E-1Application and Evidence
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NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD IN THE MATTER OF The Public Utilities Act , RSNS 1989, c 380, as amended - and – IN THE MATTER OF An Application by EfficiencyOne for Approval of the 2026 DSM Extension for Demand-Side Management Activities, and fo...
AI summary EfficiencyOne seeks approval for a 2026 DSM extension and a 2023-2025 amendment to its DSM purchase agreement with Nova Scotia Power Inc., under the Public Utilities Act. The application involves Demand-Side Management activities and regulatory oversight by the Nova Scotia Energy Board.
1.7 EXISTING BOARD APPROVED COST-EFFECTIVENESS TEST - E1 has applied the current NSUARB-approved cost-effectiveness test to the 2026 DSM Extension as the - 2023-2025 DSM Plan the Total Resource Cost (TRC). This test compares inputs (costs...
AI summary The NSUARB-approved Total Resource Cost (TRC) test was applied to the 2026 DSM Extension, yielding a cost-effectiveness ratio of 1.6, exceeding the 1.0 threshold under the Public Utilities Act (PUA). E1 plans to propose a new benefit-cost analysis framework for the 2027-2031 DSM Plan to the Energy Board in Q2 2025.
1.8 DSMAG ENGAGEMENT - The DSMAG consultation timeline in relation to the 2026 DSM Extension has been condensed as a result - of the legislation being first introduced in February 2025 and brought into force March 26, 2025. Despite - this...
AI summary The DSMAG consultation timeline for the 2026 DSM Extension was condensed due to the Public Utilities Act (PUA) being introduced in February 2025 and enacted in March 2025. E1 engaged DSMAG through meetings in March/April 2025 and a technical briefing on April 22, 2025, and plans continued engagement during the application process.
(4) For greater certainty, the next demand-side management purchase agreement begins on January 1, 2027, and the franchise holder must file the new five-year agreement for Board approval in sufficient time to allow for the Board to approve...
AI summary The document outlines the extension of the demand-side management (DSM) purchase agreement to begin on January 1, 2027, requiring the franchise holder to file a new five-year agreement for Board approval. It also highlights the importance of stakeholder engagement in the development of the 2027-2031 DSM Plan, which will consider the new mandate of the Energy Board and the Energy Reform (2024) Act . The legislative amendment to the Public Utilities Act (PUA) aims to align energy regulation with climate change goals for the first time in Nova Scotia.
2.4 APPLICATION FOR NEW COST-EFFECTIVENESS TEST E1 is always seeking to maximize value for ratepayers in its DSM planning. As a vital input for DSM planning, how this value is measured is of critical importance. In Q2 of 2025, E1 will be f...
AI summary E1 seeks approval for a new benefit-cost analysis test to enhance DSM planning, ensuring value for ratepayers. The test, to be filed in Q2 2025 with the Energy Board, will inform future DSM activities and the 2027-2031 DSM Plan. Timely resolution is emphasized for logistical planning benefits.
[emphasis added ] E1 supports this requirement as an important part of DSM planning and has adhered to it for each subsequent DSM Plan application. However, in this extension application, the investment amount is statutorily mandated. As s...
AI summary E1 supports DSM planning requirements but argues the Board directive is inapplicable to the 2026 DSM Extension application due to statutorily mandated investment amounts. E1 plans to develop an alternative scenario for the 2027-2031 DSM Plan through stakeholder consultation. A 2016-2018 DSM Plan decision (M06733) is referenced.
3.2 UPDATES TO AVOIDED COST CALCULATION In its decision approving the 2023-2025 DSM Plan, the NSUARB (as it then was) made note of the fact that updates to NS Power Integrated Resource Planning process will have an impact on the avoided co...
AI summary The NSUARB directed E1 to update avoided cost calculations for DSM plans using the latest IRP data, noting climate goals are not fully addressed in current IRP versions. E1 incorporated 2022 IRP results, embedding carbon costs into energy avoided costs for the 2026 DSM Extension. The DSMAG will address climate-related updates for future plans, while the More Access to Energy Act mandates IESO's IRP process.
5. ONGOING COMPLIANCE WITH BOARD DIRECTIVES As always, E1 remains committed to complying with all Board directives. - Several directives from the 2023-2025 DSM Plan Decision relate to, and contemplate, the next complete - DSM Plan filing (...
AI summary E1 commits to complying with Board directives from the 2023-2025 DSM Plan Decision, proposing that certain directives be addressed in the 2027-2031 DSM Plan application, including providing individual justification for cost-ineffective measures and including payback information. Other directives are already being incorporated.
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.
2.1 LEGISLATIVE AMENDMENTS TO THE PUBLIC UTILITIES ACT - The Nova Scotia government enacted legislation on March 26, 2025 extending E1's current 2023-2025 - DSM Plan by one year.[6](#page-38-2) For greater clarity, Bill 6, amended Chapter...
AI summary Nova Scotia extended E1's DSM Plan until 2026 via Bill 6 amending the PUA, adding Section 79J. The extension includes a $63.75M payment, requiring E1 to submit targets by 2026 and file a new five-year agreement by 2027.
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.
2.5.5 D SM AG EN GAGEMEN T The DSMAG is a forum to provide strategic or directional advice on current or emerging DSM issues including development of future DSM applications and plans. In developing the 2026 DSM Extension, E1 engaged the D...
AI summary The DSMAG provided strategic advice on DSM issues, engaging stakeholders for the 2026 DSM Extension. Engagement was limited due to February 2025 legislative amendments requiring a one-year extension to the 2023-2025 Plan. E1 led a comprehensive process for the 2026-2030 Plan, including stakeholder feedback and BCA development, with continued engagement planned for the 2027-2031 Plan.
Appendix A Attachment 2: Estimation of DSM Low-Income and Equity Impacts
AI summary Appendix A, Attachment 2 focuses on estimating the impacts of Demand-Side Management (DSM) programs on low-income populations and equity. It likely involves analysis of cost recovery, benefit/cost ratios, and regulatory considerations under the Public Utilities Act (PUA) by the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board (NSUARB).
- DSM Resource Plan application.["](#page-116-0) 4 The next historical RBIA will be filed as part of the 2027-2031 DSM - Resource Plan Application, expected to be in February/March 2026. - The analysis provides the reader with a picture of...
AI summary The document discusses the 2027-2031 DSM Resource Plan Application, expected in 2026, and the role of RBIA analyses in assessing equity impacts on participating vs. non-participating ratepayers. It highlights that DSM investments may lower bills for participants but raise them for non-participants, requiring regulators to balance cost-effectiveness and equity trade-offs, as per the National Standard Practice Manual.
Schedule B (Page 1 of 2)
AI summary Schedule B of a Nova Scotia regulatory proceeding outlines a document involving energy efficiency, demand response, and cost recovery mechanisms. Key entities include Nova Scotia Power, EfficiencyOne, and regulatory bodies like the NSUARB. Topics focus on DSM programs, benefit/cost ratios, and compliance with the Public Utilities Act.
E-2Savings Verification Review - Gil Peach
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Vision Statement To be a world leader in developing truthful measurement and useful results; to support the development of efficient, ethical, and effective practices, sustained economically; to advance human development. To improve the qu...
AI summary The Vision Statement aims to lead globally in truthful measurement and impactful results, promoting efficient, ethical, and economically sustainable practices. It emphasizes advancing human development and improving quality of life amid rapid climate change.
7 The classic text on market transformation is Rogers, Everett M., Diffusion of Innovations , Fifth Edition. New York: Free Press, 2003. First published in 1962. NUTEK, coupling EE with development of codes. Market transformation has resul...
AI summary The text discusses market transformation programs, emphasizing their role in driving energy efficiency through regulatory bans and market shifts. It highlights Efficiency Nova Scotia's programs and the evolving integration of climate change into evaluation frameworks, noting gaps in policy and operational coordination between energy conservation and climate resilience efforts.
span> 54 Nova Scotia Power, Total System Requirements, 2024, Non-Confidential Annual FAM Reporting, NSPI (FAM), A8. This includes self-generation, interprovincial supply, and supply from US. 55 It is not unusual for organizations with targ...
AI summary The text references Nova Scotia Power's 2024 Total System Requirements report, discusses the importance of meaningful energy efficiency targets, and highlights the need for analysis on advisor contact and survey completion timing to evaluate energy savings. It also cites academic works on evidence-based policy and reasoning.
ropriate protocol, they will report the problem to the DSM Administrator and work out a solution to permit site access and independent evaluation consistent with the protocol. If, as in this case, the 59 Benton, Nathanael; Patrick Burns, a...
AI summary The text emphasizes strict adherence to evaluation protocols for energy efficiency programs, stating that non-compliance invalidates reported savings. It stresses the need for independent verification by evaluators, with deviations from protocols requiring explanation. Failure to follow standards removes savings from program activities, undermining verification processes.
E-8E1 (Synapse) RIR 1 to 36 - Redacted
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Support for Residential Customers – Existing Residential (con't)
AI summary The document section continues discussing support mechanisms for existing residential customers in Nova Scotia. Key entities involved include Nova Scotia Power (NSP) and EfficiencyOne (E1), with references to regulatory tests such as the Total Resource Cost Test (TRC) and Program Administrator Cost Test (PAC). The content likely addresses cost recovery, program administration, and customer assistance frameworks.
Enabling Strategies (con't) Other Enabling Strategies – includes DSM Plan Development & Reporting, Stakeholder Engagement & Other Regulatory Initiatives – Investment of $3.0 million. Areas of focus includes: - Development of the 2027-2031...
AI summary A $3.0 million investment in enabling strategies includes DSM plan development, stakeholder engagement, and regulatory initiatives. Key activities involve creating the 2027-2031 DSM Resource Plan, collaborating with DSMAG, participating in integrated resource planning under Bill 404's Independent Energy System Operator, and completing 2026 DSM Extension reporting requirements.
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.
E-14Peach (E1) RIR 1 to 14 - Redacted
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988 during Clark's collaboration with OECD, 3 where Gil presented innovations in DSM from the Hood River Conservation Project, a major demonstration project on residential energy conservation.1 4 5 6 Clark's "DSM Planning and Implementatio...
AI summary The text discusses the evolution of Demand Side Management (DSM) processes, referencing Clark's 1993 EPRI diagrams and early DSM practices. It highlights the inclusion of NSEB areas (Planning, Implementation, etc.) and the shift toward independent evaluations to ensure regulatory trust, driven by policy reforms in the mid-1990s.
Request IR-03 b: - 2 Please describe the scopes of the other three centres of focus in the DSM cycle, which are - 3 described in Figure 1 as "Policy", "Plan", and "Implement."
AI summary Request IR-03 b asks for descriptions of the 'Policy', 'Plan', and 'Implement' centres of focus in the DSM cycle, as depicted in Figure 1. The query seeks clarification on their respective scopes within demand-side management frameworks.
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.
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.
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-15Evidence of J. Kallay - Synapse
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IN THE MATTER OF THE PUBLIC UTILITIES ACT, RSNS 1989, c 380, as amended - and - IN THE MATTER OF AN APPLICATION by EfficiencyOne for Approval of the 2026 DSM Extension for Demand-Side Management Activities between EfficiencyOne and Nova Sc...
AI summary The document involves an application by EfficiencyOne for approval of the 2026 DSM Extension and an amendment to the 2023-2025 DSM Purchase Agreement with Nova Scotia Power Inc., under the Public Utilities Act. The Nova Scotia Energy Board is considering the application, with Jennifer Kallay providing evidence on their behalf.
13 Q. What do you recommend? - 14 A. NSPI should provide E1 with sufficient detail about location of the constrained 15 system as of the August 2024 avoided cost update to facilitate this targeting (if 16 NSPI has not already provided this...
AI summary NSPI is advised to provide E1 with detailed information on constrained system locations to inform targeting in the 2027-2031 DSM Plan. E1 should develop energy efficiency and demand response strategies for these areas, incorporating their benefits into the plan's analysis. The Standardized Filing Framework should be updated to align with new DSM activities and potential BCA tests.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE Synapse Energy Economics, Inc. , Cambridge, MA. Principal Associate , April 2023 – Present; Senior Associate , June 2013 – April 2023; Associate, July 2008 – June 2013; Research Associate , January 2007 – July 2008....
AI summary The document outlines 18 years of professional experience in demand-side management (DSM) analysis, including work with jurisdictions across the US and Canada. Key activities include evaluating utility energy efficiency plans, assessing DSM program effectiveness, and conducting cost-effectiveness and rate impact analyses. The individual has provided testimony in New Brunswick, Rhode Island, and New Mexico, and supported the Rhode Island Division of Ratepayer Advocate since 2012.
EDUCATION Boston University , Boston, MA Master of Arts in Energy and Environmental Analysis, Spring 2007. Graduate course work in multivariate statistical analysis, environmental economics, risk assessment, energy, GIS, climate change, an...
AI summary The document details a Master of Arts in Energy and Environmental Analysis from Boston University (2007), with coursework in environmental economics, energy policy, climate change, GIS, and risk assessment, highlighting academic expertise relevant to energy and environmental regulation.
Scotia Utility and Review Board. Hall, J., R. Wilson, J. Kallay. 2018. Effects of the Draft CAFE Standard Rule on Vehicle Safety . Prepared by Synapse Energy Economics on behalf of Consumers Union. Whited, M., J. Kallay, D. Bhandari, B. Ha...
AI summary The document lists publications by Synapse Energy Economics and other authors on energy efficiency, transportation electrification, and policy compliance. Key entities include Synapse Energy Economics, Consumers Union, and various state energy departments. Topics focus on energy efficiency programs, transportation electrification, and policy analysis.
E-17Reply Evidence- E1 including Appendix A -Econoler Reply Evidence
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EfficiencyOne IN THE MATTER OF The Public Utilities Act , RSNS 1989, c 380, as amended - and - IN THE MATTER OF An Application by EfficiencyOne for Approval of the 2026 DSM Extension for Demand-Side Management Activities between Efficiency...
AI summary EfficiencyOne seeks approval for a 2026 DSM extension and amendment to a 2023-2025 purchase agreement with Nova Scotia Power Inc. under the Public Utilities Act. The application is part of a regulatory proceeding (M12249) filed with the Nova Scotia Energy Board on September 4, 2025.
E1 Response In its response to Synapse IR-08, E1 provided excel spreadsheets showing actual lifetime benefits for energy efficiency, demand response, as well as these two components combined, for the requested years, and explained the limi...
AI summary E1 responded to Synapse's request for actual retroactive benefit-cost data, explaining limitations due to lack of verified customer and utility costs. Synapse recommended including PAC and TRC results in annual reporting, while E1 agreed to report PAC but not TRC due to complexity and cost. E1 proposed reporting PAC results in the 2025 Annual Progress Report.
E1 Response E1 acknowledges the potential for further development within the demand response program. This is a key focus area in E1's discussions with stakeholders in relation to the 2027-2031 DSM Plan, and there are Ibid., page 18, lines...
AI summary E1 acknowledges opportunities to expand demand response programs under the 2027-2031 DSM Plan but contests Synapse's use of advanced jurisdictions as comparators. E1 refuses to commit to a PAC threshold of 1.0 due to legislative constraints, ongoing cost-benefit analysis reviews, and projected cost improvements. Discontinuing the program would hinder grid-constrained initiatives and undermine progress.
development which is extremely helpful, however, E1 would also require that NS Power provide the list of customers mapped to those substation Ibid., page 21, lines 14-20. 1 locations that are the most constrained. This information is requi...
AI summary E1 requests NS Power to provide customer data mapped to constrained substations for designing locational DSM strategies. E1 also discusses updates to the Standardized Filing Framework with DSMAG. Green Energy highlights system-level value of Efficiency Insights Program savings, citing BCA methods. Synapse recommends DSMAG engagement for framework updates.
Appendix A
AI summary Appendix A of the Nova Scotia regulatory proceeding document outlines key acronyms and entities involved in the proceeding, including Nova Scotia Power Inc., the Nova Scotia Energy Board, and methodologies like Benefit Cost Analysis and Total Resource Cost.
Compressed Air
AI summary The document focuses on a regulatory proceeding related to compressed air systems in Nova Scotia. It references various organizations, programs, and acronyms relevant to energy regulation and efficiency initiatives, though specific arguments or detailed content are not provided in the text.
Valuation Organization, International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol Core Concepts, 2022. 36 M12249, Exhibit E-2, Peach Report, pages 63-64. participant. The site visits or phone interviews serve to validate key project...
AI summary Econoler outlines an evaluation approach for Custom Retrofit programs using Measurement and Verification (M&V) aligned with industry standards. The process involves validating project details through site visits and interviews, relying on M&V plans and results. References include M12249, Exhibit E-2, Peach Report (pages 63-64).
2. Chain of Events The Peach Report states as follows in relation to the chain of events surrounding the two compressed air leak projects being discussed: [37](#page-43-0) The result of this methodology produces estimates that are unverifi...
AI summary The Peach Report criticizes the methodology for compressed air leak projects, arguing that it produces unverifiable estimates. The approach uses a non-UMP protocol-compliant device to assess leaks, leading to no records of leaks post-repair and inability to verify repair effectiveness.
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.
100400Board Decision
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IN THE MATTER OF THE PUBLIC UTILITIES ACT - and - IN THE MATTER OF AN APPLICATION by EFFICIENCYONE for approval of the 2026 DSM Extension for Demand-Side Management Activities between EfficiencyOne and Nova Scotia Power Inc., and for Appro...
AI summary EfficiencyOne seeks approval for a 2026 DSM Extension and amendment to its 2023-2025 DSM Purchase Agreement with Nova Scotia Power Inc. The Board approves the performance targets, amendments, and directs the development of a five-year DSM Plan (2027-2031).
5.2 Standardized Filing Framework and Balanced Plan [47] Board Counsel consultant, Synapse, recommended that the Board direct E1 to reconvene the DSMAG to develop updates to the Standardized Filing Framework and implement the updates for t...
AI summary Synapse recommended the Board direct E1 to reconvene the DSMAG to update the Standardized Filing Framework and implement changes for the 2027-2031 DSM Plan. The Industrial Group supported this but urged a review of E1's 'balanced plan.' E1 stated it shared updates during DSMAG engagement and will continue this work.
5.2.1 Findings [49] The Board directs E1 to continue its engagement with the DSMAG on the Standardized Filing Framework. The Board also expects E1's engagement for its new DSM Plan will include a review of E1's "balanced plan", the relevan...
AI summary The Board directs E1 to continue engagement with DSMAG on the Standardized Filing Framework and to review factors for the new DSM Plan, including the impact of the Board's decision in Matter M12282.
5.3.1 Findings [59] The issues raised by Dr. Peach leading to his recommendation to disallow the claimed energy and demand savings in four programs are of concern to the Board. [60] Regarding the compressed air leak audits under the BNI Cu...
AI summary The Board addresses concerns raised by Dr. Peach regarding energy savings claims in four programs. Econoler's compressed air leak audits lacked UMP Protocol compliance, while the Residential Behaviour Program's lack of measurable savings raises credibility issues. The Board directs improved reporting, program evaluation, and considers discontinuing the Residential Behaviour Program. Demand response programs are acknowledged with retention of 2024 savings.
5.4.1 Findings [65] The Board agrees that concerns about E1's demand response programs are better addressed in its consultations and upcoming application for approval of its fiveyear DSM Plan. That said, the Board notes that E1 should be f...
AI summary The Board agrees that E1's demand response program concerns should be addressed in its DSM Plan application, noting potential overlap with NS Power's Critical Peak Pricing Program and targeting constrained areas. The Board declines requiring E1's programs to have a PAC of at least 1.0, allowing lower PAC programs if justified under the Energy and Regulatory Boards Act.
5.6 DSM Supply Agreement [74] This application includes amendments to the schedules in E1's existing Supply Agreement with NS Power. E1 said if changes to the Supply Agreement are required because of the outcome of NS Power's pending gener...
AI summary E1 seeks amendments to its Supply Agreement with NS Power, contingent on the outcome of NS Power's pending general rate application. E1 committed to collaborating with NS Power to revise the agreement, which would then be submitted to the Board for approval.
5.9.1 Findings [84] The Board approves E1's proposed amended cumulative targets, which build on the targets previously approved by the Board to account for the extension.
AI summary The Board approves E1's proposed amended cumulative targets, which build on previously approved targets to account for an extension. This decision reflects adjustments to existing program goals under regulatory oversight.
5.10.1 Findings [89] Since the Board did not approve E1's proposed benefit-cost analysis test in its recent decision and directed E1 to use the PAC test (2025 NSEB 18), the Board finds it is appropriate to limit the requested reporting to...
AI summary The Board directed E1 to use the PAC test for cost-effectiveness analysis instead of its proposed method, citing prior decisions (2025 NSEB 18). E1 must report PAC results for 2023–2025 and future years in annual progress reports. Additional reporting may be required if PAC data fails to assess cost-effectiveness trends or administrator performance.
6.0 CONCLUSION AND SUMMARY OF BOARD FINDINGS [90] The Board approves E1's proposed performance targets for the 2026 DSM year and the amendments to its 2023-2025 DSM Supply Agreement with NS Power to incorporate the legislative changes and...
AI summary The Board approves E1's 2026 DSM performance targets and amends its DSM Supply Agreement with NSP. E1 must address concerns in its programs, engage with DSMAG, and report PAC results. An Order will be issued.
100400Board Decision
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5.2 Standardized Filing Framework and Balanced Plan [47] Board Counsel consultant, Synapse, recommended that the Board direct E1 to reconvene the DSMAG to develop updates to the Standardized Filing Framework and implement the updates for t...
AI summary Synapse recommended the Board direct E1 to reconvene the DSMAG to update the Standardized Filing Framework and implement changes for the 2027-2031 DSM Plan. The Industrial Group supported this but urged a review of E1's 'balanced plan.' E1 stated it shared framework updates during DSMAG engagement and will continue this work.
5.2.1 Findings [49] The Board directs E1 to continue its engagement with the DSMAG on the Standardized Filing Framework. The Board also expects E1's engagement for its new DSM Plan will include a review of E1's "balanced plan", the relevan...
AI summary The Board directs E1 to continue engaging with the DSMAG on the Standardized Filing Framework and review factors for its new DSM Plan, including the impact of the Board's decision in Matter M12282.
5.4.1 Findings [65] The Board agrees that concerns about E1's demand response programs are better addressed in its consultations and upcoming application for approval of its fiveyear DSM Plan. That said, the Board notes that E1 should be f...
AI summary The Board directs E1 to address concerns about its demand response programs in its upcoming DSM Plan application, including potential overlap with NS Power's Critical Peak Pricing Program. It rejects a PAC threshold of 1.0 for demand response programs, citing portfolio-level cost-effectiveness evaluations under the Energy and Regulatory Boards Act.
5.5 Mid-course Adjustments [67] The Industrial Group expressed concerns about E1's discretion to reallocate spending between programs and customer classes through "mid-course adjustments". The Industrial Group said E1 was granted this disc...
AI summary The Industrial Group raised concerns about E1's authority to make mid-course adjustments to DSM program spending, arguing that a 25% variance constitutes a 'substantial change' and requesting stricter budget management. E1 acknowledged not defining 'substantial change' but emphasized the need for flexibility, proposing enhanced reporting and spending management strategies. The Industrial Group opposed unfettered cost shifting between customer classes, citing impacts on customer rates.
5.5.1 Findings [73] The concerns raised by the Industrial Group are serious. The potential for E1 to proceed with relatively unrestrained changes to ensure it meets its own performance targets and objectives at the cost of hardship and pre...
AI summary The Board acknowledges concerns from the Industrial Group about E1's potential to prioritize its performance targets over ratepayer interests, particularly with DSM Plans reviewed every five years. The Board finds the current process unbalanced, requiring E1 to engage DSMAG and revise mid-course adjustment procedures in its DSM Plan application.
5.6 DSM Supply Agreement [74] This application includes amendments to the schedules in E1's existing Supply Agreement with NS Power. E1 said if changes to the Supply Agreement are required because of the outcome of NS Power's pending gener...
AI summary The application proposes amendments to E1's Supply Agreement with NS Power, contingent on the outcome of NS Power's pending general rate application. E1 committed to collaborating with NS Power to revise the agreement, which would then be submitted to the Board for approval.
5.7 NS Power Cyber Attack [75] On August 21, 2025, E1 advised the Board that the cybersecurity incident at NS Power affected NS Power's ability to transfer customer consumption advanced metering infrastructure data to E1, resulting in the...
AI summary A cybersecurity incident at NS Power disrupted data transfer to E1, suspending its Residential Behaviour Program. E1 stated no material changes to 2026 programs are anticipated but will provide updates. The Board accepted E1's response but emphasized prompt issue identification.
5.9.1 Findings [84] The Board approves E1's proposed amended cumulative targets, which build on the targets previously approved by the Board to account for the extension.
AI summary The Board approves E1's proposed amended cumulative targets, which extend previously approved targets to account for an extension. This decision reflects adjustments to demand-side management program goals under regulatory oversight.
5.10.1 Findings [89] Since the Board did not approve E1's proposed benefit-cost analysis test in its recent decision and directed E1 to use the PAC test (2025 NSEB 18), the Board finds it is appropriate to limit the requested reporting to...
AI summary The Board directed E1 to use the PAC test for cost-effectiveness analysis instead of its proposed method, requiring PAC test results for 2023-2025 and future annual reports. This avoids consultant costs and ensures sufficient data for evaluating program administrator performance.
6.0 CONCLUSION AND SUMMARY OF BOARD FINDINGS [90] The Board approves E1's proposed performance targets for the 2026 DSM year and the amendments to its 2023-2025 DSM Supply Agreement with NS Power to incorporate the legislative changes and...
AI summary The Board approves E1's 2026 DSM performance targets and amends its agreement with NS Power. Directives include engaging with DSMAG, addressing program concerns, including PAC test results, and handling cybersecurity impacts. E1 must address demand response program concerns and revise mid-course adjustment processes in its upcoming DSM Plan.