FEI-FEVI 2010 EEC Report filed March 31, 2011 - FortisBC

FORTISBC ENERGY INC. AND FORTISBC ENERGY (VANCOUVER ISLAND) INC.
2010 ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION ANNUAL REPORT
• Determine which trade association’s communications (i.e. newsletters) and/or trade
publications are most accessible to contractors; and
• Determine the best avenues for advertising that will reach contractors.
The study involves two components: the qualitative component, which was completed in
December 2010 (see Appendix F) and the quantitative component, with findings expected to be
compiled by the end of March 2011. The final report is then delivered after the quantitative
component is completed. The following observations surfaced from the initial qualitative phase
of research. While they are not meant to serve as conclusive findings about all contractors,
these observations provide a number of insights.
Contractors’ Involvement in EE Incentive Programs
The qualitative work discovered that current EE incentive programs are not compelling enough
for contractors to become fully engaged. Participants suggest that programs need to offer a
greater value proposition for contractors to get involved. A key barrier to contractors’
participation in EE incentive programs appears to be that the rewards do not compensate
sufficiently for the time and energy invested – both the added un-billable time with the customer
and extra time doing unpopular program application paperwork. Strategies that lower the time
required to participate in a program will be very important to gaining contractors’ full
involvement. This could amount to simplified paperwork or simplified programs that are easier
for contractors to learn and communicate.
A second key barrier to contractors’ full involvement is their reluctance to promote something
that is constantly changing for fear they will disclose the wrong information. Because of this, the
contractors tend to avoid giving their input altogether, often advising customers to learn more
from the program website directly. Given the importance of contractors’ added opinions and
advice, it seems creating a more stable, enduring program would have a positive impact on
gaining contractors’ involvement.
Customers’ Involvement in EE Incentive Programs
Contractors feel current programs do not offer enough value to customers for the time required.
They feel EE incentive programs can be of significant value to the customer if the programs
offer enough of a financial incentive.
Contractors suggest effective EE incentive programs should specify a deadline that motivates
action. Some suggest a reward in the form of money deducted from customers’ monthly utility
bills would be the most sought-after reward for an EE incentive program. They also feel the
number of program requirements can discourage customer involvement, as well as the hassles
associated with paperwork.
SECTION 11: ENABLING ACTIVITIES Page 226