Date of Award
2011
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Environmental and Energy Policy (MS)
College, School or Department Name
Department of Social Sciences
Advisor
Barry D Solomon
Abstract
In the U.S., many electric utility companies are offering demand-side management (DSM) programs to their customers as ways to save money and energy. However, it is challenging to compare these programs between utility companies throughout the U.S. because of the variability of state energy policies. For example, some states in the U.S. have deregulated electricity markets and others do not. In addition, utility companies within a state differ depending on ownership and size. This study examines 12 utilities’ experiences with DSM programs and compares the programs’ annual energy savings results that the selected utilities reported to the Energy Information Administration (EIA). The 2009 EIA data suggests that DSM program effectiveness is not significantly affected by electricity market deregulation or utility ownership. However, DSM programs seem to generally be more effective when administered by utilities located in states with energy savings requirements and DSM program mandates.
Recommended Citation
Goss, Courtney, "U.S. utilities' experiences with the implementation of energy efficiency programs", Master's Thesis, Michigan Technological University, 2011.