Best Practices in Community Energy-Efficiency and Renewable Energy Partnership Programs

Christopher Dyson and Jennifer E. Canseco, KEMA, Inc.
Julie Blackwell, Alliant Energy-Interstate Power & Light Company

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Abstract

This paper presents the results of a 2007 best practices study of community energyefficiency and renewable energy partnership programs. These programs typically involve engagements between utilities and local governments to encourage community-wide energy efficiency, resource conservation, and/or development of community-based energy projects. These programs provide a range of services including funding, demonstration grants, training, technical support, outreach support, mentorship, and education. The paper provides profiles of seven active and inactive programs in Iowa, Massachusetts, New York, Washington, and Wisconsin based on program literature and in-depth interviews with program administrators and implementers.

Results of this research suggest that several elements may be critical to a program's success in a given community, including active involvement of community decision-makers, identification of an existing community group to maintain program momentum, and identification of a key official to champion the program in local government. This paper includes details on these and other keys to success for these types of programs. It also suggests ways that program administrators can set and maintain realistic expectations within a community regarding a program's focus and reach. These valuable considerations should help program planners and implementers to craft and operate successful community partnership programs focused on energy efficiency and renewable energy.