Topic:"Stakeholder Engagement" in M03669

1.2 Program Development Working Group The Program Development Working Group (PDWG), established during NSPI's tenure as interim DSM Administrator, has advised ENSC during the transition from NSPI to ENSC and during the preparation of the 2...

AI summary The Program Development Working Group (PDWG) advised ENSC during the transition from NSPI to ENSC and the preparation of the 2012 DSM Plan. ENSC seeks continued PDWG involvement in 2011 for program design and adjustments. ENSC emphasizes stakeholder consultation, including UARB's 2011 DSM Plan Decision, and plans to expand PDWG stakeholder input.

1.3 Development of the 2012 DSM Plan To aid in the preparation of the 2012 DSM Plan, ENSC developed guiding principles, which are presented in Section 6. ENSC received the advice and assistance of Navigant Consulting Inc. (Navigant) and Du...

AI summary ENSC developed the 2012 DSM Plan with stakeholder input, consulting Navigant and Dunsky. Meetings with DSM experts and stakeholders were held in 2010-2011. A Board order (NSUARB 153) acknowledged the PDWG's role during the ENS transition. The plan's development emphasized stakeholder engagement and regulatory alignment.

Enabling Strategies The 2012 DSM Plan includes investments in a number of enabling strategies. Investment continues in Education and Outreach, and Development and Research, two strategies that have been in place since 2008. Enabling strate...

AI summary The 2012 DSM Plan includes enabling strategies like Education, Outreach, Research, and Innovative Financing to support ENSC's programs and promote energy efficiency. Strategies aim to drive market transformation through codes, training, and local government collaboration.

Supra , note 10, para. 123. 1 · Low-cost Programs: Program costs will be minimized, where doing so does not 2 hinder meeting overall IRP targets in both the short and long term. 3 4 · Accessibility: ENSC will strive to provide access to ef...

AI summary The text outlines the guiding principles for developing the 2012 DSM Plan, emphasizing low-cost programs, accessibility, and long-term success. ENSC reviewed existing DSM programs, enhanced accessibility for low-income residents, consulted stakeholders, and engaged experts from other jurisdictions to improve program design and effectiveness.

to be provided through third-party organizations · work with stakeholders such as universities, colleges and professional associations to develop training programs to address priority gaps and to develop capacity to meet future needs ENSC'...

AI summary ENSC plans to develop training programs in collaboration with stakeholders, including educational institutions and professional associations, to address skill gaps and build capacity. The training coordinator will conduct a gap analysis and redundancy review in 2011 and implement a long-term strategy starting in 2012.

MARKET ACTORS • Advantages: market actors – retailers, manufacturers, trades and general contractors, architects and engineers – should provide the vast majority of customer services and measures. Relying on the open market for measure ins...

AI summary The text discusses the advantages and disadvantages of relying on market actors versus in-house staff for energy efficiency programs. It emphasizes the importance of a competitive market and the need for ENSC to actively develop the local market, particularly in the early stages, through training and certification. It also highlights the potential for conflicts of interest with trade allies and the need for strong internal controls.

2a Contextual Issues: Building on Previous Efforts " The program is streamlined to appeal to busy administrators and teachers who know the value of student involvement ... It is designed for success, encouraging participants to prioritize...

AI summary The document discusses the development of the Green Schools Nova Scotia (GSNS) program, which builds on previous initiatives like Energy Matters and Towards a Brighter Future. GSNS aims to integrate environmental education, student engagement, and sustainability practices in schools, with a focus on long-term viability and curriculum alignment. It also highlights the role of the Halifax Regional School Board in infrastructure retrofits and energy efficiency initiatives.

VI Conclusion The need to prepare for climate change impacts and environmental change is no longer a futureoriented issue. Today's students will need to be able to understand, respond to, and manage conditions that we cannot yet fully comp...

AI summary The conclusion emphasizes the urgent need for environmental education in Nova Scotia schools, highlighting the importance of preparing students to address climate change. It introduces Green Schools Nova Scotia as a comprehensive program to promote environmental stewardship, reduce energy use, and foster a culture of sustainability in schools.

1 Halifax Regional School Board Energy Matters Update . September 2008. [www.hrsb.ns.ca](http://www.hrsb.ns.ca/) Green Schools Contact Title Contact Information Notes Krista Hilchey Dept. of Environment NS, Water Division, Outreach and Edu...

AI summary The document lists contacts for the Green Schools program in Nova Scotia, including individuals from the Department of Environment, the Nova Scotia Environmental Network, and the Atlantic Canada Sustainability Institute, who are interested in providing advisory support and involvement in environmental education and conservation initiatives.

Appendix B: Alignment with Nova Scotia Education and Environment Policy Federal provincial, and NS School Board Green Schools Nova Scotia Support Environmental Education and Sustainability Policy Learn Canada 20/20 – Joint Declaration of P...

AI summary This appendix discusses the alignment of the Green Schools Nova Scotia (GSNS) program with Nova Scotia's education and environment policies. It highlights how the program supports Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) and promotes student engagement, stewardship learning, and collaboration between formal and non-formal environmental education sectors.

Summary: - "… additional priorities that were dependent on sufficient funds t o implement. While these issues are no less important, lack of funding prevents the Board from making any significant progress in these areas in 2010-2011. These...

AI summary The Board acknowledges additional priorities dependent on funding, such as enhancing student engagement strategies through discussions with teachers, school administrators, and parents. Green Schools will conduct environmental audits involving the entire school community, promoting engagement and learning.

Action Plan (2009) Action 52: Incorporate climate change, sustainability and complex decision making into the school curriculum GSNS delivers curriculum-linked activities and teaching resources on the topics of climate change and environme...

AI summary The 2009 Action Plan includes Action 52, which aims to integrate climate change, sustainability, and complex decision-making into the school curriculum. GSNS provides curriculum-linked resources and professional development on environmental sustainability.

3. Launch the Green Schools Program Incentive is so important for motivating change, and one of the incentives that Green Schools applies is public recognition for involvement and achievement. The principal, ideally, will launch the progra...

AI summary The Green Schools Program aims to motivate change through incentives, including public recognition. The program's launch should be a visible and engaging event led by the principal to the entire school community.

4. Conduct a Green School Environmental Audit Tools will be provided by GSNS to assess the school's environmental practices or 'baseline'. Any of all of the following may be addressed: energy use, waste management, adherence to the 3 Rs, p...

AI summary This section outlines the process for conducting a Green School Environmental Audit, where GSNS provides tools and support to schools for assessing environmental practices. The audit covers various areas such as energy use, waste management, and curriculum, with students participating in different aspects of the assessment.

5. Create a School Environmental Improvement Plan GSNS will provide a Green School Report Card to schools that complete their environmental audits. The report cards will identify areas that the school is doing well, and will identify areas...

AI summary GSNS will provide Green School Report Cards to schools that complete environmental audits. These report cards will highlight strengths and areas for improvement. Based on the results, the Green Leadership Team will develop an Environmental Improvement Plan (E.I.P.) tailored to the school's needs, with specific short- and long-term goals over at least two years.

7. Celebrate Successes and Gain Recognition Green Schools Nova Scotia will recognize and communicate best practices and notable school achievements based on criteria yet to be established. Recognition will be shared in a public manner to e...

AI summary Green Schools Nova Scotia will recognize and communicate best practices and achievements of schools based on criteria to be established. Recognition will be public to encourage improvement and drive program success.

Appendix E: Framework for Designing Green Schools Activities to support Education for Sustainable Development – Background "Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) entails a reorienting of education to guide and motivate people to beco...

AI summary This document outlines the importance of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) and how the Green Schools Nova Scotia (GSNS) program can support its implementation. It emphasizes the need for experiential, action-oriented learning that integrates sustainability across curricula and encourages behavior change. The GSNS program is positioned to provide strategic support for ESD in Nova Scotia schools.

1. Name of Activity & Purpose of the Exercise It is essential to consider and state clear objectives to ensure that the purpose of the activity is actually met by doing the activity. When testing the effectiveness of an activity designed o...

AI summary This section emphasizes the importance of clearly defining the objectives of an activity to ensure it meets its intended purpose, particularly when testing the effectiveness of an activity developed for Green Schools NS. It also highlights the need to assess whether students and teachers have learned what the activity was designed to teach, and mentions the inclusion of curriculum links.

2. Role of the Teacher It should be specified clearly what the teacher's role in carrying out the activity is. If their role is clearly outlined - and the purpose of doing the activity is clear and linked to curriculum outcomes - they are...

AI summary This section emphasizes the importance of clearly defining a teacher's role in educational activities, particularly those related to sustainable development. It highlights that clarity in the teacher's responsibilities and the activity's purpose increases the likelihood of successful implementation without additional facilitation.

4. ESD knowledge or content: what key information is to be learned? This section is for specifying the content and/or skill that the students (and teachers, perhaps) will learn by doing the activity. Because climate change and energy are t...

AI summary This section outlines the key information and skills to be learned through Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) activities, focusing on climate change and energy, particularly in the context of Green Schools Nova Scotia. It emphasizes critical thinking, problem-based analysis, and a multi-disciplinary approach addressing social, environmental, and economic aspects of sustainability.

5. Place-based learning? "Even though a common reporting framework has been devised, it is recognized that ESD will take many forms around the world, because it must take into consideration the local, environmental, economic, and societal...

AI summary The text discusses the importance of place-based learning in environmental education, emphasizing the role of understanding local communities and environments. It highlights the Green Schools NS program as an initiative aimed at fostering sustainability and stewardship in schools through local knowledge and care for the environment.

6. Action-oriented experiential element: Education for Sustainable Development (aka: the new delivery method for environmental education) advocates linking ideas to action, and learning activities for Green Schools NS will focus on this as...

AI summary The Green Schools NS program promotes Education for Sustainable Development by linking environmental education to action, involving the entire school community in caring for the shared environment. This approach emphasizes active student participation through experiential learning.

7. Multi-disciplinary? Learning activities designed for the Green Schools program will promote lateral thinking – which is learning to think across disciplines, and link different ideas together. Environmental issues and problems are compl...

AI summary The Green Schools program aims to promote multi-disciplinary learning by encouraging lateral thinking and the integration of various perspectives to address complex environmental issues. This approach helps students analyze systems and understand the interconnections within their communities and environments.

Summary of Design Process - A series of ads were included in the provincial section of The Chronicle Herald and The Metro - Information was included on the NSHBA website with all the competition specifications, details and requirements - R...

AI summary The design process involved advertising in provincial newspapers and publishing information on the NSHBA website. Requests for design proposals were extended to several professional associations and the general public.

 Customer education and outreach. The PD program designs and distributes marketing materials to increase awareness among residential customers. Marketing efforts include radio, print, in-store signage, mail drop and the Internet.  Collab...

AI summary The PD program focuses on customer education and outreach through various marketing channels and collaborative efforts with retailers. It assumes that retailer participation and effective marketing will lead to increased sales of energy-efficient fixtures. Barriers include low awareness and retailer engagement.

College diploma 29 12 19 18 University diploma 26 20 21 16 Table 5-49: Education Level – 2008 and 2009 2008 2009 Non- Total Non- Total Participants participants (Weighted) Participants participants (Weighted) Census Sample size 53 68 121 6...

AI summary The data shows the distribution of education levels among participants in 2008 and 2009, with a focus on college and university diplomas. The survey also notes that respondents were equally split between males and females.

een withdrawn by NRCan, was necessary for the program to exist. All of the Delivery Agents also observed that a large majority of the public was unaware of the fact that a provincial program existed. 3.3 Program Responsibility and Communic...

AI summary The EEH program's success is hindered by low public awareness, despite promotional efforts by CNS and Delivery Agents. Delivery Agents increased marketing activities after NRCan's withdrawal but faced resource constraints. Marketing staff addressed contractor concerns through radio and print promotions.

Staff Interview Guide for EnerGuide Existing Houses Date: Name: Programs responsible for: Introduction: [This interview should take about an hour] Your comments are confidential. By the way, if I ask you about areas you don‘t know about, p...

AI summary This document outlines an interview guide for the EnerGuide Existing Houses program, focusing on program responsibilities, stakeholder interactions, communication challenges, program timelines, and energy savings goals. It aims to gather insights on program implementation and performance.

2. Nova Scotia Home Builders‘ Association – 50% c. Low Income REAP i. Kate McDonald at Conserve Nova Scotia ii. Delivery agents 1. MJM Energy 2. Clean NS 3. Trinity Maintenance Solutions 4. ACAP Cape Breton iii. Low income outreach agent [...

AI summary The document discusses the implementation and evaluation of energy efficiency programs, including interactions with various stakeholders such as the Nova Scotia Home Builders‘ Association and low-income outreach agents. It explores program goals, communication challenges, and the effectiveness of initiatives like the EnerGuide New and Existing Homes Programs.

Introduction: [This interview should take about an hour] Your comments are confidential. By the way, if I ask you about areas you don‘t know about, please feel free to tell me and we will move on. For transcription purposes we will be reco...

AI summary The text outlines a series of questions for an interview regarding the status and implementation of a program, including legislative status, program launch delays, energy savings goals, and stakeholder interactions. It focuses on program evaluation, coordination, and challenges in communication and collaboration.

9 Enabling Strategy Budget ($ million) Education and Outreach 2.0 Development and Research 1.5 Innovative Financing 0.3 Codes and Standards 0.4 Building Energy Labelling 0.2 Training and Quality Assurance 0.2 Renewable Heating 0.2 Local Go...

AI summary The text outlines budget allocations for various enabling strategies, including education and outreach, development and research, and innovative financing. It also includes responses to requests about funding sectors and efforts to attract participants to low-income programs in the 2012 DSM Plan.

- 7 2012 DSM Plan with the UARB. 1 Request IR-2: 2 3 Please explain how ENSC would have planned to achieve 80 GWh of energy savings in the 4 absence of the unexpected savings from ELI. 5 6 Response IR-2: 7 8 In the absence of 80 GWh and 12...

AI summary The document discusses the 2012 DSM Plan with the UARB, including requests and responses about achieving energy savings targets, the impact of unexpected savings from the ELI class, and the role of the PDWG in mid-course adjustments to DSM programs. ENSC outlines investment figures and discusses stakeholder engagement.

- 2 consulted in 2011 to gain thoughts on potential changes to the PDWG and/or the possible - 3 creation of a new stakeholder process. 4 - 5 For how this relates to performance-based accountability and regulation, please refer to Multeese...

AI summary The document references a 2011 consultation on potential changes to the Program Design Working Group (PDWG) and the creation of a new stakeholder process. It also cites a 2010 Board decision that the PDWG should retain its current role until the transition to ENS is completed.

Implementation - Customers may be given option of completing on-line or mail-in questionnaire about their home, which will allow ENSC to provide more customized recommendations - Program may be combined with other feedback campaigns - Expl...

AI summary The implementation section outlines methods for customer engagement in energy efficiency programs, including online and mail-in questionnaires, social media use, and collaboration with municipal utilities and NSPI to enhance home energy reports and retrofit campaigns.

1 Request IR-40: 2 3 What level of engagement will ENSC have with stakeholders with respect to development 4 and research focus on strategies and technologies? 5 6 Response IR-40: 7 8 ENSC welcomes input from stakeholders. The Program Deve...

AI summary ENSC seeks stakeholder input on strategies and technologies for energy efficiency programs. The Program Development Working Group (PDWG) facilitates engagement, and ENSC is exploring additional mechanisms for broader stakeholder involvement, particularly those not previously active in the regulatory process for electricity DSM.

8. MONITORING - The CEO (or a designate) will be responsible for monitoring the effectiveness and consistent application of this policy. - The Board where appropriate will provide authorization to allow representatives of Canada Employment...

AI summary The CEO or their designate is tasked with monitoring the effectiveness and consistent application of the policy. The Board may authorize access to company premises and Employment Equity records for Canada Employment and Immigration representatives upon request.

Formal Investigation - The investigator(s) will interview the complainant, the respondent, and any witnesses, and will review relevant documentation. - The investigator(s) must complete their investigation and file a report of their findin...

AI summary The formal investigation process involves interviewing the complainant, respondent, and witnesses, and reviewing documentation. The investigator(s) must complete the investigation and submit a report to the CEO and Advisor within 30 working days, with possible extensions approved by the Board.

tes an environment where DSM program developers can refine the information collection and analytical skills required to effectively allocate resources and problem-solve as they move from case to case. The multi-dimensional nature of povert...

AI summary The text discusses the challenges of implementing demand-side management (DSM) programs for low-income renters, highlighting the complex relationship between poverty, regulatory systems, and housing costs. It emphasizes the need for a coordinated, multi-agency approach to address energy poverty effectively.

Telephone conversation with Colleen, OPA, November 8, 2010. 1 Request IR-14: 2 3 With respect to page 29, lines 20 – 21, 4 a) Please clarify what ENSC means by the phrase "further assess the options for 5 implementing such a model". Is the...

AI summary The text includes a request and response regarding the implementation of a model and engagement with the UARB. ENSC recommends assessing both the model and its implementation strategy, proposing a stakeholder forum or workshop in 2011 to consider performance-based approaches and multi-year frameworks.

so understands that this proposed level of DSM investment is broadly supported by other ratepayer representatives including the Consumer Advocate, the Avon Group, and the Municipal Electric Utilities. As a result, following our review of t...

AI summary NPB initially planned to avoid participating in the hearing but changed course after intervenor evidence suggested increasing ENSC's 2012 DSM spending. NPB supports cost-effective DSM but notes the plan already exceeds 2009 IRP targets. Both Bowater and NewPage have conducted internal energy initiatives beyond ratepayer-funded programs.

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AI summary The document outlines procedural details for a regulatory proceeding, including deadlines for written comments (April 7, 2011) and an invitation for offers to purchase Schaffner Enterprises Limited's assets. It mentions evening sessions for presentations and stakeholder engagement processes.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOVA SCOTIA'S ELECTRICITY DEMAND SIDE MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR 2012 otice is hereby given that the Nova Scotta Utility and Review Board ("the is increasy givent that one nova occura uturity and newtew bit owition of a h...

AI summary This document is a notice of a public hearing for Nova Scotia's Electricity Demand Side Management Plan for 2012. The hearing will take place on April 15 and 18, 2011, with details provided on how individuals can participate, including filing notices, submitting evidence, and making written comments.

energy savings? About 400,000 kWh – more than $40‐thousand in savings every year . As branch manager Mathieu Levesque told me: "Wow! Why didn't we do this a couple of years ago?" Music to my ears. So whether it's Jamie in Glace Bay or Math...

AI summary Efficiency Nova Scotia highlights over 400,000 kWh annual energy savings ($40k+ yearly) through customer programs, citing positive feedback from branch manager Mathieu Levesque and others. The organization emphasizes grassroots outreach, accessible customer service (direct human interaction via phone), and the environmental and economic benefits of energy efficiency, including avoiding new power plant needs.

1991-95 ENJEU Inc. Energy Director for environmental non-profit. Played a key role in conducting research as well as representation in utility consultative and collaborative processes.

AI summary ENJEU Inc. (1991-95) served as Energy Director for an environmental non-profit, conducting research and participating in utility consultative processes. Their work focused on environmental advocacy and collaboration within energy regulation frameworks.

- 2010 American Council for an Energy Efficiency Economy (ACEEE) : several speaking engagements. - 2010 Association of Energy Service Professionals (AESP) 20th Conference : "Mandatory Energy Disclosure for Existing Homes and Buildings: A N...

AI summary This text lists various speaking engagements and presentations by individuals and organizations related to energy efficiency, sustainability, and utility regulation from 2000 to 2010. It highlights involvement in energy policy discussions and leadership in energy efficiency initiatives.

ORDER IT IS ORDERED that a hearing respecting an application by Efficiency Nova Scotia Corporation ("ENSC") for approval of its Electricity Demand Side Management Plan for 2012 be conducted by the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board ("Boa...

AI summary The Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board has ordered a hearing for Efficiency Nova Scotia Corporation's 2012 Electricity Demand Side Management Plan. The hearing is scheduled to begin on April 18, 2011, with a detailed timetable provided for filing documents and stakeholder sessions.

, by letter dated September 22, 2010, which provided: The Board has carefully reviewed the DSM Transition Plan and grants approval to proceed with implementation, subject to the following directives: - a) The DSM Transition Committee is to...

AI summary The Board approved the DSM Transition Plan with specific directives, noting ENSC's compliance and the evaluation of the 2010 DSM Report and SVS. The 2012 DSM Plan is under consideration, with stakeholders generally supportive of the transition and existing DSM efforts.

[91 ] The SVS made the following recommendation: Recommendation 11: The DSM Administrator should consider whether or not it may be useful to revisit approaches to assessing free-ridership. Currently, NMR is using an improved variant of the...

AI summary The SVS recommends revisiting methods for assessing free-ridership in DSM programs, noting that current methods may overstate free-ridership. ENSC is advised to refine evaluation methods through stakeholder consultation and consider NTG ratios at the measure level. The Province and ENSC agree on the need for ongoing refinement and stakeholder engagement in free-ridership and spillover assessments.

[128] The Dunsky report noted that: The move to a performance-based model would provide ENSC with increased flexibility to adjust and adapt its plans as needed, as situations arise and as feedback comes in. Furthermore, an oversight model...

AI summary The Dunsky report supports moving to a performance-based model (PBM) for DSM programs, citing increased flexibility and reduced regulatory burden. ENSC seeks Board approval to consult stakeholders on this approach. The Province and EAC also support the PBM discussion, emphasizing benefits for low-income rate-payers and program outreach. Board Counsel questioned the need for Board approval before consultation.

[138] In its Application, ENSC stated: The Program Development Working Group (PDWG), established during NSPl's tenure as interim DSM Administrator, has advised ENSC during the transition from NSPI to ENSC and during the preparation of the...

AI summary ENSC emphasizes the continued value of the Program Development Working Group (PDWG) in advising on DSM programs and stakeholder consultation. The PDWG has supported ENSC during the transition from NSPI and in preparing the 2012 DSM Plan. There was little discussion of the PDWG during the hearing, and no intervenor opposed ENSC's proposal to continue its role in 2011.

9.0 SUMMARY OF BOARD FINDINGS [153] The Board accepts the 2010 DSM Plan evaluation and verification, with the qualification made in the SVS for a 10% reduction for the Efficient Products-Direct Install program. [154] The Board understands...

AI summary The Board accepts the 2010 DSM Plan evaluation with modifications, approves the 2012 investment in DSM programs, and directs ENSC to address data systems, cost allocations, and stakeholder engagement. The Board also requires ENSC to complete a free ridership study and develop policy for tracking costs across mandates.

home heating (4.4). Custom C&I: Segments to be targeted in 2012 may include grocery stores, schools, large multi-family buildings, military and the high-tech industry, among others. (p.22 of 43) IR 37: Please explain what incentive levels...

AI summary The document discusses energy efficiency initiatives targeting custom commercial and industrial (C&I) segments, including grocery stores, and outlines plans for emerging technologies and codes. It includes questions from intervenors regarding incentive levels, strategic direction, and stakeholder engagement in energy efficiency efforts.

PARTICIPANTS' LIST EFFICIENCY NOVA SCOTIA CORPORATION Allan Crandlemire Interim CEO 800 - 1791 Barrington Street Tel: 902-470-3501 Toll free: 877-678-6807 Fax: 902-470-3599 Halifax, NS B3J 3K9 Email: ...::i .... I....... nI".lIOI.Y.l.I"Of....

AI summary Lists participants in the regulatory proceeding, including Efficiency Nova Scotia, its representatives, Board Counsel, and consultants such as Synapse Energy Economics and Multeese Consulting.

The Inclusion of Reasonable Information in Board Regulatory Processes - 1. The EAC takes special note of the objection raised by the Chair at the closing of hearing with respect to Mr. Outhouse"s question to Mel Whelan requesting a compari...

AI summary The EAC defends the inclusion of stakeholder session information in Board hearings, countering the Chair's objection that it could hinder future stakeholder discussions. The EAC argues that such transparency is legitimate, citing past practices and the need to address DSM budget changes, while noting the Chair excluded EAC from commenting on the matter.

and energy savings in the development of the 2012 DSM Plan, including expert opinion and evidence from leading sources and advice and input from stakeholders." NPB noted in its opening statement that: "...the collaborative process envision...

AI summary NPB argues that ENSC's 2012 DSM Plan meets aggressive savings targets from the 2009 IRP Update without requiring a budget increase, supported by all ratepayer classes. NPB rejects non-ratepayer consultants' suggestions for further budget increases, emphasizing stakeholder collaboration and minimized rate impacts.

oard is not what 23 evidence has been filed or formal rate impact studies have been conducted to justify the 8 Exhibit [E-12], Evidence of Mel Whalen, Multeese Consulting, Page 7, Table 2. 9 Hearing Transcript, April 19, 2011, Pages 316-31...

AI summary The text argues that the 2012 DSM Plan's proposed budget increases lack sufficient evidence to justify significant spending hikes, especially given stakeholder opposition and concerns about short-term rate impacts. ENSC asserts that flexibility in program design and stakeholder consultation can maintain DSM target achievements without excessive expenditure. Dr. Peach's testimony cautions against mandating all cost-effective DSM measures beyond IRP targets.

15 6. PDWG AND STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION 16 ENSC is committed to broad, transparent and effective stakeholder consultation and 17 input. ENSC is pleased with the support noted by various stakeholders of its transparent and collaborative con...

AI summary ENSC emphasizes its commitment to transparent stakeholder consultation, supported by evidence from Synapse Energy Economics highlighting the cost-effectiveness of its efficiency programs. The 2012 DSM Plan is noted for its collaborative development with stakeholders.

9 8. CONCLUSION 10 The 2012 DSM Plan continues to build on Nova Scotia's achievements in energy 11 efficiency while setting a path for long-term success, and should be approved. 12 The 2012 DSM Plan addresses the directives and recommendat...

AI summary The 2012 DSM Plan is recommended for approval as it aligns with UARB directives, incorporates stakeholder feedback, and balances cost-effective energy savings. The Board is advised against increasing ENSC's budget for the plan at this time, emphasizing stakeholder support and financial responsibility.

Socket Study/Free Ridership Evaluation NSDOE specifically notes for ENSC's review the recommendation that a Nova Scotia socket study be conducted (Recommendation #5); and the recommendation that the DSM administrator or evaluator should co...

AI summary NSDOE recommends conducting a Nova Scotia socket study and refining free-ridership analysis for DSM programs, emphasizing stakeholder consultation. ENSC plans to evaluate free ridership and spillover effects as programs evolve, endorsed by NSDOE in alignment with the Savings Verification Study's recommendations.

DATE FILED: May 20, 2011 Page 1 of 5 1 However, ENSC shares the concern raised by other parties as to the sufficiency of 2 reliable evidence at this time to revisit this issue of cost allocation for multi-sector costs; 3 particularly so wh...

AI summary ENSC acknowledges concerns about the sufficiency of evidence regarding cost allocation for multi-sector DSM programs. It suggests maintaining the existing methodology from the 2012 DSM Plan and deferring discussions on changes until stakeholder consultations for the 2013 DSM Plan.

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that: - 1) With regard to the SVS, the Board is satisfied that ENSC is reviewing the recommendations and orders ENSC to file its response to the recommendations no later than July 31, 2011, for consideration by the Bo...

AI summary The Board orders ENSC to address SVS recommendations, conduct studies on free ridership and non-electricity programs, enhance rate impact information, and maintain stakeholder engagement. ENSC must also track program progress quarterly and align with the 2013 DSM Plan.

s - 7. Proposed integrated multi-fuel approach to program administration - 8. Proposed consideration of a multi-year performance-based model - 9. Future role of Program Development Working Group - [6] The following parties were Intervenors...

AI summary The document outlines proposed administrative approaches, including an integrated multi-fuel program model and a multi-year performance-based framework, alongside the future role of the Program Development Working Group. Intervenors, witnesses, and submissions from various stakeholders are listed, reflecting stakeholder engagement in the regulatory process.

[91 ] The SVS made the following recommendation: Recommendation 11: The DSM Administrator should consider whether or not it may be useful to revisit approaches to assessing free-ridership. Currently, NMR is using an improved variant of the...

AI summary The SVS recommends revisiting methods for assessing free-ridership in DSM programs, noting potential overestimation by current approaches. EAC suggests determining net-to-gross ratios at the measure level, while ENSC agrees to refine free-ridership evaluation through stakeholder consultation and incorporates recommendations from intervenors and Board Counsel.

[128] The Dunsky report noted that: The move to a performance-based model would provide ENSC with increased flexibility to adjust and adapt its plans as needed, as situations arise and as feedback comes in. Furthermore, an oversight model...

AI summary The Dunsky report supports transitioning to a performance-based model for DSM programs, which would increase flexibility and reduce regulatory burdens. ENSC seeks Board approval for stakeholder consultation on this model, with support from the Province and EAC. The discussion highlights the need for regulatory alignment and stakeholder engagement.

[138] In its Application, ENSC stated: The Program Development Working Group (PDWG), established during NSPl's tenure as interim DSM Administrator, has advised ENSC during the transition from NSPI to ENSC and during the preparation of the...

AI summary ENSC emphasized the value of the Program Development Working Group (PDWG) in advising on DSM programs and the need for continued stakeholder consultation. The Board noted that no intervenors opposed the continuation of the PDWG in 2011, and ENSC requested approval for the PDWG to continue its role.

9.0 SUMMARY OF BOARD FINDINGS [153] The Board accepts the 2010 DSM Plan evaluation and verification, with the qualification made in the SVS for a 10% reduction for the Efficient Products-Direct Install program. [154] The Board understands...

AI summary The Board accepts the 2010 DSM Plan evaluation, approves the 2012 DSM investment, and sets conditions for ENSC, including quarterly meetings and a free ridership study. It also approves changes to the TRC test and allows exploration of a PBM. The Board reserves jurisdiction to rule on costs if EAC and ENSC cannot agree.

nsibility for reviewing and revIsing the methodology as appropriate, for approval by the UARB. It is anticipated that revisions for 2013 would be filed coincident with the filing of the 2013 DSM Plan. The above paragraph contemplates that...

AI summary Nova Scotia Power Inc. (NSPI) requests the UARB to confirm the 2012 ENS DSM Rider allocations and the 2010 DSM DCR BA, and asks for confirmation that ENS is best suited to lead any necessary stakeholder dialogue regarding the cost allocation methodology prior to the 2013 DSM filing.