An online “snapshot” of key home performance industry programs, allies and resources for prospective program sponsors through the end of 2008!

Learn how program sponsors in 20+ states are beginning to transform the home improvement marketplace beyond free “clipboard” home energy audits and single-measure rebates with a whole-house approach to energy efficiency, demand response, renewable energy, and “carbon footprint” issues.

This compendium is designed for program designers with energy utilities, state energy offices and regional alliances looking for comprehensive, integrated market transformation program platform for the improvement of existing homes in their community.

Industry Compendium 2008 

Energy efficiency offers one of the most cost-effective 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 with rising energy costs and increased cost pressures on home owners.

American homes need improvements in comfort, safety, and energy consumption. Over two-thirds of all homes in the U.S. were built before modern energy codes. Therefore, the energy consumption of households is largely determined by older existing homes and the renovations made to improve them.[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, 44 percent of U.S. 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] 2005 Residential Energy Consumption Survey
[3] 2001 Residential Energy Consumption Survey

Energy efficiency is becoming especially important for homeowners. The average homeowner spends $2,003 annually on energy[4]  . The average energy cost in US homes is 45 kBtu/SqFt/Yr but some homes use twice that amount. Overall, residences are responsible for 21% of US energy consumption, with a national home energy bill of $225 billion dollars.
[4] 2008 Buildings Energy Data Book

Homeowners continue to invest in improving their homes – a big opportunity for energy efficiency improvements. In 2006, homeowners spent nearly $140 billion on professional installations and approximately $40 billion of these expenditures are in areas with specific potential for energy-related improvements[5] .
[5] 2008 Buildings Energy Data Book

Estimated energy saving for the typical home that is improved through Home Performance with ENERGY STAR (HPwES) will vary based on the region of the country and type improvements completed. The following table gives a baseline for energy savings potential by region of the country.  Results from existing programs have demonstrated higher savings.

To help U.S. homeowners increase the energy efficiency of their homes, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) jointly developed the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® (HPwES) Program. This program offers whole-house improvements through home performance contracting, improving energy efficiency and comfort at home, while helping to protect the environment.

This “whole-house approach” begins with a comprehensive energy audit by a trained and certified contractor. This home assessment includes diagnostic tests, by a qualified contractor who can make building-science based improvements or refer homeowners to someone who can make these improvements.

A Home Performance with ENERGY STAR sponsor is responsible for overseeing the program implementation and contractor performance to ensure quality standards are met. Organizations such as a utility, state energy agency, municipality or non-profit energy efficiency organization are typical program sponsors because they understand local market conditions, can provide third-party program oversight, work to protect the ENERGY STAR logo, and generally serve the public interest. The program sponsors must recruit and train local contractors, and work to create market demand for home performance contracting. 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 conduct a market assessment, establish a budget, and identify a consistent source of revenue before making a commitment. 

A program sponsor (or administrator) is responsible for:

• Developing the program standards, policies and procedures

• Managing the program

• Recruiting contractors to participate

• Promoting the program

• Ensuring that work completed under the program meets program standards, including safety and energy savings (i.e. quality assurance), and

• Evaluating program success

Another important component of the HPwES 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 safe and effective.

This program is gaining traction across the US, with more than twenty programs found in twenty-three states. Many more are being established across the country, with over ten entities exploring Home Performance with ENERGY STAR.

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 40,000 existing homes saving their customers an estimated $400 per year in energy costs. 
 

EPA and DOE also recommend that program sponsors should complete the following steps.[6]  Additional information is contained in the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR Sponsor Guide.
6] www.energystar.gov/ia/home_improvement/HPwES_Utility_Intro_FactSheet.pdf

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

º  A bona fide whole-house approach  
º  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

Lessons Learned
The US DOE and EPA have also learned some valuable lessons from the current program sponsors based on their experiences.

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

º  Benefits may include training, use of logo, incentives, recognition, etc.
º  Training is too valuable to give away
º  Track web and phone leads

·         Don’t list contractors on website

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

Patricia Plympton, Navigant Consulting supporting U.S. DOE, 202-481-7397
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

The following section comes from the EPA and DOE websites:[7]

[7]  DOE: http://www.energy.gov/energyefficiency/energystar.htm and EPA: http://www.epa.gov/partners/programs/index.htm#global

ENERGY STAR is a joint program of EPA and the U.S. Department of Energy that helps American businesses and consumers save money and protect the environment by investing in energy efficient products and practices.

·    Through the ENERGY STAR program, EPA has partnered with thousands of organizations across the residential, commercial and industrial sectors to increase the sales of energy efficient products bearing the ENERGY STAR label, raise energy efficiency standards for new home construction and existing home renovations, and improve the efficiency of commercial and industrial facilities through strategic energy management practices.

·     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.

At the National level, EPA and DOE offer a variety of tools for program development and design, recruiting contractors, marketing to homeowners, and sales training for contractor participants. These tools are offered free-of-charge to Program Sponsors and discussed further below: 

Consumer-recognized brand
Program Sponsors can download and use this logo in promotional materials, including Web sites and advertisements. 

Program start-up assistance
EPA and DOE provide assistance to sponsors and utilities interested in exploring and planning a HPwES Program. 

Program Development Fact Sheets
Program Sponsors can download program development fact sheets covering key program elements including contractor recruiting, contractor and consultant business models and quality assurance. 

Home Energy Yardstick
Program Sponsors can host ENERGY STAR’s Home Energy Yardstick on their web site to help homeowners take the first step toward HPwES. The Yardstick can be a great screening tool to determine how serious a homeowner may be regarding improving the performance of their home. 

Utility Bill Disaggregating Tool
Program Sponsors can provide this tool to their contractors to disaggregate utility bills of their prospective customers to better determine how energy is used in their homes. 

Best Practices for Implementing a HPwES Program
This Guide is a starting point for program planners to develop an implementation plan. Each section highlights important considerations and options for the development of a HPwES implementation plan.

Contractor Business Development Guide
This special edition of Home Energy Magazine includes several contractor business success stories that can help Program Sponsors educate contractors about the whole-house contracting business model. 

Sales training for contractors (3/4 day)
Since home performance contracting is significantly different than other home improvement services due to its comprehensive nature, program sponsors recognize that participating contractors are more successful if they educate their homeowners and change their sales tactics accordingly. This training focuses on teaching in-office and in-home strategies to help participating contractors educate homeowners on the benefits and therefore sell comprehensive home performance improvements. 

Marketing Toolkit
This online tool allows sponsors and participating contractors to create customized marketing materials, such as ads, fact sheets, and direct mail pieces, to promote HPwES.

Consumer Brochure
Program Sponsors and participating contractors can use this brochure to educate homeowners about the benefits of HPwES. 

Case-by-case program development support
Program Sponsors may request additional support from EPA and DOE beyond what is listed above.
 

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

DOE's Building Technologies Program (BTP) works in partnership with states, industry, and manufacturers to improve the energy efficiency of our nation's buildings. 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. BTP improves buildings by:

·     Advancing the research and development of energy-efficient building technologies and practices for both new and existing residential and commercial buildings

·      Working with state and local regulatory groups and others to improve building codes, appliance and equipment standards, and guidelines for efficient energy use

·      Promoting market transformation by educating homeowners, builders, and developers on the significant returns they can achieve by adopting energy-efficient technologies and practices

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

EPA leads the nation's environmental science, research, education and assessment efforts. The mission of the Environmental Protection Agency is to protect human health and the environment. Since 1970, EPA has been working for a cleaner, healthier environment for the American people.

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.  

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 

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

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 and minor home repairs, medical modifications and major renovations.

·     Minor Repair Services:

·     Finish Carpentry

·     Heating and Cooling

·     Repairs

·     Plumbing Repairs

·     Lighting

·     Installation of Home Safety and Assistive Devices

·     Major Housing Rehabilitation and Accessibility Conversions:

·     Plumbing, HVAC and Electrical Projects

·     Door Widening

·     Bathroom Renovations

·     Wheelchair Ramps

·     Roof Repairs or Replacement

Measuring Results:  No information provided

Estimated Value of Dollar Improvements From These Activities:  No information provided.

Key Vendors/Partners/Allies
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

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.  

Year Program began:  May 2007

• 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

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.

•  Energy savings

•  Number of jobs completed

•  Number of contractors trained

•  Value of the home improvements

History with HPwES  
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 2007, 17 contractors were qualified and completing projects.                                

Year Program Began:  2003

·         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.  

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 17 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.

This program is still primarily delivered by contractors, but with the merger we also have a large amount of consumer outreach. This includes the Smart Energy Living Magazine where the Colorado Home Performance with ENERGY STAR program is featured regularly. In addition, the program is promoted at all events that SELA is involved with.

·    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

·    They have established a strong training program.

·     They have attracted funding from key Colorado funders.

·     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.    

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.

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).

History with HPwES
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 

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

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.

·       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.

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. 

·        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

Key Vendors/Partners/Allies
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). 

·        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.

Primary Drivers for Program Implementation
Maryland Energy Administration is the local program sponsor. They wanted to run a pilot home performance program, which was partially funded by a US DOE grant. The DOE grant includes funding for the Mid-Atlantic Home Performance Collaborative, where Virginia, Delaware, Maryland and the District of Columbia share home performance related resources and lessons learned.

Two goals for the program. First is local job creation of green collar jobs. Second is to save Maryland homeowners money on the energy bills (and CO2 savings for the state).

Delivery Methodology:
Program allows both consultants and contractors to participate

·       Energy savings 

·       Number of jobs completed 

·       Number of contractors trained 

Key Vendors/Partners/Allies
Maryland Energy Administration – Program Sponsor
ICF International – Software Development Subcontractor
US Green Home - Trainer

To date, we have trained 73 contractors. 22 contractor companies have completed program requirements and are Qualified Maryland Home Performance Contractors.

Sponsor has given us plenty of space to get creative to get program up and running: they don’t micromanage. DC Metro area is a fantastic market for HP, due to old age of homes, and affluence of residents. We have also had amazing support from local environmental groups, who are extensively promoting the program.

Program challenges
Getting jobs reported; funding for marketing. We know contractors are getting and completing home performance jobs, but they are not reporting many. So we trying to be creative in coming up with sticks and carrots for them to report jobs.

What the industry really needs is for homeowners to know about home performance. The only way to do this is through an extensive and prolonged marketing and outreach campaign.

Lessons Learned
Marketing dollars and best spent doing ad search online. Every interaction with participating contractors has to be “value added’; they won’t do any step if they don’t explicitly know the value. At least one program staff person must have a solid working relationship with each contractor.

Key Staff Individuals/ Primary Staff Contact
Asa Foss, Director, Maryland Home Performance with ENERGY STAR
SENTECH, Inc.
7475 Wisconsin Ave Suite 900, Bethesda, MD 20814
w: 240.223.5541; f: 240.223.5501, ww.sentech.org; afoss@sentech.org

History with HPwES
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.

·       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.

·       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

·       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.

·       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.

History with HPwES
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

·       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

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

·       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.

·       1100 referrals

·       550 comprehensive home assessments

·       138 improved homes with 2+ items improved

·       Minimum 15% QA 

·       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

Missouri Energy Center: Pat Justis, Phone: 314-416-2960, pat.justis@dnr.mo.gov

EarthWays Center: Glenda Abney, Phone: 314-577-0288, glenda.abney@mobot.org

Columbia Water and Light: Terry Freeman, Phone: 573-874-7631, twfreema@gocolumbiamo.com

Metropolitan Energy Center: Dustin Jensen, Phone: 816-531-SAVE,dustin@kcenergy.org

History with HPwES
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

Delivery Methodology:  Contractor

Measuring Results:  Not Applicable

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

History with HPwES
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

·       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.

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.

·         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

Key Vendors/Partners/Allies
KBSI, Heartland Utilities & MO Energy Office

·          5 of 6 contractors are still in the program.

·          There is now a go to place for KC homeowners to find Home Performance services.

·          Not enough cash resources to run program as intended or to support contractors.

·          Marketing is weak.

·       Build in incentives for contractors

Key Staff Individuals/ Primary Staff Contact
Dustin Jensen, Phone: 816-531-7283, dustin@kcenergy.org

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 Program^TM.

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

·       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:

1.  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).

2.  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. 

Strategies
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.

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)

Reasons for Success/Failure
Program Success:
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.

·         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

Key Staff Individuals/ Primary Staff Contact
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

History with HPwES
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.

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

Key Vendors/Partners/Allies
CSG is the program administrator.

Lessons Learned:  Recruiting large contractor is Key.  Contractors who are not willing to change business model will not be successful.

History with HPwES
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).

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.

·       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

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:

1.  Health/Safety/Comfort

2.  Environmental Benefits

3.  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 $mart^SM 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.

·       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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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, jmq@nyserda.org 

John Jones, Sr. Project Manager, Phone: 518-862-1090   ext. 3365, jcj@nyserda.org

History with HPwES
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 Oregon’s two largest investor-owned utilities. It administers gas conservation programs for residential and commercial customers of NW Natural (starting in 2003) and Cascade Natural Gas Corporation (starting July, 2006), and select programs for residential customers of Avista Corporation (September, 2006) in Oregon.

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.

Year Program Began:  July 2005

Primary Drivers For Program Implementation:  No information provided

Target Markets:  Residential customers of Portland General Electric, Pacific Power and NW Natural Gas

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

·         Oregon Energy Tax Credits

·         Cash Back for installing qualifying measures

Measuring Results:   No information provided

Estimated Value of Dollar Improvements From These Activities: No information provided.

Reasons for Success/Failure:  No information provided.

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.

History with HPwES
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

·      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.

·      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.

·         Energy savings

·         Number of jobs completed

·         Number of contractors trained

·         Value of the home improvements

Reasons for Success/Failure
Program Success
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.

History with HPwES
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

·      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).

·      Energy savings

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.

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.

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, Planning Manager Residential Energy Services, Phone: 888.921.5990 x1194, elevin@veic.org

History with HPwES
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. 

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

·         Create 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

·         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

·         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

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

History with HPwES
WEC is the ENERGY STAR partner and BPI Affiliate sponsoring Home Performance with ENERGY STAR (HPwES) in Wyoming.  Wyoming Home Performance (WHP) is funded by the Wyoming Business Council, State Energy Office.  HPwES is an innovative, whole-house approach to cost-effectively improve comfort and energy efficiency.  Qualified contractors are trained and certified to determine how a home performs as a system and present the information to homeowners in terms of energy savings as well as non-energy benefits (such as comfort, health and safety).  Certified contactors must agree to a 15% quality assurance inspection rate.  Learn more at www.wyominghomeperformance.com. 

About Wyoming Energy Council, Inc.:  Wyoming Energy Council, Inc. (WEC) is a private, non-profit corporation incorporated under the laws of the State of Wyoming that is headquartered in Laramie with a branch office in Cheyenne.  The former Albany County Energy Council, Inc. was incorporated in 1980 and changed its name to Wyoming Energy Council, Inc. in 1996.

The Mission: WEC’s mission is to promote and further the conservation of non-renewable energy resources and the development of renewable energy resources. 

The Programs: WEC strives to promote and strengthen relationships and efficiency efforts between government, consumers, utilities, contractors, and educators as a basis for development and operations of each program.

Year Program Began:   November 2005

Primary Drivers For Program Implementation
The age and condition of the housing stock, along with rising residential energy prices, calls for measures to help consumers alleviate the financial energy burden and increase their overall comfort and safety levels.  Seventy-eight percent of Wyoming homes are more than 20 years old, Wyoming has not adopted a state-wide building code and only one city jurisdiction has adopted an energy efficiency code.  There is wide-based need for a comprehensive method to address affordability, comfort, and health and safety issues with durable, sustainable whole house solutions.

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 underwent modification in 2008 to enhance accessibility based on consumer response.  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:  Estimated savings 11,740 Mbtus in 2005; 117,400 Mbtus in 2006; 46,960 Mbtus in 2007

Estimated Value of Dollar Improvements From These Activities:  approximately $46,000 in 2007

Reasons for Success/Failure
Program Success:  WY HPwES has motivated largest state HVAC contractor to take on duct sealing; custom home contractors frustrated with absence of market value between energy efficient homes and standard code-built homes  moving to upfit to employ energy efficient measures for customers who “get it”; Wyoming Home Performance Alliance expanding opportunities to provide consumer financing and education to create market transformation.

Wyoming Home Performance Alliance.  This voluntary initiative allows Wyoming-based energy utilities and developers, government, education, and private-sector organizations to publicly demonstrate their commitment to encouraging Wyoming residents to take control of rising residential utility costs by using a comprehensive "whole-house" approach to make energy-related improvements. The WHP Alliance provides a forum for energy utilities and other organizations to enhance and expand WHP program offerings statewide as attention focuses on the most expensive-ever home heating season starting this fall. Learn more at:  www.wyominghomeperformance.com/Alliance

Program Failure: The Program has struggled with energy usage analysis, reliable work orders, and adequate (i.e., timely) follow through on audit reports to end customer.   Program is striving to comply with federal requirements while creating usable, manageable techniques and documentation for the contractors.

Lessons Learned:  Maintain high quality standards when admitting contractors to the program; have a customer/contractor dispute resolution plan as well as a contractor/program dispute resolution program.

Key Staff Individuals/ Primary Staff Contact
Tiger Adolf, Executive Director, Wyoming Energy Council, 307-742-0313; tadolf@wyoec.org
Bhaskar Narayan, WHP Coordinator, 307-742-9924, whpes@wyoec.org

·         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 

Program Sponsor References:
NYSERDA (John Jones, 518-862-1090, x 3365)
EPA (Chandler von Schrader, 202-343-9096)

Mathew Anderson,  Director of certification & accreditation, 877-274-1bpi x105; manderson@bpi.org

Vikki Murphy, Director of operations, 877-274-1bpi x106; vmurphy@bpi.org

Larry Zarker,  Director of National Development, 301-270-4906; lzarker@bpi.org

Joe Kuonen, Director of National Standards, 518-596-3781; joek@bpi.org 

Administration:
Sally Larmon, Director of Administration, 877-274-1bpi x103; slarmon@bpi.org

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 will begin a new HPwES program for PG&E in 2009, incorporating financial incentives for the first time. 

Southern California: CBPCA has been 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. This program will be expanded for 2009-11 with the addition of financial incentives. CBPCA is also responsible for the training aspects of a smaller home performance program for Anaheim Public Utilities under subcontract from Conservation Services Group.

CBPCA also serves as a trade association for the contractors trained throughout the state, providing industry news, technical support, marketing leads, materials, advisory services and access to the national HPwES program. CBPCA is a BPI Affiliate and offers BPI certification training and testing to its contractors.

Contact Harry Ford, BKi’s home performance program manager for CBPCA at hford@bki.com or 510-444-707 x206.  Also check the www.cbpca.org website.

CBPCA: Dr. Robert Knight, Bevilacqua-Knight, Inc., Oakland, CA; rknight@bki.com

Company Locations: 
Albany, NY; Anaheim, CA; Cedar Rapids, IA; El Segundo, CA; Fall River, MA; Iselin, NJ; New York, NY;Peoria, IL: Portland, OR; Ronkonkoma, NY; San Diego, CA.; Seattle, WA; Syracuse, NY; Tampa, FL;Tucson, AZ; Victorville, CA; Westborough, MA (headquarters)

Description of Services offered to support HPwES Programs:
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.

Program Sponsor References
Ameren Illinois
Cascade Natural Gas
Energy Trust of Oregon
Kansas City Power & Light
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
UniSource

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
EGIA works with utility companies and state/ local agencies to support of the design, implementation and administration of energy efficiency, home performance and renewable energy programs.  EGIA services include; rebate program administration and rebate processing, contractor sales training, home energy makeover contest administration, and utility/ state sponsored energy efficiency and solar financing.  EGIA’s GEOSmart Sustainable Financing Solutions was developed with Home Performance in mind.  With flexible long-term unsecured financing and industry low rates, whole house home performance projects become affordable for homeowners and cost effective for utilities and program sponsors.  

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

Arizona Public Services

Southwest Gas

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

Key Staff Individuals/ Primary Staff Contact
Bruce Matulich, Executive Director, 866-367-3442 x 314; bmatulich@egia.org
David Warren, Director, Association Development, 951-894-1414; dwarren@egia.org
Eric Howarth, National Director, Assoc. Development, 209-423-6795; ehowarth@egia.org

Description of Services offered to support HPwES Programs
Energy Finance Solutions (EFS) is a service offered by Wisconsin Energy Conservation Corporation (WECC), a non-profit organization dedicated to the development, delivery and administration of energy efficiency programs.  EFS offers customized financing options and services designed to support energy efficiency programs, helping program sponsors reach more customers and achieve energy savings goals.  Teaming the knowledge and experience of energy program design and delivery with the ability to provide niche energy financing products has allowed EFS to offer solutions for utilities and state agencies throughout the nation, and to serve as a leader in energy efficiency financing for Home Performance with Energy Star programs

Andrew Fisk, New York State Energy Research and Development Authority

Kevin Harrison, Long Island Power Authority

Diane Ferington, Energy Trust of Oregon