Advanced Circuit Rider (Technical Assistance) Programs to Enhance Deployment of New Energy Efficient Technologies

Gary Epstein and Brian McCowan, Energy & Resource Solutions Inc.
Tom Coughlin, National Grid USA

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Abstract

In recent years, many new, energy efficient technologies have been developed and promoted. For these technologies, training and support efforts are needed to achieve programmatic and market transformation successes.

This paper describes experiences implementing new, more aggressive approaches to enhance adoption of energy efficiency techniques and systems using “circuit riders”. Circuit rider programs involve experts who meet with targeted groups of market actors to address their specific needs and issues, enhance their knowledge, and modifying their practices. The circuit rider efforts are different from classroom training programs, but still may include a traditional training component. Circuit rider programs are designed to be a more recipient-customized endeavor, with experts providing focused technical assistance, addressing the unique concern of the audience. Further, since any meeting is intended for a single audience (for a single firm or for a single project), the assistance can truly cater to the group's specific project requirements.

Following a discussion of the general nature of circuit rider programs in the energy efficiency industry, this paper describes in detail a couple of recent and ongoing circuit rider programs. The first is a circuit rider program that was focused on promoting improved compliance with new energy codes, and promotion of beyond code designs and construction. The second example focuses on a circuit rider effort that is designed to promote high performance lighting and daylighting designs for school facilities. In these examples, we describe types of markets actors we have worked with, issues addressed, impacts, benefits, and challenges for these projects.