Energy Efficiency Portfolio Program Manager CMC Energy Services, Inc. Fort Washington, Pennsylvania
Non-Energy Impacts (NEIs) are becoming more influential in cost-effectiveness testing, and it's apparent that more primary research is needed to quantify these impacts. APPRISE evaluated the participant NEIs associated with two energy efficiency programs — one market-rate & one low-income. APPRISE surveyed participants about their perceived changes in winter comfort, summer comfort, safety, health, and noise. The research found that total NEI estimates vary dramatically depending on the methodology used to aggregate survey results. We will review variation across methods, how results differ based on installed measures, and how the results differ between the market-rate and low-income programs.
Income-eligible communities occupy substandard housing more often than other groups. Due to a variety of hazards, they experience higher rates of chronic health issues and cannot fully participate in energy efficiency programs. As programs further integrate health and safety, it is important to understand the impact on customers. Dr. Tom McAteer will discuss the results of a quasi-experimental study, supported by CMC Energy and Wilmington University, that explored how perceptions of economics, health, and comfort differed based on whether the program incorporates health and safety. The study also examined how perceptions vary by poverty level, minority representation and building type.
Learning Objectives:
By attending this session, attendees will:
Understand how participant non-energy impacts can be valued
Assess advantages and disadvantages of various NEI estimation methodologies
Demonstrate how program participants' perceptions change based on factors such as work scope, type of building occupied, geographic location, etc.
