfully recommend that the Board should: - 21 1. Require explicit Board approval for any MCA filing. To expedite this process, 22 intervenors should be gi...

AI summary The witness recommends that the Board require explicit approval for MCA filings, modify the SFF to clarify the cumulative nature of collars, update the SPP with an MCA trigger based on IRP projections, align DSM savings targets with the IRP, set a low-income savings target, consolidate low-income programs, and conduct measure-specific research for high-value measures.

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.

Ontario Power Authority Field Audit Support Tool Green Communities Canada - Ontario, Canada (January 2011 – May 2011) - Collected and implemented specifications for updating the tool used by Ontario Power Authority's low-income program fie...

AI summary The Ontario Power Authority Field Audit Support Tool was updated to enhance data collection and project evaluation for low-income programs. Custom features such as customer input forms and database file importing were added to improve functionality.

1 Third, many low-income customers in Nova Scotia currently heat with oil. 2 According to 2021 Canada Census data, more than 44,000 Nova Scotian 3 households met the low-income cut-off criteria that is the basis of eligibility for 4 the Af...

AI summary The text highlights that many low-income households in Nova Scotia rely on oil for heating, with over 17,000 such homes. It emphasizes the need to address affordability for these customers and aligns the lapse of federal funding for electrification with the timing of the DSM Plan, noting that E1 is well positioned to address this gap.

Q. What other comparable jurisdictions are investing in electrification for low-income customers? A. E1 retained Apex Analytics, LLC (Apex) to recommend reasonable savings goals while maintaining affordability for customers in its 2027-203...

AI summary E1 engaged Apex Analytics to develop a 2027-2031 DSM Plan with reasonable savings goals while ensuring affordability. Apex analyzed similar jurisdictions, including New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and a U.S. state, to inform its recommendations. A report by Roger D. Colton for the Nova Scotia Energy Poverty Task Force is referenced in the response.

1 40 NB Power New Hampshire as the most similar jurisdiction to Nova Scotia. 2 integrated electrification of low- and moderate-income customers with oil heated 3 homes into its 2024/2025 to 2026/2027 DSM Plan. This effort draws on $32.0 4...

AI summary The text discusses Nova Scotia's efforts to integrate electrification for low- and moderate-income customers using oil heating, supported by provincial and federal funding. It also mentions Efficiency Manitoba's program offering free energy efficiency upgrades and notes that New Brunswick and Manitoba's energy efficiency administrators are crown corporations, which may have lessons for Nova Scotia.

A. Yes. NS Power has identified feeders that are currently constrained and NS Power is working on transmitting this information to E1. [44](#page-28-4) For these constrained feeders, 1 there is a dollar benefit to reducing electricity use...

AI summary NS Power has identified constrained feeders and is working with E1 to optimize electrification efforts. E1 is advised to target non-constrained feeders, expand low-income incentives for heat pump conversions, maintain home energy assessments, and use data on high-energy-use and high-arrears customers to prioritize electrification programs.

and Model - M09471. Comments regarding the revised 2019 Rate and Bill Impact Analysis filed by EfficiencyOne on November 1, 2019. Synapse Energy Economics for the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board. Napoleon, A., B. Havumaki, D. Bhandari...

AI summary The text lists various publications and reports prepared by Synapse Energy Economics and other consultants for regulatory and energy efficiency matters in multiple jurisdictions, including Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Vermont, New York, and Maine. These reports cover topics such as advanced metering infrastructure, energy efficiency initiatives, and low-income energy burden studies.

n, Conservation and Demand Management Plan 2021-2025, 2021, Schedule C, Page 141 – 143 of 325. Id. Page 141 of 325. Id., page 141 of 325. Request IR-8: Reference: Brattle Evidence, Section VII: Conclusion, page 35: "Support targeted Solar...

AI summary The response to Request IR-8 discusses the lack of specific non-DSM funding mechanisms currently committed to supporting solar PV in Mi'kmaw communities in Nova Scotia. However, it references examples of equity-based programs, such as E1's HomeWarming program, which uses federal and provincial funding to increase participation in energy efficiency initiatives.

Research by Efficiency Canada shows that reliance on government funding for equity- orientated programming is not without precedent. Efficiency Canada's 2025 Energy Efficiency Programs Report highlights the different sources of funding for...

AI summary The text discusses the funding of equity-oriented energy efficiency programs, highlighting that government funding is not new for E1, as seen in the success of the HomeWarming program. It also notes that government funding may lead to a more progressive cost recovery compared to electricity rates, but Brattle cannot comment on specific cost allocation details.

M12780 - In the Matter of EfficiencyOne's (E1) 2027–2031 Demand Side Management (DSM) Resource Plan Application 1 Request IR-6: As an alternative to funding Strategic Electrification based on previous modeling exercises, Synapse also revie...

AI summary The document discusses an alternative approach to funding Strategic Electrification, focusing on low and moderate income customers who heat with oil, as part of EfficiencyOne's 2027–2031 Demand Side Management (DSM) Resource Plan Application.

Energy Efficiency Regulations In 2022, the Province prescribed the following minimum dollar transfers to the Energy Efficiency Fund for funding the development and delivery of energy efficiency and energy conservation for low-income custom...

AI summary In 2022, the Province mandated minimum transfers to the Energy Efficiency Fund for low-income customers, First Nations, and non-profit organizations, along with minimum savings targets. Additionally, current regulations prevent NB Power from using ratepayer funds for incentives with mainly non-electric savings.

Climate Change Policies and Regulations New Brunswick's 2022–2027 Climate Change Action Plan 6 includes commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to at least 46 percent below 2005 emission levels by 2030 and to achieve net-zero emissi...

AI summary New Brunswick's 2022–2027 Climate Change Action Plan aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 46% below 2005 levels by 2030 and achieve net-zero by 2050. It includes electrification goals, such as increasing EV sales and phasing out heating oil. NB Power supports various actions, including energy efficiency financing and building code acceleration. The Climate Fund supports LMI programs through NB Power's DSM Plan.

4.1. Customers, Sales, Revenues, and Housing Stock Characteristics As of 2022/23 NB Power had 379,420 direct customers, 13,543 GWh in sales, and $1,572 million in inprovince revenues (NBEUB IR-123d, page 235). Residential customers and ind...

AI summary As of 2022/23, NB Power had 379,420 direct customers and generated 13,543 GWh in sales with $1,572 million in in-province revenues. Residential customers accounted for 53% of sales, with 84% of homes being single-family and 75% primarily heated by electricity. NB Power reported approximately 168,800 LMI customers, and Synapse estimated that 44% of NB Power's customers are LMI.

4.3. Spending and Funding Sources NB Power's energy efficiency and electrification efforts benefit from the use of federal and provincial funding. NB Power is responsible for the implementation, marketing and outreach, technical and custom...

AI summary NB Power's energy efficiency and electrification initiatives are supported by federal and provincial funding. The proposed DSM-related spending over three years totals $236 million, with significant declines in spending from 2024/25 to 2025/26. Spending is allocated across energy efficiency, demand response, and LMI electrification, with inconsistencies noted in the latter's funding over time.

Energy Efficiency Renewable Energy / Demand Response LMI Electrification Overhead & Enablement Total $ % of $ % of $ % of $ % of $ % of millions Total millions Total millions Total millions Total millions Total 2024/25 $56.5 64% $4.8 5% $2...

AI summary The table provides a financial breakdown of various energy initiatives from 2024/25 to 2026/27, showing the distribution of funds across Energy Efficiency, Renewable Energy, Demand Response, LMI Electrification, and Overhead & Enablement. The data highlights the percentage of total funding allocated to each category over the three-year period.

Sources: - NBP02.61 2024_25 to 2026_27 DSM Initiatives Update Table 2: 2024/25 Planned EE-DR Program Spending by Funding Source, $ Millions page 9. - NBP02.61 2024_25 to 2026_27 DSM Initiatives Update Table 9: 2025/26 Planned EE-DR Program...

AI summary NB Power administers energy efficiency and electrification programs, using ratepayer and external funding. Over three years, $111.1 million is proposed for energy efficiency and renewable energy, and $15.7 million for demand response. Provincial and federal funding contributes 37% on average. LMI electrification efforts are fully funded by provincial and federal sources. Funding from the Future Electricity Fund and Low Carbon Economy Fund will be depleted by 2025/26.

Jurisdiction Spending per Capita Spending % of Revenue Low-Income Spending % of Total Spending PE $97.43 NA 41.8% NS $78.36 NA 23.5% NB $72.19 4.0% 46.1% BC $58.38 NA 5.6% Canada QC $46.23 NA 0.4% ON $25.48 NA 17.3% MA – National Grid NA 1...

AI summary The table compares spending per capita, spending as a percentage of revenue, and the percentage of total spending allocated to low-income programs across various jurisdictions in Canada and the United States. The data highlights significant variations in spending patterns and low-income program allocations.

4.4. Program Types, Sectors, and Market Segments Supported [Table 4](#page-26-0) below provides a description of program coverage in NB Power's proposed DSM Plan. - NB Power's portfolio includes a wide range of measures and efforts, from m...

AI summary NB Power's proposed DSM Plan includes a wide range of energy efficiency and electrification programs targeting residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, including hard-to-reach customers such as low-income, small commercial, and small industrial participants.

- Energy efficiency from NBP 2.61, Part A – Appendix AHi 2024-25 to 2026-27 DSM Program Initiatives Update. - Electrification from NBEUB IR-237c and d, page 80. - Demand response from NBEUB IR-141e, page 268. - Renewables from NBEUB IR-267...

AI summary NB Power's energy efficiency and electrification programs have notable gaps, including missing savings proportions, unfinalized rebate programs, lack of electrification for non-low-income customers, and limited demand response integration. The company also supports oil-to-natural gas conversions, and has a significant waitlist for its energy savings program.

Table 7. DSM portfolio and program cost-effectiveness, 2024/25 Program Type Sector Program Name PACT – All Fuels PACT – NB Power PCT – All Fuels PCT – NB Power Energy Efficiency Residential New Home Energy Savings Program 1.6 1.6 1.1 1.1 T...

AI summary Table 7 presents the cost-effectiveness of various Demand Side Management (DSM) programs in Nova Scotia for 2024/25, including Energy Efficiency, Electrification, and Demand Response programs across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, with specific metrics for all fuels and NB Power.

General NB Power's DSM portfolio includes energy efficiency, demand response, electrification, and renewable energy measures. It addresses a variety of market segments and customer types. NB Power can be commended for its LMI funding level...

AI summary NB Power's DSM portfolio includes energy efficiency, demand response, electrification, and renewable energy measures, with commendable LMI funding. However, its proposed savings levels are below many jurisdictions, and there are gaps in program offerings. The DSM Plan lacks detailed documentation and cost-effectiveness data, and PACT and PCT calculations are incomplete.

Support for LMI customers NB Power funding is relatively stable over time. However, funding from other sources (which LMI programs rely on completely) is variable and uncertain for the 2025/26 and 2026/27 plan years. As a result of a lack...

AI summary NB Power's LMI program funding is unstable, leading to a decline in support and long waitlists. Current funding only covers partial demand-side management measures. The author recommends securing stable funding and involving LMI customers in discussions.

Support for electrification NB Power has an electrification program for LMI customers, but not for other Residential, Commercial, and Industrial customers. Given the Province's intention of eliminating oil use for heating by 2030, NB Power...

AI summary NB Power currently offers electrification incentives only for low-income customers, but the Province aims to eliminate oil use for heating by 2030. It is recommended that NB Power expand its electrification program to other customer segments and phase out incentives for gas heating systems to support carbon reduction goals.

- approve the energy-efficiency-related budgets and savings proposed by NB Power for the 2024/25 and 2025/26 program years. - o Direct NB Power to provide updates when the Energy Efficient Products and Total Homes Energy Savings programs a...

AI summary The document outlines approvals and directives related to NB Power's energy-efficiency and electrification budgets, the redesign of specific programs, and the need for a detailed review of renewable energy investments. It also mandates updates to the DSM plan and the inclusion of various measure types in future studies.

Synapse At page 30, lines 4 – 7, Ms. Napoleon recommends E1 provide incentives in the low-income and equity program components for long-term maintenance and repairs for customers who convert to heat pumps from oil heating: Also, E1's low-i...

AI summary Ms. Napoleon recommends that E1 extend its low-income program incentives to include long-term maintenance and repairs for low-income households converting from oil heating to heat pumps, similar to existing incentives for those switching from electric resistance heating.

Synapse - At page 30, lines 8 13, Ms. Napoleon recommends E1 maintain the current Oil to Heat Pump Affordability - (OHPA) requirement that home energy assessments be conducted prior to electrification: In addition, E1 should maintain the c...

AI summary Ms. Napoleon recommends that E1 maintain the current Oil to Heat Pump Affordability (OHPA) requirement, which mandates home energy assessments before electrification. She also suggests that E1 may need to increase the low-income budget for these assessments and encourage weatherization to achieve additional cost savings and energy affordability benefits.

Synapse - At page 30, line 14 page 31, line 2, Ms. Napoleon recommends that E1 target electrification to low- and moderate-income customers: - Lastly, a 2024 report titled A Way Forward: A Made-In-Nova Scotia Home Energy Affordability Prog...

AI summary Ms. Napoleon recommends that E1 target electrification efforts towards low- and moderate-income customers with high energy use and arrears, citing a 2024 report. NS Power has data to identify these customers and can refer them to E1 for further action, which would improve affordability and reduce fossil fuel use.

E1 Rebuttal Evidence E1 agrees that providing support for low income and equity customers through strategic electrification programs is important, however, fully funded programs present challenges to meeting cost effectiveness thresholds a...

AI summary E1 acknowledges the importance of supporting low-income and equity customers through electrification programs but argues that fully funded programs may not meet cost-effectiveness thresholds or reduce electricity costs as required by legislation. E1 also notes that the 2024 report referenced by Ms. Napoleon focuses on government-funded programs rather than ratepayer-funded DSM.

Consumer Advocate Mr. Love takes issue with E1's approach to setting low-income and equity customer targets. At page 18, lines 15 – 20, he states:

AI summary The Consumer Advocate, Mr. Love, criticizes E1's approach to setting low-income and equity customer targets, highlighting concerns with how these targets are being established.

Q. DO YOU HAVE ANY CONCERNS ABOUT THE E1'S UPDATED APPROACH TO SETTING LOW INCOME TARGETS? A. Yes. My overarching concern is that E1 has set its targets for low-income and equity customers by reference to its own past performance rather th...

AI summary The witness expresses concern that E1's updated approach to setting low-income savings targets is based on past performance rather than actual need, resulting in insufficient support for low-income customers. They recommend aligning the target with the proportion of low-income residents in the population (14.9%).

Q. HOW CAN E1 CLOSE THIS DATA GAP? A. E1 should record, for each dedicated low-income and equity program component, the number and proportion of customers who do not proceed because of pre-weatherization barriers, the nature of those barri...

AI summary E1 is advised to record data on pre-weatherization barriers faced by low-income and equity program participants during site visits. This data collection is seen as a recordkeeping change rather than a new program cost and is essential for understanding challenges and refining future plans.

1. Annual Adjustment Process - (a) Renaming. The process previously described in the Application as a "mid-course adjustment" (MCA) process is renamed the "Annual Adjustment Process", for purposes of clarity, and in particular to distingui...

AI summary The Annual Adjustment Process is being renamed and modified to include a dedicated low-income/equity program, adjusted variance thresholds measured over a five-year cumulative basis, a specific approval pathway for variances exceeding thresholds, and enhanced reporting requirements including mid-year and forward outlooks.

ommunities. Since 2018, the Mi'kmaw Home Energy Efficiency Program has been operating in our communities, thanks to partners that include the Province, Sustainable Housing and Efficiency Nova Scotia. As you may be aware, our Mi'kmaw commun...

AI summary The Mi'kmaw Home Energy Efficiency Program has supported over 1,800 homes in Mi'kmaw communities since 2018 by providing energy assessments and improvements such as insulation, air sealing, and heat pump installations. The program has also boosted local economic development by supporting Mi'kmaw-owned businesses.

been small compared to the overall gains. Efficiency and other demand side management measures have always been and continue to be the best ways to ensure affordability by reducing the use of energy. The AEC also opposes the cuts in spendi...

AI summary The Affordable Energy Coalition (AEC) opposes cuts to energy efficiency and demand-side management (DSM) spending, arguing they will reduce savings for low-income and equity groups. They also support including strategic electrification in the E1 contract for low and modest income households. Evidence includes reduced savings targets and funding cuts.

5. The AEC supports a balcony solar program for low and modest income tenants . E1 states that they have no plans to expand solar programs beyond the Mi'kmaw New Home Construction program. Cheap behind the meter balcony solar with built in...

AI summary The AEC supports a balcony solar program for low and modest income tenants, arguing that such programs can reduce energy costs and improve reliability. E1 states they have no plans to expand solar programs beyond the Mi'kmaw New Home Construction program, but the AEC suggests that balcony solar should be supported in line with Nova Scotia's 'consumer choice' approach.

an will distribute the results of this market study to deep retrofit stakeholders nationwide to help boost Canada's deep retrofit rate and achieve net-zero goals for 2050. Chris was an Expert Advisor. Ontario Insulat ion Market St udy: Enb...

AI summary This text outlines several studies and projects related to energy efficiency and market research. It includes an insulation market study in Ontario, a deep retrofit study, and a zero-emission freight strategy in New Brunswick. Chris is noted as an Expert Advisor in these initiatives.

is not acceptable. 2. The Affordable Energy Coalition supports including substantial strategic electrification in the E1 contract, especially for low and modest income households. We oppose E1's decision to omit strategic electrification e...

AI summary The Affordable Energy Coalition supports including strategic electrification in the E1 contract, especially for low and modest income households, arguing that electrification can save money and improve efficiency. They also support specific low-income and equity energy savings programs in the E1 proposal.

5. The AEC supports a balcony solar program for low and modest income tenants . E1 states that they have no plans to expand solar programs beyond the Mi'kmaw New Home Construction program. Cheap behind the meter balcony solar with built in...

AI summary The AEC supports a balcony solar program for low and modest income tenants, arguing that such programs can reduce energy costs and improve electricity reliability. E1 currently has no plans to expand solar programs beyond the Mi'kmaw New Home Construction program, but the AEC believes this should change to align with Nova Scotia's 'consumer choice' approach and support low-income households.

Reported in 2021, 2016 (25% sample), 2011 (30% sample). 1 Reported for Economic families and persons not in economic families aged 15 years and over in private households where low-income concepts are applicable (see Remarks).

AI summary The document reports data from 2021, 2016 (25% sample), and 2011 (30% sample) related to economic families and individuals aged 15 and over in private households where low-income concepts are applicable.

Nova Scotia 🖰 [Province] Counts Characteristic Total Low income and income inequality in 2020 Total - LIM low-income status in 2020 for the population in private households - 100% data 955,855 0 to 17 years 165,120 0 to 5 years 49,490 18 t...

AI summary This table provides demographic data on low income in Nova Scotia for 2020, including total numbers and percentages across different age groups. It highlights the distribution of low-income individuals based on the Low-income measure, after tax (LIM-AT).

43 Reference: Evidence, page 18 and page 58 45 "E1 has also altered its approach to the application of the 'balanced plan' principles in DSM 46 plan design, in particular by moving away from its previous approach of applying a 5 7 11 19 20...

AI summary E1's DSM plan updates include adjusting investment splits and increasing low-income support to 11% of residential savings. Questions focus on the basis for this percentage, benchmarking methodologies, and interruptible customer participation in Smart Synergy. The plan also addresses equity definitions and potential double compensation for demand reductions.

Request IR-1: - Pdf pg. 9 outlines that the Preferred Plan will save 14 GWh of energy through low income and equity programs; 85 MW a cumulative peak demand; 29.3 MW of capacity through demand response; and 1.7 GWh through customers' solar...

AI summary The Preferred Plan aims to save 14 GWh of energy through low-income programs, 85 MW peak demand reduction, 29.3 MW capacity via demand response, and 1.7 GWh from solar installations. The request asks E1 to explain the methodology for these estimates and the selection criteria for their programming.

Request IR-24: - Exhibit E-1, page 56 of 71(pdf pg. 63), Table 7: 2027-2031 Plan Portfolio Level Insights: - a) E1 notes that dedicated low-income and energy savings as a percentage of total residential energy savings is 11%. What is the p...

AI summary The text raises a question regarding the percentage of dedicated low-income and equity program costs relative to total residential energy efficiency program costs, referencing Exhibit E-1, Table 7 of the 2027-2031 Plan Portfolio Level Insights. It seeks clarification on the cost allocation within residential energy efficiency initiatives.

Request IR-26: - Exhibit E-1, page 58 of 71 (pdf pg.65), Table 9: 2027-2031 DSM Preferred Plan Savings and Investment by Program Component: - a. Please provide a breakdown by program for the amounts attributed to "Residential Total (Incide...

AI summary Request IR-26 seeks a detailed breakdown by program of the 'Residential Total (Incidental + Dedicated) Low Income & Equity Impacts' amounts in Table 9 (2027-2031 DSM Preferred Plan Savings and Investment).

eed upon by E1 and NS Power? b. Does E1 anticipate any updates to the proposed 2027-2031 DSM Plan with this proposed resolution in place? If so, when would these updates take place? If not, why not? Request IR-15: Page 25 of the Evidence s...

AI summary E1 proposes a 2027-2031 DSM Plan targeting 0.8% energy savings (load), citing APEX's jurisdictional scan aligning with U.S./Canadian utilities. The plan allocates 29%/71% residential/BNI sectors, with 11% low-income savings, aligning with prior plans. Questions focus on updates to the DSM Plan and E1's rationale for the proposed energy savings.

b. Who are these low-income/equity participants? Request IR-51: Please refer to Table 41: 2027–2031 Small Business Energy Solutions Program Component on page 73 of Appendix A – Preferred Plan which states, "Overview: Provides small busines...

AI summary The text includes several requests related to defining small businesses, the inclusion of small businesses in the BNI demand response effort, and the rationale for not enrolling new customers in the Residential Demand Response program. It also requests details on the optimal demand response capacity levels from NS Power's 2022 IRP.

INFORMATION REQUEST 2: Please explain how the savings for the low income and equity programs as a percentage of residential savings is calculated, pointing to the appropriate tables and figures. Please explain how to calculate the investme...

AI summary The document requests explanations on calculating low income and equity program savings as a percentage of residential savings, and investment as a percentage of residential program investment, with references to specific tables and figures.

The 3 measures are: - high performing building envelopes (air tightness, insulation, ventilation, windows/doors) - high efficiency space and water heating systems (heat pumps and heat pump water heaters) - solar-PV systems (via the residen...

AI summary The New Residential program includes measures like high-performance building envelopes, efficient heating systems, and solar-PV. It is proposed to benefit low-income households through publicly funded affordable housing. The document requests an explanation for why the program was not extended to all such housing.

tarios-Full-Scale-Roll-Out-of-TOU-Rates.pdf - Comparative Generation Costs of Utility-Scale and Residential Scale PV in Xcel Energy Colorado's Service Area, with Bruce Tsuchida, Bob Mudge, Will Gorman, Peter Fox-Penner and Jens Schoene (En...

AI summary This section lists various whitepapers and reports prepared by Sanem Sergici and others, covering topics such as generation costs of solar energy, load factor adjustments, demand response products, and the impact of dynamic pricing on low-income customers. These reports were prepared for organizations including First Solar, The Sustainable FERC Project, and IEE.

NON-CONFIDENTIAL (b) GEEG notes that carving out 10% of the budget for dedicated low-income retrofit program funding to mitigate or eliminate pre-weatherization barriers through performing asbestos abatement or addressing a leaky roof "mea...

AI summary GEEG raises concerns about increasing ratepayer costs for services with limited energy savings, specifically regarding a 10% budget carve-out for low-income retrofit programs. The proposal is questioned for its potential to increase unit costs and reduce benefits.

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

AI summary The text discusses eligibility criteria for the Smart Synergy program, noting that it excludes LII customers due to participation in an existing demand response program and the exclusion of Rate Code 25. It requests clarification on whether these exclusions are program-specific and whether voluntary load reductions by LII customers are equivalent to those incentivized by Smart Synergy.

24 Request IR-6: 25 Reference: E-23, Pages 27–28. As an alternative to including the strategic electrification from the Round 2 modeling, E1 could develop strategic electrification offerings for low- and moderate-income customers who heat...

AI summary The text requests clarification on the structure and funding of strategic electrification (SE) offerings for low- and moderate-income oil-heated customers in Nova Scotia. It also asks whether equity-based rationales can justify SE inclusion in a DSM Plan without meeting cost-reduction requirements and why DSM funding is preferred over other programs to address the gap left by the OHPA expiry.

NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD UNDERTAKING LIST MATTER NAME: EfficiencyOne - 2027-2031 Demand Side Management (DSM) Plan Application MATTER #: M12780 DATE: UND# DESCRIPTION REQUESTED OF BY DATE DUE August 4, 2026 U-1 To provide data to show the...

AI summary The document outlines several undertakings related to EfficiencyOne's 2027-2031 Demand Side Management (DSM) Plan Application. These undertakings include providing data on participation barriers for low-income and equity programs, incentive amounts for non-profit organizations, cost estimates for a specific landlord program, and a revised rate and bill impact analysis. The undertakings are requested by various stakeholders including the Consumer Advocate and the Affordable Energy Coalition.

August 11, 2026 The Affordable Energy Coalition has long been a strong supporter of Efficiency NS' Demand Side Management programs. We continue to be. The best way to lower bills and increase affordability is through DSM programs. We appre...

AI summary The Affordable Energy Coalition supports Efficiency NS' Demand Side Management (DSM) programs, particularly those targeting low-income households and equity-seeking communities. However, they express concerns about the proposed E1-NSP contract and urge the NS Energy Board to demand improvements, referencing past actions by the UARB.

a. MAJOR recommendations: - i. The Affordable Energy Coalition recommends that the Board direct E1 to increase investment and savings to match the savings recommended in the 2022 IRP, to meet short and long term affordability goals. - ii....

AI summary The Affordable Energy Coalition recommends several measures to enhance affordability and equity in energy programs, including increasing investment in low-income programs, implementing ASHP-style incentives, and offering solar and electrification options for low-income customers.

APPENDIX A – Calculations showing a 45% cut in annual savings from 2023-2026 plan to the 2027-31 preferred plan, for dedicated Low Income and Equity (LI & E) programs - 1. SAVINGS in the 2023-2026 Plan: - a. Source: Table 4 2023-2026 DSM P...

AI summary This appendix compares the energy savings from Low Income and Equity (LI & E) programs between the 2023-2026 DSM Plan and the 2027-2031 Preferred Plan. The average annual savings decrease by 45%, from 5.15 GWh to 2.8 GWh per year, due to changes in program targets and implementation strategies.