Filling in the missing pieces in utility programs to create a total energy solution

Conference · Wed Jul 01 04:00:00 EDT 1998

OSTI ID:20002684

Cohen, S; Kulakowski, S; McGaraghan, S; Bhalla, A J

Utilities typically use site surveys, rebates, and/or financing to promote energy efficiency retrofits to their commercial and industrial customers. For many customers, these services are not enough to implement a project, or other services would be more valuable. This paper discusses field results from Pacific Gas and Electric Company programs that complement the above-mentioned standard utility programs. The first program is a benchmarking and energy efficiency profitability analysis that helps customers formulate an overall corporate energy strategy. The analysis considers energy efficiency as a profit-enhancing strategy using the same criteria the company applies to other business investments. The results of this service help the customer determine how much money to invest in energy efficiency and in which facilities to start. The second program is design and implementation assistance that covers engineering pre-design studies, bid preparation, bid review, and project facilitation in place of rebates. These services address important market barriers that are often ignored but are particularly critical to the initial phases of large, complex projects. The third program is an on-line vendor referral service maintained by the utility but with marketing funded by participating vendors. This services allows the utility to make referrals without improperly promoting individual businesses, gives customers the information they need to make informed purchasing decisions, and lets customers select qualified local vendors that stock energy-efficient equipment. These three programs, in conjunction with the previously offered services, provide more customers with a total energy solution.

• Research Organization: Energy Solutions, Oakland, CA (US)
• OSTI ID: 20002684
• Report Number(s): CONF-980815--
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATION
BUILDINGS
DESIGN
ELECTRIC UTILITIES
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
INFORMATION DISSEMINATION
LOAD MANAGEMENT
PROGRAM MANAGEMENT
RETROFITTING