E-2Evidence of ENSC as DSM Administrator
9 passages
3.1 Multi-year Planning Cycle ENSC has prepared a multi-year DSM Plan for UARB approval, subject to a full-scale regulatory hearing. The Plan contains the following: - the approach it intends to take to achieve savings within its target ma...
AI summary ENSC has submitted a multi-year DSM Plan for UARB approval, outlining savings approaches, cost forecasts, and evaluation timelines. The plan includes three years of detailed data and two additional years for directional guidance, aiming to streamline regulatory processes while enabling long-term capacity building.
RECENT ADJUSTMENTS The regulatory framework to oversee DSM began with NSPI as the interim administrator and transitioned as the DSM administrator role was taken over by ENSC in the fall of 2010. As part of its decision on ENSC's 2012 filin...
AI summary The UARB adjusted DSM regulatory framework criteria in 2012, including shifting TRC threshold evaluation to the program level, adopting cumulative savings analysis, and initiating multi-annual plan considerations. These changes followed ENSC's 2012 filing and NSPI's prior interim administration role.
#1. MULTI-YEAR DSM PLAN FILING In order to improve ENSC's ability to contract efficiently, to build capacity within Nova Scotia, to effectively engage trade allies and large organizations, and to focus more organizational effort on DSM del...
AI summary The document recommends transitioning to a multi-year DSM plan for ENSC to enhance efficiency, stakeholder engagement, and operational focus. It proposes a 3-year plan with two additional years of outlook, subject to UARB approval and regulatory hearings, ensuring continuous vision communication and evaluation frameworks.
#2. ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORTS In order to provide both the UARB and stakeholders with the information needed to track the corporation's progress, to keep all parties apprised of any changes or risks that may arise, and to safeguard against u...
AI summary The document recommends adopting Annual Progress Reports to track ENSC's performance, ensure transparency, and implement a trigger mechanism requiring a Corrective Action Plan if savings fall below 75% of forecasts. Reports would include context, activities, discrepancies, and savings details, with a focus on clarity and adherence to evaluation plans.
3 PRINCIPLES ON WHICH THE ENSC CAM IS BASED The goal in developing the ENSC cost allocation model has been to ensure that it is compliant with Generally Accepted Regulatory Principles and with standard Canadian regulatory practices. The "p...
AI summary The ENSC Cost Allocation Model (CAM) is based on three principles: fully allocating direct, support, and administration costs; applying cost causality to assign responsibility for costs; and using proportional allocators when direct causality is unclear. Unlike regulated utilities, ENSC has few common costs, allowing most expenses to be directly allocated, except administrative costs, which use fair allocators. The model emphasizes credible accounting data and empirical analysis for cost allocation.
6 SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONCLUSION Elenchus has developed a cost allocation model that consists of two parts: - Part One allocates all cost to programs so that the total costs of ratepayer-funded and taxpayer-funded can be determi...
AI summary Elenchus developed a two-part cost allocation model for ENSC, with Part One using UARB's 2011 methodology for financial statements and Part Two allocating DSM costs to NSPI classes starting in 2013. Two recommendations are proposed: EDSM costs split 25% system benefits/75% participant benefits, and Enabling Strategies costs allocated similarly where feasible, with proportional allocation otherwise.
4.1Measurement Boundaries The measurement boundary for all projects is the whole mill. Note that the reported refining energy consumption does not include electrical consumption of any auxiliary equipment located within the TMP plant. The...
AI summary The measurement boundary for energy consumption includes the whole mill but excludes TMP plant auxiliary equipment due to lack of metering. Auxiliary consumption (11.5% of TMP load) is deemed negligible (<5% IPMVP threshold). The top-down analysis boundary includes NPPH mill (including PB3), though PB3 may be excluded in the future due to NSPI ownership.
BIRD'S EYE VIEW The chart below illustrates the strategy and its key components. This approach is meant as a guide rather than a prescriptive recipe. However, we believe the strategy it represents is fundamental to achieving the goals here...
AI summary The text introduces a strategic approach illustrated in a chart, emphasizing its role as a guide rather than a strict framework. It underscores the strategy's importance in achieving outlined goals, though specifics of the strategy or its components are not detailed in the excerpt.
Trend of Home Heating Costs in Nova Scotia (2007-2011)
AI summary The document presents visual data (figures and images) analyzing the trend of home heating costs in Nova Scotia from 2007 to 2011. No textual analysis or specific findings are provided in the excerpt, focusing instead on graphical representations of cost trends during the period.
E-2(r)Revised ENSC Evidence
12 passages
3.1 Multi-year Planning Cycle ENSC has prepared a multi-year DSM Plan for UARB approval, subject to a full-scale regulatory hearing. The Plan contains the following: - the approach it intends to take to achieve savings within its target ma...
AI summary ENSC has submitted a multi-year DSM Plan for UARB approval, including methods to achieve energy savings, cost forecasts, evaluation plans, and a three-year energy savings timetable. The filing also includes two additional years of DSM outlook for directional guidance, aiming to shorten formal approval cycles while enabling long-term planning for ENSC and stakeholders.
ould occur whenever a replaced measure reaches the end of its EUL. Tracking these results as well as changes in common practices and standards would require a greater investment of time and resources. Application of dual baselines across t...
AI summary ENSC acknowledges the potential benefits of a dual baseline approach for program evaluation but argues that implementation may be impractical due to high costs and resource demands. They propose a measured approach, prioritizing feasibility analysis before widespread adoption, citing challenges in programs with frequent product changes or limited user interaction.
REGULATORY OVERSIGHT – A BALANCED APPROACH FOR EFFICIENCY NOVA SCOTIA Prepared by PHILIPPE DUNSKY, PRESIDENT DUNSKY ENERGY CONSULTING Submitted to: EFFICIENCY NOVA SCOTIA CORPORATION January 24th, 2012
AI summary The document, submitted by Philippe Dunskey of Dunsky Energy Consulting to Efficiency Nova Scotia Corporation on January 24, 2012, outlines a balanced approach to regulatory oversight for Efficiency Nova Scotia. It emphasizes the need for efficiency programs and cost recovery mechanisms, though specific details are not provided in the excerpt.
LATITUDE Even if Efficiency Nova Scotia has the clarity of purpose and built-in incentives to perform, does it have the ability to do so to maximum effect? ENSC operates in an extremely complex market environment, one that is in many respe...
AI summary Efficiency Nova Scotia (ENSC) faces challenges in competing for consumer attention in a complex market. Its success depends on three factors: resources, responsiveness, and commitment. The document argues that ENSC requires sufficient latitude to effectively influence energy efficiency decisions and maximize ratepayer fund utilization.
RECOMMENDATIONS
AI summary The document outlines recommendations from a Nova Scotia regulatory proceeding, involving entities like NSPI, ENSC, and UARB. Key topics include DSM, energy efficiency programs, and cost recovery mechanisms. Acronyms such as DSM, ENSC, and DCRR are central to the discussion.
#1. MULTI-YEAR DSM PLAN FILING In order to improve ENSC's ability to contract efficiently, to build capacity within Nova Scotia, to effectively engage trade allies and large organizations, and to focus more organizational effort on DSM del...
AI summary ENSC recommends a multi-year DSM plan to enhance efficiency, build local capacity, and engage stakeholders. The 3-year plan includes a rolling outlook for directional guidance, with a focus on clear vision, cost forecasts, energy savings, and evaluation timelines. Regulatory approval and hearings would be required.
#2. ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORTS In order to provide both the UARB and stakeholders with the information needed to track the corporation's progress, to keep all parties apprised of any changes or risks that may arise, and to safeguard against u...
AI summary Recommends annual progress reports for ENSC to track progress, address discrepancies, and ensure savings targets. Includes a trigger mechanism for corrective action if savings fall below 75% of forecasts.
#4. QUARTERLY MEETINGS & REPORTS In order to maximize transparency, to ensure that stakeholders and the UARB are kept apprised of results as they evolve, and to provide opportunity to discuss concerns and/or make suggestions to ENSC, we re...
AI summary The text recommends quarterly meetings with the UARB and stakeholders, suggests transitioning the Program Development Working Group (PDWG) to a DSM Advisory Group for strategic discussions, and emphasizes distributing savings reports before meetings to ensure transparency and stakeholder engagement.
sts in a manner that reflects cost causality. The principles on which ENSC's CAM is based are discussed in the next section. Elenchus has developed a cost allocation model that consists of two parts: - Part One allocates all cost to progra...
AI summary Elenchus developed a two-part cost allocation model (CAM) for ENSC. Part One uses the 2011 methodology for financial statements, while Part Two adjusts rate riders from 2013 onwards, aligning with the 2009 Settlement Agreement, except for one exception. Stakeholder feedback was sought in 2011.
3 PRINCIPLES ON WHICH THE ENSC CAM IS BASED The goal in developing the ENSC cost allocation model has been to ensure that it is compliant with Generally Accepted Regulatory Principles and with standard Canadian regulatory practices. The "p...
AI summary The ENSC CAM is designed to comply with regulatory principles, allocating all costs fully, using cost causality, and pooling costs proportionally. Unlike regulated utilities, ENSC has few common costs, allowing direct allocation of most costs. Administrative costs are allocated using fair allocators. Credible accounting data and empirical analysis are emphasized for accurate cost allocation.
ABOUT DUNSKY ENERGY CONSULTING Dunsky Energy Consulting is a Montreal-based firm specialized in the design, analysis and implementation of successful energy efficiency and renewable energy programs and policies. Our clients include leading...
AI summary Dunsky Energy Consulting is a Montreal-based firm specializing in designing, analyzing, and implementing energy efficiency and renewable energy programs and policies for clients including utilities, government agencies, private firms, and non-profits in Canada and the U.S.
Reasons to Change
AI summary The document outlines acronyms and entities involved in a Nova Scotia regulatory proceeding, including organizations, programs, and technical terms related to energy efficiency, utility regulation, and cost recovery mechanisms. Key entities include Efficiency Nova Scotia Corporation, Nova Scotia Power Inc., and various energy programs.
E-22Direct Testimony of George Foote (Consumer Advocate)
4 passages
Before the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board IN THE MATTER OF An Application to Approve Efficiency Nova Scotia Corporation's Electricity Demand Side Management (DSM) Plan for 2013-2015 Direct Testimony of George Foote on behalf of the N...
AI summary The document details George Foote's testimony on behalf of the Nova Scotia Consumer Advocate regarding the approval of Efficiency Nova Scotia Corporation's 2013-2015 DSM Plan. Foote, with extensive experience in energy efficiency and climate change, previously testified in 2011 on a similar DSM plan.
Q. How should future DSM spending levels be established? - A. It would appear ENSC is seeking guidance with respect to future levels of DSM - investment. In response to IR-9 from the Consumer Advocate, ENSC stated that "…an IRP - update co...
AI summary ENSC proposes a multi-year model for DSM investment to achieve long-term energy savings and reduce future supply needs. It emphasizes the need for an updated IRP (Integrated Resource Plan) to inform DSM planning beyond 2015, citing developments like stricter renewable energy targets, changes in major customer load, and new federal/provincial environmental regulations affecting coal and greenhouse gas emissions.
Q. Do you have any suggestions regarding the DSM Advisory Group? - The quality and content of the annual report, the quarterly progress reports and the quarterly - meetings of the DSM Advisory Group will be the UARB's and stakeholders' win...
AI summary The UARB and stakeholders emphasize the importance of annual and quarterly reports and meetings of the DSM Advisory Group to assess the 2013-15 plan's success. A formal Terms of Reference and an independent chair elected by members are recommended to enhance the group's oversight effectiveness, with the chair collaborating with ENSC, the board, and stakeholders on meeting agendas.
se management policy, climate change adaptation and implementation of Nova Scotia's Climate Change Action Plan. Executive Director, Climate Change Directorate, Nova Scotia Environment, Halifax, NS - Provides leadership for the implementati...
AI summary George R. Foote, Executive Director of Nova Scotia's Climate Change Directorate, oversees implementation of climate action plans, emission reduction targets, and regulatory frameworks. Responsibilities include cross-sector collaboration, policy alignment, and advising government on climate strategies to meet 2020 GHG reduction goals.
E-25Evidence of Canadian Oil Heat Association - Nova Scotia
5 passages
NOVA SCOTIA UTILITY AND REVIEW BOARD IN THE MATTER OF: The Public Utilities Act , R.S.N.S. 1989, c.380 as amended IN THE MATTER OF: An Application by Efficiency Nova Scotia Corporation ("ENSC"). for Approval of its Electricity Demand Side...
AI summary The Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board is considering an application by Efficiency Nova Scotia Corporation (ENSC) under the Public Utilities Act for approval of its 2013 Electricity Demand Side Management Plan. The proceeding involves regulatory review of ENSC's proposed demand management initiatives.
24 Q. What is the position of COHA-NS in this proceeding? - A. The oilheat industry has been denied participation in the Efficiency Nova Scotia Corp25 - (ENSC) fuel substitution/fuel switching programs apparently based on initial screening...
AI summary COHA-NS argues that the oilheat industry was excluded from ENSC programs due to Dunsky Energy Consultant's 2010 report, which COHA-NS disputes. They claim this exclusion violates the fuel neutrality principle in the Efficiency Nova Scotia Corporation Act, as oilheat serves 55% of Nova Scotia's home heating market and is the only excluded energy source.
- To explore "policy issues" NSPI engaged Dunsky Energy Consulting to prepare a Policy White1 - Paper and Planning Guidance Report for NSPI. 3 [.](#page-4-0)2 - Dunsky submitted a framework for screening fuel switching opportunities that i...
AI summary Dunsky Energy Consulting recommended a Total Resource Cost (TRC) test framework for fuel switching, emphasizing benefits of avoided fuel supply and costs of alternative fuels. Key opportunities included gas for residential retrofits and wood pellets for commercial markets. Stakeholders like COHA-NS were to be engaged, with pilot projects proposed for 2010-2011. The 2010 NSUARB 155 decision referenced fuel substitution pilots.
10 Q. Why do you believe oil heat should be included in the fuel switching
AI summary The question asks why oil heat should be included in fuel switching initiatives. The context involves regulatory proceedings in Nova Scotia, with references to Efficiency Nova Scotia Corporation (ENSC) and the Canadian Oil Heat Association Nova Scotia (COHA-NS). The discussion likely centers on energy policy and fuel transition strategies.
5 OIL TANK CORROSION - 6 Q. ENSC and Dunsky seem to have given some weight to risks associated with oil - 7 tank leakage issues. What does COHA say in response? - A. First, this seems somewhat arbitrary as no other fuel is evaluated for "p...
AI summary COHA-NS responds to concerns about oil tank corrosion risks by highlighting that modern non-corrosive storage systems (fibreglass, resin, double-bottom steel) are now standard. They note that 90% of replaced tanks under their 'Retire Your Tank' program were non-corrosive, supported by CSA-B139.09 regulations banning single-wall steel tanks in Nova Scotia. COHA argues risks from oil leaks are overstated compared to other fuels like natural gas or wood.
09517Board Order
2 passages
IN THE MATTER OF THE PUBLIC UTILITIES ACT - and- IN THE MATTER OF AN APPLICATION EFFICIENCY NOVA SCOTIA CORPORATION for Approval of its Electricity Demand Side Management Plan for 2013 to 2015 BEFORE: Peter W. Gurnham, Q.C. Chair Kulvinder...
AI summary Efficiency Nova Scotia Corporation seeks approval for its 2013–2015 Electricity Demand Side Management Plan under the Public Utilities Act. The proceeding is before a tribunal chaired by Peter W. Gurnham, Q.C., with members Kulvinder S. Dhillon, P. Eng., and Roberta J. Clarke, Q.C.
ORDER WHEREAS Efficiency Nova Scotia Corporation ("ENSC") filed an Application on February 27, 2012 with the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board (the "Board") for approval of its Electricity Demand Side Management ("DSM") Plan for 2013 to...
AI summary Efficiency Nova Scotia Corporation (ENSC) applied for approval of its 2013-2015 Electricity Demand Side Management (DSM) Plan. After intervenor participation, evidence submission, and a settlement agreement reached by ENSC, Avon, Bowater, the Consumer Advocate, COHA, and SBA, the Board approved the settlement (excluding Section 16(b)) as being in ratepayers' best interests.
120092013 Annual Progress Report
3 passages
1.4 Codes and Standards ENSC's evaluator reported on the energy savings associated with new Codes and Standards in the Nova Scotia market. Eight new standards were considered: - Electric motors - General service incandescent reflector lamp...
AI summary ENSC evaluated eight new energy codes and standards in Nova Scotia, reporting 16.4 GWh savings for five standards but unable to assess others due to data gaps. ENSC leads national energy efficiency initiatives, including the Building Energy Estimation Methodology (BEEM) project and the National Market Study on fenestration products, supported by organizations like the Strategic Resource Task Group (SRTG) and the Steering Committee on Performance Energy Efficiency and Renewables (SCOPEER).
4 6.2 Evaluation of Enabling Strategies 5 The 2013-2014 DSM Plan Stakeholder Agreement identified the need to evaluate the appropriateness and value of Enabling Strategy expenditures. The Enabling Strategies evaluation will be carried out...
AI summary The 2013-2014 DSM Plan Stakeholder Agreement mandates evaluating Enabling Strategy expenditures. The evaluation, to occur in fall 2013, will assess expenditure appropriateness, compare strategies with other jurisdictions, and be conducted as part of ENSC's 2013 activities, filed with the UARB.
6.4 Amended Cost Allocation Methodology ENSC has developed its methodology for allocating Enabling Strategies costs and tracking the participant benefit costs to be allocated to participating classes. It may not be possible to allocate exp...
AI summary ENSC outlines its methodology for allocating Enabling Strategies costs, noting exceptions like the Green Schools program, which benefits both Residential and BNI sectors. It emphasizes the need for accurate, up-to-date data sources for future DCRR filings and internal consistency.