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Low-income energy efficiency programs can help stimulate utility bottom line

Low-income energy efficiency programs can help stimulate utility bottom line

ATLANTA – Low-income energy efficiency programs not only assist customers by reducing the amount of their energy bills but also stimulate the bottom line and public image of utilities, according to Chartwell’s latest report Low-Income Energy Efficiency Programs.

Based on in-depth discussions with the leaders of eight nationally recognized programs – in both the U.S. and Canada – Chartwell researchers discovered the keys to success in low-income energy efficiency. The new report provides details on program benefits to the utility, program development, funding sources, program design, operations, partnerships, and marketing and communication.

Utility strategies in low-income energy efficiency programs range from performance of energy audits and appliance replacement to the creation of a conservation board, reveals Low-Income Energy Efficiency Programs.

Without participation, efficiency programs will not reap expected benefits, so utilities have directed their efforts at reaching the income-eligible. Program leaders share strategies on breaking through language and cultural barriers and tailoring communications to special populations. Many utilities do not have the manpower to dedicate to low-income programs and have developed strategies to use community-based organizations to help inform the income-eligible and administer programs. Others market messages based on comfort, health and safety issues—rather than energy savings—to attract customers.

Among the programs examined in Low-Income Energy Efficiency Programs are those of Entergy, Hydro One, National Grid and Sempra.

Low-Income Energy Efficiency Programs which is available as a stand-alone product from Chartwell for $495, is part of The Chartwell Products, Services & Programs Research Series, which focuses on products, services and customer relations issues such as marketing, promotions and public communications.

The Research Series is a 12-month membership that includes a data summary and accompanying database based on Chartwell’s extensive annual utility survey; regular in-depth reports and case studies covering specific products/services or marketing/communications-related issues; one-on-one consultation with Chartwell research staff on topics covered; profiles of vendors poised to help utilities in this arena and more.

For information on membership in The Chartwell Products, Services & Programs Research Series or the individual report, Utility Green Building Programs, contact Bill Grist at (800) 432-5879, (404)237-9099 or bgrist@chartwellinc.com; or visit www.chartwellinc.com or Chartwell’s Energy Library at www.energylibrary.com.