E-1Application and Evidence
34 passages
1.3 DESIGN OBJECTIVES E1's overarching objectives in developing the 2026 DSM Extension were as follows: - a) program continuity with the 2023-2025 DSM Plan; - b) achievability of performance targets; - c) continued cost-effectiveness; and...
AI summary E1's 2026 DSM Extension objectives include program continuity, achievable targets, cost-effectiveness, and balance. It maintains 50/50 residential-BNI investment splits but reduced low-income equity investment to 15-20% (from 17-22%) due to updated census data showing fewer low-income Nova Scotians.
1.4 KEY INPUTS The key input categories that informed the 2026 DSM Extension were as follows: - a) The prescribed statutory investment level of $63,750,000; - b) The 2023-2025 DSM Plan portfolio and corresponding programs; - c) To date 202...
AI summary The 2026 DSM Extension is informed by four key inputs: a statutory investment level of $63.75M, the 2023-2025 DSM Plan portfolio, implementation results to 2023, and the 2025 forecast. Statistics Canada's 2021 census data on Nova Scotia's Low-Income Measure After Tax (LIM-AT) is also referenced.
1.6 PROGRAM CONTINUITY - Consistent with the concept of an extension to the existing Board approved DSM Plan, there are no new - programs contemplated under the 2026 DSM Extension. The three residential energy efficiency programs - categor...
AI summary The 2026 DSM Extension continues existing programs without new initiatives, maintaining residential and BNI energy efficiency categories, retiring some components like New Home Construction, and retaining demand response programs. E1 monitors and adjusts programs as needed.
2.3 ECONOMIC UNCERTAINTY A context-setting exercise in the current era would not be complete without noting the significant economic uncertainty that has arisen due to America's ever-evolving trade policies. The United States (US) tariffs...
AI summary Economic uncertainty from US tariffs on Canada, combined with lingering supply chain and labor market issues post-pandemic, may impact Nova Scotia's E1 programs and DSM costs. E1 acknowledges potential effects but has not adjusted 2026 targets due to policy unpredictability.
16 4. 2026 DSM PROGRAMS
AI summary The document outlines the 2026 Demand-Side Management (DSM) Programs under regulatory review by the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board (NSUARB). Key entities include the DSM Cost Recovery Rider (DCRR) and the Public Utilities Act (PUA), with involvement from the Independent Energy System Operator (IESO) and the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP).
22 Table 3: Program Modifications and Retirements in the 2026 DSM Extension Program Program Component Changes and Enhancements in the 2026 DSM Extension as compared to the 2023-2025 Plan Continued/Modified/ Retired • No longer offering app...
AI summary The 2026 DSM Extension outlines modifications and retirements to various programs, including the discontinuation of appliance replacements in favor of the Appliance Retirement program, continued support for residential behavior programs, and renaming of the Strategic Energy Management program component.
Avoided costs of both energy and capacity were based on NS Power's Evergreen IRP and avoided costs of transmission and distribution were provided by NS Power, both provided to the DSMAG on August 23, 2024. Avoided costs of carbon are embed...
AI summary The text discusses avoided costs of energy, capacity, transmission, and distribution based on NS Power's Evergreen IRP, and how they are used in cost-effectiveness calculations for energy efficiency (EE) and demand response (DR) programs. It also highlights the collaboration required between E1 and NS Power for DR benefits and the use of various metrics like TRC and PAC for evaluating program performance.
6. EVALUATION AND REPORTING E1 intends to follow the current Board approved measurement and evaluation activities as established in the 2023-2025 Plan. This includes an annual impact evaluation for each program. - Similarly, throughout the...
AI summary E1 will follow the Board-approved measurement and evaluation activities from the 2023-2025 Plan, including annual impact evaluations and specific reporting for the 2026 DSM Extension. References to M10473 and compliance filings are cited.
7. CONCLUSION - The 2026 DSM Extension Application is a filing brought about through recently enacted legislative - amendments to the Public Utilities Act which; - (1) extends the demand-side management purchase agreement approved by the B...
AI summary The 2026 DSM Extension Application seeks to extend the existing DSM Plan until 2026 under new PUA amendments, proposing energy and demand savings targets. The extension aligns with legislative intent, maintains program continuity, and meets cost-effectiveness criteria with a TRC of 1.6. E1 requests Board approval for the extension.
2.2.1 2023 AND 2024 PLAN RESULTS Table 1, below, provides E1's evaluated results for 2023 and 2024 as compared to the approved 2023-2025 Plan. E1's 2023 and 2024 annual impact evaluations provide up-to-date impacts on the net electrical en...
AI summary This section presents the 2023 and 2024 plan results, comparing E1's evaluated outcomes to the approved 2023-2025 Plan. It highlights progress indicators such as net electrical energy and net system peak-demand savings, as well as available capacity, to assess performance against the approved targets.
M10473, 2023-2025 DSM Resource Plan Compliance Filing, October 4, 2022, Appendix C, Schedule E, page 113 M12186, E1 2024 DSM Annual Progress Report, March 31, 2025
AI summary The document references two filings: M10473, a 2023-2025 DSM Resource Plan Compliance Filing from October 4, 2022, and M12186, the E1 2024 DSM Annual Progress Report dated March 31, 2025.
5. ENERGY EFFICIENCY The 2026 DSM Extension continues to deliver cost-effective energy savings benefits for Nova Scotia's residential and BNI customers. In the program sections that follow, E1 has highlighted changes, modifications or enha...
AI summary The 2026 DSM Extension continues to deliver cost-effective energy savings for residential and BNI customers, with E1 highlighting changes compared to the 2023-2025 Plan.
5.1 RESIDENTIAL EFFICIENT PRODUCT REBATES The Residential Efficient Product Rebates program offers residential customers financial incentives for consumer products through retail channels. In the 2023-2025 DSM Plan, the program included tw...
AI summary The Residential Efficient Product Rebates program, part of the DSM Plan, initially had two components: Instant Savings and Appliance Retirement. E1 terminated Appliance Retirement in 2025 due to rising costs and declining savings, leaving only Instant Savings in the 2026 DSM Extension.
4 5.2 EXISTING RESIDENTIAL - 5 The Existing Residential program provides residential customers with access to information, technical - 6 support, and financial assistance to identify, assess and implement energy efficiency behaviours and -...
AI summary The Existing Residential program, part of the 2023-2025 Plan, will transition from seven to six components by 2026, removing Green Heat due to declining participation. The 2026 DSM Extension includes six components, such as Home Energy Assessments and Mi'kmaw initiatives, while E1 cites reduced savings as the reason for ending Green Heat.
10 5.2.3 EFFICIENT PROD UCT IN STALLATION Efficient Product Installation conducts energy efficient upgrades for homeowners and renters, at no-cost. During a home visit, qualified installers provide free installation of energy efficient pro...
AI summary Efficient Product Installation offers free energy upgrades, including smart devices and efficiency measures, to homeowners and renters. Customers are auto-enrolled in Eco Shift (E1's Demand Response program), enhancing capacity and promoting energy savings through direct engagement and education during home visits.
11 5.3 EFFICIENT PRODUCT REBATES - 12 The Efficient Product Rebates program provides BNI customers with financial incentives, in the form of - 13 prescriptive rebates or financing for the installation of energy efficient and system-peak de...
AI summary The Efficient Product Rebates program offers BNI customers financial incentives for installing energy-efficient and demand-reducing equipment. It targets non-profit, commercial, industrial, and institutional customers, with a focus on predictable savings. The program includes a single component: Business Energy Rebates.
15 5.4 CUSTOM INCENTIVES - 16 The Custom Incentives program provides financial incentives and technical assistance to help non-profit, 17 institutional, commercial, and industrial customers reduce their electrical energy consumption and 18...
AI summary The Custom Incentives program offers tailored financial and technical support to non-profit, institutional, commercial, and industrial customers to reduce energy consumption and peak demand. It includes two components: Custom and Strategic Energy Management (SEM), with E1 collaborating directly on projects not covered by other programs.
7 Table 17: 2026 Summary of Custom Program Component Extension Investment ($M) Energy Savings (GWh) Demand Savings (MW) Participation (projects) 2026 Total 9.8 34.0 7.0 172 Program Component Changes • approved 2023-2025 Plan. • Efficiency...
AI summary Table 17 outlines the 2026 DSM Extension with $9.8M investment, 34GWh energy savings, 7MW demand savings, and 172 participating projects. The 2023-2025 Plan was approved, and the 2026 strategy includes targeted marketing, AMI data use, and engagement with professionals. Attachment 3 provides detailed measure-level data.
12 5.4.2 STRATEGIC EN ERGY M AN AGEM EN T Strategic Energy Management focuses on operational and procedural changes companies can make to reduce their energy usage. The goal of Strategic Energy Management is to help develop an energy manag...
AI summary Strategic Energy Management aims to reduce energy usage through operational and procedural changes, focusing on long-term energy performance and continuous savings. Participants collaborate with service providers to identify opportunities and implement a 12-month action plan. Table 18 summarizes the program component for the 2026 DSM Extension.
1 Table 18: 2026 Summary of Strategic Energy Management Program Component Extension Investment ($M) Energy Savings (GWh) Demand Savings (MW) Participation (participants) 2026 Total 0.9 4.0 0.4 11 Program Component Changes • • tool to Strat...
AI summary Table 18 outlines the 2026 Summary of Strategic Energy Management Program Component, including investment, energy savings, demand savings, and participation numbers. The program will follow the same approach as the approved 2023-2025 Plan and includes marketing strategies such as business development engagement and industry events.
6 6. DEMAND RESPONSE In the 2023-2025 Plan, E1 introduced a new demand response (DR) program, a significant new development for the Nova Scotia electricity sector and E1. In the 2020 IRP, DR was selected as a new cost- effective resource f...
AI summary E1 introduced a new demand response (DR) program in the 2023-2025 Plan, building on 2019 DR pilots and the 2020 IRP's recognition of DR as a cost-effective resource. Collaborating with NS Power and Guidehouse, E1 developed DR pathways like battery control and CPP, with plans to expand initiatives in 2026. The 2023-2025 DSM Plan aimed to test DR feasibility and optimize costs.
6.1 DEMAND RESPONSE PROGRAM - E1's Demand Response program is comprised of two program components: - Residential Demand Response; and - BNI Demand Response.
AI summary E1's Demand Response program consists of two components: Residential Demand Response and BNI Demand Response. The text outlines the structure of the program as part of a regulatory proceeding.
Table 24: 2023-2026 Performance Indicators Approved 2023-2025 Performance Indicators 2026 2023-2026 • Annual incremental energy savings (reported by program and rate class) (GWh) ✓ ✓ • Cumulative annual energy savings (reported by program...
AI summary Table 24 outlines 2023-2026 performance indicators for energy savings, demand response, and customer satisfaction. Key metrics include annual and cumulative energy savings (GWh), system-peak demand savings (MW), ratepayer benefits, and low-income program impacts. The table emphasizes reporting by program, rate class, and equity considerations.
4 9. EVALUATION - 5 In the 2026 DSM Extension, E1 proposes to follow the same measurement and evaluation activities as - 6 approved in the 2023-2025 Plan. This includes an annual impact evaluation for each program. - 7 As in the approved 2...
AI summary E1 proposes to follow the same measurement and evaluation activities as the 2023-2025 Plan for the 2026 DSM Extension, including annual impact evaluations and condensing activities for mature programs. Collaboration with the Evaluator will determine components for process and market evaluations.
16 Table 1: Dedicated Low-Income and Equity Program Components Program Component Assumptions Calculation for 2026 DSM Extension Calculation for DSM Reporting Affordable Multi-Family Housing and Non-Profit Organizations (AMF) • Exclusively...
AI summary This section outlines dedicated low-income and equity program components, including Affordable Multi-Family Housing, Affordable Single-Family Housing, and the Mi'kmaw Home Energy Efficiency Project. It details assumptions, savings calculations, and performance targets established by the NSUARB for the 2023-2025 Plan period.
3. INCIDENTAL LOW-INCOME AND EQUITY IMPACTS FROM NON-TARGETED PROGRAMS E1 has also assumed that customers from low-income and equity communities participate in other E1 programs in varying proportions. These are "incidental" low-income and...
AI summary E1 assumes low-income and equity customers participate in non-targeted programs, leading to incidental impacts. Sections 3.1 and 3.2 detail assumptions for the 2026 DSM Extension and DSM reporting methodologies.
3.1 2026 DSM EXTENSION ASSUMPTIONS: INCIDENTAL IMPACTS To estimate the incidental low-income and equity impacts for the 2026 DSM Extension from non-targeted programs, E1's historical low-income and equity reporting relies on information ab...
AI summary The document discusses estimating incidental low-income and equity impacts for the 2026 DSM Extension using E1's historical data from 2023-2024, as actual project details are not available through modeling. Table 2 outlines assumptions and calculations for non-targeted program components.
The calculations use the general term "savings". The same calculations are applied to energy savings, peak demand savings, and program expenditures. Program Component Assumptions Calculation for 2026 DSM Extension Small Business Energy Sol...
AI summary The text discusses the assumptions and calculations used for the 2026 DSM Extension, specifically for the Small Business Energy Solutions (SBES) program. It includes scaling estimates based on low-income and equity participation in 2023 and 2024, with percentages applied to energy savings, demand savings, and expenditures.
4. TIME PERIOD DEFINITIONS - The following time periods apply to the RBIA analysis: - DSM delivery period: the timeframe over which DSM programs are delivered. - The DSM delivery period included in the 2026 DSM Extension RBIA is 2026. - Co...
AI summary The text defines time periods for the RBIA analysis, including the DSM delivery period (2026), cost recovery period (2026), and study period (2026-2041). The study period ends when all average rate class DSM impacts expire, with impacts modeled over the full timeframe.
6. RATE CLASSES INCLUDED - E1's RBIA model presents results by rate class for the following NS Power customer classes: - Residential (rate codes 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9 and 16); - Small General (rate code 10); - General (rate code 11); - Large Ge...
AI summary E1's RBIA model analyzes NS Power rate classes including Residential, Small/General/Large Industrial, and Municipal, but excludes Unmetered, GRLF, Shore Power, and ELIADC classes. E1 does not offer programs for excluded classes.
7. CALCULATION OF PARTICIPATION This section describes the development of participation figures, which are used for the participant bill impact calculations.
AI summary This section outlines the methodology for calculating participation figures, which are essential for determining the financial impact on participants in the regulatory proceeding. It forms part of the NSUARB's analysis under the PUA.
7.3 UNTRACKED (POINT-OF-SALE PROGRAM) PARTICIPATION - E1 operates two program components that offer rebates at the point-of-sale: residential Instant - Savings and the Instant Rebates portion of Business Energy Rebates (BER-IR). These prog...
AI summary E1's Untracked Point-of-Sale Program includes residential and business rebate components (BER-IR) with participation estimated via transaction records and assumptions about rate class participation. For 2026, annual and active participants are estimated using forward-looking RBIA methods, with assumptions about flat participation until energy savings expire. Residential Behaviour and Demand Response participation methods are also detailed, including cross-participation rates and DRSim™ model inputs.
"Total-Savings" tab The "Total-Savings" tab provides a sum of annual class savings in energy and demand usage at the generator's gate and customer's meter. In addition, class demand savings at the high side of the bulk power substation are...
AI summary The 'Total-Savings' tab calculates annual energy and demand savings at the generator's gate, customer's meter, and bulk power substation. It details methods for determining avoided fuel, generation, transmission, and distribution costs, distinguishing between FAM-related and non-FAM-related calculations.
12 The 2024 Payment Schedule will be revised to reflect the carryforward , if any, related to 13 underspend from the 2020-2022 DSM Plan. 1 2 SCHEDULE C 3 4 Performance Requirements 5 I. UARB/NSEB-APPROVED PERFORMANCE TARGETS, THRESHOLDS, A...
AI summary The 2024 Payment Schedule will be revised to account for any carryforward from underspend in the 2020-2022 DSM Plan. Performance targets and indicators are outlined, including energy savings, demand response capacity, and reporting requirements for the UARB/NSEB.
E-2Savings Verification Review - Gil Peach
49 passages
SAVINGS VERIFICATION REVIEW Of Efficiency Nova Scotia Program Year 2024 Evaluation Results Report for the Nova Scotia Energy Board 06/04/2025 H. Gil Peach & Associates LLC H. Gil Peach, PhD John Mitchell, BS Yvonne J. Whitelaw, MA Marty Ku...
AI summary This document presents the 2024 evaluation results of the Efficiency Nova Scotia Program, submitted to the Nova Scotia Energy Board by H. Gil Peach & Associates LLC. The report details program year outcomes and is authored by a team of experts in energy efficiency and related fields.
H. Gil Peach & Associates LLC 16232 NW Oak Hills Drive Beaverton, Oregon 97006 USA E-mail: [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) Website: [www.peachandassociates.biz](http://www.peach...
AI summary H. Gil Peach & Associates LLC submitted a savings verification review report for the Nova Scotia Energy Board, evaluating Program Year 2024 results. The report was authored by H. Gil Peach, John Mitchell, Yvonne J. Whitelaw, Martin Kushler, and Ayala Cnaan, and published in June 2025.
II. How Savings Verification fits in the Policy, Planning, Program Cycle It can be useful in approaching evaluation to review how the Policy, Planning and Program cycle works and where evaluation and savings verification fit.[2](#page-7-3)...
AI summary This section explains how Savings Verification is integrated into the Policy, Planning, and Program cycle for Demand Side Management (DSM). It outlines the role of Efficiency Nova Scotia and Econoler in evaluation and verification, noting the Residential Behavior Program as new in 2024. The cycle includes steps like Independent Evaluation and Savings Verification, which feed into program planning.
III. Resource Acquisition and Other Evaluation Frameworks Efficiency Nova Scotia programs are almost entirely resource acquisition programs that treat saved energy as equivalent to generated energy. This is the original framework for the e...
AI summary Efficiency Nova Scotia's energy efficiency programs are evaluated under a resource acquisition framework, equating saved energy to generated energy. Econoler's approach is highlighted, with mentions of evolving evaluation frameworks and market transformation. DSM evaluation types (impact, process, market) are discussed.
IV. Evaluation Standards In this section we highlight three standards for evaluation: independence, transparency, and the desirability of familiarity with current evaluation guidelines. - (1) Independent Evaluator In energy efficiency eval...
AI summary The section outlines three evaluation standards: independence, transparency, and adherence to evaluation protocols. The Evaluator meets independence standards but requires improvements in transparency, such as disclosing detailed statistical test information. Most evaluations align with current methodological guidelines, though one exception exists.
V. Summary of Evaluated Savings Results Evaluation of demand savings, first year energy savings, and lifetime net energy savings at the generator as reported by the Evaluator are summarized in this section.
AI summary This section summarizes the evaluation of demand savings, first-year energy savings, and lifetime net energy savings at the generator level, as reported by the Evaluator. These metrics are central to assessing the effectiveness of energy efficiency initiatives.
VI. Evaluation Effort for 2024 Programs As shown in [Table 3,](#page-20-0) the Econoler impact evaluation work was substantial, including sixteen impact evaluations. There are nine residential evaluations, of which six are comprehensive an...
AI summary The document discusses the evaluation effort for 2024 programs, highlighting the comprehensive and condensed impact evaluations conducted by Econoler. It outlines the types of evaluations, their purposes, and the methodology used, including baseline definitions, savings calculations, and net-to-gross ratios. The evaluation plan for Program Year 2024 is referenced in Table 3.
Table 3: Planned Evaluations for 2024 Programs. 2024 Portfolio Evaluation Plan D Impact Ev Impact Evaluation Market Program Component Comprehensive Condensed Evaluation Evaluation Residential Appliance Retirement Х Instant Savings Х Afford...
AI summary Table 3 outlines the planned evaluations for 2024 programs, including various residential and business energy efficiency initiatives. It includes evaluations such as the Appliance Retirement Program, Instant Savings, and Strategic Energy Management. The table also references supporting reports from Econoler and Efficiency One.
VII. Savings Verification Approach The savings verification review was conducted as follows: - We focus on the "installed" annual energy savings and demand reductions. These are the annualized value of savings and demand reductions from th...
AI summary The savings verification process focuses on annualized energy savings from installed measures, not actual yearly savings. The review checked methodologies for interaction, free-ridership, and other approaches, and included 93 site visits for the 2024 program year.
VIII. General Findings • The method followed in each program impact evaluation follows a recognized analytic approach appropriate for each program type. The structure and format of each impact evaluation follows a consistent template (exce...
AI summary The document highlights that program impact evaluations follow recognized methods and consistent templates, with Econoler using Efficiency Nova Scotia's CIRx Screening Tool. Evaluations include executive summaries, methodological diagrams, and appendices. The Evaluator conducted four process and two market evaluations, with process evaluations being desirable for future work. Carbon emissions offsets are appropriately developed.
IX. General Recommendations SVR24-G-1. The Savings Verification study recommends acceptance of the 2024 evaluation estimates for energy savings and demand reduction except for four programs . These are the Residential Behavior program (6.2...
AI summary The Savings Verification study recommends accepting 2024 energy savings estimates for most programs but excludes four due to evaluation issues. Key concerns include lack of independent evaluation for compressed air projects, insufficient practical significance of savings for residential and demand response programs, and protocol limitations. Recommendations include flagging low-impact programs, improving evaluation transparency, and emphasizing practical significance over statistical significance.
A. Appliance Retirement Program (ARet) The Appliance Retirement (ARet) program is one of two program components of the Residential Efficient Product Rebates program. Appliance Retirement advances the retirement of old, inefficient full siz...
AI summary The Appliance Retirement (ARet) program retires inefficient appliances (refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners) via rebates and free removal, retiring 77,696 units since 2012. Participants must own working appliances over 10 years old; certain appliances require co-retirement with full-sized units. ARCA Canada Inc. handles collection and recycling. Rebates range from $10–$50 per appliance. Efficiency Nova Scotia adjusted criteria post-2016 to boost participation and cost-effectiveness.
B. Instant Savings (IS) The Instant Savings program is one of two components of the Residential Efficient Product Rebates program. Instant Savings is an instant cash rebate program offered to purchasers of energy efficient products, delive...
AI summary The Instant Savings (IS) program, part of the Residential Efficient Product Rebates, offers instant cash rebates for energy-efficient products via retailers and online platforms. In 2024, 395,472 products were sold, with Energy Start LED Fixtures leading sales. Energy savings rose 73% to 26.884 GWh, and peak demand savings reached 2.955 MW. A 2025 phase-out of LED rebates was announced. The program's evaluation focuses on energy savings, GHG reductions, and market impact.
Evaluator Findings. The Evaluator reported the following key Instant Savings findings: - Instant Savings exceeded both 2024 planned net electrical energy and peak demand savings of 12.544 GWh and 1.680 MW, respectively. - 2024 net electric...
AI summary The Evaluator found that Instant Savings exceeded 2024 energy and peak demand targets by 77% and 45%, respectively, with LED products driving 69% of savings. Non-lighting product savings rose 17% YoY, and free ridership for LEDs dropped to 39%. Evaluated savings were 16-10% higher than Efficiency Nova Scotia's tracked values. No new recommendations were provided.
C. Home Energy Assessment (HEA) Home Energy Assessment (HEA) is a component of the Existing Residential Programs. This program encourages homeowners to increase the efficiency and comfort of their homes by providing rebates for qualified e...
AI summary The Home Energy Assessment (HEA) program offers rebates for energy efficiency retrofits and equipment. It uses 'test-in/test-out' audits and blower door testing to measure performance. A 2024 marketing campaign focused on promoting heat pumps for electricity-saving homes, though the program also serves non-electric homes since 2018. The 2024 evaluation included surveys, audit reviews, energy savings calculations, and AMI data analysis.
the Canada Greener Homes Grant (CGH) rather than the Green Heat program. This shift began in May 2021 to access higher federal incentive levels which were not available through the Green Heat program. Nova Scotia homeowners enrolled in HEA...
AI summary Nova Scotia shifted from the Green Heat program to the Canada Greener Homes Grant (CGH) in 2021 for higher federal incentives. HEA, linked to CGH, outperformed Green Heat in installing Mini-split Heat Pumps (MSHPs) until CGH closed in 2024. Green Heat's 2024 performance dropped significantly, with 70% lower savings attributed to fewer installations, reduced MSHP efficiency, and updated billing analysis.
Efficient Product Installation (EPI) The Efficient Product Installation program (EPI) provides free direct installation of energy-efficient products to homeowners and renters, provided through contractors. In 2024 the Evaluator conducted a...
AI summary The Efficient Product Installation (EPI) program provides free installation of energy-efficient products. In 2024, a market evaluation identified new opportunities, including nine jurisdictions scanned. New eligible measures include smart thermostats, lighting products, and air sealing. The program expanded to include electrician-installed measures as E1 phases out lighting initiatives.
EPI's two funding sources are: - 1. Electricity ratepayers to fund upgrades to reduce electricity consumption. - 2. Government of Nova Scotia and the federal Low Carbon Economy Fund funds upgrades that reduce the use of other fuels. The Ev...
AI summary EPI's funding comes from electricity ratepayers and the federal Low Carbon Economy Fund. 2024 saw a 2.4% increase in participation (9,993 vs. 9,763) and 150,722 efficient products installed, but average savings per participant fell 6.3%. LED lamps dominated (74% of installations), though smart thermostat installation rates dropped 16% due to dissatisfaction. The Evaluator recommends improving installer education and follow-up to address issues.
F. Mi'kmaw Home Energy Efficiency Program (MHEEP) MHEEP is a component of the Existing Residential Programs. Initiated in June 2018 as the First Nations Home Energy Efficiency Pilot, MHEEP began operations in 2019 as a residential energy e...
AI summary The Mi'kmaw Home Energy Efficiency Program (MHEEP) provides no-cost energy efficiency upgrades to band-owned homes in 13 Mi'kmaw communities in Nova Scotia. Initiated in 2018 as a pilot, it operates through collaboration with E1 Program Staff, community housing managers, and delivery agents. Upgrades include building envelope improvements, heating equipment, and appliance replacements, assessed via EnerGuide audits. Funding sources are not fully detailed in the text.
G. Affordable Multifamily Housing (AMH) The Affordable Multifamily Housing (AMH) program provides affordable-housing owners and nonprofit organizations, including rehabilitation and transition housing, with incentives for building-wide ene...
AI summary The Affordable Multifamily Housing (AMH) program offers incentives for energy retrofits in affordable housing, funded by electric ratepayers and the Province of Nova Scotia. Since 2021, the Green Fund increased incentives to 80% for electrical projects and 100% for shelters. Participation rose from 79 to 83 projects between 2023-2024, with comprehensive projects increasing by 70% and prescriptive projects decreasing slightly. The Evaluator noted lower savings per prescriptive project and outlined evaluation objectives including energy savings and GHG emission reductions.
The Evaluator conducted: - Interviews with program staff, participants, and Energy Advisors. - Interviews with dropped-out participants and non-participants to analyze barriers to participation and operating agreement design. To determine...
AI summary The Evaluator assessed the Affordable Multifamily Housing (AMH) program, noting high participant satisfaction but challenges with incentive clarity, project delays, and audit templates. Energy savings fell short of targets, though participation increased. Recommendations include revising incentives, providing technical support, and improving audit templates. The evaluation method was deemed appropriate.
H. [Affordable Single-Family Homes (ASFH)](bookmark://_Toc170668323/) The Affordable Single-Family Housing (ASFH) program began in 2023 and provides energy efficiency retrofits and heat pump installations at no cost to income qualified hom...
AI summary The Affordable Single-Family Homes (ASFH) program, launched in 2023, offers free energy efficiency retrofits and heat pump installations to income-qualified homeowners. It partners with Efficiency Nova Scotia's Appliance Retirement and Efficient Product Installation programs. In 2024, 1,210 homes participated, achieving 3.719 GWh in energy savings, up from 1.444 GWh in 2023. Evaluations focused on program impact, savings calculations, and GHG emission reductions.
The Evaluator: - Developed participant survey. - Conducted interviews with program staff, heat pump contractors, and delivery agents (DAs) To determine the gross and net electrical energy and peak demand savings and avoided annual GHG emis...
AI summary The evaluator assessed the Affordable Single-Family Homes (ASFH) program, noting high participant satisfaction but identifying issues like long wait times and insufficient information. The program exceeded energy and demand reduction targets, achieving 3.719 GWh net savings and 2.089 MW peak demand reduction. Adjustments reduced tracked savings by 21% and 3%. Recommendations focus on improving delivery processes, communication, and training.
I. Residential Behavioral Program (Efficiency Insights) The Residential Behaviour program, "Efficiency Insights", is new for Program Year 2024, and follows a similar previous residential behaviour program, administered by Efficiency Nova S...
AI summary Efficiency Insights, a new 2024 residential behavioral program, provides bi-monthly Home Energy Reports to participants, comparing their energy use with similar homes and promoting energy-saving behaviors. It differs from other DSM programs by focusing solely on behavioral change without physical measures, aiming to drive participation in measure-based efficiency initiatives.
The reduction of group sizes over time occurs due to several factors. First, there are account closures, for example, due to death of the last person in an elderly household. Second there are ordinary move-outs. According to the evaluator,...
AI summary The text discusses the reduction of group sizes in a program due to account closures, move-outs, and the discontinuation of Efficiency Insights reports for inactive accounts. It also mentions the exclusion of households with solar DSM resources from the program to avoid double counting of energy savings, while other DSM technology options are still supported. The text notes that attrition is normal and that equivalence between treatment and control groups is demonstrated in the 2024 Evaluation report.
he randomized assignment of households to treatment and control group, the technical definition of the energy use subgroups, data selection and cleaning, and all results calculations. [39](#page-50-1) The standard is summarized in [Figure...
AI summary The text discusses the importance of random assignment in evaluating energy use subgroups and ensuring the integrity of reported energy savings. It references the SEE Action protocol and highlights the need to prevent conflicts of interest by clearly defining evaluator and program vendor responsibilities.
participation in the measure-based programs[.42](#page-52-1) Out of nine similar analyses of possible effect, the Evaluator only claims a (very tiny) effect for three of the nine analyses (one-third). The three claims include for Green Hea...
AI summary The analysis of measure-based programs shows minimal effectiveness, with only three out of nine analyses claiming a very small effect (0.1% for Green Heat and 0.4% for Efficient Products Installation). The Home Energy Assessment program had no claimed effect. The Evaluator emphasizes the importance of including opt-out subjects in energy savings analysis to avoid bias.
data in the table is from Econoler Table 85: Other Program Participation Levels. Econoler, Residential Behavior, P. 195. The "Claimed Effect" column reflects results of Econoler significance testing. Statistical significance testing assess...
AI summary The text discusses the difference between statistical significance and practical importance, emphasizing that statistical significance refers to the likelihood of an event occurring by chance, while practical importance relates to real-world impact and cost-effectiveness in business contexts.
Table 7: Evaluation Claimed Influence on Participation in Other Programs. Measure-Based Program Encouragement Results (Difference of Means) Subgroup Treatment Control (Size of) Difference (Is There a) Claimed Effect High Energy Use HEA 1.6...
AI summary Table 7 evaluates the influence of participation in energy efficiency programs on other programs, showing mixed results. Green Heat and EPI showed claimed effects in some subgroups, while HEA did not. The table also includes references to statistical methodologies and academic sources discussing significance testing.
other way to say this is that for most months the effect size (average kWh savings per household) is extremely small, and the number of observations is not large enough to detect it.[49](#page-57-0) The data quality rule used for use of th...
AI summary The analysis highlights challenges in evaluating energy savings from programs like ARet and SEM, noting extremely small effect sizes (average kWh savings per household) and data quality rules that undercount savings by assigning zero to most months. Yearly analysis using average daily savings appears to validate cumulative savings but relies on statistically insignificant daily savings. Large sample sizes can falsely inflate significance of trivial effects.
1. Findings (Observations Regarding the Evaluation) This evaluation is well constructed at a technical level, is well executed, and fully meets the requirements of the two most relevant evaluation protocols (Universal Methods Project and S...
AI summary The evaluation meets technical standards but protocols like Universal Methods Project and SEE Action fail to address challenges from large sample sizes and small effect sizes in residential behavior studies. The text critiques reliance on statistical significance and advocates for practical effect size assessments.
2. Recommendations SVR2024-Behaviour-5. Overall, we recommend that the program be continued, but not as a direct energy savings program. Rather, it should be redesigned and evaluated as a marketing and promotional program designed to (1) s...
AI summary The document recommends redesigning the program as a marketing tool rather than a direct energy savings initiative, emphasizing the need for process evaluation to improve household-level energy savings. It highlights the lack of systematic data on effective energy-saving behaviors and the need to analyze high-impact households to identify practical measures.
K. BNI Custom Incentives Program (Custom Component) For 2024, the BNI Custom Incentives Program consists of two components, Custom and Strategic Energy Management (SEM). The Custom program is comprised of four parts: Retrofit, New Construc...
AI summary The BNI Custom Incentives Program's Retrofit component in 2024 provides technical and financial support for efficiency improvements. Rooftop solar contributed 10% of savings, while compressed air leak audits accounted for 42%, with two sites contributing 69.6% of total savings. Audit savings increased by 522% compared to 2023, driven by these sites.
Recommendations SVR2024-Compressed Air – 10. We strongly recommend that the compressed air program be redesigned to follow UMP protocol requirements. SVR2024-Compressed Air – 11. The Evaluator should examine and explain the unusual pattern...
AI summary Recommendations include redesigning the compressed air program to align with UMP protocol, investigating unusual savings patterns, and excluding clients who do not allow data access for evaluation.
L. BNI Strategic Energy Management (SEM) Strategic Energy Management (SEM) is an approach for integrating energy management into business practice – so that a focus on continually advancing energyefficiency becomes an integral aspect of wo...
AI summary Strategic Energy Management (SEM) integrates energy efficiency into workplace practices, inspired by Japanese Kaizen. In 2024, SEM saw a 32.4% increase in tracked savings, driven by two major participants, with 53% of savings from compressed air leak repairs. The program exceeded 2024 targets by 6% in energy savings (4.478 GWh) and 14% in peak demand reduction (0.537 MW).
M. BNI Small Business Energy Solutions Program (SBES) Small Business Energy Solutions (SBES). SBES is available to businesses that use less than 350,000 kWh annually. There are two paths within the program, the audit path, and the do-it-yo...
AI summary The SBES program in Nova Scotia serves small businesses with annual usage under 350,000 kWh, offering audit and DIY paths. In 2024, 493 projects were completed, with 89% on the DIY path. Energy savings increased by 46% (10.854 GWh) and demand reduction by 45% (2.155 MW). Evaluation methods included audits, desk reviews, and a non-participant spillover survey, which found no significant results, suggesting a need for larger samples.
N. Demand Response (DR) There are two demand response programs, Residential Demand Response and Business-Nonprofit-Institutional (BNI) Demand Response. Demand response concerns capacity (Watts, kW, MW, GW) rather than energy (kWh, GWh). Th...
AI summary Nova Scotia's Demand Response (DR) programs include Residential and BNI (Business-Nonprofit-Institutional) DR, focusing on capacity reduction rather than energy savings. Participants totaled 353 (residential) and 76 (BNI) in 2024. Events are triggered by Nova Scotia Power to reduce load during peak periods, with savings measured in watts/kW.
1. Residential Demand Response (Eco Shift Pilot Pathway) For Residential Demand Response (DR), Efficiency Nova Scotia created a tracking sheet. The Residential DR tracking sheet is limited to a spreadsheet with participant raw thermostat a...
AI summary Efficiency Nova Scotia's Residential Demand Response (DR) evaluation focused on Mysa thermostats due to data limitations. A regression model predicted hourly energy use, comparing it to actual data to quantify DR capacity. Analysis included 199 participants, with recommendations to repeat the 2025 evaluation for accuracy. Other devices like EV chargers were excluded due to data issues.
2. BNI DR For BNI, the Evaluator first reviewed Efficiency Nova Scotia BNI tracking sheets to ensure consistency, resulting in a small correction (magnitude 2%-3%) to Efficiency Nova Scotia tracking values. By agreement between Efficiency...
AI summary BNI DR capacity calculation involves corrections to Efficiency Nova Scotia tracking sheets, event-based capacity determination (Dec-Feb, excluding weekends/holidays), participant classification for morning/evening events, and whole-house AMI data analysis. Evaluated results show 8.034 MW for BNI DR and 0.057 MW for Residential DR, with methodologies deemed logical and complete.
Recommendations SVR2024-Demand Response – 13 . In the next evaluation, include an analysis of the relative importance or lack of importance to the possible capacity shortfall problem to Nova Scotia Power, the roles of the load research sho...
AI summary The document recommends evaluating Demand Response (DR) programs' impact on Nova Scotia Power's capacity shortfall, clarifying their practical benefits beyond learning experiences, and justifying their business case. It critiques DR programs for minimal kW demand reduction and calls for analysis of whole-home vs. device-level approaches in residential DR. A citation to Econoler's report is included.
A. General Recommendations There are four general recommendations . SVR24-G-1. The Savings Verification study recommends acceptance of the 2024 evaluation estimates for energy savings and demand reduction except for four programs . These a...
AI summary Four recommendations address energy savings program evaluations. Four programs (Residential Behavior, Residential Demand Response, BNI Demand Response, and BNI Custom Incentive Program’s compressed air component) are rejected due to insufficient practical savings despite statistical significance. Evaluations must flag programs with trivial savings, ensure protocol compliance, and disclose statistical test details for transparency.
B. Program Specific Recommendations There are recommendations for only five of the program evaluations, Residential Behavior, BNI Efficient Product Rebates, the compressed air leak detection part of BNI Custom Incentives, and the two Deman...
AI summary Recommendations are provided for five programs: Residential Behavior, BNI Efficient Product Rebates, BNI Custom Incentives (compressed air leak detection), and two Demand Programs (Residential and BNI). Other programs lack evaluation issues. Key focus areas include program-specific evaluations and demand-side initiatives.
1. Residential Behaviour Program SVR2024-Behaviour-5. Overall, we recommend that the program be continued, but not as a direct energy savings program. Rather, it should be redesigned and evaluated as a marketing and promotional program des...
AI summary The Residential Behaviour Program should be restructured as a marketing tool rather than a direct energy savings program. Current evaluations show minimal household-level energy savings, necessitating better measurement of behavioral impacts and analysis of high-saving households to identify effective practices.
2. BNI Efficient Products Rebates SVR2024-BNI Efficient Products – 8. Change baselines for BER and IR rebates to reflect current market practices that have indoor DLC-Standard products as the new baseline with incentives offered for compar...
AI summary The document proposes adjusting BER and IR rebate baselines to DLC-Standard products, offering incentives for DLC-Premium alternatives. It also recommends reviewing in-situ meter studies for LED lighting products or commissioning a study if necessary.
3. BNI Custom Incentives Program (Custom Component – Compressed Air Leak Detection) SVR2024-Compressed Air – 10. We strongly recommend that the compressed air program be redesigned to follow UMP protocol requirements. SVR2024-Compressed Ai...
AI summary The document recommends redesigning the BNI Custom Incentives Program for compressed air leak detection to align with UMP protocols, investigating unusual savings patterns, and excluding clients who restrict site access or data sharing. These measures aim to ensure program integrity and transparency.
4. BNI Demand Reduction Programs SVR2024-Demand Response – 13 . In the next evaluation, include an analysis of the relative importance or lack of importance to the possible capacity shortfall problem to Nova Scotia Power, the roles of the...
AI summary The text requests an evaluation of BNI Demand Response programs, emphasizing the need to analyze their impact on Nova Scotia Power's capacity shortfall, clarify their practical benefits, and justify their business case. It criticizes the programs' weak demand reduction effects and calls for a comparison of whole-home vs. device-level approaches in residential analysis.
XII. References American Statistical Association, Statement on Statistical Significance and P-Values, Provides Principles to Improve the Conduct and Interpretation of Quantitative Science, March 7, 2016 [(www.amstat.org/asa/files/pdfs/p-va...
AI summary The references include academic and industry sources on statistical methods, energy efficiency programs, and policy evaluation. Key entities are organizations like the American Statistical Association, the Consortium for Energy Efficiency, and reports on thermostat programs and energy sufficiency.
Table 10: Evaluation Questions - Summary Table. Asked and Answered for Program Year 2024 General Questions to Ask of Energy Efficiency Program Evaluations 1 Does the independent evaluator have control over methods and measurement approache...
AI summary Table 10 evaluates the energy efficiency program for 2024, focusing on the independence, transparency, and methodology of the evaluation process. It confirms that the evaluator has control over methods and measurement approaches, and that evaluation guidelines are used. However, some areas, like transparency in reporting significance tests, require improvement.
XV. Appendix 3: Statistical vs. Practical Significance Statistical significance is a measure of the probability that a result in an analysis could have occurred by chance alone, out of many (theoretical) repetitions of a test. It can be re...
AI summary The text distinguishes between statistical significance (probability of results occurring by chance) and practical significance (real-world relevance). It argues that large samples can produce statistically significant but trivial results, emphasizing the need to prioritize practical significance for meaningful program evaluation, particularly in energy savings contexts.
E-8E1 (Synapse) RIR 1 to 36 - Redacted
18 passages
2026 DSM Extension Application DSMAG Session 22 April 2025
AI summary The 2026 DSM Extension Application is under review by the DSMAG during a session on 22 April 2025. The proceeding involves EfficiencyOne (E1), Nova Scotia Power (NSP), and the Demand Side Management Advisory Group (DSMAG), focusing on extending demand-side management programs.
Support for Residential Customers – Efficient Products Rebates
AI summary The document discusses Nova Scotia Power's (NSP) Efficient Products Rebates program, administered by EfficiencyOne (E1), aimed at supporting residential customers through energy-efficient product incentives. The Demand Side Management Advisory Group (DSMAG) recommended the program, which must pass the Total Resource Cost Test (TRC) and Program Administrator Cost Test (PAC) for approval.
Appliance Retirement • E1 ended Appliance Retirement on January 8, 2025. This was influenced by several considerations. Delivery costs were rising, and savings were declining as eligible units being retired were newer and more efficient. T...
AI summary E1 terminated the Appliance Retirement program on January 8, 2025, citing rising delivery costs, declining savings from retiring newer efficient units, and limited service providers in Canada.
Home Energy Assessment - Continued support for existing program. - The Green Heat program component will be incorporated into HEA with expanded customer support through a streamlined remote audit path - In 2026, a program investment of $5....
AI summary The Home Energy Assessment (HEA) program will continue with the integration of the Green Heat program component, offering expanded customer support via a streamlined remote audit process. A 2026 investment of $5.0 million is planned to support 1,900 homeowners.
Mikmaw Home Energy Efficiency Project - Mi'kmaw Home Energy Efficiency Project will largely follow the same approach for the 2026 DSM Extension as outlined in the approved 2023-2025 Plan. - Appliance replacements will no longer be offered,...
AI summary The Mi'kmaw Home Energy Efficiency Project will follow the 2023-2025 Plan approach for 2026, excluding appliance replacements due to the Appliance Retirement program's wind-up. A $1.1 million investment will support 180 Mi'kmaw homes in 2026.
Support for Business Customers – Direct Installation Program Direct Installation, marketed as Small Business Energy Solutions provides small business customers with access to technical assistance and financial incentives for the installati...
AI summary The Direct Installation Program, marketed as Small Business Energy Solutions, provides technical assistance and incentives for energy-efficient equipment installation. 2024 changes increased eligibility to 600,000 kWh annually and extended preapproval windows. 2026 enhancements include a $5.8 million investment for over 42,000 product installations, improved contractor portals, and expanded commercial direct installation services.
Support for Business Customers – Demand Response - The BNI DR program component offers financial incentives to BNI customers for the DR capacity made available during peak events called by NS Power, aiming to reduce their electric load dur...
AI summary The BNI DR program provides financial incentives to customers for reducing electric load during peak events called by NSP. The 2026 DSM Extension will follow the 2023-2025 Plan's approach, focusing on Curtailment and Commercial Batteries, with annual payments based on performance during DR events.
Enabling Strategies There are three Enabling Strategies programs: Education & Outreach; Development & Research; and Other Enabling Strategies. In 2026, investment in these programs at $7.0 million is aligned with the 2025 Forecast. Educati...
AI summary Three Enabling Strategies programs (Education & Outreach, Development & Research, Other Enabling Strategies) with investments of $7.0M in 2026, aligned with the 2025 Forecast. Education & Outreach focuses on community outreach, diverse communities, partnerships, and green schools. Development & Research includes innovation, market research, heat pump water heater pilot, and data analytics.
E1 Responses to Synapse Energy Economics (Synapse) Information Requests NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 (c) The avoided costs used to calculate the Lifetime Benefits (TRC and PAC), TRC ratios and PAC 2 ratios for 2026 in the 2026 DSM Extension were dev...
AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) outlines that Nova Scotia Power (NSP) provided avoided cost data for TRC and PAC calculations to the DSMAG in 2024 and 2021, using the 2022 and 2020 IRP updates respectively. Updated transmission/distribution avoided costs were shared in 2024, developed outside the 2022 IRP modelling. References to matter numbers M12249 and M10473 are included.
E1 Responses to Synapse Energy Economics (Synapse) Information Requests NON-CONFIDENTIAL Energy Savings, Lifetime Energy Savings, Peak EE Demand Savings, Total Resource Cost Test (TRC), and Program Administrator Cost Test (PAC) for lightin...
AI summary The document provides responses to information requests from Synapse Energy Economics regarding energy savings, peak demand savings, and cost tests for lighting measures in various programs. It includes data for 2023, 2024, and 2025 forecasts.
M12249 – EfficiencyOne (E1) Application for Approval of the 2026 DSM Extension
AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) seeks approval for the 2026 DSM extension, subject to Total Resource Cost (TRC) and Program Administrator Cost (PAC) tests, with Nova Scotia Power (NSP) and the Demand Side Management Advisory Group (DSMAG) involved. The Nova Scotia Utility and Regulatory Board (NSUARB) will evaluate the application.
E1 Responses to Synapse Energy Economics (Synapse) Information Requests NON-CONFIDENTIAL Efficient Product Installation - Lighting 2023 Actuals 2024 Actuals 2025 2026 2023 Actuals 2024 Actuals Forecast Extension Program Administrator Cost...
AI summary The document provides a table related to the Efficient Product Installation - Lighting program, including data on the Program Administrator Cost Test (PAC) and the Lighting Weighted Average Measure Life for the years 2023 to 2026. It mentions the net present value of avoided costs from the 2023-2025 DSM Plan.
1 Request IR-09: 2 - 3 Please refer to Table 5: 2026 Program Savings and Investment on page 23 of the Evidence. - 4 Footnote f states, "Reflects planned participation by low-income & equity customers. Numbers - 5 are a subset of Existing R...
AI summary Request IR-09 seeks tables breaking down Residential and BNI Low-Income & Equity program savings by component. EfficiencyOne (E1) responds by providing the Residential Low-Income & Equity subtotal breakout in Table 1 from their Evidence (page 23). The request references Table 5 in the Evidence but does not explicitly cite regulatory orders or legislation.
Table 1: Breakout of 2026 Residential Low-income and Equity Subtotal - 40010 21 21 24 04 10 41 0 0 20 20 11001 G = 9 G. 1 C / C 2026 Investment ($ million) Lifetime Benefits ($ million) First Year Energy Savings (GWh) Lifetime Energy Savin...
AI summary The table provides a detailed breakdown of the 2026 residential low-income and equity programs, including investments, lifetime benefits, energy savings, and cost tests. The data highlights the financial and energy efficiency impacts of various initiatives aimed at supporting low-income households and promoting equity.
M12249 – EfficiencyOne (E1) Application for Approval of the 2026 DSM Extension 1 E1 has established a six-year evaluation plan to evaluate these changes (which include 2 market actor interviews, surveys and sales data) at set intervals (i....
AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) has proposed a six-year evaluation plan for the 2026 DSM Extension, including market assessments and evaluation of household installations of heat pump water heaters (HPWHs). The response to Request IR-28 outlines a proposed budget of $3.0 million for 2026 activities, including development of the 2027-2031 DSM Resource Plan and engagement with the DSMAG.
1 Table 1: E1 2026 DSM Extension: Enabling Strategies - Regulatory Affairs Estimates EfficiencyOne 2026 DSM Extension Enabling Strategies - Regulatory Affairs 2026 Activities 2026 Estimates Development of 2027-2031 DSM Plan & Compliance wi...
AI summary The text presents a table outlining the estimated costs for the 2026 DSM Extension, including activities such as the development of the 2027-2031 DSM Plan, compliance with directives, regular DSM matters, and support for the Integrated Resource Plan. Costs are categorized into E1 Costs and Flow Through Costs.
6 Table 2: 2026 DSM Extension - Enabling Strategies - Regulatory Affairs, 2023 & 2024 Actual and 2025 Forecast EfficiencyOne 2023-2025 DSM Plan Enabling Strategies - Regulatory Affairs Activities 2023 Actual 2024 Actual 2025 Forecast DSM P...
AI summary The document provides a summary of EfficiencyOne's (E1) 2026 DSM Extension, including regulatory costs and performance targets. It outlines E1's progress towards meeting its 2023-2026 Performance Targets and confirms that E1 is on track to achieve the compliance threshold of 90% or greater for all four targets.
Smart Synergy Business Non-Profit and Institutional (BNI) Demand Response) - Marketing and Outreach: The Smart Synergy audience is BNI customers across key verticals in - 4 Nova Scotia. Marketing and outreach are primarily 1-to-1 focused s...
AI summary The Smart Synergy BNI Demand Response program targets Nova Scotia's BNI customers, using AMI data and 1-to-1 outreach to identify demand savings opportunities. Key activities include education, site visits, test events, and post-event feedback collection. Quality assurance involves validating reports and customer insights to refine the program.
E-14Peach (E1) RIR 1 to 14 - Redacted
20 passages
H. Gil Peach & Associates LLC (Peach) Responses to Efficiency One (E1) Information Requests Regarding 2024 Savings Verification Review Report In the Matter of EfficiencyOne's (E1) Application for Approval of the 2026 DSM Extension (M12249)...
AI summary H. Gil Peach & Associates LLC responds to EfficiencyOne's information requests regarding the 2024 Savings Verification Report in the context of EfficiencyOne's application for the 2026 DSM Extension under the Public Utilities Act (M12249).
5 Response IR-01 4 16 6 The scope of work covers on-site visits, review and monitoring of the DSM administrator's 7 database for tracking and measurement of energy and demand savings; review of all the 8 evaluation consultant's studies and...
AI summary The scope of work involves reviewing DSM program data, verifying energy savings estimates, collaborating with Efficiency One on reports, and submitting verification filings. It also includes participation in DSMAG meetings and other required sessions.
Response IR-03 b: 6 This response describes scopes associated with " Policy ", " Plan ", and " Implement ". Policy . Operational policies direct actions. For example, we might consider the interpretations of 9 benefit-cost tests in the pro...
AI summary This response outlines the scopes of Policy, Plan, and Implement in regulatory proceedings. Policy involves hierarchical decision-making with input from stakeholders, while Plan follows NSEB guidance for DSM. Implement allows flexibility in program execution with evaluator roles. Consultants aid in policy refinement and issue identification.
Request IR-03 c: - Please explain why "[suggested] modifications in the Evaluation data, methods, and reported - results" falls under the "Verify Savings & Review" centre of focus in the DSM cycle.
AI summary The document requests an explanation of why modifications to evaluation data, methods, and reported results fall under the 'Verify Savings & Review' phase of the Demand Side Management (DSM) cycle, emphasizing the importance of verification in assessing program effectiveness.
Response IR3 c: - Modifications in the Evaluation data, methods, and reported results fits in the "Verify Savings & - Review" centre of focus in the DSM cycle since the verification consultant is directed to " Review - all methods and calc...
AI summary The response emphasizes that modifications to evaluation data, methods, and results fall under the 'Verify Savings & Review' phase of the DSM cycle. It outlines a process of checking data, methods, and results to ensure accuracy, involving Efficiency Nova Scotia and NSEB. Collaboration with the evaluation consultant and stakeholder input improve DSM processes and outcomes.
1 Request IR-03 d: - 2 Please explain why "[suggested] modifications….in 'future [i]mplementation' " falls under the - 3 Verify Savings & Review centre of focus in the DSM cycle.
AI summary The request seeks clarification on why proposed modifications to 'future implementation' fall under the 'Verify Savings & Review' phase of the DSM cycle. It emphasizes the need to align changes with the program's verification and review processes, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
5 Response IR3 d: 4 - 6 Suggestions for modification future implementation fall under the Verify Savings & Review centre - 7 of focus in the DSM cycle because the verification consultant is verifying the work with a full - 8 overview of al...
AI summary The response discusses modifying future Demand Side Management (DSM) implementation through the Verify Savings & Review centre. Verification consultants identify errors and recommend improvements to ensure program integrity and enhance efficiency. Modifications aim to strengthen DSM cycle processes and evaluation effectiveness.
Response IR-04: - 8 The focus of the report is within the scope of the original Resource Acquisition model of DSM, - 9 and when Market Transformation, Climate Change and Energy Sufficiency are discussed, the - report notes that policy auth...
AI summary The report discusses the limitations of current Demand-Side Management (DSM) frameworks, emphasizing the need for policy authorization in Climate Change, Energy Sufficiency, and Market Transformation. It highlights gaps in disaster preparedness, the potential of Energy Sufficiency (notably in Europe), and the need for enhanced Market Transformation strategies. Regulated utilities are urged to engage in climate adaptation, while Energy Sufficiency remains a focus for ECEEE.
1 Request IR-05: - 2 Please confirm that Figure 3, page 11 of the 2024 Verification Report, demonstrates that all - 3 program components achieve net lifetime energy savings.
AI summary Request IR-05 seeks confirmation that Figure 3 on page 11 of the 2024 Verification Report demonstrates that all program components achieve net lifetime energy savings, focusing on verification of energy efficiency outcomes.
5 Response IR-05: 4 13 6 Figure 3, from Page 11 of the 2024 Verification Report is reproduced below. The purpose of the 7 Figure is to show the contrast in effective for the programs. Each of the programs shown in the 8 figure has a lifeti...
AI summary The text discusses Figure 3 from the 2024 Verification Report, highlighting varying lifetimes of energy savings for programs (20–27 years vs. 1 year). It notes that not all program components achieve net savings and excludes two Demand Response (DR) programs, as they focus on reducing demand rather than energy savings.
1 Request IR-06: - 2 Please confirm whether the methodology used in quantifying net lifetime energy savings was - 3 consistent with current methodological guidance for evaluating energy efficiency programs.
AI summary Request IR-06 seeks confirmation on whether the methodology for quantifying net lifetime energy savings in energy efficiency programs aligns with current methodological guidance. The focus is on ensuring consistency in evaluating program effectiveness.
5 Response IR-06: 4 11 - 6 The method for quantifying net lifetime energy savings was selected by the evaluation consultant - 7 and the numbers used in Verification report are provided in Table 5 on Page 16 of the evaluator's - 8 Overall E...
AI summary The response details the evaluator's methodology for quantifying net lifetime energy savings in the DSM MA update, including revised EUL values based on literature reviews and alignment with ACEEE guidelines. The approach accounts for baseline evolution over time and calculates adjusted EUL by dividing lifetime savings by first-year savings.
Request IR-09: - 1 Please confirm what is meant by the term " practical value ", from both a qualitative and - 2 quantitative perspective, and explain how the use of this term is consistent with current - 3 methodological guidance for eval...
AI summary The document requests clarification on the term 'practical value' in energy efficiency programs, seeking both qualitative and quantitative explanations and its alignment with current methodological guidance.
Response IR-9: 6 " Practical value " is used to indicate a test of the magnitude of program results (energy savings 7 or demand reduction), which is separate from statistical significance. For any test of the 8 magnitude of program results...
AI summary Discusses the distinction between practical and statistical significance in evaluating energy efficiency programs, citing the 2016 American Statistical Association's shift towards practical significance. Highlights that large sample sizes in residential programs can lead to statistically significant results with minimal practical value.
Request IR-10: - 2 Reference: page 52 of the 2024 Verification Report: (Section I. Residential Behavioral Program - 3 (Efficiency Insights): Because significance and confidence are driven by number of cases and the cases are joined physica...
AI summary The document challenges the methodology used to determine that system-level energy savings of 6.27 GWh are not meaningful compared to Nova Scotia Power's (NSP) total system requirements of 11,326 GWh. It questions whether savings from small household-level reductions, without physical measures, have practical impact on power plant decisions.
Request IR-11: - 2 Reference: page 54 of the 2024 Verification Report (Section I. Residential Behavioral Program - 3 (Efficiency Insights): Currently, behavioural RCTs, of which the current program is an example, are black boxes. There is...
AI summary Request IR-11 critiques the use of behavioral RCTs in a program, arguing they are 'black boxes' without clear mechanisms for energy savings. It references Cartwright and Hardie's methodology and suggests a process evaluation to assess savings. The response notes no jurisdictions have implemented the proposed approach and questions the program's value due to minimal savings. It references Matter M12249 and highlights the need for regulatory review.
Response IR-12-a: - The source for the referenced customer data supporting the Verifier's findings is the evaluation - consultant's 2024 final report and E1 tracking sheet ex-ante claim for the two locations.
AI summary The response identifies the evaluation consultant's 2024 final report and E1 tracking sheet as the sources for customer data supporting the Verifier's findings.
Response IR12-b: - Cumulative leak repair energy savings over multiple program years are best expressed in terms - of total energy saved as a percentage of total energy demand for a single year. This is an effective - proxy for total air l...
AI summary The document discusses compressed air leak repair energy savings in Nova Scotia, citing 3.7 and 4.0 GWh of savings in 2024. It notes that 42% of total savings came from two sites, with savings increasing 522% compared to 2023. The response references a 10% leakage rate benchmark from the Uniform Methods Protocol and asserts that the sites' savings fall within acceptable ranges.
Request IR-13: 2 Reference: page 65 (Evaluation Issue 3-b), the following was stated: "Leakage rate has increased. There has been an unexplained recent surge in claimed savings at these two locations, as compared to prior years." 6 (a) Ple...
AI summary The response to Request IR-13 cites 2023 and 2024 evaluator reports showing increased leakage rates and a surge in claimed savings. In 2024, two sites reported 7.7 GWh savings, while 2023's compressed air leak audits accounted for 2.1 GWh, 27% of 2024's savings.
Request IR-14: 2 Reference: page 65-66 2024 Verification Report: SVR2024-Compressed Air-12 "Proprietary data issue. It is not unusual for some organizations to try to keep operational data proprietary and confidential, as a strategic polic...
AI summary The text addresses a proprietary data issue in energy efficiency evaluations, emphasizing the need for site access and data sharing. The NSEB requests details on clients who restricted access during the 2024 independent evaluation, citing evaluation requirements for direct measurement and data access.
E-17Reply Evidence- E1 including Appendix A -Econoler Reply Evidence
37 passages
1 1. INTRODUCTION - 2 EfficiencyOne's ("E1") Application for Approval of the 2026 DSM Extension for Demand-Side Management - 3 Activities ("DSM") between E1 and Nova Scotia Power Inc. ("NS Power"), and for Approval of the - 4 Amendment to...
AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) seeks approval to extend its Demand-Side Management (DSM) services until 2026, aligning with the Nova Scotia Energy Board's (NSEB) new mandate and pending Benefit Cost Analysis (BCA) test (Matter M12282). The application includes an amendment to the DSM Purchase Agreement with Nova Scotia Power Inc. (NS Power). E1 concurs with intervenor findings but addresses limited divergences and relies on Econoler's report for the Peach Report (Matter M12186).
2.1 IMBALANCED TOTAL RESOURCE COST TEST
AI summary The document section introduces the 'Imbalanced Total Resource Cost Test,' a regulatory methodology used in Nova Scotia's energy proceedings to evaluate cost allocation and efficiency. While no specific arguments or entities are detailed in the provided text, it is part of a broader regulatory process involving energy stakeholders.
Synapse Synapse states: The [Total Resource Cost] TRC test is imbalanced in that it includes all the costs and only a portion of the benefits. The participant benefits are missing from the TRC test. ...the TRC test is likely to be skewed a...
AI summary Synapse argues that the Total Resource Cost (TRC) test is imbalanced, excluding participant benefits and leading to a skewed assessment. This omission risks misleading conclusions about resource efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
1 cost-effectiveness ratios in the 2023-2025 Plan and received approval from the NSEB. Lastly, 2 cost effectiveness is assessed at the portfolio level.3 3 4 E1 Response 5 E1 asserts that program components which serve low-income and equity...
AI summary The document discusses the cost-effectiveness ratios in the 2023-2025 Plan, which were approved by the NSEB. It highlights E1's concern that low-income and equity program components may fall below cost-effectiveness thresholds due to the need for higher incentives. Synapse recommends that NSPI respond to E1's questions regarding August 2024 avoided costs and that the NSEB direct NSPI and E1 to update the 2027-2031 DSM Plan accordingly.
Synapse On June 4, 2025, Synapse posed the following IR-08 to E1:[5](#page-6-1) Request IR-8: Please refer to Table 5: Program Savings & Investments on page 23 of the Evidence. Please provide an Excel workbook that reproduces Table 5 in fi...
AI summary Synapse requested E1 to provide an Excel workbook with five worksheets reproducing Table 5 data for 2023-2026, ensuring consistent formatting and zero values for inactive programs. The request is part of the E1 2026 DSM Extension Application (M12249).
3.3.1 SURVEYS OF LOW-INCOME PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS
AI summary This section discusses surveys conducted on low-income participants in energy programs, focusing on their experiences and feedback. Key entities include Nova Scotia Power Inc. and the Nova Scotia Energy Board, with topics related to program effectiveness and participant engagement.
E1 Response E1 supports this recommendation, subject to the following conditions: (1) surveys will be executed exclusively for programs that involve some level of low-income and equity participation; and (2) the scheduling of these surveys...
AI summary E1 supports the recommendation with conditions: surveys limited to programs with low-income/equity participation and flexible scheduling aligned with program timelines. The response cites multiple exhibits and RIRs from the DSM Extension Application (M12249) and other documents.
E1 Response E1 submits that the reported low-income and equity impacts in Efficient Product Installation (EPI) for the undisclosed income group represents a small proportion of the overall total reported low-income and equity impacts for E...
AI summary E1 argues that the undisclosed income group's low-income and equity impacts are minimal, so using the 14.9% prevalence factor is appropriate until a survey is conducted. They oppose applying the same factor to all groups, as it may underreport impacts.
Q. Are you concerned about this sharp increase in residential savings acquisition costs? A. Yes. The primary goal of the portfolio is to acquire energy savings, with the main constraint coming from the budget available to do so. As costs t...
AI summary The respondent is concerned about the sharp increase in residential savings acquisition costs, which has led to a decline in acquired savings despite stable or slightly increased budgets. They emphasize the need for a thorough review of residential energy efficiency programs to ensure cost-effective savings for ratepayers.
Introduction Econoler was commissioned by E1 to evaluate E1's 2024 DSM program portfolio, including the Residential Behaviour program component. E1's Residential Behaviour program component, publicly branded as Efficiency Insights, constit...
AI summary Econoler evaluated E1's 2024 Residential Behaviour program (Efficiency Insights), which uses NS Power data and Bidgely's algorithms to generate personalized energy reports for customers. The program aims to reduce electricity consumption through behavioral change, with Econoler conducting a randomized controlled trial to assess its impact.
Reply Evidence The Savings Verification Review of Efficiency Nova Scotia Program Year 2024 Evaluation Results (the "Peach Report") authored by H. Gil Peach & Associates ("the Verifier") for the Nova Scotia Energy Board, and filed on June 5...
AI summary Econoler responds to the Peach Report's evaluation of the Residential Behavioural Program under the EfficiencyOne 2026 DSM Extension Application (M12249), addressing concerns about the program's effectiveness and long-term behavioral impacts.
1. 2024 Residential Behaviour Evaluation Approach and Results The Peach Report states as follows in relation to Econoler's 2024 Independent Evaluation of EfficiencyOne's DSM programs:[2](#page-21-0) This evaluation is well constructed at a...
AI summary The Peach Report evaluates Econoler's 2024 assessment of EfficiencyOne's DSM programs, noting technical adequacy but highlighting flaws in statistical significance and effect size interpretation. The 6.27 GWh first-year effect size is deemed trivial (0.06% of NSP's 2024 system requirement), with large samples undermining statistical validity. The report advocates shifting focus from statistical significance to practical business case assessments.
Econoler Response: Econoler does not agree with the Verifier's evidence respecting large sample sizes and statistical significance. Econoler's approach is fully aligned with two specific industry standards for behaviour programs, both of w...
AI summary Econoler disagrees with the Verifier's evidence on sample size and statistical significance, citing industry standards from SEE Action and NREL's Uniform Methods Project. They argue that RCT with regression analysis is the standard, as used in their 2024 Residential Behaviour Program Evaluation.
2. Sample Size and Statistical Significance The Peach Report states as follows in relation to the use of statistical significance testing for large sample sizes:[6](#page-23-0) Use of statistical significance testing for very large sample...
AI summary The Peach Report critiques the use of statistical significance testing with large sample sizes, noting that these tests were developed for smaller samples. It highlights a tension between the benefit of larger samples in enhancing statistically significant results and the questionable applicability of significance testing with very large samples.
Econoler Response: Econoler respectfully disagrees with the assertion that the statistical tests employed in the evaluation, as well as those recommended in the evaluation protocols, lack reliability when applied to large sample sizes. - T...
AI summary Econoler disputes claims that statistical tests lack reliability with large samples, citing protocols, usage by other jurisdictions, and sample bias corrections. They emphasize statistical significance for validating savings and note that the Peach Report highlights that large samples may detect trivial differences.
Econoler Response: Econoler respectfully disagrees with the statement that a statistical test will almost always demonstrate a significant difference with large sample. While it is true that a large sample size increases ability to detect...
AI summary Econoler disputes the claim that large sample sizes always detect significant savings, arguing that they reduce standard errors and increase statistical power but cannot detect non-existent effects. They reference studies and exhibits (e.g., Peach Report, NREL protocols) to support their position on statistical methodology in energy efficiency evaluations.
Econoler Response: Econoler does not agree that due to the effect size at the household level, a savings claim for the program does not make sense. - Behaviour change initiatives are designed to make small, simple changes in how individual...
AI summary Econoler argues that residential behavior programs should claim energy savings if measurable, even with small per-household effects. The program achieved 6.270 GWh savings (0.34%-0.62% annual household consumption), consistent with other jurisdictions. Savings are comparable to E1's LED lamp program (0.113 kWh/day).
4. Causal Effect The Peach Report states as follows in relation to effect size at the household level:[16](#page-26-1) Currently, behavioural RCTs, of which the current program is an example, are black boxes. There is no coherent specifica...
AI summary The Peach Report critiques current behavioral RCTs in DSM programs, emphasizing the need for warrants and causal analysis. It highlights the necessity of evaluating program elements like Home Energy Reports and energy advisor interactions, as well as tracking survey completion and its impact on energy savings.
Econoler Response: Econoler does not agree that behavioural RCTs, and therefore energy behaviour programs, are black boxes and that additional justification is needed to claim savings for the following reasons: - First, behavioural RCTs do...
AI summary Econoler argues that behavioral RCTs are not black boxes, citing theory-informed mechanisms like social norms and personalized feedback. They emphasize that current protocols, including RCTs and meter-based savings estimation, are industry standards and more transparent than engineering models. Econoler disputes the Verifier's stance on program effectiveness.
5. Verifier's Recommendations The Peach Report states the following general recommendation regarding the acceptance of 2024 evaluation results for four program components, including Residential Behaviour:[18](#page-28-0) SVR24-G-1. The Sav...
AI summary The Peach Report recommends accepting 2024 evaluation results for most programs but flags the Residential Behavior and two Demand Response programs. While protocols were followed, savings are statistically significant but lack practical value due to large sample sizes. The Evaluator should have highlighted this discrepancy.
Econoler Response: Econoler disagrees that the 2024 evaluated energy savings for Residential Behaviour should not be accepted and that this program should have been flagged for not producing practical energy savings. As explained in detail...
AI summary Econoler argues that the 2024 Residential Behaviour program's energy savings should be accepted, citing industry-wide use of residential behavior as DSM programs and statistically significant metering data. The Peach Report recommends reclassifying the program as a marketing tool rather than a direct energy-saving initiative due to insufficient household-level savings.
Residential Demand Response description In 2024, Residential DR was composed only of Eco Shift – a residential "bring your own device" offering generating available DR capacity through three pathways: 1) Smart thermostats for electric spac...
AI summary In 2024, Nova Scotia's Residential Demand Response (DR) program, Eco Shift, focused on smart thermostats due to limited participation in other pathways (EVs, batteries). Econoler evaluated DR capacity using regression models on AMI data, aiming to aggregate participant impacts to reduce NS Power's need for new capacity or expensive peak-period electricity purchases.
Business, Non-profit, and Institutional (BNI) Demand Response In 2024, BNI DR was composed solely of the DR Aggregator program component. Through the DR Aggregator program component, E1 hired aggregators to enroll groups of BNI customers c...
AI summary In 2024, BNI Demand Response (DR) relied on the DR Aggregator program, managed by E1 and implemented by Parsons Inc. During events triggered by NS Power, aggregators reduced load via remote control or predefined plans. E1 calculated DR capacity using a baseline load adjusted by same-day factors, with Econoler reviewing project guidelines and adjustment ratios for accuracy.
1. Verifier's Recommendations The Peach Report states the following general recommendation regarding the acceptance of 2024 evaluation results for four program components, including the DR program:[29](#page-36-0) SVR24-G-1. The Savings Ve...
AI summary The Peach Report recommends accepting 2024 evaluation results for four programs except the Demand Response (DR) programs due to their lack of practical significance despite statistical significance. The Evaluator followed protocols but failed to address the issue of large sample sizes, which rendered statistical significance irrelevant for practical value assessment.
Residential DR - › Practical value at the utility system level: The Residential DR program component is not required to generate savings or demand reduction of practical value at the utility system level since it is still in the early stag...
AI summary The Residential DR program is in early stages, focusing on testing new technologies rather than immediate system-level savings. Econoler argues that small household-level reductions aggregate to meaningful capacity, citing examples like thermostats. The Verifier disputes claims of 'very large sample size,' noting only 199 of 272 projects were analyzed, making statistical significance applicable.
BNI DR - › Practical value at the utility system level: The BNI DR program is not required to generate savings or demand reduction of practical value at the utility system level at this stage in the program component's development, since i...
AI summary The BNI DR program's early-stage practical value is acknowledged, with 8.034 MW of available DR capacity in 2024. Econoler argues savings claims are justified despite household-level demand reduction, as the program targets system-level capacity for NS Power. The Verifier disputes the 'very large sample size' claim, noting only 93 projects analyzed.
Conclusion Econoler disagrees that the 2024 evaluated available DR capacity for Residential and BNI DR should not be accepted and disagrees with the recommendation that these program components should have been flagged for not producing pr...
AI summary Econoler disputes the recommendation to flag DR programs, arguing statistical significance, not practical effect size, should validate impact evaluations. The 2024 evaluation used valid sample sizes and followed industry best practices. The Peach Report recommends analyzing DR program importance, roles of NSP and Efficiency Nova Scotia, and clarifying program benefits for utility operations.
Econoler Response: While some of these activities could be supported by the Evaluator, Econoler notes that many of the aforementioned categories of information would most likely have to be provided by NS Power. Econoler also notes that its...
AI summary Econoler clarifies that NS Power is primarily responsible for providing information on program business cases, while Econoler's role as an evaluator does not include assessing these cases. The text also references a regulatory proceeding discussion on residential demand response approaches.
1. Protocol Issue The Peach Report states as follows in relation to the measurement & verification (M&V) protocol for compressed air leak projects: [31](#page-40-0) […] The Uniform Methods Protocol, provided by the U.S. Department of Energ...
AI summary The Peach Report discusses the M&V protocol for compressed air leak projects, noting that ultrasonic leak detectors are ineffective for quantifying leakage rates due to their reliance on sound correlation rather than direct measurement. The protocol recommends standardized leak-down tests before and after repairs for accurate measurement.
and requires full-facility consumption data pre- and post-retrofit (International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol (IPMVP) Option C) for all measures implemented by each participant. Based on Econoler's industrial field ex...
AI summary Econoler argues that ultrasonic detectors are a practical and industry-accepted method for measuring compressed air leaks, unlike costly leak-down tests. They reference IPMVP Core Concepts (2022) to justify their approach. The Verifier criticizes the evaluation methods, stating savings should not be accepted without independent verification via an operationally definable measurement process.
Econoler Response: Econoler disagrees with this assertion, and specifically disagrees with the statement, that there are no records of the leaks having existed or no way to check how much they were leaking. The participant submitted detail...
AI summary Econoler disputes claims of missing leak records, citing detailed files with leak locations, rates (CFM), and repair data. E1 supported the customer with training and tools for compressed air leak management. Econoler's evaluation process includes reviewing documents with leak details, repair logs, and energy loss metrics.
3. Pattern of Reported Savings The Peach Report states as follows in relation to leakage rates for the two facilities under consideration: [38](#page-43-1) Observations of total claimed savings for the two locations showed that the cumulat...
AI summary The Peach Report notes that cumulative savings claims at two facilities represent a significant portion of compressed air energy demand, with leakage rates far higher than typical. This anomaly, unlike other sites with minimal leak detection, raises concerns about special site conditions. The Evaluator is urged to investigate and explain this discrepancy.
Econoler Response: Based on Econoler's experience, in large industrial facilities similar to both sites under consideration, electricity savings generated by compressed air leak repairs may represent only a small share of facility-wide ann...
AI summary Econoler notes that compressed air leak repairs yield minimal electricity savings (3-4%) and are not a corporate priority without DSM programs. Free-ridership is measured via self-report interviews, confirming the two projects likely wouldn't have occurred without the program.
5. Proprietary data issue The Peach Report states as follows in relation to the site access and documentation provided by the customer for project reviews:[42](#page-45-0) It is not unusual for some organizations to try to keep operational...
AI summary The Peach Report highlights a conflict between organizations' proprietary data policies and evaluation requirements. While some organizations restrict operational data access, evaluations necessitate site access and data sharing for accurate energy efficiency assessments. Evaluators must report restrictions that hinder independent evaluations or public reporting.
6. Verifier's Recommendations The Peach Report states the following general recommendation regarding the acceptance of 2024 evaluation results for four program components, including compressed air leak projects completed at two sites: [43]...
AI summary The Savings Verification study recommends accepting 2024 evaluation results for most programs but excludes the compressed air part of the BNI Custom Incentive Program due to lack of independent evaluation per the Universal Methods Protocol.
Econoler Response to SVR24-G-1: Econoler disagrees that the 2024 evaluated energy savings for compressed air leak projects completed under the Custom Incentives Program (Custom) should not be accepted. Econoler considers them to have been...
AI summary Econoler argues that the 2024 compressed air leak project energy savings under the Custom Incentives Program are valid, complying with industry standards and using trained technicians. They clarify that the 2024 evaluation included partial claims from prior years and true-up adjustments, following existing reporting practices. The Peach Report recommends aligning the program with UMP protocol requirements.
Econoler Response: Econoler investigated the pattern of reported savings for the two sites highlighted by the Verifier in the Savings Verification Report. As explained in detail in Item 3. above, Econoler concludes that the pattern of repo...
AI summary Econoler analyzed savings patterns for two sites, concluding they align with expected leak rates and internal management efforts. The response also recommends excluding clients who block independent evaluators or data access from the Compressed Air program.
97916Synapse (EOne) IR 1 to 36
14 passages
Extension is that the avoided costs of carbon are now embedded in the avoided costs of energy for the 2026 DSM year. The avoided cost of carbon has not been provided by NS Power as a separate input." - a. Please provide the avoided cost va...
AI summary The NSUARB is requesting detailed information on avoided costs in the 2026 DSM Plan Extension, including comparisons with prior IRPs, sources of data, and program component changes related to LED baseline adoption. Specific focus is on avoided carbon costs and program adjustments post-2024.
- Cost Test (TRC), and Program Administrator Cost Test (PAC) for lighting measures in the 1 Efficiency Product Installation program component over time. Please include 2023 23 b. Please provide the Investment, Lifetime Benefits (TRC), Life...
AI summary The text requests detailed information on the Total Resource Cost Test (TRC) and Program Administrator Cost Test (PAC) for lighting measures, including investment, benefits, energy savings, and payback periods, particularly for measures failing cost-effectiveness testing and those with a 3-year or less payback period.
h higher than the actual values from 2023 and 2024? Do the 2026 Plan Extension assumptions correct for the historical over-projections of Investment/Lifetime Energy Savings in the 2023 and 2024 plans? - Request IR-13: Page 5 of Appendix A...
AI summary The text requests detailed information on E1's challenges in meeting demand response (DR) targets due to customer awareness, retention, and device quality issues, and asks for a table comparing planned vs actual adoption and 2026 Plan Extension projections.
a. Please provide a comparison of the Investment, Lifetime Benefits (TRC), Lifetime Benefits (PAC), TRC, and PAC for heat pump measures in the Green Heat program 1 component to the heat pump measures in the Home Energy Assessment program 2...
AI summary The text requests a comparison of investment and lifetime benefits (TRC and PAC) for heat pump measures in the Green Heat program, including data from 2023 Actuals, 2024 Actuals, 2025 Forecast, and 2026 Plan Extension. It also asks about the evaluation and billing analysis of the Green Heat program and whether similar evaluations have been conducted for the Home Energy Assessment program component.
A states, "Eligibility was extended to support Mi'kmaw homeowners in 2024, in addition to Band owned homes, in Mi'kmaw communities." a. To what extent has the inclusion of homeowners increased demand? b. Please explain if and how the propo...
AI summary The text requests information on the impact of expanding eligibility to Mi'kmaw homeowners in 2024 on demand and how the 2026 Plan Extension addresses this. It also seeks clarification on E1's performance targets for demand response and energy efficiency, including definitions of 'energy efficiency savings targets' and differences between Demand Savings for EE and Available Capacity for DR.
mand Savings in GW? If not, please explain the meaning of this term in this context. - b. Please describe the difference between the definitions of Demand Savings for EE and Available Capacity for DR.
AI summary The text requests clarification on the term 'Demand Savings in GW' and seeks to understand the distinction between Demand Savings for Energy Efficiency (EE) and Available Capacity for Demand Response (DR). These questions pertain to definitions and terminology used in regulatory proceedings related to demand-side management and resource planning.
- Request IR-24: Table 20: 2026 Summary of the Residential Demand Response Program Component and Table 21: 2026 Summary of the BNI Demand Response Program Component on pages 43 and 44 of Appendix A respectively include New Capacity and Ava...
AI summary The document includes three information requests related to Nova Scotia's Demand Response (DR) programs. IR-24 seeks definitions of 'New Capacity' and 'Available Capacity' and their relation to E1's 2025 forecasts. IR-25 asks for the proposed start date of enrollments. IR-26 inquires about data-driven marketing strategies using AMI data for personalized customer outreach. The NSUARB is involved in regulating these programs.
sponse program), and targeted BNI email campaigns based on electricity use patterns using AMI data." - a. How will E1 leverage data analytics tools including segmentation data, website user behaviour insights, and advanced metering infrast...
AI summary The document outlines information requests to E1 regarding the use of AMI data for marketing strategies, personalized messaging, and identifying high-potential customers. It also inquires about the timeline and success metrics for E1's heat pump water heater pilot program. Questions focus on data analytics, segmentation, and program evaluation.
uation of E1's heat pump water heater market transformation pilot, launched in 2024." - a. When will results from this pilot be available? - b. How does E1 intend to measure the success of this pilot?
AI summary The document requests information about E1's 2024 heat pump water heater market transformation pilot, specifically asking when results will be available and how success will be measured. The pilot aims to transform the market for heat pump water heaters.
Request IR-28: Page 45 of Appendix A states, "Investment in this category has been increased in 2026 as compared to 2023-2025 to support the development of the 2027-2031 DSM Resource Plan and initiation of an updated Potential Study to inf...
AI summary The document requests a breakdown of the proposed $3.0 million budget for the 2026 DSM Plan Extension and compares investment by activity to previous years. It also inquires whether E1 is at risk of not achieving its 2023-2026 Performance Targets, noting that as of 2024, E1 had achieved 74% of energy savings, 74% of peak demand savings, 45% of available capacity, and 55% of low-income and equity targets.
emand savings target; • 45% of the available capacity target; and • 55% of the low-income and equity target." Is E1 currently at risk of not achieving any of the 2023-2026 Performance Targets? If so, which one(s)? For each one, please expl...
AI summary The document requests information on E1's risk of missing 2023-2026 performance targets, focusing on low-income and equity metrics. It references tables detailing 2024 Residential Behavior program participation (14.9% energy savings, 0% demand savings) and asks for 2023 vs. 2024 actuals by program component.
equity participation in RB represented: • 14.9% of energy savings a. Please provide the actuals broken out for 2023 versus 2024 by program component. • 0% of demand savings • 14.9% of expenditures"
AI summary The text requests actuals for 2023 vs. 2024 by program component, noting 14.9% energy savings and 0% demand savings. It highlights equity participation in RB with 14.9% of expenditures. The context involves a Nova Scotia regulatory proceeding related to demand-side management and energy efficiency.
b. Please explain why 2023 actuals are not included in the scaling factors for the Residential Behavior program component. c. For program components in which the actuals are not relatively consistent from 2023 to 2024, please discuss why E...
AI summary The NSUARB requests clarification on scaling factors for the Residential Behavior program, excluding 2023 actuals and using 2023-2024 averages. It also questions methodology for attributing low-income savings in DSM Reporting, focusing on Business Energy Rebates, Custom, and Small Business Energy Solutions programs.
for DSM Reporting' for the Small Business Energy Solutions program component states, "Incidental low-income & equity savings = (total savings from residential dedicated low-income & affordable housing projects "Housing\ ")." Please discuss...
AI summary The document contains non-confidential information requests related to DSM reporting methodologies, the 2026 Plan Extension's alignment with future plans, energy and demand savings comparisons, evaluation plans for DSM programs, AMI data agreements, and demand response marketing strategies. Requests focus on low-income savings attribution, program evaluation frameworks, and regulatory compliance.