Press Releases

Study Claims Consumers Missing Out on Beneficial Efficiency Programs Due to Faulty Measurements

Deleware Valley, PA, August 6, 2012 - Energy efficiency tests that have been the standard for comparing efficiency program costs to potential benefits for years are now being called into question.

According to a study commissioned by the National Home Performance Council, utility cost-effectiveness testing (which helps to determine whether or not an energy program is worth launching) is flawed and somewhat incomplete. In fact, the study claims that many programs that could potentially have saved consumers money and been beneficial to the environment have been foregone, due mostly to inaccurate testing.

The study states that these tests currently are not employing the range of best practices necessary for regulators and program administrators to make fully informed decisions. And failure to fully access the value of an energy efficiency initiative ultimately leads to under investment in potentially beneficial measures.

“Unfortunately, current practices of cost-effectiveness testing have hindered the development of effective, high-grade energy efficiency programs” said Roy Patterson, Executive Vice President of the Delaware Valley Fuel Dealers Association and member of the Energy Communications Council. “It’s hard to tell just how many customers have missed out on substantial savings as a result of these inadequacies.”

Until new tests are implemented, Patterson encourages consumers to take advantage of the programs that do exist, to the fullest extent possible. “There are several great programs out there designed to save homeowners money when it comes to efficiency upgrades and fuel conservation. Your local heating oil association is aware of all such programs, and can direct you to helpful resources to learn more about them.”

Consumers can find more information on energy efficiency at www.HeatingNews.org.

For more information contact:
Roy Patterson 215.757.8688 [email protected]