Topic:"Residential Demand Response Program" in M12780

pirit of the balanced plan principles. E1 submits that its efforts with respect to engagement satisfies the Board's requirement set out in section 1 of its Order in the matter of the 2026 Extension. Second, E1 has addressed concerns about...

AI summary E1 asserts compliance with the 2026 DSM extension decision, adjusting its demand response programs (reducing residential, expanding BNI) and collaborating with NS Power on locational and stacking issues. It plans to address potential double-counting of savings and includes innovation efforts in its 2027–2031 framework.

1 Table 12: 2030 DSM Preferred Plan Savings and Investment by Program Component 2030 Investment ($ million) Lifetime Benefits First Year Energy Lifetime Energy Peak Demand Available Demand Response Solar-PV Generation Weighted Average Prog...

AI summary Table 12 outlines the 2030 DSM Preferred Plan Savings and Investment by Program Component, detailing energy efficiency (EE) programs, enabling strategies (ES), demand response (DR), and solar-PV programs. It includes investment amounts, savings, and other metrics for residential, business, and institutional programs, as well as equity and low-income impacts.

sidential program components also continue to see reduced energy savings, resulting from two billing analyses conducted during the 2024 1 3 4 5 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 - 1 DSM evaluation. The Home Energy Assessment billin...

AI summary Residential energy programs in Nova Scotia face reduced savings due to updated billing analyses (Home Energy Assessment and Green Heat), impacting heat pump efficiency. E1 shifts investments to BNI Demand Response and maintains residential demand response levels. Solar-PV supports Mi'kmaw communities through energy efficiency initiatives.

11 Table 40: Direct Installation – Overview, Objectives, Opportunity Direct Installation Overview • Provides small businesses with access to financial incentives and technical assistance for the installation of energy efficient equipment u...

AI summary The Direct Installation program provides small businesses with financial incentives and technical assistance for energy efficiency upgrades. It aims to help them identify savings opportunities, overcome financial barriers, and improve profitability. The program has evolved over time, expanding from localized initiatives to province-wide offerings, and includes components like Business Energy Solutions and Rental Properties and Condos Common Area services.

6 Table 45: 2027–2031 Residential Demand Response Program Component Residential Demand Response Annual Plan Investment ($M) Available Demand Response Capacity (MW) Participation (participants) 2027 Total 2.2 4.2 22,940 2028 Total 2.0 4.1 2...

AI summary The table outlines the 2027–2031 Residential Demand Response Program, including annual investments, available capacity, and participation numbers. The program focuses on existing participants, using smart thermostats and water heaters, and is delivered through a DERMS provider. Marketing efforts target existing customers, and quality assurance includes customer feedback and post-season surveys.

Table 1: Residential Efficient Product Rebates 2027-2031 Residential Efficient Product Rebates Rate Class Year First-Year Energy Savings Lifetime Energy Savings Peak Demand Savings Expenditures ($ million) (GWh) (GWh) (MW) 2027 11.0 106.3...

AI summary This table outlines projected energy savings and expenditures for the 2027-2031 Residential Efficient Product Rebates program across various rate classes. It includes first-year and lifetime energy savings, peak demand savings, and associated expenditures in millions of dollars.

1 Table 5: 2028 Alternate Scenario Savings and Investment by Program Component 2028 Investment ($ million) Lifetime Benefits ($ million) First Year Energy Savings (GWh) Lifetime Energy Savings (GWh) Peak Demand Savings (MW) Available Deman...

AI summary Table 5 outlines the 2028 Alternate Scenario Savings and Investment by Program Component, highlighting energy efficiency (EE) programs, enabling strategies (ES), demand response (DR), and solar-PV programs. It provides data on investment, lifetime benefits, energy savings, peak demand savings, and other metrics for residential and business, non-profit, and institutional (BNI) programs, as well as overall portfolio totals.

Table 8: 2031 Alternate Scenario Savings and Investment by Program Component 2031 Investment ($ million) Lifetime Benefits ($ million) First Year Energy Savings (GWh) Lifetime Energy Savings (GWh) Peak Demand Savings (MW) Available Demand...

AI summary Table 8 presents the 2031 alternate scenario savings and investment by program component, including energy efficiency (EE), enabling strategies (ES), demand response (DR), and solar-PV programs. It outlines investments, lifetime benefits, energy savings, and other metrics for residential, business, and institutional programs, as well as the Mi'kmaw community initiatives.

2.2 2025 Participation Result[s](#page-11-0) - [Table 2](#page-11-0) presents E1's 2025 participation results. The table provides a comparison of 2025 - participation results to those modelled in the 2025 Plan and the four-year Plan period...

AI summary E1's 2025 participation results show mixed outcomes compared to the 2025 Plan. Higher participation occurred in Instant Savings, Affordable Homes programs, and Business Energy Rebates due to retailer sales, faster project completion, and rebate promotions. Lower participation was observed in Efficient Product Installation (phasing out lighting measures), Green Heat (ended in 2025), and Demand Response (unpursued pathways). The Custom program exceeded energy savings despite lower participation.

1 Table 2: 2025 Participation Participation Results Unit Strategic Energy Management 34 8 11 146% 33% Participants Direct Installation 372,888 114,333 62,011 54% 17% Products Small Business Energy Solutions 372,888 114,333 62,011 54% 17% P...

AI summary Table 2 outlines the 2025 participation rates for various energy programs, including Strategic Energy Management, Direct Installation, Small Business Energy Solutions, and Demand Response. The data indicates participation levels, percentages, and results across different units.

- o Residential Behaviour, Custom, Strategic Energy Management, the Application Rebates service of Business Energy Rebates, Residential Demand Response, and BNI Demand Response received comprehensive impact evaluations. - o Appliance Retir...

AI summary The 2025 evaluation activities include comprehensive and condensed impact evaluations for various energy programs, a market evaluation for Business Energy Rebates' Instant Rebates, a process evaluation for Residential Demand Response, and updates to the Measure Assessment document. Evaluations involve surveys, interviews, and jurisdictional scans to assess program effectiveness and market conditions.

Efficient Product Installation Highlights • Efficient Product Installation energy and demand savings results were lower than the 2025 Plan as Approved targets, as the program component phased out its lighting measures as of July 1, 2025 Da...

AI summary Efficient Product Installation program savings fell short of 2025 targets due to phasing out lighting measures by July 2025 and shifting focus to electrician-installed measures (smart thermostats, sensors). Despite a 12% drop in average energy savings per participant, higher unitary savings from new measures offset some losses. Air-sealing and water-saving measures were paused in 2025 but reintroduced in 2026. The program also supported Residential Demand Response with 13,687 devices installed in 2025.

DEMAND RESPONSE (2025) - o In the Residential Demand Response program component, fewer domestic hot water direct load controllers were installed than planned, and enrolment of batteries and EV telematics and charger devices, fell short of...

AI summary The 2025 Demand Response programs faced underperformance due to lower-than-expected installations of domestic hot water controllers, reduced battery and EV device enrolment, and challenges in BNI program participation. E1, a new program, struggled with customer understanding. Expenditures remained high despite lower capacity results due to early-year foundational activities and cost structures.

Program Components - The Residential Demand Response program component, marketed as Eco Shift, aims to help facilitate a more flexible residential load that provides residential customers with economic incentives and more visibility and co...

AI summary The Residential Demand Response (Eco Shift) program offers economic incentives and load control for residential customers using specific devices. The BNI Demand Response (Smart Synergy) program targets non-residential loads through commercial/industrial curtailment, providing similar incentives. Both aim to enhance load flexibility.

Residential Demand Response Highlights

AI summary This document highlights residential demand response initiatives in Nova Scotia, involving the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board (NSUARB) and Nova Scotia Energy Board (NSEB). It discusses Demand-Side Management (DSM) and Program Administrator Cost (PAC) within regulatory proceedings.

Innovation activities in 2025 included: - The deep retrofit navigator pilot concluded in Q2, with all participants completing their upgrades and final paperwork. The aim of the pilot, conducted in partnership with the Halifax Regional Muni...

AI summary In 2025, Nova Scotia launched multiple innovation pilots: a deep retrofit navigator pilot with HRM, a heat pump water heater market transformation pilot, a load flexibility demand response pilot, and research on mixed electric heating control solutions. Pilots highlighted challenges like cost and time, while emphasizing navigators' role in retrofit accessibility and exploring new demand response event types. E1 also installed monitoring systems to improve heat pump efficiency.

Table 1 Update on Implementation of 2022-2023 Evaluation Recommendations Year Evaluation/ Verification Recommendation Text Source Status Comments Expected Period of Completion 2024 Verifier Provide a discussion on the advantages/disadvanta...

AI summary The document provides an update on the implementation of 2022-2023 evaluation recommendations, specifically addressing the discussion of advantages and disadvantages of the whole-home versus device-level approach in residential demand response. E1 has completed this recommendation and provided further details in the Reply Evidence of EfficiencyOne for Matter M12249.

Demand-side Management Measure Assessment Document The impact evaluation scope for 2025 also included an update of the Demand-side Management Measure Assessment (DSM MA) document. The DSM MA was updated to include new products added to pro...

AI summary The 2025 update to the DSM MA document focused on aligning with updated program offerings, removing outdated products (e.g., lighting from Instant Savings), revising algorithms for residential and commercial measures, and correcting technical inconsistencies. Annual adjustment ratios were also updated. Key changes included additions like smart thermostat load control and removals such as specific LED fixtures and heat pump water heaters.

1.2 Process and Market Evaluation Objectives and Scopes One market evaluation was completed in 2025. Market evaluation activities were aimed at achieving the following objectives: - › Validate 2024 market evaluation results and determine t...

AI summary A 2025 market evaluation validated 2024 results for Business Energy Rebates (BER) LED fixtures baseline timing and assessed implications for BER Application Rebates and Small Business Energy Solutions (SBES). A separate process evaluation for Residential Demand Response (DR) collected feedback on participation and operational improvements, with results in evaluation reports.

Table 3: 2025 Interviews Completed Program Component 1 Program Manager/ E1 Staff/Business Development Manager Service Providers/ Distributors/Retailers/Builders Participants Program Manager in Other Jurisdictions Residential Appliance Reti...

AI summary Table 3 outlines the number of interviews conducted in 2025 for various program components, including Residential, Business Energy Rebates, and Demand Response. The data indicates the involvement of program managers, service providers, participants, and managers from other jurisdictions.

2.1.4 Metering or Billing Data Analyses In 2025, a Residential Behaviour billing analysis was performed on the months for which AMI data were available (i.e. January to April 2025)[7](#page-18-3) to calculate net electrical energy savings,...

AI summary In 2025, a Residential Behaviour billing analysis used AMI data (Jan-April 2025) to assess net electrical energy savings via difference-in-difference methods. Metering data analyses for Residential Demand Response updated inservice rates and DR capacities for smart thermostats, EV controls, and batteries during Dec 2024–Feb 2025, focusing on winter DR events.

Data Collection This subsection describes the data-collection activities conducted for the process and market evaluations. As discussed above, surveys and interviews were integrated, where applicable, to enable the simultaneous collection...

AI summary The subsection outlines data collection methods including in-depth interviews with stakeholders and surveys targeting Residential Demand Response non-participants. Interviews explored program component experiences, while surveys assessed awareness, benefits, and barriers. Results are detailed in referenced tables.

Jurisdictional Scans The Evaluator conducted two jurisdictional scans across other jurisdictions in Canada and the United States (US), one for Business Energy Rebates – Instant Rebates, and the other for Residential Demand Response. As par...

AI summary The Evaluator conducted two jurisdictional scans: one for Business Energy Rebates – Instant Rebates, focusing on BNI lighting offers and TRM baseline/EUL values, and another for Residential Demand Response, examining strategies for program scaling from pilot to full implementation.

Table 5: Comparison of 2025 Evaluated and Tracked Electrical Energy Savings at the Generator a Program Component Tracked Results Evaluated Results DSM Program Annual Gross Savings (GWh) Annual Net Savings (GWh) Annual Gross Savings (GWh) N...

AI summary Table 5 compares the evaluated and tracked electrical energy savings from various programs in 2025. It includes data on residential and BNI programs, showing gross and net savings, net-to-gross ratios, lifetime savings, and net realization rates for each component.

Table 6: Comparison of 2025 Evaluated and Tracked Peak Demand Savings at the Generator a Program Component Tracked Results Evaluated Results Difference DSM Program Annual Gross Savings (MW) Annual Net Savings (MW) Available Capacity (MW) A...

AI summary Table 6 compares the evaluated and tracked peak demand savings at the generator for various programs in 2025. It highlights differences in net savings and available capacity across residential, BNI, and demand response programs, with varying net realization rates.

Demand Response The Demand Response program is comprised of two program components, namely Residential Demand Response (Residential DR) and Business, Non-profit, and Institutional Demand Response (BNI DR). In 2025, Demand Response achieved...

AI summary The Demand Response program includes Residential DR and BNI DR components, achieving 6.795 MW of available capacity in 2025. Program results for each component are detailed in the text.

Residential Demand Response - › Residential DR participation increased substantially during the 2024/25 DR season,[16](#page-31-1) with 3,676 participants and 11,405 enrolled devices across all four pathways, an increase of 907% compared t...

AI summary Residential DR participation surged by 907% in 2024/25, with 3,676 participants and 11,405 devices, primarily smart thermostats. However, available DR capacity reached only 0.854 MW, far below the planned 7.135 MW. The evaluated capacity was 58% higher than E1's tracked value due to higher unitary values for smart thermostats.

Table 12: Evaluated Net Peak Demand Savings at the Generator, 2020-2025 DSM Peak Demand Savings (MW) Peak Demand Savings (%) Program Program Component 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Residential Residential Appl...

AI summary Table 12 evaluates the net peak demand savings from various energy efficiency programs in Nova Scotia from 2020 to 2025, highlighting the contributions of residential, BNI, and overall portfolio programs in reducing peak demand in megawatts and percentages.

6 Process Evaluation Results For the 2025 evaluation, the Evaluator conducted one process evaluation for Residential Demand Response.

AI summary The 2025 process evaluation focused on Nova Scotia's Residential Demand Response program, assessing its implementation and effectiveness as part of the regulatory proceeding.

Residential Demand Response To collect feedback from program staff, service providers, staff from other jurisdictions, and non-participants on increasing/maintaining participation along with opportunities for operational improvements, the...

AI summary An evaluation of Nova Scotia's Residential Demand Response program involved surveys, interviews, and a jurisdictional scan to assess participation rates, gather feedback from stakeholders, and identify operational improvements. Key findings from the process evaluation are highlighted, focusing on program effectiveness and areas for enhancement.

Table 14: 2025 Recommendations on Residential Program Components No. Recommendation Residential DR – R5 Investigate ways to improve EV device potential for DR considering the low participation rate in DR events. To improve participation, c...

AI summary The recommendation suggests investigating ways to improve the participation rate of EV devices in demand response (DR) events, including leveraging bidirectional chargers to use EVs as batteries during DR events.

ca/corporate/statistics/neud/dpa/menus/trends/comprehensive/trends_res_ns.cfm) Apex Analytics LLC, Energy Trust of Oregon Nest Thermostat Heat Pump Control Pilot Evaluation, October 10, 2014, p. 123. Bonneville Power Administration, Nest L...

AI summary The text references studies on smart thermostat and heat pump control pilot programs by Apex Analytics, Energy Trust of Oregon, and Bonneville Power Administration, evaluating demand response and energy efficiency initiatives. Statistics Canada census data is cited for demographic context.

Survey Margins of Error The Evaluator used the margin of error calculation of the 2025 Residential DR non-participant survey as an example. Below are the steps followed to calculate this margin of error. The margin of error was established...

AI summary The Evaluator demonstrated the margin of error calculation for the 2025 Residential DR non-participant survey using a proportion-based formula involving Zα, p, n, and N. This method quantifies statistical uncertainty in survey results.

Table 3: Comparison of 2025 Tracked and Evaluated Savings at the Generator Gross Savings NTGR Net Savings Realization Rate Value Unit Value Unit Electrical Energy Savings Tracked Savings by E1 1.378 GWh 1.00 1.378 GWh 100% Evaluation Resul...

AI summary Table 3 compares tracked and evaluated savings for various energy efficiency programs in Nova Scotia in 2025, including electrical energy and peak demand savings. The table includes data for programs such as Affordable Multifamily Housing, Affordable Single-family Homes, Efficient Product Installation, Green Heat, and others, with metrics like Net-to-Gross Ratios and Realization Rates.

Table 23: Evaluated 2025 EPI Gross Electrical Energy and Peak Demand Savings per Measure – Apartments LED Lamps Product Category 9 W Replacing 29 W 40 W 43 W 60 W 72 W 100 W 150 W Number of Units Number of Units - - 455 - 1,193 - 4 - Insta...

AI summary Table 23 evaluates the 2025 EPI gross electrical energy and peak demand savings per measure in apartments, focusing on LED lamps. It provides data on unitary energy and peak demand savings, adjustment ratios, and line loss factors for various wattage replacements.

The detailed results per measure are presented in [Table](#page-17-0) 29 below. The net electrical energy savings resulted in 3,426 tonnes of CO2 eq in net annual GHG emission reductions. LED Lamps Product Category 9 W Replacing 25 W 29 W...

AI summary The document presents detailed results of energy savings from LED lamps, showing net annual GHG emission reductions of 3,426 tonnes of CO2 eq. The table includes gross and net electrical energy savings, net-to-gross ratios, line loss factors, and peak demand savings at both the meter and generator levels.

25.3 Participation History Residential Behaviour is an opt-out program component, which means that E1 enrolls customers, and customers remain in the program until they opt out online or by contacting E1. The targeted population for Residen...

AI summary The Residential Behaviour program by E1 is an opt-out initiative targeting NS Power customers with rate codes 02B and 03B. Participants are split into high, medium, and low usage groups, with attrition rates driven by account closures, relocations, and solar rate code switches. Inactive accounts and solar-switching customers are excluded from receiving Efficiency Insights reports.

ABBREVIATIONS BDM Business Development Manager BER Business Energy Rebates BNI Business, non-profit, and institutional BOpt Building Optimization CPA Customer Project Agreement DR Demand response DSM Demand-side management DSM MA Demand-si...

AI summary A list of abbreviations and their expansions used in regulatory proceedings, including terms related to energy efficiency, demand-side management, and utility programs. Key acronyms include DSM, BER, and NSUARB, with definitions covering technical, programmatic, and organizational terms.

Residential DR Findings and Recommendations This subsection presents the key findings and recommendations from the 2025 Residential DR evaluation. The recommendations are also outlined in Appendix VII. 2025 Res DR-Finding: Residential DR o...

AI summary The 2025 Residential DR evaluation highlights a diverse mix of eligible devices, integration of pathways into 'Eco Shift,' program design updates, and documentation issues blending with BNI DR. Service providers report smooth operations and positive collaboration with E1, but slower growth is expected due to testing needs.

1 Residential DR Overview This section describes the Residential DR program component, follows up on past evaluation recommendations, and provides an overview of Residential DR participation history.

AI summary This section outlines the Residential Demand Response (DR) program component, addresses past evaluation recommendations, and provides an overview of historical participation in residential DR initiatives.

Table 6: Residential DR 2024/25 Event Summary Event # Date Start Time Duration (Hours) Outdoor Temperature at Event Start (°C) 1 12-04-2024 5 p.m. 4 -3 2 12-20-2024 7 a.m. 4 -3 3 12-23-2024 5 p.m. 4 -8 4 01-21-2025 5 p.m. 4 -8 5 01-22-2025...

AI summary Table 6 summarizes Residential Demand Response (DR) events in 2024/25, including dates, times, durations, and outdoor temperatures at event starts. It differentiates between enrolled and participating devices, with enrolled devices being ready for control but not necessarily controlled during events.

Table 7: Implementation Status of Past Recommendations for Residential DR # Recommendation Status Comments 2023 – Res DR-R1 Ensure that available DR capacity tracked by E1 includes the in service rate as well as the unitary available DR ca...

AI summary This table outlines the implementation status of past recommendations for Residential Demand Response (DR). Two recommendations from 2023 and 2024 have been completed, with E1 agreeing to track in-service rates and unitary available DR capacity values and to re-analyze Eco Shift Pilot data to improve accuracy and consistency.

For Residential DR, participation is defined as the number of households participating in each technology pathway. Therefore, a household participating in both the Smart Thermostat DLC and EV Telematic and Charger Control pathways would co...

AI summary The document discusses the participation in Residential Demand Response (DR) programs during the 2024/25 season, noting a significant increase in participants and enrolled devices. Smart thermostats are the most common enrolled device, but not all enrolled devices participated in each event due to connectivity and availability issues.

1.3.1 Participation by Enrollment Pathway [Figure](#page-52-2) 4 below outlines participation in Residential DR for Smart Thermostat DLC by the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) and EPI enrollment pathways. In 2025, 81% of Residential DR Smart...

AI summary In 2025, 81% of Residential DR Smart Thermostat DLC participants enrolled via Bring Your Own Device (BYOD), while 19% joined through EPI. The Evaluator estimates 40% of EPI participants with smart thermostats failed to enroll in Residential DR, citing data matching limitations. Results are indicative, not precise.

Table 9: 2025 Residential DR Evaluation Approach Evaluation Objectives Research Questions Methodology

AI summary The text introduces Table 9, which outlines the 2025 Residential Demand Response (DR) Evaluation Approach, including evaluation objectives, research questions, and methodology. It provides a framework for assessing the effectiveness of residential DR programs.

Interviews with Service Providers In November 2025, the Evaluator conducted interviews with two service providers[5](#page-54-1) involved in Residential DR to obtain their perspectives on the program component, with a focus on operational...

AI summary In November 2025, interviews with two service providers involved in Residential Demand Response (DR) were conducted to gather perspectives on program operational improvements, with the guide detailed in Appendix III.

Jurisdictional Scan and Interviews with Selected Jurisdictions In November 2025, the Evaluator performed a scan across nine jurisdictions throughout Canada and the United States (US) to identify strategies that enhance operational efficien...

AI summary The Evaluator conducted a jurisdictional scan across nine Canadian and US jurisdictions in November 2025 and interviewed two Canadian jurisdictions in December 2025 to identify strategies for scaling demand-side management programs. Findings are detailed in subsections 3.6 and 3.7. Exclusions include EPI participants who opted out or received surveys, and interviews focused on CLEAResult and Shifted Energy, with Virtual Peaker excluded due to CLEAResult's role in managing participant experience.

Note on Margins of Error For evaluation activities that yield quantitative results based on a sample, the Evaluator typically aimed to achieve a maximum margin of error of 10% at a confidence level of 90%. This means that, if measurements...

AI summary The Evaluator aimed for a 10% margin of error at 90% confidence in quantitative evaluations, emphasizing precision over accuracy. Margins of error were calculated for Residential DR capacity metrics, with examples provided in Appendix II of the 2025 DSM Programs Evaluation Executive Summary.

3 Residential DR Process Evaluation This section presents the findings from the process evaluation of Residential DR, beginning with a summary of the findings of the program documentation review conducted by the Evaluator as well as non-pa...

AI summary This section evaluates the Residential Demand Response (DR) process, summarizing documentation reviews, non-participant awareness levels, survey findings on perceived benefits/barriers, service provider perspectives, and a jurisdictional scan of nine North American residential DR programs.

3.1.1 Participant Satisfaction Survey (July 2025) E1 contracted Narrative Research to perform a customer satisfaction survey in July 2025. Narrative Research shared the survey customer satisfaction (CSAT) results with the Evaluator to enab...

AI summary E1 conducted a customer satisfaction survey for the 2025 Residential DR program, finding high satisfaction (80% on a 10-point scale), a positive NPS of 39, and insights into participant preferences and enrollment challenges.

3.1.2 Operational Review Workshop Results (April 2025) CLEAResult (the service provider for the Smart Thermostat, EV, and Battery pathways) facilitated a workshop on April 14, 2025 focused on the second DR season (2024/25). The workshop wa...

AI summary CLEAResult facilitated a workshop with E1 and NS Power to review the 2024/25 DR season, highlighting Residential DR growth, manufacturer integrations, and event operations. Action items included improving device connectivity, participant education, and DERMS data collection. The 2025/26 season will involve the Evaluator.

3.2 Recent Residential DR Program Component Changes During staff interviews, it was noted that participant eligibility criteria have been changed as the program component has evolved and, while EPI participants are now required to enroll i...

AI summary The Residential DR Program has updated participant eligibility criteria, requiring EPI participants to enroll in Residential DR upon receiving a free smart thermostat. However, the combined program manual lacks a log of these changes and current eligibility details.

3.3.1 Non-participant Recruitment To gather feedback from the non-participant perspective, the Evaluator conducted a survey among Efficient Product Installation (EPI) participants who received a smart thermostat in 2024 but who had not enr...

AI summary The Evaluator conducted a survey of Efficient Product Installation (EPI) participants who received smart thermostats but did not enroll in Residential DR. Challenges in linking EPI and Residential DR data hindered precise identification of non-participants. 66% of respondents confirmed their thermostats were not enrolled, 20% were enrolled, and 15% were unsure. The analysis focused on non-participants (n=103), excluding those who enrolled (n=25).

Awareness About Residential DR EPI program participants who had technical difficulties enrolling in or opted not to enroll in Residential DR by not installing the thermostat application or removing their thermostat, in other words non-part...

AI summary A survey of EPI program participants and non-participants assessed awareness of Residential DR. 80% of participants recognized the program after a short description, while all non-participants became aware after a detailed explanation. The findings highlight varying levels of program recognition based on description length and participant status.

Sources of Awareness Marketing emails from E1 are the most common source of program awareness among non-participants (40%). [12](#page-59-3) This is followed by approximately two in 10 (22%) who indicate they became aware of the program th...

AI summary Marketing emails from E1 are the primary source of awareness for Residential DR (40% of non-participants), followed by the E1 website (22%) and social media (16%). Other sources include installers (8%) and smart thermostat notifications (6%). A 2025 survey by Narrative Research confirmed E1 emails as the top awareness channel for Residential DR, with women more likely to recognize the program via name and description (89% vs. 78% for men).

Enrollment Challenges Non-participants cited various reasons for not continuing the Residential DR enrollment process following their participation in EPI. Three in 10 (28%) indicated that they did not recall receiving an invitation to enr...

AI summary Non-participants in Residential DR enrollment cited reasons including not receiving invitations (28%), lack of follow-up on manual invites (26%), technical difficulties (14%), and thermostat usability issues. Half of non-participants who received manual invites stated no interest, while 19% saw no benefit. Technical confusion (60% of those with enrollment issues) and eligibility concerns were also reported.

Additional Information Required to Reconsider Enrollment Non-participants also shared the additional information they would need to reconsider enrollment in Residential DR, with nine indicating that they would like more information overall...

AI summary Non-participants expressed a desire for more information to reconsider Residential DR enrollment, citing confusion and a preference for manual heating control. EPI applies a 2024 installation rate to thermostat savings for a small subset of non-users.

3.4.2 Perceived Potential Benefits Among Non-participants Non-participants cited various perceived benefits of Residential DR. Most notably, three in 10 indicate a key benefit of participating in Residential DR is contributing to reduction...

AI summary Non-participants in Residential DR cite benefits like reducing peak demand (31%), financial incentives (31%), supporting clean energy (27%), and grid reliability (21%). Only 12% see no benefits, with lower-income households (21%) more likely to feel this way than higher-income groups (8-11%).

3.4.3 Barriers to Participation Among Non-participants Non-participants also identified several general barriers to participating in Residential DR beyond the enrollment issues they encountered. [16](#page-63-2) The most common concern, ra...

AI summary Non-participants in Residential DR cited discomfort with thermostat control (25%), unclear sign-up processes (10%), and insufficient financial incentives (9%) as key barriers. Demographic factors like education, income, and gender also influenced participation rates. Figure 9 highlights these barriers among 89 non-participants without enrollment technical issues.

3.5 Service Provider Perspectives This subsection presents an analysis of service provider perspectives on Residential DR. The information presented below was gathered through two qualitative interviews with CLEAResult and Shifted Energy....

AI summary Service providers CLEAResult and Shifted Energy discuss the integration of Residential DR pathways. Initially separate (DHW Controller vs. Smart Thermostat/EV/Battery), they are now unified in customer-facing offerings but remain operationally distinct with separate service providers.

Smart Thermostat DLC, Battery Control, EV Telematic and Charger Control Pathway CLEAResult is responsible for the Smart Thermostat DLC, Battery Control, and EV Telematic and Charger Control pathway program delivery. CLEAResult reports that...

AI summary CLEAResult manages Nova Scotia's Smart Thermostat DLC and EV control programs, reporting high retention (97%) in Residential DR but noting call centre inefficiencies, device connectivity issues, and participant confusion. Privacy concerns and lack of real-time feedback during DR events are highlighted, with recommendations to adjust incentives and improve education for better engagement.

Domestic Hot Water Controller Pathway Shifted Energy (recently acquired by Resource Innovations) is the service provider and technology partner for the DHW DLC used in Residential DR. Shifted Energy provides the load control devices, train...

AI summary Shifted Energy, a provider of DHW DLC for Residential DR, reports positive participant feedback and effective connectivity solutions for rural areas. They recommend E1 prioritize equitable access and expand device enrollment per household, aligning with CLEAResult's suggestions. No negative feedback or opt-outs have been reported.

3.6 Jurisdictional Scan Results This subsection presents the results of the jurisdictional scan that involved collecting data on residential DR programs available in other North American jurisdictions. The scan was aimed at identifying str...

AI summary This subsection details a jurisdictional scan of residential demand response (DR) programs in nine North American jurisdictions, including BC Hydro, DTE Energy, and Hydro-Québec, to identify strategies for scaling programs from pilot to full implementation. The analysis focused on participation levels, program operations, and design elements like eligible devices and incentive levels.

Participant Eligibility Criteria Eligibility criteria for participation in residential DR programs are similar across jurisdictions and device types. The standard requirements include: - > Being a customer of the utility and the account ho...

AI summary Residential DR program eligibility requires utility account ownership, eligible devices, and internet access. Tenants are eligible if they meet criteria. Rebates and incentives vary, with changes planned for 2026. Jurisdictions differ on variable pricing plan enrollment, with some automatically assigning variable rates to DR participants.

Smart Thermostats [Table](#page-69-0) 12 below indicates the structures and levels offered by the scanned jurisdictions for smart thermostats.

AI summary The text references a table (Table 12) that outlines the structures and levels of smart thermostat programs across scanned jurisdictions, though no specific details or analysis are provided in the excerpt.

EVs and EV Chargers [Table](#page-70-0) 13 below indicates the structures and levels offered by the scanned jurisdictions for smart thermostats.

AI summary The document references a table outlining smart thermostat structures and levels from scanned jurisdictions, though the main focus of the section is on EVs and EV Chargers. The table's content is not detailed in the provided text.

Enrollment Incentive Only two of the five jurisdictions with a battery DR program offer an enrollment incentive, similar to E1. While the amount for E1 and BC Hydro are equal ($500 per household), PSE offers a higher incentive of $1,410 pe...

AI summary The text compares enrollment incentives for battery DR programs across jurisdictions, noting that only two out of five offer such incentives. E1 and BC Hydro provide $500 per household, while PSE offers a higher $1,410 per battery enrolled.

Table 19: Savings per Jurisdiction Program Administratora Savings Efficiency Nova Scotia Actuals 2025: 0.958 MW (target: 7.135 MW) › Smart Thermostats Electric Baseboard (EBB) Only: 112 W/device › Smart Thermostats Mini-split Heat Pump (MS...

AI summary Table 19 provides a comparison of savings achieved by various demand response (DR) programs across different jurisdictions, including Efficiency Nova Scotia, BC Hydro, DTE Energy, and others. The data highlights actual and target savings in terms of MW and W/device for various DR program components such as smart thermostats, DHW controllers, EV telematics, and batteries.

Enrollment Process One interviewed Canadian program administrator offers two paths for smart thermostats to participate in DR events: behavioural and connected. The behavioural path[32](#page-78-2) allows participants to adjust their devic...

AI summary The text outlines enrollment processes for smart thermostats in Demand Response (DR) programs, highlighting two paths (behavioral and connected) and three enrollment methods (BYOD, OEM agreements, and retail purchases). It notes that behavioral options attract more customers by avoiding external control, with 75% of enrollments completed online and 90% via BYOD.

Event Design and Operations While the first Canadian program administrator does not guarantee a minimum or maximum number of events in theory, up to 300 events could be called during the winter season, as two events per day are possible. I...

AI summary The document outlines event design and operations for demand response (DR) programs, noting up to 300 potential winter events but typical participation of 12–14 events per season. Behavioral and connected enrollment paths differ in communication methods, with the latter relying on thermostat displays. Studies show colder temperatures reduce participation, while real-time app notifications and post-event reports enhance engagement and transparency.

Future Opportunities According to one Canadian program manager, smart thermostats, being inexpensive and having energy efficiency benefits, is a promising category to develop in the next couple of years. To do so, they plan to work closely...

AI summary The document highlights opportunities to expand demand response (DR) programs through smart thermostats, emphasizing partnerships with manufacturers to streamline enrollment and address decision fatigue. Strategies include shifting from instant rebates to enrollment incentives and maximizing device installations during home visits by installers.

4 Residential DR Impact Evaluation The objective of the 2025 Residential DR impact evaluation was to determine available DR capacity.

AI summary The 2025 Residential Demand Response (DR) impact evaluation aimed to assess available DR capacity as part of Nova Scotia's regulatory proceeding. The evaluation focused on quantifying residential DR potential to inform energy management strategies and program effectiveness.

4.2 Demand Response Capacity For Residential DR, the metric is the available DR capacity that corresponds to the load reduction made available for DR events from participant homes. For each Residential DR pathway, the Evaluator established...

AI summary The section outlines the evaluation methodology for Residential Demand Response (DR) capacity, using unitary available DR capacity values multiplied by participating devices. The number of participating devices is calculated by multiplying enrolled devices by in-service rates, reflecting load reduction availability during DR events.

Table 20: Residential DR Participation Rates per 2024/25 Event DHW Controllers EV Telematics and Chargers Battery Controls Event # Event Date Number of Enrolled Devices Number of Participating Devices Participation Rate Number of Enrolled...

AI summary Table 20 shows residential demand response participation rates for various events in 2024/25, highlighting low participation in EV telematics and chargers and higher participation in battery controls. The weighted average participation rates are 22.5% for DHW controllers, 2.9% for EV telematics and chargers, and 63.2% for battery controls.

Smart Thermostats For the Smart Thermostat DLC pathway, the Evaluator applied the same methodology as in 2024. More precisely, the baseline was established using whole-house electricity consumption and a regressionbased approach that accou...

AI summary The evaluation of smart thermostats under the DLC pathway used a regression-based methodology with cleaned datasets, excluding inconsistent participants. A sample of 1,222 households was analyzed, grouped by heating systems (EBBs, MSHPs, etc.). The 2025 DSM MA document provided parameters for calculating energy savings and effective useful life values.

4.2.3 Interactive Effects In a home, interactive effects occur when the implementation of energy efficiency products has an impact on the energy consumption of other elements such as heating and cooling. For the Smart Thermostat DLC pathwa...

AI summary Interactive effects in energy efficiency programs occur when changes in one system (e.g., smart thermostats) impact others (e.g., heating). The Evaluator prioritized whole-house AMI data for smart thermostats to capture these effects but used device-level data for DHW, EV chargers, and battery controls, assuming negligible interactions due to system design and location.

Table 26: Comparison of 2025 Residential DR Tracked and Evaluated Available DR Capacities at the Generator Available DR Capacity Value Unit Realization Rate Available DR Capacity Tracked by E1 0.540 MW Evaluation Results 0.854 MW 158% The...

AI summary Table 26 compares the tracked and evaluated available demand response (DR) capacities for residential programs in 2025. The evaluated capacity is 58% higher than the tracked value, primarily due to higher unitary DR capacity values for smart thermostats.

5 Residential DR Key Findings and Recommendations As previously mentioned, the main objectives of the 2025 Residential DR evaluation were as follows: - › Collect feedback from program staff, service providers, staff from other jurisdiction...

AI summary The 2025 Residential DR evaluation highlights a comprehensive mix of eligible devices, positive E1 relationships, and streamlined integration of pathways into 'Eco Shift.' Lessons learned led to updated eligibility criteria and enrollment processes, with slower growth expected due to demand response's less tangible value proposition compared to energy efficiency programs.

2025 Res DR-Finding: Program documentation has not kept pace with program changes. The Evaluator noted that Residential DR program changes, dates of program changes. and rationales thereof are not clearly documented in one document. Additi...

AI summary The Evaluator found that Residential DR program changes, dates, and rationales are inadequately documented, with residential and BNI information blended in the manual. The recommendation includes restructuring the manual to separate residential and BNI sections, clearly documenting historical changes, and defining eligibility criteria.

2025 Res DR-Finding: Residential DR participation grew substantially during the 2024/25 DR season. In the 2024/25 DR season, Residential DR participation increased by 907% compared to 2023/24 levels, reaching 3,676 participants and 11,405...

AI summary Residential DR participation surged 907% in 2024/25, reaching 3,676 participants and 11,405 devices, but failed to meet its 7.135 MW capacity target (actual: 0.854 MW). Retention remains high (>90%), yet 40% of EPI-program recipients did not enroll in DR despite mandatory enrollment rules.

Table 37: Overall 2025 Demand Response Participation and Evaluated Results Participation Level Evaluated Results Value Unit Value Unit Residential DR Available DR Capacity 3,676 Participants 0.854 MW BNI DR Available DR Capacity 143 Partic...

AI summary Table 37 shows that the 2025 Demand Response (DR) program fell short of its targets, with both Residential DR and BNI DR not meeting planned available DR capacity. BNI DR remained the largest contributor to program available DR capacity, which totaled 6.795 MW.

Residential Demand Response Appendix I: Residential DR Non-participant Survey Questionnaire Appendix II: Residential DR Non-participant Survey Results Appendix III: Residential DR Service Provider Interview Guide Appendix IV: Residential D...

AI summary The document outlines appendices related to Nova Scotia's Residential Demand Response (RDR) initiative, including survey questionnaires, service provider interviews, tracking sheets, data analysis methodologies, regression coefficients, and 2025 recommendations for RDR program implementation and evaluation.

B. Awareness and Key Barriers B1. Are you aware of a program, called Eco Shift, offered by Efficiency Nova Scotia where you can enroll your smart thermostat(s) in the program to help reduce peak demand in Nova Scotia? [DISPLAY: When many p...

AI summary The section assesses awareness of the Eco Shift program by Efficiency Nova Scotia, which offers financial rebates for adjusting smart thermostats during peak demand. Key barriers to participation include discomfort with thermostat control, data privacy concerns, fear of cold homes, and lack of information.

[SKIP TO D1 AFTER B7 FOR ALL ANSWERS] - B8. [ASK IF B[6B6=](#page-120-0)5] You mentioned having technical difficulties when trying to enroll your smart thermostat and didn't complete the process. Can you tell us more about what happened du...

AI summary The text presents a question from a regulatory proceeding inquiring about technical difficulties encountered during smart thermostat enrollment, with response options focusing on issues like technical problems, lack of confirmation, unclear instructions, and insufficient support.

[SKIP TO C1 AFTER B8 FOR ALL ANSWERS] B9. Please select the main reason(s) why you didn't enroll in the Eco Shift program from the list below [ACCEPT MULTIPLE RESPONSES. RANDOMIZE.] [DISPLAY: As a reminder, "demand response events" are the...

AI summary The text lists reasons for non-participation in the Eco Shift demand response program, including discomfort with thermostat control, data privacy concerns, insufficient incentives, and unclear enrollment processes. Follow-up questions address enrollment barriers and thermostat removal post-installation.

Table 1: Overview of Data Collection Activity Descriptor This Instrument Instrument Type Semi-directed in-depth interview Estimated Time to Complete 60 minutes Target Audience Service Provider Expected Number of Completions n=2 Contact Lis...

AI summary This document outlines data collection activities for a program evaluation, including semi-directed in-depth interviews with service providers to assess program delivery efficiencies, challenges, and opportunities for improvement. The research focuses on operational improvements, automation, communication strategies, and participant engagement for a residential demand response program.

[ASK IF EXPERIENCE IN OTHER JURISDICTIONS SHARED IN INTRO, OTHERWISE SKIP TO SECTION E] - D1. What innovative and/or efficient processes have other jurisdictions implemented to support residential DR programs at a similar scale that could...

AI summary The proceeding seeks input on innovative residential DR program processes, resource allocation best practices, and participant engagement strategies from other jurisdictions, focusing on staffing, enrollment, incentives, and program management for the Eco Shift Program.

APPENDIX V Residential DR Smart Thermostat DLC Detailed Metering Data Analysis Methodology This appendix summarizes the methodology used by the Evaluator to establish the available DR capacity for the Smart Thermostat Direct Load Control (...

AI summary This appendix outlines the methodology for evaluating residential demand response (DR) capacity from smart thermostats using metering data. The Evaluator updated unitary DR capacity values for subgroups of space heating systems, analyzing whole-house consumption data to predict hourly load and compare expected vs. actual loads during events, prioritizing whole-house data over device-level data to account for interactive effects.

Where: - › , is the calculated baseline load in kW on a specified day of week (D) and hour of day (H) for a given temperature. - › , is the time of the week where D is from 1 to 7 (Sunday to Saturday) and H is from 00 to 24 (midnight to 11...

AI summary The text outlines a method to calculate baseline load using heating degree days (HDD) and temperature data, assigning participants to weather stations based on postal codes for accurate temperature correlation. This approach ensures localized weather data alignment for demand-side management and energy efficiency assessments.

APPENDIX VI Residential DR Smart Thermostat DLC Regression Coefficients

AI summary Appendix VI presents regression coefficients analyzing the impact of Residential Demand Response (DR) Smart Thermostat Direct Load Control (DLC) programs. The data evaluates DLC's effectiveness in managing residential energy demand through statistical modeling, relevant to program evaluation and load management strategies.

This appendix summarizes all the recommendations made by the Evaluator as part of the 2025 evaluation of Residential DR. Section Recommendations Executive Summary 2025 Res DR Recommendation 5: Investigate ways to improve EV device potentia...

AI summary This appendix outlines recommendations from the 2025 evaluation of Residential Demand Response (DR), emphasizing the need to improve participation rates in DR events by leveraging bidirectional EV chargers to use electric vehicles as batteries during events.

Table 1: Residential Measure Assessment Change Log Change Type Section Description Date Removal 2.6.3(1) Three-element Water Heaters Removed measure in Green Heat as it is no longer 2026-02-27 offered through that program component Update...

AI summary This change log outlines updates to residential measure assessments, including the removal of three-element water heaters from the Green Heat program, updates to domestic water heater load control, and the addition of new measures for residential demand response such as smart thermostats, battery control, and EV telematic and charger control.

(9) Programmable Thermostats

AI summary The section on programmable thermostats outlines considerations for their integration into energy efficiency programs, though specific details are not provided in the excerpt.

2.6.3 Demand Reduction Measures

AI summary The section titled '2.6.3 Demand Reduction Measures' introduces a subsection focusing on strategies and initiatives aimed at reducing energy demand through various programs and policies, including demand-side management, appliance retirement, and residential and business energy rebates.

Available DR Capacity The unitary available DR capacity for domestic water heater load controls is based on the metering data analysis results from the 2023 Residential Demand Response evaluation. During the 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 heating...

AI summary The available DR capacity for domestic water heater load controls is determined via metering data from E1's 2023 Residential Demand Response evaluation. Analysis of 2021-2023 heating seasons shows participating units reduced demand by 385 W on average during the first two hours of events.

(3) Smart Thermostats for Electric Heating

AI summary The document section titled 'Smart Thermostats for Electric Heating' likely discusses regulatory considerations or programs related to the deployment and impact of smart thermostats in Nova Scotia's electric heating sector.

DATE FILED: May 28, 2026 E1 (CA) IR-04 Page 1 of 3 Even in jurisdictions included in Table 3 of E1's Evidence, portions of the comparative information were informed through direct discussions with jurisdictional program administrators and...

AI summary E1's comparative analysis of residential demand response (DR) programs relied on both public data and direct discussions with program administrators. The analysis found that residential DR programs typically take years to mature, with participation and performance improving over time. Table 3 focused on jurisdictions with sufficient data to support meaningful comparisons to Nova Scotia's Eco Shift program.

its own residential demand response programs, including the multi-year pathway through which those programs progressed toward cost-effectiveness. These discussions highlighted a number of parallels relevant to E1's Residential Eco Shift pr...

AI summary The document discusses E1's residential demand response (DR) program, the Eco Shift program, and its progression toward cost-effectiveness. It highlights lessons learned from Ontario's IESO and outlines factors influencing the program's improvement, including participant scale, recruitment strategies, and program optimization.

2020/21 to 2024/25 Evaluated Savings Electric Energy Savings showing use of Home Energy Reports, lighting, load displacement, and Codes and Standards. Electri c Energy Savings ( GWh) Program 2020/21 2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 Resident...

AI summary The document presents evaluated electric energy savings from 2020/21 to 2024/25, highlighting the use of Home Energy Reports, lighting, load displacement, and Codes and Standards. It includes data on energy savings across various sectors such as residential, income-based, Indigenous, and commercial/industrial, along with percentages of load reduction targets achieved.

1 Request IR-03: Eco Shift Program Cost Effectiveness 2 3 Reference: 4 5 "While the Residential Demand Response (Eco Shift) program component does not 6 yet meet the standard cost-effectiveness threshold, there have been noted 7 improvemen...

AI summary The document discusses the cost-effectiveness of the Eco Shift program and related residential demand response initiatives. It notes that the program has not met cost-effectiveness thresholds but highlights its contribution to grid resilience. Questions are raised about evaluation methods, program design, and the inclusion of new technologies like batteries.

1 Demand Response (DR) program component as E1's Evaluator crosschecks all DR 2 participants with a list of NS Power's Time-Varying Pricing and Critical Peak Pricing 3 (CPP) participants. Any E1 Residential DR participant that is participa...

AI summary E1's Demand Response (DR) program excludes participants enrolled in NS Power's Time-Varying Pricing (TVP) pilot, including Time-of-Use (TOU) and Critical Peak Pricing (CPP). This exclusion is due to eligibility criteria and the TVP pilot being interrupted by a cybersecurity breach. E1 will continue to monitor participants to ensure they remain excluded from DR evaluations.

M12349, Nova Scotia Power, 2025 Load Forecast Report, June 27, 2025, page 10. Year First Year Net Savings Energy Savings (GWh) 2025 NS Power Load Forecast1 (GWh) First Year Net Savings Energy Savings % of Load 1 (e) Pdf pg. 36 states: "Exp...

AI summary The document requests documentation to support E1's claim about Nova Scotia's stage of market development and asks for clarification on the number of Demand Response participants, including residential and BNI participants, for specific years.

LOAD AND CONSUMPTION INFORMATION Total Number of Customers in Ontario (2014): 3,489,238 Union Gas: 1,400,536 o Residential: 1,300,000 o Commercial and Industrial: 116,000 o Large Volume: 1,000 Union Gas Sales in 2014 (General Service, in 1...

AI summary The text provides statistics on the number of customers and gas sales by Union Gas in Ontario for 2014, categorizing them into residential, commercial, industrial, and large volume segments, along with details on different rate classes.

Program Analysis Initiatives Target Market Incentive Setting Methodology Residential Rebate (Electric) Residential customers looking to upgrade to more energy efficient appliances. Appliance rebate up to $75 available on refrigerators, dis...

AI summary The document outlines three energy efficiency programs targeting residential and small business customers, including appliance rebates, thermostat incentives, and direct installation services. Each program offers financial incentives to encourage energy-efficient upgrades and participation in energy-saving initiatives.

Figure 53: Natural Gas Consumption (Maine) 8 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Total Consumption 77,575 71,690 68,266 64,091 60,661 Pipeline & Distribution Use 1,753 2,399 762 844 1,300 Volumes Delivered to Consumers 75,821 69,291 67,504 63,24...

AI summary The document presents data on natural gas consumption in Maine from 2010 to 2015, detailing total consumption, pipeline and distribution use, and volumes delivered to consumers by sector. It also includes customer rates for 2014, highlighting the rates charged by Efficiency Maine for different sectors.

4.3 EPI__HVAC_HUMS_EPI_001__0 HUMIDITY SENSOR - EPI provides participants with free-of-charge direct installations of energy efficient products. EPI has - played a pivotal role in transforming the residential lighting market by making ener...

AI summary EPI provides free direct installations of energy-efficient products, focusing on electrician-installed measures to support residential demand response. It is funded by electricity ratepayers and the Nova Scotia government's Green Fund. The program has evolved to phase out lighting measures as LEDs become standard and has introduced new technologies like smart thermostats.

4.7 EPI__WNDW_FLM_EPI_001__0 WINDOW FILM KITS - EPI provides participants with free-of-charge direct installations of energy efficient products. EPI has - played a pivotal role in transforming the residential lighting market by making ener...

AI summary EPI provides free direct installation of energy-efficient products, focusing on electrician-installed measures to support residential demand response. It is funded by electricity ratepayers and the Nova Scotia government's Green Fund. The program has evolved to phase out lighting measures as LEDs became standard.

19 Tracked Evaluated Difference in Reason for Difference Program Component Annual Net Annual Net Net Savings between Tracked and Savings (GWh) Savings (GWh) (GWh) Evaluated 11.430 -4.551 Tracked used previous NTGRs for non-lighting Instant...

AI summary The document compares tracked and evaluated annual net savings for various program components, highlighting discrepancies due to differences in NTGR calculations and the inclusion of unclaimed savings. The Instant Savings program had a significant difference due to the use of previous NTGRs for non-lighting products, while the Affordable Single Family Homes program had a minor difference due to unclaimed savings from 2024.

Board approval, introduce SE programs or measures before the end of the Plan term? If not, please explain why not. Response IR-06: Please refer to EfficiencyOne's response to part (g) of SBA IR-05. Request IR-07: Reference: Appendix A, Tab...

AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) prefers maintaining existing Residential Demand Response (DR) enrollment rather than pursuing growth due to the need for program restructuring. They argue that improving cost-effectiveness and performance of existing devices is a priority before considering expansion, and BNI DR is expected to provide more cost-effective curtailment during the 2027–2031 Plan.

r, and non-DSM supports can lead to disproportionate impacts between DSM incentives, participation, and savings. E1 applied its experience and learnings when developing the proposed program portfolio. (c) Please refer to Appendix A – Prefe...

AI summary E1 discusses adjustments to the 2027–2031 DSM Plan, including staged incentive increases for residential heat pumps due to rising costs and alternatives like the Instant Savings program. It also mentions exploring Roving Energy Managers for small business programs, referencing Synapse IR-37 and Solar NS IR-07.

Table 6: Scenario 1EE-Base – Round 1 Modelling Results Scenario 1EE - Base (2027-2031) Investment ($ million) Lifetime TRC & PAC Benefits ($ million) NS Cost Test Lifetime Benefits ($ million) First Energy Savings (GWh) Lifetime Energy Sav...

AI summary Table 6 presents the results of Scenario 1EE-Base – Round 1 Modelling, detailing investment, energy savings, and cost benefits for residential and business energy efficiency programs in Nova Scotia from 2027 to 2031. The table highlights the financial and energy-saving impacts of various programs, including residential and business initiatives, as well as enabling strategies.

4.3.4 DSM PROGRAMS E1 will propose DSM programs within each DSM Resource Plan. DSM programs are offered to the Residential and the Business, Not-for-Profit and Institutional (BNI) sectors. Historically, DSM programs have included:: - Resid...

AI summary E1 will propose DSM programs for residential and BNI sectors, including rebates, incentives, and demand response initiatives. These programs have historically included a variety of efficiency and energy-saving measures for both residential and business sectors.

Round 2 Model Input Assumptions and Results Board Directives E1 Update • E1 may include the energy savings related to its Residential Behaviour program and demand savings from its Residential Demand Response and BNI Demand Response program...

AI summary E1 is allowed to include energy savings from its Residential Behaviour, Residential Demand Response, and BNI Demand Response programs in its E1 Update but must address concerns in its five-year DSM Plan application. E1 has already addressed these concerns in its Round 2 modelled scenarios and will do so again in its 2027-2031 application.

4.3.4 DSM PROGRAMS E1 will propose DSM programs within each DSM Resource Plan. DSM programs are offered to the Residential and the Business, Not-for-Profit and Institutional (BNI) sectors. DSM programs may include:: - Residential Efficient...

AI summary E1 will propose DSM programs for residential and BNI sectors, including rebates, custom incentives, direct installation, and demand response initiatives as part of the DSM Resource Plan.

use of energy efficiency delivery channels, recurring participation incentives, broader device eligibility, behavioural or connected thermostat options, and operational refinements as programs mature. M12780, Exhibit 3, E1 2025 DSM Program...

AI summary E1 has historically used various approaches in its demand response programs, including Eco Shift and BYOD enrollment. However, under the 2027–2031 Preferred Plan, E1 is not proposing new residential demand response enrollments, focusing instead on maintaining existing assets and improving program performance and delivery costs.

Eco Shift (Residential Demand Response) Date Duration (hours) Hour 1 (MW) Hour 2 (MW) Hour 3 (MW) Hour 4 (MW) Dec. 04 2024 17:00-21:00 4 0.063 0.587 0.053 0.039 Dec. 20 2024 07:00-11:00 4 0.239 0.175 0.144 0.091 Dec. 23 2024 17:00-21:00 4...

AI summary The document presents data from the Eco Shift (Residential Demand Response) program and Smart Synergy (BNI Demand Response) program, showing demand response performance across various dates and times. These tables highlight the participation and curtailment levels during specific periods, indicating the effectiveness of demand response initiatives in managing energy consumption.

Table 1: E1's Programs Delivered by Third Parties Affordable Multifamily Housing ✔ Efficient Product Installation ✔ Home Energy Assessment ✔ HomeWarming ✔ Instant Savings ✔ Mi'kmaw Home Energy Efficiency Project ✔ Strategic Energy Manageme...

AI summary Table 1 lists E1's programs delivered by third parties, including energy efficiency and demand response initiatives. E1's procurement activities are governed by a biennially reviewed procurement policy approved by E1's Board of Directors.

on system needs and direction from NS Power. Request IR-29: Please refer to the statement on page 9 of Appendix A – Preferred Plan which states: "Throughout 2023–2025, several pathways modelled in the 2023–2026 DSM Plan were not pursued, i...

AI summary The response to Request IR-29 explains that EfficiencyOne (E1) did not pursue certain demand response pathways during the 2023–2026 period because they prioritized those with the highest available capacity potential, such as direct load control and battery control, and focused first on rolling out the newly introduced behavioural program component in the Residential Demand Response program.

BNI demand response offer. If a small business customer participates in BNI demand response, the customer would receive the standard equipment or controls applicable to that demand response offering. Request IR-52: Please refer to the stat...

AI summary EfficiencyOne (E1) explains that it will not enroll new customers in the Residential Demand Response program from 2027 to 2031 due to current cost-effectiveness limitations. Instead, E1 will focus on optimizing the performance of existing equipment and managing program costs, with the expectation that future advancements will improve the program's cost-effectiveness and allow for renewed enrollment beyond 2031.

period, positioning the Residential Demand Response program for renewed enrollment beyond 2031. This phased approach reflects a prudent and cost-conscious management strategy that preserves the value 2 program can demonstrably satisfy appl...

AI summary The text discusses a phased approach for the Residential Demand Response program, positioning it for renewed enrollment beyond 2031. This strategy is described as prudent and cost-conscious, ensuring the program can meet cost-effectiveness tests.

additional advance notice from NS Power where feasible. These steps are intended to improve participation and reduce the likelihood that customers are unable to respond due to operational constraints. Request IR-60: Please refer to Table 4...

AI summary The response to Request IR-60 outlines the current Eco Shift participation incentives for residential customers and addresses whether E1 considered reducing incentives for new participants or expanding the program to new customers in constrained areas after NS Power provides AMI data feeds.

In general, residential heating loads are expected to be available during both morning and evening winter peaks, but performance can vary based on occupancy, weather, customer comfort settings, device connectivity, and whether the controll...

AI summary The text discusses the performance of residential heating loads during winter peaks, noting variability based on factors like occupancy and weather. EfficiencyOne (E1) does not control event timing, which is determined by NS Power, but collects customer preferences to ensure the portfolio can respond to both morning and evening events. References include the 2025 DSM Evaluation Report and M12780.

Table 3: Net Peak Savings at the Generator. 2025 DSM Portfolio Net Evaluated Peak Savings (at Generator) Residential Net Peak Savings (MW) Appliance Retirement 0.017 Rebate Programs Instant Savings 0.466 0.483 Affordable Multifamily Housin...

AI summary Table 3 presents the net peak savings at the generator for the 2025 DSM Portfolio, including contributions from various residential and business programs such as appliance retirement, instant savings, and efficient product installation. The overall DSM portfolio total is 23.556 MW, with data sourced from an evaluation report.

Econoler provides further support by regularly updating the Demand-side Management Measure Assessment (DSM MA) document. This year, the product categories rebated through the Instant Savings program were updated as part of its condensed ev...

AI summary Econoler supports the Demand-side Management Measure Assessment (DSM MA) by updating the Instant Savings program's product categories. They also conducted evaluations of the Business Energy Rebates – Instant Rebates program and the Residential Demand Response program to improve participation and operations.

ld be classed as marketing and promotional support for the measurebased programs, rather than as a residential behaviour program. Figure 13: Efficiency Insights as a Residential Behaviour Program. The contractor for Energy Insights, Bidgel...

AI summary The document discusses the Residential Behavioural Program, specifically the Efficiency Insights initiative, which uses Home Energy Reports (HERs) and customer surveys to promote energy efficiency. The program is managed by Efficiency Nova Scotia and delivered through Nova Scotia Power's 'MyEnergy Insights' platform, with support from Energy Efficiency Advisors.

Program Overview The Demand Response (DR) Program supports Nova Scotia Power (NS Power) in reducing peak system load by providing financial incentives to participants for the DR capacity made available during called events. The program com...

AI summary The Demand Response (DR) Program helps NS Power reduce peak system load by offering financial incentives. It includes Residential DR through Eco Shift and BNI DR through Smart Synergy. The 2025 evaluation by Econoler assessed both components and included a process evaluation for Residential DR.

Recommendations Verification teams encountered some confusion surrounding the use and function of DR automation for the Residential DR (Eco Shift) operations. It is recommended that E1 provide more detailed information about power interrup...

AI summary Verification teams faced confusion regarding DR automation in Residential DR (Eco Shift) operations. The recommendation is for E1 to provide more detailed information on power interruption events and how installed equipment benefits customers.

9 Q. DO YOU SUPPORT THE PROPOSED RESIDENTIAL DEMAND RESPONSE 10 (ECO SHIFT) COMPONENT? 11 A. I support continuing Eco Shift at an exploratory level, but I do not support expanding it. 12 E1 has appropriately scaled back the Eco Shift progr...

AI summary The response supports maintaining the existing Eco Shift program at an exploratory level but opposes expanding it. It notes that E1 has scaled back the program, maintaining the current device base and not adding new enrollments. The 2025 evaluation showed poor performance, delivering only 0.854 MW of available capacity against a 7.135 MW target, despite a significant increase in participation. Further investment is deemed imprudent until the program demonstrates cost-effectiveness.

- 7 A. I respectfully recommend that the Board: - 8 Approve continuation of the Residential Demand Response (Eco Shift) 9 component only at the proposed exploratory level. E1 should not enroll new 10 residential participants or expand inve...

AI summary The text recommends approving the continuation of the Residential Demand Response (Eco Shift) component at an exploratory level, approving the BNI Demand Response (Smart Synergy) component, and confirming that Large Industrial Interruptible customers are not eligible for Smart Synergy on their interruptible load.

1 should then be used to inform updates to incentives no later than January 1, 2 2028. 3 8. Require tracking and reporting of pre-weatherization barriers. E1 should 4 record and report, by program component, the number and proportion of 5...

AI summary The text outlines several requirements for EfficiencyOne (E1), including updating incentives by 2028, tracking pre-weatherization barriers, allocating funds for addressing barriers in low-income retrofit programs, offering rebates for heat pumps, maintaining incentive levels, and approving demand response programs. It also confirms eligibility restrictions for certain customers.

1 developed a DR program that spends materially on DR with no new residential customers, allows existing residential participation to decline, and relies entirely on BNI customers for capacity growth. Forecasted peak load growth reinforces...

AI summary The text discusses the limited scope of E1's Preferred Plan in terms of demand response (DR) participation, highlighting concerns over declining residential DR participation and overreliance on BNI customers for capacity growth. It emphasizes the need for a stronger commitment to DR as a near-term capacity resource, given forecasted peak load growth and declining reserve margins.

d event-season learning are what improve performance and spread fixed costs over a broader participant base. E1 should be required to adopt those lessons now, not merely cite them as a reason to wait. A modified Plan should therefore requi...

AI summary The text recommends that E1 adopt lessons from event-season learning to improve DR performance and spread fixed costs. It suggests developing DR as a dispatchable resource with clear metrics and assessing delivery models from other jurisdictions. It also emphasizes scaling BNI Smart Synergy where cost-effective and expanding residential DR programs, particularly for winter peak reduction.

Q. Please summarize E1's demand response offerings as part of the 2027-2031 DSM Plan. A. In the 2027-2031 period, E1 plans to offer several pathways, each focused on a type of demand response measure. These pathways include water-heating a...

AI summary E1 plans to offer demand response programs under the 2027-2031 DSM Plan, including water-heating and thermostat demand response for residential participants, curtailment demand response for BNI participants, and a new 'Loadshift to Back Up Generators' offering. Residential participation is expected to decline, while BNI participation and overall budgets will increase.

Q. Does E1 plan to make operational changes to the residential demand response program in response to the PAC BCR being below one? A. Yes. E1 states that it "does not intend to enroll new Residential Demand Response customers during the 20...

AI summary E1 plans not to enroll new residential demand response customers during 2027–2031 due to low cost-effectiveness metrics. Recommendations include reducing costs per kW of capacity and modifying program design to increase benefits per kW, such as adjusting pre-heating durations and targeting constrained circuits.

Q. What is E1's proposed budget for residential demand response, and what share does E1 plan to use for program delivery? - A. E1 proposes a total budget of $10.3 million for the residential demand response - programs over the plan period,...

AI summary E1 proposes a total budget of $10.3 million for residential demand response programs, with $1.3 million allocated for incentives and $6.7 million for program delivery. Incentives make up 13% of the total budget, while program delivery accounts for 63%.

Q. Do you recommend a specific alternative EV program design? A. Not at this time. A 2025 Rivian study using 2023 home-charging data from more than 5,000 vehicles found that EV owners actively scheduled charging to align with time-of-use t...

AI summary The response indicates that no specific alternative EV program design is recommended at this time, citing low customer participation in current EV demand-response designs. However, it highlights the potential of managed charging programs to achieve greater peak load reductions, referencing studies and data from National Grid Massachusetts.

4.2 Smart Thermostats Illustrate the Missed Opportunity This issue is especially clear with smart thermostats. EfficiencyOne plans to incentivize 121,039 smart thermostats over the Plan period, including 68,539 provided at no cost through...

AI summary EfficiencyOne plans to deploy a large number of smart thermostats but will not require them to participate in demand response, despite their potential. Solar Nova Scotia argues that making these devices demand-response capable would provide significant benefits and should be integrated into DR programming where feasible.

NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 (b) This information is not readily available at this time. 2 - 3 (c) Confirmed. OTP's reduction has been achieved across residential and small commercial - 4 customers. OTP has greater than 30 percent residential enroll...

AI summary The document notes that OTP has achieved a reduction in energy use across residential and small commercial customers, with over 30 percent of residential customers enrolled in DR programs. This information was filed on July 17, 2026.

as water-heater control, EV charging, batteries, and locational DR. The goal should be to convert enrolled customers into dependable, accredited winter capacity before committing to broader expansion. Request IR-8: On page 19 of 39, the Re...

AI summary The response to Request IR-8 by The Brattle Group explains that E1's residential DR program is limited, expensive, and passive. It suggests that residential DR can become a significant resource if developed in a disciplined and affordable manner, focusing on controllable loads like smart thermostats, without immediate affordability challenges.

The 1.3 15 percent maximum potential DR penetration value is for 2036, not 2031. 1 M12861, NS Power 2026 Load Forecast Report, May 15, 2026, page 9, Figure 68. Request IR-7: Reference: E-22, Page 9. Preamble: Brattle references a 2026 Otte...

AI summary The text refers to a 2026 load forecast report by NS Power, and includes a request for clarification on demand response (DR) potential in Nova Scotia, referencing a study by Otter Tail Power and the relevance of its findings to Nova Scotia's system. It raises questions about the applicability of DR benchmarks, contractual obligations of large customers, and residential DR potential.

l incremental winter DR potential by 2041. If so, please explain how that finding supports Brattle's recommendation that E1 significantly expand residential DR, taking into account program maturity. Response IR-7: This IR response has been...

AI summary The response discusses the potential for expanding residential demand response (DR) programs in E1, citing the 8 MW of incremental DR potential identified in the study. It supports the recommendation to expand residential DR due to the program's nascency and the high estimated energy loss cost (ELCC) at lower penetration levels.

Response to Request IR-5: Refer to M12780, Exhibit E-24, SNS Evidence, Section 4.2, Smart Thermostats Illustrate the Missed Opportunity, page 10 of 16, 2nd paragraph of this section. (a) How is SNS's proposal put forward above different th...

AI summary SNS's proposal aims to integrate DR enrollment directly into the deployment of controllable devices, unlike E1's current residential DR program, which operates through two separate channels: Direct Install and BYOD, where DR enrollment is not automatically linked to thermostat subsidies.

A. Does E1 provide an explanation for the high level of non-incentive spending in its Residential Demand Response program when compared to similar programs in other jurisdictions? B. Has Synapse been able to determine the reason or reasons...

AI summary The questions focus on E1's high non-incentive spending in its Residential Demand Response program compared to similar programs in other jurisdictions and whether Synapse has identified the reasons for this high proportion of non-incentive spending.

Response IR-8: A. No. Please refer to my evidence, p. 39, lines 3-4, where I state that "E1 does not address the high delivery costs of the residential demand response program specifically," including any comparison of program delivery bud...

AI summary The response denies addressing high delivery costs of the residential demand response program and recommends a process evaluation to identify cost efficiencies. E1 remains contracted with existing vendors and has no plans to change.

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

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

M12780 - In the Matter of EfficiencyOne's (E1) 2027–2031 Demand Side Management (DSM) Resource Plan Application 1 a) I do not make specific recommendations as to how the SE offerings should be structured. 2 I note that E1's SE Round 2 mode...

AI summary The document discusses EfficiencyOne's (E1) 2027–2031 Demand Side Management (DSM) Resource Plan Application. It highlights the lack of specific recommendations on structuring Solar Energy (SE) offerings and the absence of data on BNI DR curtailment performance by event hour. It also addresses the need for equal weighting in performance measurement and the potential impact on BNI PAC BCRs.

E1 Rebuttal Evidence With respect to Ms. Napoleon's comment that "E1's statements about the projected cost-effectiveness of the residential demand response component over the course of the plan period are not internally consistent",[2](#pa...

AI summary E1 clarifies that its cost-effectiveness claims for the residential demand response program refer to the Ontario IESO's Peak Perks program, not its own. E1 emphasizes improving cost-effectiveness through optimized program delivery and participant performance before scaling, disagreeing with recommendations to enroll new participants immediately.

NS Power At PDF Page 17, Brattle states: Finally, E1's logic for limiting residential DR in the Preferred Plan is internally inconsistent in that E1 states residential DR is important but then pauses expansion until cost- effectiveness imp...

AI summary Brattle criticizes E1's logic for limiting residential demand response (DR) in the Preferred Plan, arguing that it is internally inconsistent. E1 claims residential DR is important but delays expansion until cost-effectiveness improves, which Brattle suggests assumes inaction will lead to better outcomes. Discussions with Ontario IESO highlight the importance of ongoing investment in DR programs, such as the Peak Perks program, rather than pausing until cost-effectiveness is achieved.

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

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

26 Request IR-4: 27 28 Reference: 2025 Savings Verification Review, Determinations Regarding Evaluation Results, p. 29 vi; Key Findings — Residential and BNI DR, pp. 71–72. 30 31 In regard to Residential Demand Response programs the Verifi...

AI summary The 2025 Savings Verification Review evaluates Residential Demand Response programs, noting minimal savings and demand reductions. It recommends extending program development for 5–7 years to assess improved participation and outcomes. Eco Shift and BNI DR underperformed against targets, raising questions about continued investment.

nnual Meeting & Education Conference (November 18, 2019) - "Rate Reform in Evolving Energy Marketplace," EUCI Residential Demand Charges/TOU Summit (May 30, 2019) Sanem Sergici brattle.com 25 of 28

AI summary The text lists presentations and speaking engagements related to energy topics, including 'Rate Reform in Evolving Energy Marketplace' at the EUCI Residential Demand Charges/TOU Summit in 2019 and an Annual Meeting & Education Conference in 2019. Sanem Sergici from brattle.com is mentioned as a participant.

1 (c) Please confirm Brattle's understanding that Nova Scotia is a winter-peaking system and that 5 "E1's logic for limiting residential DR in the Preferred Plan is internally inconsistent in 6 that E1 states residential DR is important bu...

AI summary The document requests clarification on Brattle's understanding of Nova Scotia's winter-peaking system, E1's logic for limiting residential demand response (DR), and the conditions for scaling residential DR. It also asks for examples of DSM administrators in winter-peaking jurisdictions expanding residential DR programs and seeks reconciliation of Brattle's recommendation to include managed EV charging as part of strategic electrification.

28 Request IR-7: 29 34 36 38 40 30 On page 16 of 39 of its Report, the Brattle Group states that there may be opportunities for 31 reduction in the cost of the implementation of Residential Demand Response programs if E1 32 learned from th...

AI summary The Brattle Group suggests that E1 could reduce costs in its Residential Demand Response programs by learning from past challenges, improving program administration, and adopting best practices from other utilities with more established DR programs. The request asks for clarification on these points.

23 Request IR-7: 24 25 With reference to Residential Demand Response programs, Synapse notes in the Report that 26 program delivery costs amount to 63% of planned spending. 27 28 A. Does E1 provide an explanation for the high proportion of...

AI summary The text raises a question about the high proportion of program delivery costs in the Residential Demand Response program, asking E1 to explain why 63% of planned spending is consumed by these costs.

33 Request IR-8: 34 35 On pages 37 and 38 of the Report, Synapse notes that an independent evaluation found that E1's 36 proposed level of non-incentive spending in its Residential Demand Response program far 37 exceeded the level for simi...

AI summary The document raises two questions regarding E1's Residential Demand Response program, specifically about the high level of non-incentive spending compared to similar programs in other jurisdictions and whether Synapse has identified the reasons for this discrepancy.