Introduction
For printable version, click
here.
Home Performance with energy star® Program Overview
U. S. Environmental Protection Agency
Arizona: Foundation for Senior Living
California: Anaheim Public Utilities; California Building Performance Contractors Association (CBPCA)
Colorado: E-Star Colorado
Florida: Gainesville
Georgia: Georgia Power, Jackson EMC
Idaho: Idaho Energy Star
Illinois: TRICON
Maine: Efficiency Maine
Massachusetts: National Grid
Minnesota: Xcel Energy
Missouri: Department of Natural Resources Missouri Home Performance with Energy Star; Gateway Center for Resource Efficiency; Metropolitan Energy Center, Kansas City
New Jersey: New Jersey Bureau of Public Utilities
New York: Long Island Power Authority; New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
Ohio: First Energy
Oregon: Oregon Trust
Pennsylvania: West Penn Energy Sustainable Fund
Rhode Island: - See Massachusetts, National Grid (RI)
Texas: Austin Energy
Vermont: Efficiency Vermont
Wisconsin: Wisconsin Energy Conservation Corporation
Wyoming: Wyoming Home Performance
Industry Ally Profiles
Building Performance Institute, Inc.
Electric & Gas Industries Association
Hudson Valley Community College
Lockheed Martin Business Process Solutions
Performance Systems Development
Bibliography
2007 Austin Energy Home Performance with Energy Star Report
2005 Greening of a Home Performance Contractor
August 2004 Charting the Territory
November 2003 PIER Contractor Study
August 2003 Welcome to the Machine
April 2003 Keeping Score
December 2000 Pacific Gas & Electric Company Report
July 2000 CEC Whole House Contractor Credentialing
March 2000 Building Your Business
September 1999 Home Energy Ratings Sweep the Nation, Almost
November 1997 Working the Utility/Contractor Connection
December 1995 Conference Christens Home Performance Industry
March 1994 Residential Energy Services Market Transformation
ACEEE relevant papers/presentations
Event Proceedings
California Utility Collaboration to Transform Existing Homes with Home Performance with ENERGY STAR Workshop, Downey, CA March 2008
Beyond Home Energy Audits with Home Performance with energy staR Workshop, Long Island, NY September 2007 (click here for printable 2007 Proceedings)
Energy efficiency offers one of the lowest cost solutions for
improving our energy security, reducing our energy bills, and addressing the
important issue of global climate change—all while helping to grow the
economy. Energy efficiency is increasingly important to families and
businesses, particularly now with the higher fuel prices of the past several
years.
Energy efficiency is especially important among homeowners. The average homeowner spends $1,900 annually on energy. The average energy cost in US homes is 45 kBtu/SqFt/Yr but some homes use twice that amount. This is because more than half of all single-family homes in the US were built before modern energy codes. [1] Many of these homes have no wall insulation, high levels of air infiltration, poor duct systems, and inefficient heating and AC systems. In fact, 60 percent of US households report having winter drafts [2] and 62 percent complain of a room that is too warm in the summer. [3]
[1]
The Changing Structure of the Home Remodeling Industry, Harvard Joint Center
for Housing Studies
[2] 2004
American Home Comfort Survey Decision Analyst
[3] 2001
Residential Energy Consumption Survey
To help US homeowners increase the energy efficiency of their homes, the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the US Department of Energy (DOE) developed the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR (HPwES) Program. This program offers a comprehensive, whole-house approach to improving energy efficiency and comfort at home, while helping to protect the environment.
This program takes a “whole house approach” that begins with a comprehensive energy audit by a trained and certified contractor. This whole-house assessment includes diagnostic tests, by a qualified contractor who can make comprehensive improvements or refer home owners who can make these improvements.
A Home Performance with ENERGY STAR sponsor is responsible for overseeing the program's implementation and the performance of participating contractors to ensure that quality standards are met. To be effective in this role a sponsor must be legally and financially independent from participating contractors. Sponsoring a program is a significant commitment and will require an investment of financial resources and staff. Therefore, organizations should establish a budget and identify a consistent source of revenue before making a commitment. Organizations such as a utility, state energy agency, municipality or non-profit energy efficiency organization are typical program administrators who understand local market conditions, can provide third-party oversight to home improvement contractors, work to protect the ENERGY STAR mark, and generally serve the public interest.
A program sponsor (or administrator) is responsible for:
1. Developing the program standards, policies and procedures
2. Managing the program
3. Recruiting contractor participation
4. Promoting the program and
5. Ensuring that work completed under the program meets program standards including energy savings (i.e. quality assurance).
6. Evaluating program success
Another important component of this program is that the contractor must “test in” and “test out” which means that all completed projects are verified upon completion to ensure that the improvements were installed properly and the homeowner will achieve the energy savings. The Test-out is an important step at the end to verify that improvements to the home will be effective
This program is gaining traction across the US. Currently there are more than a dozen active programs, and many more are being established across the country.
National HPwES Map
Energy Savings Potential
Estimated energy
saving for the typical home that receives Home Performance with ENERGY STAR
will very based on the region of the country and type improvements
completed. The first HPwES programs included: Austin Energy,
Wisconsin Focus on Energy, and the New York Energy Research and Development
Authority (NYSERDA). These pioneering programs have collectively
improved the efficiency of nearly 20,000 existing homes saving their
customers an estimated $400 per year in energy costs.
The following table
gives a baseline for energy savings potential by region of the country.
Results from existing programs have demonstrated higher savings.
|
||||||||||||||||||||
Lessons Learned
The US DOE
and EPA have also learned some valuable lessons from the current program
sponsors based on their experiences. These lessons are summarized next.
Lesson 1: Contractor Participation Is Key
A participation agreement is your contract with the contractor
Be clear about what you will do and what they will do
Participating contractors should complete at least 25 jobs per year to remain eligible for incentives
Keep contractor requirements simple, but include things like eligibility criteria, conditions, standards, goals, reporting, quality assurance and logo use
Make it a clear and easy process for reporting
Make program benefits contingent on reaching goals
Benefits may include training, use of logo, incentives, recognition, etc.
Training is too valuable to give away
Track web and phone leads
Don’t list contractors on web site
Lesson 2: Contractors Need to “Own” It
Recruitment of “right” contractors requires time and resources… the “wrong” contractors are easy to find, and will not lead to program success.
Contractors will face new demands – the owner needs to be company champion and change agent. Otherwise, the contractors will slip back to old “business as usual.”
Contractors must actively market new services – not rely on program to generate all leads
Lesson 3: Financing Helps Sales
Ease of access is critical
Simple, quick, and hassle free
Low rates are not the most important feature
Access to multiple financing options is a big plus
Need ways to reach hard-to-qualify homeowners
Financing and or incentives can play key role in getting contractors to submit completed jobs!
Lesson 4: Sponsorship is Engaging
Successful programs have very active sponsors
Take leadership in marketing
Protect the ENERGY STAR Logo
Connects with broader industry- utilities, builders, state energy offices, etc
Becomes the local energy efficiency champion
Recognizes successful contractors – sponsors training events
Participates as a national efficiency stakeholder
Applies for ENERGY STAR National Awards
Steps to Develop a HpwES Program
EPA and DOE also recommend that program sponsors should complete the
following steps.
Step 1: Conduct Market Research
Typical activities from successful program sponsors include the following
actions:
Establish an advisory board
Conduct a market assessment
Select a pilot market to launch program
Select a program design
A bona fide whole-house approach
Basic design encourages consultant or contractor model
Need an effective strategy to turn audit recommendations into completed home improvements
Need an effective strategy to monitor the quality of the work performed under the program
Start developing a marketing plan
Step 2: Develop Policies and Procedures
Typical activities from successful program sponsors include the following
actions:
Strategy to recruit contractors to participate
Training, incentives, financing, or equipment
Leads
Contractor participation agreement
Eligibility criteria, conditions, standards, expectations/goals, reporting, and logo use
Contractor reporting and quality assurance procedures
Checklists, software, reviews and inspections
Procedures to use financing or other incentives
Keep it simple
STEP 3:
Partner with ENERGY STAR
Typical activities from successful program sponsors include the following
actions:
Summarize your program in an implementation plan
Sign partnership agreement
Use ENERGY STAR resources
Marketing toolkit
Consumer brochure
Contractor sales training
Contractor business development guide
Successful contractor profiles
To learn more
about the HPwES Program, contact
Patricia Plympton, Navigant Consulting supporting U.S. DOE202-481-7397
1801 K Street, NW Suite 500, Washington, DC 20006-1301
Patricia.plympton@navigantconsulting.com
Chandler von Schrader, EPA, 202 343-9096
1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW S EPA (6202J), Washington, DC
20460 Vonschrader.chandler@epa.gov
Dale Hoffmeyer, EPA, 202 343-9013
1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20460
Hoffmeyer.dale@epa.gov
on
The Department of Energy (DOE)'s overarching mission is to advance the national, economic, and energy security of the United States; to promote scientific and technological innovation in support of that mission; and to ensure the environmental cleanup of the national nuclear weapons complex. The Department's strategic goals to achieve the mission are designed to deliver results along five strategic themes:
Energy Security: Promoting America’s energy security through reliable, clean, and affordable energy
Nuclear Security: Ensuring America’s nuclear security
Scientific Discovery and Innovation: Strengthening U.S. scientific discovery, economic competitiveness, and improving quality of life through innovations in science and technology
Environmental Responsibility: Protecting the environment by providing a responsible resolution to the environmental legacy of nuclear weapons production
Management Excellence: Enabling the mission through sound management
The Building Technologies Program:
DOE's Building Technologies Program (BTP) works in partnership with states, industry, and manufacturers to improve the energy efficiency of our nation's buildings.
BTP:
Advances the research and development of energy-efficient building technologies and practices for both new and existing residential and commercial buildings
Works with state and local regulatory groups and others to improve building codes, appliance and equipment standards, and guidelines for efficient energy use
Promotes market transformation by educating homeowners, builders, and developers about the significant returns they can achieve by adopting energy-efficient technologies and practices
Energy-efficient buildings are better buildings. They use less energy, cost less to operate, and improve comfort. They help the environment and our nation, improving our energy security as well as the everyday lives of Americans.
ENERGY STAR®
ENERGY STAR® is a government-backed program helping businesses and individuals protect the environment through superior energy efficiency.
Results are already adding up. Last year alone, Americans, with the help of ENERGY STAR® , saved enough energy to power 10 million homes and avoid greenhouse gas emissions from 12 million cars - all while saving $6 billion.
For these reasons, the Department of Energy is a proud supporter of the Energy Star program. In addition, the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy provides information about energy efficient appliances and building.
The DOE develops technical requirements and qualifications defining ENERGY STAR status, and work with manufacturers, retailers, and utilities to promote the manufacture and use of ENERGY STAR products.
For more information contact:
Patricia
Plympton, Navigant Consulting supporting U.S. DOE
1801 K Street, NW Suite 500, Washington, DC 20006-1301
202-481-7397,
Patricia.plympton@navigantconsulting.com
ation
ENERGY
STAR®
is a joint program of
the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S.
Department of Energy helping us all save money and protect the environment
through energy efficient products and practices. Americans, with the help of
ENERGY STAR, saved enough energy in 2006 alone to avoid greenhouse gas
emissions equivalent to those from 25 million cars — all while saving $14
billion on their utility bills.
The ENERGY STAR® program has been a tremendous success in its first decade. Established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1992 for energy-efficient computers, the ENERGY STAR program has grown to encompass more than 35 product categories for the home and workplace, new homes, and superior energy management within organizations. Some highlights demonstrating the impact of this program are: Thousands of organizations have partnered with the federal government to demonstrate a commitment to protecting the environment through energy efficiency. Americans have purchased more than 1 billion ENERGY STAR qualified products. More than 100,000 families live in new homes that have earned the ENERGY STAR. More than 40 percent of the American public recognizes the ENERGY STAR.
The ENERGY STAR program has dramatically increased the use of energy-efficient products and practices and is well positioned to promote more widespread efficiency improvements.
Home Performance with ENERGY STAR, launched in 2001, is a whole house improvement program that emphasizes a home diagnostic evaluation and improvements made by a trained technician, coupled with a strong quality assurance program administered by a regional sponsor. This comprehensive whole-house approach, backed by EPA and DOE, increases the comfort of existing homes, saves homeowners money on utility bills, and reduces peak loads. State and locally sponsored Home Performance with ENERGY STAR programs have improved more than 26,000 homes across the country since 2001.
ENERGY STAR is designed to overcome many of the market barriers to the adoption of cost-effective energy efficiency products and services in a sustained manner and to help unleash the attendant savings for individuals and organizations. EPA’s funding is not used to buy equipment, products, or services as is the case with some energy efficiency programs, such as traditional demand-side management (DSM) programs seeking near-term energy savings. Funding is used to provide businesses and consumers with information and tools that break down major market barriers and alter decision making for the long term.
This approach, which helps direct private capital toward energy efficiency investments, provides a large environmental and economic payback for the government’s investment. ENERGY STAR enhances the market for energy efficiency by reducing the transaction costs and lowering the investment risks to the point that more projects become attractive.
For more information contact:
Chandler von
Schrader, U.S. EPA
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20460
202-343-9096,
vonschrader.chandler@epa.gov
Partner
Information
For more than 30 years, the Foundation for Senior Living has worked to improve the quality of life for seniors, adults with disability and their family caregivers. The Foundation for Senior Living is one of the largest non-profit organizations in Arizona. It operates Arizona’s HPwES on behalf of Arizona Public Service (APS).
The Home Improvement program of the Foundation for Senior Living also operates the Arizona Building Science & Energy Efficiency Training Facility. The facility is sponsored by the US Department of Energy, the Arizona Department of Commerce-Energy Office, Southwest Gas, and APS along with a one-time contribution from SRP.
The FSL Training Facility provides weatherization, energy efficiency and building science training for building contractors, weatherization auditors and repair technicians located throughout the southwestern United States. Participants receive classroom and hands-on experience in a laboratory specifically designed to teach pressure diagnostics and combustion safety techniques. In 2006, FSL has begun partnering with the Building Performance Institute to begin certifying Energy Analysts and Building Shell Technicians.
Year Program Began: July 2007
Primary Drivers For Program Implementation: No information provided
Program Implementation Strategy
Delivery Methodology: Contractor
All contractors sign participation agreement, and there is a 100% review by staff of all paperwork and 15% of all jobs are reviewed by FSL staff.
The program, which is just starting, already has 6 BPI certified technicians more than 12 have the required diagnostic equipment. The program has developed a strong contractor outreach component.
|
The
Home Improvements Program offers a wide range of services, including
emergency
|
All major housing rehabilitation must be applied for through local city government. Due to demand and limited funding, there may be a waiting list for services.
Measuring Results: No information provided
Estimated Value of Dollar Improvements From These Activities: No information provided.
Training is provided by the Southwest Building Science Center
Contractors are certified through BPI. All contractors must have at least one BPI certified auditor.
Summit Blue Consulting working as Measurement and Verification inspector for APS.
Reasons for Success/Failure: Too soon to tell
Lessons Learned: Not applicable
Key
Staff Individuals/ Primary Staff Contact
Carrie Smith, Phone: 602 285-1800,
Email:
csmith@fls.org
Partner Information
Company
Name: Anaheim Public Utilities
Anaheim Public Utilities (APU) is a publicly-owned, not-for-profit electric and water utility that is responsible for delivering high quality, economical electric and water utility services to residents and businesses in the City of Anaheim.
Anaheim Public Utilities markets its version of the HPwES through its Home Investment Package (HIP). The Home Investment Package begins with a whole-home audit that reviews all key areas, from lighting and appliances to ventilation, heating, cooling and insulation. A Building Performance Institute (BPI) certified contractor works with customers to implement home energy improvements. Participating customers also qualify for low-interest financing and rebates to help defray the cost of energy improvements.
The first year’s budget was $600,000.
Year Program began: May 2007
Primary Drivers For Program Implementation
Reduce homeowners' high energy bills
Address comfort problems
Increase local awareness on cost-effective, energy-efficient home improvements
Do something beyond traditional rebate programs
Stimulate the local economy and create jobs
Improve public perception by being an advocate for energy efficiency and renewable energy
Reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions
Improve the durability and performance of older housing stock
Program Implementation Strategy
Delivery Methodology: Services are delivered through APU’s list of certified contractors. As a way to encourage contractor recruitment, APU reimburses 50 percent of the training costs to contractors after they complete 5 HIP projects.
Measuring Results
Energy savings
Number of jobs completed
Number of contractors trained
Value of the home improvements
The program is administered by Conservation Services Group (CSG). Additional financing is provided through the Electric and Gas Industries Association (EGIA). The contractor training classes are provided by the California Building Performance Contractors Association (CBPCA).
Partner Information
The California Building Performance Contractors Association (CBPCA) was formed in 2001 to transform the residential retrofit market through home performance contracting and lead it toward fulfilling the goals of greater energy efficiency and improved health, safety, comfort, and durability. CBPCA is also a California accredited HERS Provider, with an emphasis on existing homes.
CBPCA operates two separate home performance programs in California in addition to its major subcontractor role in the Anaheim program.
Northern California: CBPCA operated a $3.5 million introductory Home Performance with Energy Star program for Pacific Gas & Electric in 2002-06, and continues to provide training for more home performance contractor personnel through Pacific Gas &Electric (PG&E)’s Energy Training Center. CBPCA also serves as a trade association for the contractors trained in both of those PG&E programs, providing marketing leads, materials, advisory services and access to the HPwES program.
Southern California:
CBPCA is providing a similar introductory Home Performance with Energy Star
program for Southern California Edison (SCE) in 2007-08. This program is
based on lessons learned in the Northern California program and offers
optional BPI certification. The contractor recruitment, training, and
mentoring are done by CBPCA in collaboration with the Anaheim HPwES program
since CBPCA is also responsible for those aspects of the Anaheim program
under subcontract from Conservation Services Group. The Edison budget is
$1.25 million for the two-year term.
Year Program Began: 2002 in Northern California, 2006 in Southern California
Primary Drivers For Program Implementation
Reduce homeowners' high energy bills
Address comfort problems
Increase local awareness on cost-effective, energy-efficient home improvements
Increase local awareness on cost-effective, energy-efficient home improvements
Stimulate the local economy and create jobs
Improve public perception by being an advocate for energy efficiency and renewable energy
Reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
Other: Demonstrate the value of the broad range of non-energy benefits (health, safety, home value, reduced repair, environmentalism, etc.) in gaining homeowner investment in major energy and peak demand savings.
Program Implementation Strategy
The CBPCA’s approach has been to provide extensive free training and field mentoring to contractors in both technical and business/marketing/sales aspects of home performance work, in recognition of the full range of difficulties contractors often face in adapting to this work. CBPCA seeks to make home performance contracting successful through emphasis on the full range of energy and non-energy benefits rather than consumer subsidies. To date no homeowner incentives have been offered, relying instead on supporting contractor marketing, sales, and reporting. Different business models are encouraged, ranging from all-inclusive home assessment and repair to separation of the home assessment step and use of a variety of specialty contractors for the repair work.
Delivery Methodology:
Contractors and
related specialists such as energy raters and home inspectors are trained to
find effective HPwES business models and collaborate as needed. Home
assessments are generally marketed by CBPCA-trained remodelers or specialty
contractors who will also do the recommended home repairs. Most marketing is
done by the contractors. Market-rate financing is offered by contractors
through the Electric and Gas Industries Association (EGIA).
Contractors in CBPCA’s current Northern and Southern California programs receive free training in building science, home assessment, repair practices, and business, marketing, and sales training. The Southern California program also provides free field mentoring, consulting, and marketing, as did the original PG&E 2002-06 program, plus a $100 incentive payment for contractor job data reporting. To date, over 300 contractor personnel have been trained in Northern California and approximately 120 in the still-new Southern California program.
Measuring Results
Program results are tracked in the following ways:
Number of personnel trained and contractors included
Value of the home improvements
Other: Demonstration of the value of the full range of non-energy benefits in securing homeowner investment in comprehensive energy retrofits with maximum energy and peak demand savings.
Project Goal:
Southern California Edison seeks a total of 150 contractor personnel trained and a variety of mentoring, marketing, and verification activities completed within two years. The earlier PG&E program had similar goals, which were achieved or exceeded; the current training program for PG&E is planned to graduate approximately 150 persons over 18 months and is on schedule to meet that target. Since these have been technically outreach programs rather than part of the utilities’ energy saving portfolios, there were no formal requirements for specific levels of energy savings.
Estimated Value of Dollar Improvements From These Activities: At a projected $15,000 average homeowner investment, the total for each 1000 homes would approximate $15 million. The number of home retrofits completed in Northern California is unknown due to earlier reporting obstacles but is estimated to be in the 2000 range, implying a gross homeowner investment level of some $30 million to date. The current annual rate for all the California programs is estimated at 1000 retrofits and accelerating.
CBPCA employs a variety of consultants and staff. Bevilacqua-Knight, Inc. (BKi) manages home performance activities and business-related training for the Association, Chitwood Energy Services conducts technical training, Chitwood and Maximum Performance Housing conduct field mentoring, Saturn Resource Management and Performance Systems Development both assisted in curriculum development and refinement, and the Electric and Gas Industries Association (EGIA) provides financing services. CBPCA is also allied with Conservation Services Group in the Anaheim HPwES program, in which the training and other field activities are CBPCA responsibilities and conducted in close coordination with CBPCA’s Southern California Edison program.
Reasons for Success/Failure
The Northern California HPwES efforts have succeeded in training a large number of contractor personnel—approximately 300 to date—due to very aggressive recruitment and extensive training support. For the same reason, the new Southern California program is training at an even faster rate despite more extensive training requirements. We also anticipate success of this program’s innovative marketing efforts, including the recently approved use of the utility’s billing data to identify and solicit “gross polluter” homeowner participation and also intensive involvement with realtors and building inspectors as a way to build an early market and reassure contractors of viability.
Program Failure
These programs are successful in meeting their key goals. But as in all home performance programs, the degree of learning and business reorientation required has been a major obstacle to effective contractor participation, causing many dropouts and serious consideration of more gradual staged training regimes and improved multi-contractor business models in future CBPCA programs. In addition, the early Northern California program’s lack of incentives to induce contractor job data reporting caused difficulty in proving market penetration and energy savings for the utility. Future program adjustments are planned to add homeowner incentives tied to contractor data submittal acceptability.
Lessons Learned
Put heavy emphasis on assistance in business planning and practices, marketing, and sales rather than only technical building science and methods
Invest in contractor applicant orientation and screening to reduce wasted training effort on non-serious or incapable contractors
Financial incentives to contractors may not be sufficient to gain adequate job data reporting; homeowner incentives now seem necessary
Avoid the complexity of conventional measure-based consumer incentives in favor of a combination of low-interest financing and cash-back options (and make those contingent on contractor job data reporting).
Make use of utility sponsor access to customer data and effective targeted utility marketing media such as bill stuffers, letters to high-bill users, websites, and public awareness campaigns
Seek industry-wide liability insurance coverage specific to home performance contracting; the RESNET group insurance will cover the diagnosis if done by a qualified rater, whether a contractor employee or independent consultant
Verify effort vs. accuracy of energy savings estimation options, and tailor data requirements and analytic responsibilities to contractor capabilities; consider simple bill-disaggregation methods in addition to simulation models
Contact Harry Ford, BKi’s home performance program manager for CBPCA at hford@bki.com or 510.444.8707 x206. Also check the www.cbpca.org website.
CBPCA: Dr. Robert Knight, Bevilacqua-Knight, Inc., Oakland, CA; rknight@bki.com
Southern California Edison: Davi Ibarra, program manager, davi.ibarra@sce.com
Pacific Gas & Electric: Charles Segerstrom, Director, Energy Training Center-Stockton, CFS1@pge.com
Partner Information
E Star Colorado is an independent 501(c)3 nonprofit that has been the provider of HPwES program in Colorado since 2003 or 2004. E-Star received funding from EPA, Colorado Springs Utility, Fort Collins Utility and the City of Boulder to get the program off the ground. During the 2004-2006 time frame E-Star received about $300,000. The program focused on training contractors. As of the end of 2006 five contractors were qualified and completing projects.
In late 2006 E-Star’s management changed – the Executive Director of the Colorado Energy Science Center (CESC) became E-Star’s Acting Executive Director. By early 2007 more funding was attracted to the program from Boulder, Fort Collins Utility and Johns Manville Insulation.
The program has focused on providing contractor training and support. Now that E-Star and CESC are working closer together, CESC is beginning to provide more information on home performance through its SmartEnergyLiving Program (www.smartenergyliving.org). The newest issue of the Smart Energy Living magazine includes an article on HPwES.
Year Program Began: 2003
Primary Drivers For Program Implementation
Reduce homeowners' high energy bills
Increase local awareness on cost-effective, energy-efficient home improvements
Improve public perception by being an advocate for energy efficiency and renewable energy
Reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
Program Implementation Strategy
Delivery Methodology
Contractor driven program to date, but the CESC is exploring using other delivery options as well including CO Home Energy Raters (HERS). Saturn Resources developed a training curriculum and the next training period is scheduled to start in the Fall of 2007.
Currently, there are five active contractors and the goal is to include the number of trained contractors to at least 15. These contractors will also be encouraged to receive BPI certification. Currently contractors pay for training and equipment. There are also funds set aside to perform quality assurance by staff.
Past marketing efforts have been sponsored through the EPA. The website has also been redesigned.
Measuring Results
Energy savings
Number of jobs completed
Number of contractors trained
Value of the home improvements
Estimated Value of Dollar Improvements From These Activities: Not Available
The program has received support from four organizations: Colorado Springs Utilities, Fort Collins Utility, the City of Boulder and the Colorado Governor’s Energy Office.
Reasons for Success/Failure
They have established a strong training program.
They have attracted funding from key Colorado funders.
Program Failure
HP contractors are able to use some utility incentives in Fort Collins and Colorado Springs, but there is not a distinct incentive for HPwES.
The program has good support from several in-state funders but none at a level large enough to support an aggressive program.
The current job volume is low, and contractors have not reported consistently.
Lessons Learned
More effort must be invested into getting contractors to report.
Partner Information
Mailing Address: PO Box 83720, Boise, ID 83720-0098
Telephone:
Web site: www.idahoenergystar.com
History with HPwES
Year Program Began: September 2005
Primary Drivers For Program Implementation: Not provided
Program Implementation Strategy
Target Markets: Residential home owners
Delivery Methodology: Contractor
The major focus is reaching out to home improvement contractors and remodelers.
IED offered a free training course for contractors and also offered and to date, 29 contractors have completed training.
Training was offered free - ID Falls Co-op now offering $125 to offset Home Assessment costs
Idaho Falls Cooperative offers customers a rebate of $125 to defray the costs of the energy audits, referred to as Home Assessments.
Other marketing activities include using EPA materials and web page support. Idaho Power is providing print brochures for mailing and outreach at home shows.
Measuring Results: Not provided.
Estimated Value of Dollar Improvements From These Activities: Not Available.
Key Vendors/Partners/Allies
The Idaho Energy Division (IED) works with the following partners to implement this program: Idaho Power Company, Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA), Portland Energy Conservation, Inc. (PECI) and Conservation Services Group (CSG).
Reasons for Success/Failure
Program Failure: Small contractor base to date.
Lessons Learned: Not available
Key Staff Individuals/ Primary Staff
Contact
Idaho Energy
Division
;
1-800-334-SAVE(7283);
energyspecialist@idwr.idaho.gov
Company
Name:
Tricon
This program is operated by the Tri-County Construction Labor Management Council (TRICON). Operated under the name “Better Built,” this trade association promotes building science education and training to home performance contractors. The organization received $200,000 funding form the State of Illinois through 2008. The program also receives funding from the local utility, Ameren.
The program is viewed as a way to mitigate upcoming rate increases in both electricity and natural gas.
Year Program Began: May 2007
Primary Drivers For Program Implementation: Not provided
Program Implementation Strategy
Delivery Methodology
The program uses hybrid model using both a consultant-auditor and contractors to install the improvements.
The program provides contractor incentives to offset the training costs of up to 50% once the job has been completed. To date, 24 contractors have received training and 4 to 6 are active in the program.
Program marketing includes a Makeover Contest as a way to educate customers about the benefits of making home energy improvements. The program also relies on the marketing materials developed by EPA, as well as bill inserts and other marketing outreach. Customers also receive low-interest loans from two local banks to help offset the cost of the home improvements.
Measuring Results: No information provided.
Estimated Value of Dollar Improvements From These Activities: No information provided.
Reasons for Success/Failure: No information provided
Lessons Learned: No information provided
Partner
Information
Telephone: 631-755-5313
The Maine Home Performance with Energy Star® (MaineHP) Program started as a pilot program but quickly became a state-wide initiative. Funding grew from just $50,000 to more than $1,250,000 in the first year.
Its jump-start is attributed to an innovative customer outreach program that demonstrated the value of home energy improvements though a Home Energy Makeover Contest. This also created interest among contractors, who received training and certification during the contest period.
The program also focuses on providing one-stop-shop access to a whole-house approach to home improvements and emphasizes the following benefits to home owners:
reduce energy costs
reduce pain of volatile oil markets and homeowner’s high energy bills.
reduce energy consumption in the residential sector.
address air quality, health and comfort problems especially in light of the wet years/climate shift
stimulate deployment of energy efficient technologies
improve public perception of the state government by being an advocate for energy efficiency
increase the value of homeowner’s biggest investment and increase the value of Maine’s housing stock which is some of the oldest in the nation.
Year Program Began: June 2006
Primary Drivers for Program Implementation
Reduce homeowners' high energy bills
Address comfort problems
Increase local awareness on cost-effective, energy-efficient home improvements
Do something beyond traditional rebate programs
Stimulate the local economy and create jobs
Improve public perception by being an advocate for energy efficiency and renewable energy
Reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
Program Implementation Strategy
Delivery Methodology: Contractor model but also considering a hybrid option.
The program provides
contractor incentives of up to $1,700 to defray the costs of training and
equipment. Currently, there are approximately 15 qualified contractors in
the program.
The program offers loans to low income households, but is also considering offering loans to other home owners as well.
Marketing materials include extensive information on the website to promote energy efficiency improvements. The program also features several other innovative marketing approaches including Energy Savings certificates. The contractors also provide customers with Energy Savings certificates after the project is completed as a way to further reinforce the energy efficiency message.
Other marketing materials include posters, refrigerator magnets, print media, radio and television advertisements
There will also be customer case studies posted on the website as more jobs are completed.
Measuring Results
Energy savings
Number of jobs completed
Number of contractors trained
Value of the home improvements
Estimated Value of Dollar Improvements From These Activities: Not Applicable
The Governor’s Office of Energy Independence and Security developed the Program in close coordination with the Maine Housing Authority and Efficiency Maine, a division of the Maine Public Utilities Commission.
The program administrator is Performance Systems Development (PSD).
Reasons for Success/Failure
Became a part of the political discussion, received high visibility due to support from the Governor
Relied on an the Home Energy Makeover Contest to generate leads for contractors and create enthusiasm and awareness among customers.
Lessons Learned
National Grid, the second largest utility in the US, operates a regional program serving customers in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Current funding is approximately $5 million, but funding could double in the next few years.
Year Program Began: Doing HPwES since 2002
The National Grid programs have been in existence since the early 1990s or before. The programs are updated continuously to meet customer needs. In 2002, the programs were approved as Home Performance with ENERGY STAR.
Primary Drivers For Program Implementation
Reduce homeowners' high energy bills
Address comfort problems
Increase local awareness on cost-effective, energy-efficient home improvements
Do something beyond traditional rebate programs
Stimulate the local economy and create jobs
Improve public perception by being an advocate for energy efficiency and renewable energy
Reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
Address customers’ health and safety needs and improve energy savings through a “house as a system” approach.
Program Implementation Strategy
National Grid modified its existing energy efficiency programs to conform with the EPA’s program. In Massachusetts, National Grid is required by law to offer a free home energy audit with follow-up services, that program was modified to include a “house as a system” approach and include incentives to encourage customers to implement energy efficiency measures. Customers can received low-interest loans or direct incentives of 50% of the cost up to $1500. The program also includes the installation of ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) at no cost to the consumer. The energy savings generated by the CFL installation ensure that offering the free home energy audit is cost effective. Pre-screening takes place to ensure that the home visit is typically only offered to customers in older homes who need energy efficiency measures installed. Marketing activities include bill inserts, post cards, direct mail, radio and newspaper ads.
Delivery Methodology: Contractors and all are BPI accredited
The contractors are responsible for all work done in the home and are subject to quality assurance reviews by National Grid and BPI’s quality assurance staff.
Measuring Results
The program results are measured in the following ways:
Energy savings
Number of jobs completed
Project Goal: 1,456 completed jobs in 2005; 4,852 in 2006; 5,000 is goal for 2007.
Estimated Value of Dollar Improvements From These Activities:
Annually, the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR programs in Massachusetts and Rhode Island typically create over about $16 million in energy savings value, that is, the value of the energy savings based on the energy efficiency measures that are installed.
CSG, Rise, AES, CET
Reasons for Success/Failure
Increasing sales of energy efficiency measures
Conversion of typical state-mandated programs into real energy savings and home improvements for customers
Large numbers of customers served and energy efficiency measures installed.
Program does not subsidize non-energy savings measures
Quality Assurance is strongly built into the program design.
Program Failure
• Does not have as strong market transformation aspects as some HPwES programs in other areas since it works with general contractor energy service companies as opposed to contractors directly. The program is also experimenting with moving in this direction in Rhode Island.
Lessons Learned
Focusing on customer needs and perspective has been very important in improving the programs.
It has been very helpful to learn about HPwES efforts around the country as we consider program design changes.
Partner Information
Xcel Energy is a combination electricity and natural gas energy company serving 3.3 million electricity customers and 1.8 million natural gas customers. It has regulated operations revenue of more than $9 billion annually and serves customers in Colorado, Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Texas and Wisconsin.
Currently Xcel is piloting its Home Performance Rebate Pilot program in Minnesota. If the program is viewed as cost-effective, it will then be expanded to other state within Xcel’s service territory, The pilot program closed July 1, 2007.
Year Program Began: July 2006
Primary Drivers For Program Implementation: No information provided
Program Implementation Strategy
Delivery Methodology: Consultant
There were approximately 30 contractors participating in this program. However, these contractors were selected by Xcel but were not required to complete any certification training. All post-test inspections to be conducted by an auditor,
The pilot program was marketed through a mailing in the Fall of 2006. It offered rebates to customers who installed qualifying equipment. The average rebate per home is more than $600.
Customers called Xcel to receive an energy audit for $35, which was charged to their electric bills. The two-hour audit was required in order to participate. The auditor also collected and compared historical usage information for each customer. After completion of the audit, the customer received a list of certified contractors to perform the work. In order to qualify for rebates, the customer had to agree to implement at least five improvements; three mandatory and two optional If the improvements are made and verified by the auditor within six months, the customer then received a rebate.
Required items included air sealing, attic insulation, and installing 20 CFL bulbs or fixtures. The rebates for these items totaled $290.
Optional items included replacing HVAC equipment, appliances, water heaters or a thermostat set back and the rebates ranged from $10 to $330, depending upon the measures selected.
Measuring Results: No information provided.
Estimated Value of Dollar Improvements From These Activities: No information provided.
Key Vendors/Partners/Allies
Conservation Services Group (CSG)
Reasons for Success/Failure: Not relevant
Lessons Learned: Not relevant
Missouri:
Mailing Address: Missouri Dept. of Natural Resources– Energy Center, P.O. Box 176, Jefferson City, MO 65102
Telephone: 800-361-4827
Web site: www.dnr.mo.gov/energy/energystar.htm (Later will be www.mohomeperformance.com)
History with HPwES
The Energy Center has been involved with HPwES since 2003 and in 2006 began a relaunch of the program through a DOE Special Projects grant. Implementation is occurring in 3 major markets in the Tri-State areas of Missouri, Illinois, and Kansas (these are in addition to the Peoria, IL, area managed by TRICON – see separate entry within this document). The three areas include (1) Metro St. Louis (IL & MO), Columbia, MO; (2) Columbia, MO; (3) Kansas City Metro (MO & KS).
Year Program began: 2003 with relaunch in 2006
Primary Drivers For Program Implementation
Core to Energy Center mission is promoting energy efficiency
Create a market for home performance that eventually will not need incentives
Increase local awareness of existing home energy & comfort opportunities
Reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions
Reduce need for energy in MO which is primarily imported
Program Implementation Strategy
Target Markets: The three areas include (1) Metro St. Louis (IL & MO), Columbia, MO; (2) Columbia, MO; (3) Kansas City Metro (MO & KS).
Delivery Methodology: The program uses hybrid model using both a consultant-auditor and contractors to install the improvements.
Missouri is the sponsor for the program and has three local implementing partners: (1) Missouri Botanical Garden’s EarthWays Center in St. Louis; (2) Columbia Water and Light; (3) Metropolitan Energy Center in Kansas City. Each of these local implementing organizations has provided an implementation plan to the Sponsor, Missouri Energy Center, that outlines their approach to implementation. Each has the opportunity to offer local incentives to customers or to contractors/consultants as they see fit. Missouri is leading the marketing effort in a team approach with the local implementing partners and has funded the three partners through subgrants. Local utilities are also providing funding.
Program marketing began by hiring a marketing consultant that has drafted a marketing plan for the next year and utilizing the EPA ENERGY STAR creative materials. We are working with utilities for billing inserts and newsletters and intend to also use e-marketing and public radio as well as other public relations approaches such as press releases and announcements at events. We have designed and will deploy a new Web Site: missourihomeperformance.com soon.
Measuring Results: There are currently no numbers to report.
Project Goal: Minimum goals throughout all markets combined based on DOE grant scope:
· 1100 referrals
· 550 comprehensive home assessments
· 138 improved homes with 2+ items improved
· Minimum 15% QA
Estimated Value of Dollar Improvements From These Activities: Unknown
Key Vendors/Partners/Allies
· EarthWays Center, State of Illinois-DCEO, Ameren
· Columbia Water and Light, Boone Electric
· Metropolitan Energy Center, State of Kansas-KCC, KCPL, HUEE
Reasons for Success/Failure: Early failure due to lack of funding. The re-launch is possible due to new funding and new utility interest in energy efficiency.
Lessons Learned: N/A
Best Way to Learn of New Developments: Contact Primary Staff
Key Staff Individuals/ Primary Staff Contact
· Missouri Energy Center: Pat Justis, Phone: 314-416-2960, Email: pat.justis@dnr.mo.gov
EarthWays Center: Glenda Abney, Phone: 314-577-0288, Email: glenda.abney@mobot.org
Columbia Water and Light: Terry Freeman, Phone: 573-874-7631, Email: twfreema@gocolumbiamo.com
Metropolitan Energy Center: Dustin Jensen, Phone: 816-531-SAVE, Email: dustin@kcenergy.org
Company Name:
Gateway Center for Resource Efficiency
Mailing Address: 3617 Grandel Square, St. Louis, MO 63108
Telephone: 314 577-0288
Web site: www.earthwayscenter.org
The Gateway Center for Resource Efficiency is dedicated to promote energy efficiency and sustainability to Missouri home owners. Located on the grounds of the Missouri Botanical Garden, the center provides tours of its green home, and educational activities for both home owners and school children.
It developed a HPwES program several years ago, but this is currently on hold. It is anticipated that this program will be redesigned to become a state-wide program managed by the State of Missouri. The Earth Ways Center will then become a resource for contractor training and education.
Currently, there are a few trained contractors in the area, but it is not currently active.
Year Program Began: Not Applicable; program is being re-launched
Primary Drivers For Program Implementation: Not provided
Program Implementation Strategy
Delivery Methodology: Contractor
Measuring Results: Not Applicable
Project Goal:
Estimated Value of Dollar Improvements From These Activities: Not Applicable
Key Vendors/Partners/Allies
The redesigned program will be developed in conjunction with the Missouri Energy Office and several utilities. Currently Columbia Utility has agreed to sponsor the program at some level.
Reasons for Success/Failure: Not Applicable
Lessons Learned: Not Applicable
Key Staff
Individuals/ Primary Staff Contact
Glenda Abney, Phone:
314 577-0288,
glenda.abney@mobot.org
|
Kansas City Home Performance Network |
The Metropolitan Energy Center manages the Kansas City Home Performance Network, which is a program in Kansas City designed to help homeowners make the improvements that will really work to make their existing homes (whether old or new) more comfortable with lower energy bills. The center provides listings of trained home energy professionals and contractors, certified by the Building Performance Institute (BPI).
Year Program began: March 2003
Primary Drivers For Program Implementation
Reduce homeowners' high energy bills
Address comfort problems
Increase local awareness on cost-effective, energy-efficient home improvements
Stimulate the local economy and create jobs
Reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
Program Implementation Strategy
Delivery Methodology: Contractor
Five contractors are listed on the website. The center subcontracts its training to the Wisconsin Energy Efficiency Corporation (WECC).
KC Metro Energy Center is submitting plan to state of Missouri to participate as a provider of services: recruitment, training and intake/referral.
Measuring Results
Energy savings
Number of jobs completed
Number of contractors trained
Value of the home improvements
Estimated Value of Dollar Improvements From These Activities: Not available
KBSI, Heartland Utilities & MO Energy Office
Reasons for Success/Failure
5 of 6 contractors are still in the program.
There is now a go to place for KC homeowners to find Home Performance services.
Program Failure
Not enough cash resources to run program as intended or to support contractors.
Marketing is weak.
Lessons Learned
Build in incentives for contractors
New Jersey:
History
with HPwES
Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® is a market transformation program that helps residential contractors offer comprehensive energy improvement packages based on sound building science principles that produce measurable energy savings to improve the energy efficiency, comfort, safety and durability of customers’ homes. Home Performance with ENERGY STAR is offered to New Jersey residents by New Jersey Board of Public Utilities, Office of Clean Energy and New Jersey’s Clean Energy ProgramTM.
This program provides information and financial incentives to help New Jersey homeowners reduce their energy use by up to 30 percent, thereby lowering utility costs and helping to protect the environment. Specially trained contractors accredited by the Building Performance Institute (BPI) use a comprehensive, whole house approach to test and improve a home’s energy efficiency in order to deliver services that dramatically impact energy savings, comfort, and environmental protection.
Year Program Began: Pilot program 2005-2006, statewide program began 2007
Primary Drivers For Program Implementation
Improve energy efficiency to reduce energy usage,
Lower utility costs
Provide climate change solutions to help protect the environment.
Program Implementation Strategy
The main goal is to position New Jersey at the forefront of the movement to reduce energy consumption by providing tangible home energy solutions that improve comfort, lower energy costs, and increase health and safety.
This goal will be accomplished in a two-pronged fashion by encouraging:
Remodeling, HVAC and insulation contractors to adopt a whole-house, systems approach to treating homes by becoming certified and accredited by the Building Performance Institute (BPI).
Consumers to look for and request “whole house” energy efficiency solutions as offered by certified BPI contractors participating in Home Performance with ENERGY STAR.
HVAC, insulation and remodeling contractors
The first prong of the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR program is to secure the participation of leading contractors throughout New Jersey to deliver performance-based improvements and repairs to energy-related systems in residential homes.
Strategies
One of the lynchpins of success is to reach contractors with the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR message and to demonstrate how BPI participation can help differentiate and expand their business. This is critical in order to build a strong network of approved contractors who are able to meet consumer demand with work that achieves the highest quality standards. Financial incentives, training and marketing are provided to establish contractor infrastructure.
Consumers
The second prong of the proposed Home Performance with ENERGY STAR program is to communicate directly with consumers in order to gain their awareness and adoption of energy saving home improvements. The goal is to promote the comprehensive installation of significant insulation/air sealing and/or HVAC equipment.
A critical component of the program is to reach consumers and educate them about the benefits of Home Performance with ENERGY STAR, making Home Performance synonymous with smart energy savings and encourage consumers to look and ask for BPI Accredited contractors for their home repairs and renovations.
New Jersey’s marketing strategy for Home Performance with ENERGY STAR incorporates an integrated educational advertising, public relations, communications and online campaign to create awareness of whole house services to homeowners and contractors, while promoting Home Performance with ENERGY STAR as one of the New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program premiere solutions to help consumers reduce energy use and climate change, as well as enjoy a more comfortable, healthy and safe home.
In 2007, New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program promoted the program by building upon a strategy to provide “whole house, whole building, whole community” solutions to transform New Jersey’s energy market and support Governor Corzine’s plan to reduce New Jersey’s overall energy use 20% by 2020.
The program offers varying levels of financial incentives to customers who install qualifying improvements:
Financing as low as 3.99% up to $20,000
50% subsidy for Income Qualified Participants, up to $5,000
Up to 50% cash back depending upon comprehensiveness of jobs.
The program also offers incentives to contractors who become BPI Accredited:
Contractors receive a 50% subsidy to purchase the required diagnostic equipment and 75% subsidy to attend the training, which is fully reimbursed once they are BPI Accredited.
What sets these contractors apart from the rest is the nationally recognized training, certification and accreditation they receive from the Building Performance Institute (BPI).
To date, 34 contractors have been BPI Accredited.
Delivery Methodology:
Participating Contractor and in a coordinated effort to support participating contractors, the program markets directly to consumers, encouraging them to undertake significant energy efficiency home improvements and connects consumers with these specially trained and accredited Home Performance contractors.
Measuring Results
Average Cost of home improvement packages: $7.390.00 (all completions to date)
Average estimated savings: $869.00/annually (all completions to date)
Contractors: 34 BPI Accredited companies
Home Assessments to date: 244 home assessments
Completed Jobs to date: 26 projects completed (including 2007 completions)
Honeywell/Conservation Services Group serves as implementation contractor.
BPI provides technician certification and contractor accreditation.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Reasons for Success/Failure
Building upon New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program strategy to provide “whole house, whole building, whole community” solutions, Home Performance with ENERGY STAR is being positioned as a major force in transforming the energy marketplace in New Jersey to use more energy-efficient technologies and renewable energy alternatives as climate change solutions. The program is an integral part of Governor Corzine’s plan to reduce New Jersey’s overall energy use 20% by 2020.
Lessons Learned
Provide business development, sales and marketing training for contractors
Increase consumer education and awareness to provide greater market “lift off”
Develop community networks to increase word-of-mouth advertising and referrals
Michael Winka, Director of
NJ BPU, Office of Clean Energy, 609-777-3335,
michael.winka@bpu.state.nj.us
Mona Mosser, Chief of the Bureau of Energy Efficiency, NJ BPU, 973-648-2891,
mona.mosser@bpu.state.nj.us
Julie DeSeve, Program Manager,
Honeywell Market Manager, Conservation Services Group, 732-218-3402,
julie.deseve@csgrp.com
New York:
In May of 1998, the Long Island Power Authority (LIPA) became Long Island’s primary electric service provider. Operating as a non-profit entity, LIPA has continued to serve the Island’s growing population with a consistent commitment to cost-containment, efficiency, and service reliability.
In 2004, LIPA and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority launched the ENERGY STAR® Labeled Homes Program on Long Island, which works with participating builders to increase the energy efficiency, safety and quality of homes. The program has allowed thousands of homeowners throughout New York to lower their energy bills, while protecting the environment. To further help Long Islanders save money, LIPA also offers the Cool Homes Program which offers rebates to homeowners who install properly sized, high-efficiency central air conditioning systems in their homes which are verified to be installed properly.
This program is funded as part of the Clean Energy Initiative and the funding level is projected to grow. Currently, funding is more than $3.6 million.
The current program relies on CSG to provide program administration and quality control. In September 2007, CSG took a more proactive selling role by participating in a Pilot Sales Program as a way to increase the level of completed projects.
Year Program Began: July 2006
Primary Drivers For Program Implementation: LIPA developed this program as a way to achieve the following objectives:
Reduce homeowners' high energy bills
Address comfort problems
Increase local awareness on cost-effective, energy-efficient home improvements
Do something beyond traditional rebate programs
Stimulate the local economy and create jobs
Improve public perception by being an advocate for energy efficiency and renewable energy
Reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
Program Implementation Strategy
Delivery Methodology: Contractor
CSG reviews 15% of the completed jobs and also helps facilitate BPI accreditation for contractors. Contractors receive incentives of up to 90 percent funding for training and pays for 50% of the equipment costs.
They currently have 20 active contractors.
For customers, LIPA offers 10% cash back or low-interest financing as a way to encourage customers to make home energy improvements. The utility also stresses energy efficiency education both through marketing materials and through a variety of tools on its Web site. Their marketing includes bill inserts and direct mail to targeted customer groups.
Measuring Results
LIPA tracks the following program benchmarks:
Energy savings
Number of jobs completed
Number of contractors trained
Estimated Value of Dollar Improvements From These Activities: Program results insufficient to determine
CSG is the program administrator.
Reasons for Success/Failure
Lessons Learned: Recruiting large contractor is Key. Contractors who are not willing to change business model will not be successful.
Partner Information
Company
Name: New York State Energy Research and
Development Authority,
New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) developed the first Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® Program. Given its state focus and mandate to serve all regions funded through its System Benefits Charge (SBC), NYSERDA became the single point of contact.
NYSERDA allocated an annual budget of approximately $5 million for implementation, training and quality assurance to support this program. The program’s mission is to transform New York’s trade contractor infrastructure by facilitating training and requiring mandatory contractor certification and accreditation by the Building Performance Institute (BPI).
Year Program Began: March 2001
The program was launched in six markets beginning in March 2001: Albany, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Binghamton, and the Hudson Valley. NYSERDA provided LIPA program support to expand the HPwES program into Long Island. The program launch was executed after completing focus groups with contractors from the targeted regions, as a way to better understand these regional differences, and also to identify the appropriate messages and themes. Due to the programs early success, this same approach is being replicated as program expands into Westchester County and New York City.
Primary Drivers For Program Implementation
Create an infrastructure of properly trained and skilled Home Perfomance Contractors
Identify and repair health and safety problems in homes
Reduce homeowners' high energy bills
Address comfort problems
Increase local awareness on cost-effective, energy-efficient home improvements
Do something beyond traditional rebate programs
Create jobs that remain in, stimulate and support the local economy
Improve public perception by being an advocate for energy efficiency and renewable energy
Reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
Program Implementation Strategy
The program staff would try to identify a local contractor who could “champion” this program in each regional area. These local champions may be the largest contractor serving the home improvement market, or an aggressive smaller contractor hungry to develop a successful business and set themselves apart and above.
The HPwES program also had to adapt to the unique market characteristics in each regional area to attract local home improvement and HVAC contractors. Therefore, NYSERDA staff would try to identify those resources used by local trades. For example, the adult training community, including community colleges and vocational centers, is where contractors would seek training for their trade. So NYSERDA developed materials and resources that would support building science education and develop the critical skills necessary for contractors to achieve BPI certification. NYSERDA provided this training to contractors in the targeted markets.
NYSERDA developed its marketing plan after establishing a solid understanding that the traditional drivers in the home improvement market are function and appearance for reasons of comfort, aesthetics, and increased home value. NYSERDA learned that most home owners consider home improvements as an added one-time cost paid for through savings or financing, and rarely consider the opportunity to make one-time improvements that are energy efficiency related that might reduce their monthly home operating costs. Further, they learned that most home improvement and HVAC contractors tend to focus along product lines and are not informed of the importance to take a comprehensive “whole house” approach.
The focus groups also identified the critical messages that NYSERDA incorporated in its marketing campaign:
Health/Safety/Comfort
Environmental Benefits
Energy Savings.
NYSERDA maintains an active website designed to promote its variety of energy programs to residential customers. This website (www.getenergysmart.org) focuses on providing information for residential customers.
For the HPwES program, the information provided includes:
Education about the importance of making home repairs
Case studies documenting energy savings and non-energy benefits
Participation guidelines and requirements
Loan information and forms
Referrals to BPI-qualified contractors
Delivery Methodology: Contractor
Participating contractors are required to be BPI Accredited and to have relevant BPI certifications in disciplines such as Building Analyst, Envelope Professional, Heating Professional, and Cooling Professional. Although training is not required for BPI certification, it is strongly suggested for participation in the program.
Rather than focusing on the traditional rebate structure, NYSERDA focused on building sustainable and lasting changes in contractor behavior and to create market transformation by supporting the infrastrucutre. The program focused on providing incentives to the contractors for training, certification and equipment, and to customers through subsidized loans for energy improvements. The contractor incentives included subsidies for up to 75 percent of the cost of training and certification, partially forgivable equipment purchase loans, and a 5% total job cost incentive.
For consumers, NYSERDA arranged for and bought down the interest rate on financing to help pay for comprehensive jobs. Consumer incentives include unsecured Home Improvement loans (through Energy Finance Solutions) at a subsidized rate, and an unsecured New York Energy $martSM Loan (at the participating lenders option).
The program focuses on sales and marketing training to its participating contractors. NYSERDA sales training focuses specifically on how to sell home performance in a competitive market.
The program’s promotional methods had changed from an event orientation to a heavier emphasis on local TV spots. Some of the more savvy home improvement contractors leverage NYSERDA’s advertising activities by piggybacking onto the television spots. For example, these contractors will “book end,” that is, buy the spots immediately before and after the NYSERDA TV ads.
Some contractors also do targeted telemarketing in the neighborhoods where they are already performing home assessments and making home improvements. These contractors have learned how to successfully leverage a state-wide program and translate that into local lead generation.
Measuring Results
NYSERDA has reported the results from its HPwES to date:
Number and Size of Jobs: Over 16,000 jobs have been completed at an average job cost to date of over $7,300 per job. Customers have invested more than $119 million of their own money in home energy improvements. Of these NYSERDA has subsidized over 3,500 income-eligible households for installation of eligible measures under the New York Assisted HPwES Program.
Average Electricity and Gas Savings: Estimates of the per home average annual savings are as high as 800 kWh and 33 MMBtus (gas or oil) over the life of the program, with trends over the past two years showing higher average savings.
Program is Cost-Effective: The benefit-cost ratio is greater than one, based on energy-savings alone. When non-energy benefits are added, the ratio is as high as 5.
Contractor Participation: More than 400 technicians have been BPI certified and more than 140 contracting firms have been accredited by BPI.
To date, this program has achieved a total of 1.3 MW of savings and 2 Megawatts of demand reductions.
Project Goal: 55,000 homes by 2011
Estimated Value of Dollar Improvements From These Activities: $119 million
As Figure 1 illustrates, savings for home owners participating in the HPwES program have seen a steady increase in the savings achieved. The loan buy-downs have proven to be an effective way to encourage home owners to invest in cost-effective improvements using their own funds, rather than relying on traditional rebate programs, which cover nearly the entire incremental premium associated with these energy efficiency improvements.
Figure 1. Comparison of System Benefit Charges vs Customer Savings
Key Vendors/Partners/Allies
To date, NYSERDA’s program has more than 400 BPI-certified technicians and 143 BPI- accredited firms throughout New York State.
The program staff also identified trade associations and training associations as a way to identify and cultivate these home improvement contractors.
Performance Systems Development is the developer of TREAT, the modeling software used in the program. Other contractors that implement, provide third party quality assurance and training for the program include Conservation Services Group, (CSG), Honeywell, and Hudson Valley Community College and it’s network of learning centers across NYS.
Reasons for Success/Failure
This program is focused on developing a strong network of third-party contractors to provide comprehensive home assessments including energy efficiency testing and then to install the recommended measures.
ts affiliation with ENERGY STAR creates immediate awareness and provides additional credibility to both contractors and customers.
Program Challenges
The programs’ focus on developing a strong network of third-party contractors to provide comprehensive home assessments and then to install the recommended measures sometimes required cross-participation between trades.
In an effort to provide multiple incentives and opportunities to consumers, program policies and procedures became confusing and hard to implement. A restructuring of offerings mitigated the problem.
In the early stages of the program contractor training was not standardized leaving content to the discretion of the trainer. NYSERDA contracted with Onondaga-Cortland-Madison Board of Cooperative Educational Services to develop standardized training for all BPI disciplines.
Lessons Learned
The most important lesson that NYSERDA learned for creating demand was that “Marketing works – it grabs people’s attention, so the staff must be prepared to develop the infrastructure to support this type of state-wide activity.”
Start at a level where you can provide market-by-market focus. Rather than diluting funds across the entire state, NYSERDA launched this program successively in discrete markets. This allowed them to quickly reach a critical mass of contractors, and to strategically create awareness and demand
Significant spending on marketing and advertising can stimulate demand for whole-house services. A robust marketing campaign was crucial to the success of their program. The program demonstrated that they could stimulate demand beyond what contractors could provide, and had to strike a balance between consumer demand and contractor infrastructure. Their marketing campaign also demonstrated the serious program commitment, which helps recruit contractors.
Quality Assurance, Quality Control. Quality assurance systems are important in delivering results to homeowners and to build consumer confidence. It will be necessary to provide a strong, market-based QA system for consumer protection, such as a strong BPI accreditation program and a strong M&V component, to continue to deliver the program message of quality and results.
There is a market for home performance contracting. Consumers are willing to pay for a comprehensive whole-house approach to improving the performance of their homes. Contractors use building science to differentiate themselves based on added value, high quality, and solutions that deliver results. This increases homeowners’ trust and confidence in contractors, and leads to comprehensive job scopes.
Consumer marketing needs to address non-energy benefits. Although the primary program goals focus on energy savings, many consumers are more interested in—and willing to pay for—comfort, health and safety, building durability, and indoor air quality.
Home performance contracting is a sustainable business opportunity for contractors. Contractors report that using home performance can lead to higher closing rates, expanded jobs, and higher margins, all of which increase profitability.
Contractors need to “own” this innovation. Third party program support and marketing helps. However, to be successful, contractors must make this their business—not just mount a half-hearted attempt to pick up some government- or utility-subsidized work.
There is a variety of successful business models. From pure consultants to one-stop shop contractors, with many variations in between, different business models can succeed. The most important aspect is a consistent message in the marketplace. Programs should recognize this in their design.
Financing is important. With larger, more comprehensive job scopes, financing is necessary to ensure that a maximum number of homeowners can easily get the work done. Lower interest rates help, but more important are ease of access. Qualification should be simple, quick, and as hassle-free as possible.
Program support can speed adoption. Home performance contracting is happening—it is just a matter of how long it will take to be common practice. It is clear that funding programs can help to greatly accelerate this process by providing quality training and mentoring; serving as a trusted third party messenger to increase market awareness; helping secure preferred financing; and helping provide quality assurance. Conversely, increased interest and investment by the private sector that is already being observed should help speed future program deployment, and improve and reevaluate TRC and other benefit/cost tests for comprehensive programs such as Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® to include the value of non-energy benefits.
James Quirk, Sr. Project Manager, Phone: 518-862-1090 ext. 3300, Email: jmq@nyserda.org
John Jones, Sr. Project Manager, Phone: 518-862-1090 ext. 3365, Email: jcj@nyserda.org
Partner
Information
Energy
Trust of Oregon, Inc., began operation in March 2002, charged by the Oregon
Public Utility Commission (OPUC) with investing in cost-effective energy
conservation, helping to pay the above-market costs of renewable energy
resources, and encouraging energy market transformation in Oregon.
Energy
Trust funds come from
As part of its responsibility, it
developed and sponsors the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR on behalf of
Portland General Electric, Pacific Power and NW Natural. The program
provides extensive technical training, financial incentives and business
development support to participating contractors to help increase
opportunities for energy efficiency services for every home they serve. It
also offers a variety of financing incentives to home owners.
Primary Drivers For Program
Implementation:
No
information provided
Delivery Methodology:
Contractor
Contractors are recruited on the website promoting it as providing these trade allies with a competitive edge and a new business opportunity. It is promoted as a turn-key business development opportunity sponsored by Energy Trust of Oregon that includes sophisticated technical training in the building sciences, purchasing discounts on diagnostic testing equipment, access to low-interest financing and financial incentives for eligible energy efficiency measures for your customers, and cooperative advertising incentives to help reach new customers. The Energy Trust is also developing co-op advertising and marketing opportunities.
Customers receive the
following financial incentives:
Financial incentives
and low-interest financing are available to help pay for the improvements.
Up to $20,000
loan limit
Up to 10-year
term
24-hour
approval for eligible homeowners
Cash Back for installing qualifying measures
Project Goal: No information provided.
Estimated Value of Dollar Improvements From These Activities: No information provided.
Key Vendors/Partners/Allies
Conservation Services Group (CSG): provides contractor recruitment and training.
EFS Financing for a wide range of energy efficiency measures.
Building Performance Institute (BPI) by establishing standards of performance for technicians and providing certifications for qualified contractors.
Reasons for Success/Failure: No
information provided.
Partner Information
pany
Name: Austin Energy
Austin Energy is the nation’s 10th largest community-owned electric utility serving 360,000 customers. The utility provides service to several communities including the City of Austin, Travis County and a small portion of Williamson County.
The company is also well-known for developing innovative and comprehensive residential and commercial energy efficiency and renewable programs. Its HPwES Program is a city-funded program relying on audits and low-interest loans to encourage customers to make needed improvements. Customers can qualify for up to $1,575.00 in rebates and/or receive additional financing in unsecured loans for installing a list of approved measures including:
Installation of a new energy-efficient air conditioner or heat pump (14 SEER or greater)
Additional attic insulation
Repair of leaking AC ducts
Caulking around plumbing under sinks
Weather-stripping around doors
Installation of solar shading or awnings
Installation of attic radiant barrier reflective material
The utility also offers a bonus of an extra 20 percent rebate for installing both an air conditioner and a heat pump.
Year Program Began: May 2005
Primary Drivers For Program Implementation
Address comfort problems
Increase local awareness on cost-effective, energy-efficient home improvements
Do something beyond traditional rebate programs
Stimulate the local economy and create jobs
Improve public perception by being an advocate for energy efficiency and renewable energy
Reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
Program Implementation Strategy
Single-family home, condominium or town home
Duplex
Rental property
Mobile homes and manufactured homes are not eligible for this loan.
The program is marketed extensively through bill stuffers and direct mail. Financing is provided through a local credit union.
Delivery Methodology: Contractor
Until recently, Austin Energy staff has been inspecting 100% of all completed projects, but as the program grows, they are looking at reducing that number. More than 70 certified contractors are working in the community and Austin Energy has developed a robust contractor recognitions program, including an awards banquet. They also provide training and some compensation for contractors’ diagnostic equipment.
Measuring Results
Energy savings
Number of jobs completed
Number of contractors trained
Value of the home improvements
Estimated Value of Dollar Improvements From These Activities:
Reasons for Success/Failure
They have built up a successful contractor network, and there is even developing interest among solar contractors. They won an EPA ENERGY STAR award in 2006 for their sustained commitment to energy efficiency.
Program Failure: Wet summer hurt 2007 numbers, so the program may not meet its 2007 goals.
Partner Information
Company
Name: Efficiency Vermont
Efficiency Vermont is a statewide provider of energy efficiency services, operated by an independent, non-profit organization under contract to the Vermont Public Service Board. Efficiency Vermont provides technical assistance and financial incentives to Vermont households and businesses, to help them reduce their energy costs with energy-efficient equipment and lighting and with energy-efficient approaches to construction and renovation.
Efficiency Vermont was created in 2000 by the Vermont legislature and the Vermont Public Service Board to help all Vermonters save energy, reduce energy costs and protect Vermont's environment.
One way that Efficiency Vermont provides energy efficiency services to Vermont’s residential ratepayers is through the development and promotion of Home Performance with ENERGY STAR.
Year Program Began: Spring 2005
Primary Drivers For Program Implementation
Reduce homeowners' high energy bills
Address comfort problems
Increase local awareness on cost-effective, energy-efficient home improvements
Do something beyond traditional rebate programs
Stimulate the local economy and create jobs
Reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
Provide services to residential ratepayers that return benefits in line with their contributions to the Energy Efficiency Charge.
Program Implementation Strategy
Efficiency Vermont promotes this program to residential customers through its website, and through EPA-funded marketing campaigns in the Spring and Fall of 2007. These campaigns focused on radio spots, print media ads, and internet keyword search advertising to drive potential customers to the Efficiency Vermont Home Performance web page. Customers are able to send requests of contact directly to contractors via this web site. To encourage customer interest, they emphasize the following benefits:
A home that is healthier, more comfortable and has fewer performance problems
Up to 30% savings on energy bills
Financial incentives for electrical energy-efficiency improvements
Reduced cost financing options to help you pay for qualifying energy-efficiency improvements
Expert home performance contractors
Delivery Methodology: Contractor
Efficiency Vermont provides contractor training, mentoring, and BPI certification assistance, along with ongoing quality assurance inspections. It also provides Contractor support and incentives of $100 for each project that is reported to Efficiency Vermont. Currently, there are 28 certified contractors in Vermont, of which 5 actively report jobs to Efficiency Vermont.
The organization also provides co-op marketing and advertising support to each contractor up to $500 annually.
Efficiency Vermont also partners with four lending institutions to offer discounted loans for qualifying home improvements. Efficiency Vermont reduces the lenders’ market interest rates by 3.5% for loans of up to five years for qualifying Home Performance projects. This reduced interest rate financing is only available for home improvements completed or supervised by a participating Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® contractor (one who has signed a participation agreement with Efficiency Vermont).
Measuring Results
Energy savings
Number of contractors trained
Project Goal: Seven completed jobs were reported to Efficiency Vermont in 2005; approximately 50 completed jobs were reported in 2006. Current projections are for 100 reported jobs in 2007.
Estimated Value of Dollar Improvements From These Activities: $850,000
Key Vendors/Partners/Allies
Efficiency Vermont provides training through VEIC, a BPI affiliate.
Four local lenders provide reduced-interest financing.
Reasons for Success/Failure
Program Failure
Efficiency Vermont continues to be challenged to get contractors to report completed jobs. Some do, but may not report all jobs, others don’t report jobs at all. Because our funding source is a systems benefits charge on electric ratepayers, it is also critically important for us to get contractors to address electrical savings opportunities in homes, which has not happened to the desired extent.
Lessons Learned
Financing is cumbersome, and while it may address some first cost barriers, it may create barriers in the form of administrative hassles.
It is critical to screen contractors for training sessions, so that they understand Efficiency Vermont’s expectations for participation, and don’t just view the training as good information with no obligation to follow through and get certified and then report jobs.
Many, many people in the energy efficiency community still speak in terms of energy audits, and we have had a number of contractors go through the training with the idea that they will sell audits rather than installations. We feel that this actually detracts from the development of models where the installation is the focal point. Having enough qualified installation contractors has consistently been a primary barrier to successful residential energy efficiency retrofits in Vermont. Adding more auditing capacity does nothing to address that shortfall.
It is challenging to get contractors to really push comprehensive jobs, rather than offer the menu approach where the customer decides which aspects of a job they want to do.
Key Staff Individuals/ Primary Staff
Contact
Emily Levin,
elevin@veic.org, Bethanny Banghart,
bbanghart@veic.org
Wisconsin:Partner Information
Mailing Address: 431 Charmany Drive, Madison,
WI
53719
Wisconsin Energy Conservation Corporation is a nonprofit organization based in Madison, WI. Established in 1980, WECC is a national leader in designing and implementing energy efficiency and renewable energy programs that partner with private businesses to deliver value to consumers. It champions innovative energy initiatives that deliver short- and long-term economic and environmental benefits to consumers, businesses, and policymakers.
Focus on Energy is administered by WECC and works with eligible Wisconsin residents and businesses to install cost effective energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. Focus information, resources, and cash-back rewards help to implement projects that otherwise would not get completed, or to complete projects sooner than scheduled. Its efforts help Wisconsin residents and businesses manage rising energy costs, promote in-state economic development, protect our environment and control the state's growing demand for electricity and natural gas.
The primary organizations that make up the Focus on Energy Program include:
Wisconsin Energy Conservation Corporation: Residential, Business, and Renewable Energy Programs
Public Service Commission of Wisconsin
Statewide Energy Efficiency and Renewable Administration
Energy Center of Wisconsin: Environmental Research, Education, and Training Programs
PA Consulting Group: Independent Evaluation
Hoffman York: Program Marketing
The HPwES program is administered through WECC with funding from the utilities. The funding for the 2007-2008 program year has been increased substantially.
Year Program Began
WECC began operating a whole-house rating program in 1997. This was the beginning of the “Consultant” model. Shortly thereafter this program began offering services in Wisconsin, and the “HouseWorks” program was established. HouseWorks was designed as a whole-house contracting service along the lines of current contractor models.
In October of 2001, upon passage of Public Benefits legislation creating Focus on Energy, both programs combined into the current Home Performance with ENERGY STAR Program, adopting the consultant model while allowing whole-house contractors to operate.
Primary Drivers For Program Implementation
1. Address mandates of Public Benefits legislation:
Reduce state’s reliance on imported energy
Improve reliability of enrgy delivery to state residents
Improve air and water quality
reate jobs and business opportunities, especially in the rural areas
2. In recent years the focus has moved towards:
Delay or eliminate construction of power plants and transmission lines
Reduce greenhouse gases
Energy security visavi global politics
3. For the end-user/customer it has always been:
Reduce energy bills
Safe, durable operation of their home
Comfortable living, year-round
Program Implementation Strategy
Target Markets: Renters and owners who live in Focus eligible territories across the state are eligible for cash-back rewards, but any unit can be served by our providers. Single family units, duplexes, and triplexes are eligible.
Delivery Methodology: Consultant
This program relies on an independent consultant to conduct all inspections and post-tests after the work has been completed. Focus staff inspects 10 percent of all jobs completed, as an additional way to provide quality control.
The participating qualified contractors receive subsidies to offset the training costs. To date, four have been fully trained and each contractor must complete at least seven jobs annually to stay active in the program.
Customers do receive some cash-back rewards for installing qualified equipment through this program.
The Program is marketed through a variety of channels, including various media, home shows, and via the Web site. The Web site includes information on both energy and non-energy benefits of this program and emphasizes the following key messages:
Comfort, with appropriate levels of insulation and air sealing that eliminate drafty rooms and give you more control over indoor air quality and temperature
Safety, by identifying and eliminating potentially dangerous carbon monoxide levels due to inadequate venting of your heating system and water heater
Durability, by preventing warm, moist air from the inside, as well as rain and external moisture from entering walls and attic spaces and causing structural damage
Greater energy efficiency, reducing monthly space heating and cooling costs
Resale value, because of the high-performance systems and changes you can implement to improve your home's overall quality
Measuring Results
Energy savings (therms, kW, and kWh)
Number of jobs completed
Number of consultants and qualified contractors trained
Percent of completions (pre-inspections vs post installation inspections)
Estimated Value of Dollar Improvements From These Activities: Not available
Reasons for Success/Failure
Strong consultant and qualified contractor training / mentoring
In-house access to financing
Strong utility and PSC support
Funding from the System Benefits Charge
Challenges
Consultant / Trade Ally relationships
Not enough staff to promote / educate adequately across the state to consumers
Recruiting strong Program Allies
Marketing
Lessons Learned
Critical to Program success is:
Consultant and Qualified Contractor verification
Consultants developing relationships with Program Allies
Best Way to Learn of New Developments: www.focusonenergy.com:
Key Staff Individuals/ Primary Staff
Contact
Sue Hanson, Single Family Homes Program Manager, Phone: 608.249.1271 x106,
Email:
sueh@weccusa.org
Bob Pfeiffer, Project Manager, Phone: 608.249.1271 x168, Email:
bobp@weccusa.org
Partner Information
Company
Name:
Wyoming
Energy Council, Inc. Wyoming Home Performance with ENERGY STAR is sponsored locally by Wyoming Energy Council, offers a comprehensive approach to home improvement that provides comfort and both energy and cost savings for Wyoming homeowners.
Wyoming Energy Council, Inc. (WEC) is a non-profit organization incorporated under the laws of the State of Wyoming. The former Albany County Energy Council, Inc. was incorporated in 1980 and changed its name to Wyoming Energy Council, Inc. in 1996.
Headquartered in Laramie, Wyoming, WEC also has a branch office in Cheyenne, Wyoming and serves all of Albany, Laramie, and Carbon Counties as well as the Eastern Shoshone portion of the Wind River Reservation.
The program received $309,000 for three years from the State. The program receives support from Black Hills Corp. & Cheyene Power and Fuel
Year Program Began: May 2006
Primary Drivers For Program Implementation: No information provided.
Program Implementation Strategy
Delivery Methodology: Contractor
The contractor must pay for all training, and equipment. Staff inspects the completed jobs.
The website was redesigned in 2007 to incorporate EPA’s materials. The website promotes the following benefits to home owners:
Utility bill savings
Homes that have been upgraded with Home Performance with ENERGY STAR reduce their utility bills because they cost significantly less to heat and cool
Home energy savings range from 25-30%, but can be as high as 50-60%.
Fewer drafts and consistent temperatures across rooms
Foaming, caulking and weatherstripping, adding insulation, or replacing windows can help to eliminate uncomfortable cold spots and overheated rooms
Many homeowners also report reduced dust in their homes after completing Home Performance with ENERGY STAR projects
Better ventilation and humidity control
Sealing air leaks and installing right-sized, energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment can dramatically increase the feeling of comfort in your home and can help to control the development of mold
Environmental Benefits of Saving Energy
Most energy in our homes comes from the burning of fossil fuels (coal, natural gas) that produce greenhouse gases
By saving energy you're helping make the most of our nation’s energy resources and reduce emissions of greenhouse gases
The program will also be advertised through more media buys in the fall. Other outreach efforts include using the home shows, which has proven to be an effective strategy, as well.
Measuring Results: No information provided.
Estimated Value of Dollar Improvements From These Activities: No information provided.
Reasons for Success/Failure
Program Success: WY HPwES has motivated largest state HVAC contractor to take on duct sealing
Program Failure:
Lessons Learned: No information provided
Certification of individuals in evaluation, mechanical, envelope and multi-family designations
Accreditation of organizations committed to using a quality management system
Quality assurance to verify a bpi accredited organizations conformance and provide feedback
Affiliation of organizations capable of providing localized delivery of BPI services
Consensus developed technical standards based on sound building science
NYSERDA (John Jones, 518-862-1090, x 3365)
EPA (Chandler von Schrader, 202-343-9096)
Certification & Accreditation:
Mathew Anderson, Director of certification & accreditation, 877-274-1bpi x105; manderson@bpi.orgQuality Assurance & Affiliate Liasion:
Vikki Murphy, Director of operations, 877-274-1bpi x106; vmurphy@bpi.orgNational Development:
Larry Zarker, Director of National Development, 301-270-4906; lzarker@bpi.orgNational Standards:
Joe Kuonen, Director of National Standards, 518-596-3781; joek@bpi.orgAdministration:
Sally Larmon, Director of Administration, 877-274-1bpi x103; slarmon@bpi.org
Albany, NY; Cedar Rapids, IA; El Segundo, CA; Eugene, OR; Fall River, MA; Iselin, NJ; New York, NY; Portland, OR; Ronkonkoma, NY; Syracuse, NY; Tampa, FL; Victorville, CA; Westborough, MA
Utilities and public agencies operating or starting residential retrofit programs turn to CSG for full service program implementation, including program design, marketing, training, field implementation, quality assurance and technical support. Homeowners and home buyers turn to CSG for home performance enhancements as we work with local utilities and energy program administrators to bring expert residential services to the front lines of energy efficiency. In some regions we provide home performance assessments, home energy ratings, and residential program design assistance, and in other regions we train contractors to provide the same services. Directly and through contractor networks, we follow through with the field services homeowners need to improve their homes such as airflow testing, HVAC system efficiency evaluation, insulation and air sealing, air conditioner upgrades and early retirement programs, and lighting retrofits. We help ensure that projects pay off for years to come with lower costs and higher comfort. And we help people take advantage of all available programs, incentives, and rebates offered by utilities and energy program administrators.
Energy Trust
of Oregon
Kansas City Power & Light
KeySpan Energy Delivery
Long Island Power Authority
National Grid
New Jersey Board of Public Utilities, Office of Clean Energy
New York State
Energy Research and Development (NYSERDA)
NSTAR Electric
NSTAR Gas
Southern California Edison
San Diego Gas & Electric
Ally
Information
The Edison Electric Institute (EEI) is the association of U.S. shareholder-owned electric companies. Our members serve 95 percent of the ultimate customers in the shareholder-owned segment of the industry, and represent approximately 70 percent of the U.S. electric power industry. We also have more than 65 International electric companies as Affiliate members, and more than 170 industry suppliers and related organizations as Associate members.
Organized in 1933, EEI works closely with all of its members, representing their interests and advocating equitable policies in legislative and regulatory arenas. In its leadership role, EEI provides advocacy, authoritative analysis, and critical industry data to its members, Congress, government agencies, the financial community and other opinion-leader audiences. EEI provides forums for member company representatives to discuss issues and strategies to advance the industry and to ensure a competitive position in a changing marketplace.
Description of Services offered to support HPwES Programs
Program Sponsor References
Anaheim Public Utilities HPwES
Maine HPwES
Maryland HPwES
Arizona HPwES
Southern California Edison HPwES
Southern California Edison A/C Quality
San Diego Gas & Electric Premium Efficiency
City of Santa Monica (Solar Santa Monica)
TXU Energy Authorized Dealer Network
IID Energy
Roseville Electric
Modesto Irrigation District
Best way to learn of New Developments
For general information regarding EGIA services: www.egia.org
For information regarding EGIA’s energy efficiency and solar financing program: www.egia.org/GEOSmart
Ally
InformationDescription of Services offered to support HPwES Programs
EFS partners with Sponsors to provide and administer financing products for HPwES Programs. Sponsors may elect to “buy-down” interest rates, enabling contractors to offer an attractive, easy to use financing tool to close sales and help customers to install their desired comprehensive improvements.
Program Sponsor References
Andrew Fisk, New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, (518)_ 862-1090, ext. 3351, ajf@nyserda.org
Kevin Harrison, Long Island Power Authority, (631) 436-4230, kharrison@keyspanenergy.com
Diane Ferington, Energy Trust of Oregon, (503) 445-7621, diane@energytrust.org
Company Name: GreenHomes AmericaMailing Address: 8 Hughes, Irvine, CA 92618
Telephone: 877-867-2833
Website: www.greenhomesamerica.com
Company Locations: Irvine, CA and Syracuse, NY
Description of Services offered to support HPwES Programs
GreenHomes is the largest industry-accredited, single-source provider of home performance contracting (HPC) in New York. GreenHomes offers an award-winning home improvement service that significantly enhances the comfort, energy efficiency, and air quality of existing single-family homes. GreenHomes performs all comfort and energy efficiency improvements in-house, which include:
Comprehensive home assessments
Air sealing and insulation
Windows and Doors
High efficiency air conditioning, furnaces, and boilers
Tank and tankless water heating
Indoor air quality solutions
Solar Thermal
Solar Photovoltaics
GreenHomes America has helped more than 10,000 homeowners save money, energy, and be safer and more comfortable in their home. GreenHomes also helps homeowners reduce carbon emissions to help them do their part to protect the environment and reduce the country’s dependence on foreign oil. GreenHomes is a Building Performance Institute (BPI) accredited organization with industry-leading quality management systems. GreenHomes has won NYSERDA’s biennial “Outstanding Achievement” award for the fourth consecutive time in February 2008 for its performance in the New York’s Home Performance with ENERGY STAR Program. GreenHomes is beginning its nationwide expansion and will include a franchise offering later in 2008.
Program Sponsor References
NYSERDA (Andrew Fisk)
Anaheim Public Utilities (Phil Hayes)
EPA (David Lee and Chandler von Schrader)
DOE (ed Pollock)
CSG (Stephen Cowell)
Bevilacqua-Knight,Inc. (Bob Knight)
BPI (Larry Zarker)
Best Way to Learn of New Developments: www.greenhomesamerica.com
Ally
Information
United States: Akron,
OH; Albany, NY; Baton Rouge, LA; Charleston, SC; Dallas, TX; Dayton, OH;
Fairfax, VA; Houston, TX; Lexington, MA; Los Angeles, CA; Middletown, PA;
Ogden, UT; Oklahoma City, OK; Orange County, CA; Research Triangle Park, NC;
San Francisco, CA; Seattle, WA; Washington, DC
Abroad: London, England; Toronto, Canada; Moscow, Russian Federation;
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; New Delhi, India
Description of Services offered to support HPwES Programs
ICF offers a full range of turnkey program implementation services, including market research; resource planning; measure evaluation and program design; contractor recruitment and infrastructure development; training; program incentive administration; project oversight and quality assurance; program database management and reporting.
Program Sponsor References
First Energy Ohio – program is ramping up for market roll-out in Fall 2007
Maryland Energy Administration – ICF is on SENTECH implementation team
Company Name: Lockheed Martin
Business Process Solutions
Mailing Address:
2277 Research Blvd, Rockville,Md 20874
Telephone: (contact) 518 429 0121
Website:
wwww.lockheedmartin.com/bps/
Company Locations:
Multiple national and international offices
Description of Services offered to support HPwES Programs
Lockheed Martin (LM) has over 30 years experience managing and implementing
public and utility energy efficiency programs through its legacy company,
Aspen Systems. LM has
specialized in delivering energy savings through performance and market
intervention strategies. This year , LM
is building a first class capacity and staff to implement and support
HPwES nationally through the provision of implementation, training and
financing strategies and services.
Program Sponsor References
US EPA, US DOE and numerous
state and utility sponsors recognize the leadership LM is bringing to the
HPwES arena.
Description of Services offered to support HPwES Programs
Market Development Group offers both strategic and tactical consulting to
assist program sponsors and partners in designing, implementing, and
evaluating Home Performance with ENERGY STAR®. We work with:
Stakeholders – program managers, utilities, government officials, community/economic development advocates and other key decision-makers and influencers
Channel Partners- trade allies that also serve the residential, commercial and specialized industrial customer markets that program providers are trying to reach and influence. These partners may include HVAC contractors, plumbers, builders/developers, retailers, landlords, community non-profit organizations, etc.
Energy End-Users- customers who pay their utility bill directly and make energy-related decisions for themselves as well as those who use energy that is purchased by others (such as renters, college dorm residents, office workers, etc.)
We develop a variety of marketing communications materials to support program planning and implementation including:
Best Practices and Literature Reviews – compendium of relevant and salient points from conference proceeding scans, Internet searches and personal interviews with market leaders to document past program efforts by others and lessons learned. Examples include: Light Bulb Fundraiser and Home Energy Makeover Contest.
Program Implementation Handbooks - step-by-step guide that may include templates customizable marketing materials (i.e. bill inserts, point-of-purchase displays, web pages) as well as internal administration forms designed to facilitate program tracking and evaluation; standards, participation requirements, program “rules,” case study testimonials and “best practices.” Examples include: Light Bulb Fundraiser.
Marketing Communications Campaign Planning and Execution. Articulate and document the multiple tactical steps and interactions with milestones and timelines for overarching strategic activities aimed at numerous audiences through various channels and mediums. Examples include: Maine Home Performance.
Web sites and web applications/tools. Outline site map and create static content as well as dynamic interactions. Examples include: www.homeenergymakeover.org, www.cflfundraiser.org, www.marketdevelop.com
Printed Materials. Create point-of-purchase flyers, mailers, brochures and newspaper inserts to promote program as well as internal administrative forms and agreements. Examples include: DMEA Home Energy Guide, Home Energy Makeover and Light Bulb Fundraiser
Broadcast materials.
Create and produce audio and visual scripts and programs for paid and
public service radio, television, point-of-purchase and web media.
Examples include
Media Relations. Identify and outreach to key media “gatekeepers;” draft news releases, media advisories, feature articles and editorials; coordinate distribute with program partners; and publish regionally or nationally through recognized news bureaus. Examples include: Maine Home Performance with ENERGY STAR program at www.mainehomeperformance.org.
Workshops - sessions from ½ day to multi-day with online registrations, handout binders and online proceedings. Examples include:
“Marketing Home Performance with ENERGY STAR” workshop for home improvement contractors and/or program designers
“Home Energy Savings” for home owners
Intro to DSM and/or Demand Response” for energy services professionals
Event Participation - Plan, negotiate and implement all aspect of your event participation (i.e. community fairs, home shows, industry shows, etc) to include sponsorship and exhibit benefit negotiation, exhibit display design and building, group registrations, pre- and post-event promotion to attendees, on-site set-up and tear down, organization of customer dinners and other hospitality functions, cross-promotions with trade allies, media relations, etc. All you do is show up and accept the accolades for your professionally managed participation that maximizes your marketing opportunities. Examples include: www.hpwes.org and www.cuexchange.org
Teleconference/Webinars – Conceptualize, organize and facilitate “distance learning” with low-tech (conference call) and high-tech (Webex) alternatives. We have the capability to produce your webinar ourselves under your brand name or our own, to include the handling of online registrations with or without credit card payments. Examples include Western Area Power Administration's “Intro to Demand Response” at www.wapa.gov/es and various Peak Load Management Alliance topics at www.peakma.com.
Program
Sponsor References
David Lee, Dale
Hoffmeyer,
Patricia Plympton,
Navigant Consulting (program liaison for U.S. DOE)
Greg Thomas, PSD;
(program administrator for Maine Home Performance and PA Home Energy)
Bruce Matulich, EGIA
(finance administrator for numerous Home Performance programs)
Best Way
to Learn of New Developments:
www.markedevelop.com where you
can view past issues and subscribe to our email newsletter, Market
Developments
www.marketdevelop.com/2007newsletter.htm
nDescription of Services offered to support HPwES Programs
Program Sponsor References
The California Energy Commission
The California Public Utilities Commission
New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA)
New Hampshire electric utilities (PSNH)
US Green Building Council
The State of Washington Weatherization Program
The State of Maine Office of Energy Independence and Security
The New York State Weatherization Directors Association
The National Association of Home Builders Research Center
The Enterprise Foundation
The Western Pennsylvania Power Sustainable Energy Fund
Wisconsin Energy Conservation Corp.
US Housing and Urban Development
Technical Report NREL/TP- 640-41903, July 2007: "Home Performance with ENERGY STAR: Utility Bill Analysis on Homes Participating in Austin Energy’s Program", given by D. Belzer, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory; G. Mosey, P. Plympton and L. Dagher, National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Home Performance with ENERGY STAR (HPwES) is a jointly managed program of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This program focuses on improving energy efficiency in existing homes via a whole-house approach to assessing and improving a home’s energy performance, and helping to protect the environment.
ACEEE Summer Study on Energy Efficiency in Buildings, 2006: "Home Performance with Energy Star®:Delivering Savings with a Whole-House Approach", given by Michael Rogers, GreenHomes America; Megan Edmunds, E-Star Colorado; Robert Knight, Bevilacqua-Knight, Inc.
"Home Performance with ENERGY STAR" Agenda, Doubletree Hotel, Scott Circle, Washington, DC,This panel will discuss why and how the home performance contracting approach works, emphasizing program design considerations and results from programs with up to 5 years experience. The results reported in this paper’s case studies provide evidence of growing momentum in home performance contracting, achieving continuing growth and success in long-term energy savings.
Identify and summarize barriers to adopting home performance contracting for large, national companies
Solicit industry feedback on proposed DOE research to address technical barriers
Identify and summarize strategies to overcome barriers
Identify what infrastructure is needed for companies to adopt home performance contracting and potentially partner with Home Performance with ENERGY STAR
ENERGY STAR Training Presentation, 7/26/2007: "
WORKING WITH ENERGY STAR: Residential New Construction & Home Retrofits", given by David Lee, Chief, ENERGY STAR Residential Branch, (excerpt from)* Over 65% of Americans recognize the ENERGY STAR.
* Most consumers associate ENERGY STAR most often with appliances, office equipment, and other consumer products.
* In 2006, Americans, with the help of ENERGY STAR
* prevented the release of greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those from 25 million vehicles
* saved more than $14 billion on energy bills
* But did you know . . .
ENERGY STAR publication, 7/18/06: "The Consultant and Contractor Models For Home Performance with ENERGY STAR", (excerpt from)
There are two fundamental business models being implemented under Home Performance with ENERGY STAR programs – the “home performance consultant” and “home performance contractor” models. These two models are different in many ways especially with regards to who completes the work. However, these models are not mutually exclusive and hybrid models should be considered by a program sponsor.
ENERGY STAR publication, 7/18/06: "Description of Quality Assurance Procedures", (excerpt from)
"Effective quality assurance procedures are an essential component of a Home Performance with ENERGY STAR program. This requirement reassures homeowners and program sponsors that contractors are performing high quality work and delivering value. Quality assurance also protects the message and maintains the credibility of the ENERGY STAR brand.
Home Performance with ENERGY STAR requires quality assurance through either: (1) a rigorous certification and accreditation process; or (2) oversight and inspection by a qualified third party. These two quality assurance options are described below..."
ENERGY STAR publication, 4/11/07: "Home Performance with
ENERGY STAR® - A Cost-effective Strategy for Improving Efficiency in Existing Homes"An introduction to what the program strategy known as ENERGY STAR® really involves such as Design and Implementation, Measurement and Verification, and Program Cost-Effectiveness.
NYSERDA Presentation " Implementing Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® in New York State The NYSERDA Model", given by John Jones, (excerpt from)
"More and more homeowners are committed to saving energy and reducing their utility bills.
The NY Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® (HPwES) Program provides low-cost training to contractors so that they can become an Accredited Home Performance with ENERGY STAR contractor.
Participation in the HPwES program helps generate more business, improve quality and service to current customers, and includes the contractor in a select group in the marketplace."
Electric & Gas Industries Association presentation, 9/20/07: "Tools That Drive Successful Home Performance Programs, Helping Contractor’s Sell Home Performance", given by Bruce Matulich, (excerpt from)
"EGIA brings all facets of the home improvement market together towards one common goal... saving energy!
Utility Sponsored Programs: Rebate & Financing Program Administration, Training, Strategic Planning, Industry Advocacy, 3rd Party Validation
Manufacturer / Distributor: National Program Development, Joint Marketing, Sales Training
Solar & Renewable Energy: Industry Advocacy, Contractor Training, Market Development, 3rd Party Validation
Contractor Direct Programs: Buying Group Financing, Insurance Programs & Other Value Added Services, Sales Training, Approved Contractor Marketing Program