Energy Conservation Program Evaluation

ECONorthwest has wide-ranging experience conducting impact and process evaluations of energy conservation programs. For impact evaluations, ECONorthwest estimates net kWh, kW, and therm savings using sophisticated econometric modeling techniques such as statistically adjusted engineering (SAE) regression models, gross and net billing models, and discrete choice models of consumer energy purchase decisions. ECONorthwest has also worked as an auditor for regulating agencies in California, Oregon, and Ontario to review the impact evaluation analyses and verify the energy savings claims of other conservation programs.

ECONorthwest has conducted numerous process evaluations of energy conservation programs to assess how effectively these programs are being implemented. In many of these evaluations, ECONorthwest developed logic models to show the underlying program theory and key assumptions. These logic models help guide the overall evaluation process by highlighting important program assumptions and activities that may require empirical testing through additional evaluation research.

Clients for ECONorthwest's program evaluation projects have included major investor-owned utilities in California (PG&E, SCE, SDG&E, and SoCal Gas), the Energy Trust of Oregon, the Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), the Bonneville Power Administration, and the California and Oregon Public Utilities Commissions.

Download our Utility System Planning Brochure for more information.

Representative Projects

  • ENERGY STAR Homes Northwest Program: Progress Report
    (Excerpt | PDF, 222K)
    Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance
    Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana
  • Small Business Energy Efficiency Program Evaluation
    (Excerpt | PDF, 320K)
    San Diego Gas and Electric
    California
  • Evaluation of Non-Residential Financial Incentives Program
    (Excerpt | PDF, 332K)
    Southern California Gas Company
    California
  • Statewide Emerging Technologies Program Evaluation
    Southern California Edison
    California
  • Demand-Side Management Energy Conservation Program Evaluation
    Enbridge Gas Distribution
    Ontario, Canada