Attributing NEB Values to Specific Measures: Decomposition Results from Programs with Multiple Measures

Lisa Smith-McClain, Lisa A. Skumatz, and John Gardner, Skumatz Economic Research Associates, Inc.

Keywords

Abstract

Most non-energy benefits (NEB) work has estimated NEBs at the program level. This study re-examines NEB results for programs with multiple measures and "packages" of measures or interventions. The research used statistical models to decompose the program NEB values and "assign" portions of the NEB values to individual measures. The work examined data from a low income weatherization program. The work provides long-missing results on the impacts of individual measures on the value of programs.

The research provides information on the NEBs associated with individual measures rather than addressing NEBs largely at the program level. These results will help program staff use the results for optimizing program design, and identifying those measures with greatest value to participants. This paper provides a previously ignored enhancement to NEB research, and provides specific NEB results for a set of residential measures, and has been applied for both residential and commercial measures.