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IndEco, in partnership with the Canadian Energy Efficiency Alliance and the Electricity Distributors Association, hosted the 2004 Energy Conservation Forum and Workshop in Toronto on July 22, 2004.
The objective of the workshop was to provide local electric distribution companies (LDCs) with an opportunity to:
- learn about ready-to-implement electric and natural gas DSM energy efficiency programs and how to leverage existing initiatives;
- listen as experts shared case studies and DSM program best practices;
- discuss how new DSM program designs can be developed and implemented quickly and easily for the 2004-2005 heating and cooling seasons;
- network with government, local distribution companies and other stakeholders.
The workshop was designed to provide an opportunity for LDC’s to meet with potential delivery agents of electric DSM and to explore opportunities for partnership. As well, the workshop was designed to identify issues of concern to LDCs in moving forward with DSM now in light of the existing regulatory and policy framework and to identify how to address these issues.
Approximately 150 participants attended the workshop, including staff from electricity and gas distribution utilities, energy associations, technology manufacturers and vendors, provincial and municipal government, not for profit organizations, and consulting and law firms.
The attendees were encouraged to ask questions and engage in discussions throughout the day. A mix of presentation-based and discussion-based sessions provided attendees with opportunities to both absorb and contribute information. The workshop agenda included presentations from DSM experts, case studies from local and international utilities, a panel session and a breakout session. Representatives from the Minister of Energy’s Office and the Ontario Energy Board also provided workshop attendees with information and guidance on DSM for LDCs to consider.
Throughout the course of these sessions a number of common themes emerged:
- The regulatory rules of engagement for LDC participation in DSM need to be established;
- Priority setting is integral to DSM planning & delivery;
- Electric DSM in Ontario should draw upon existing experience & knowledge;
- Partnerships offer many opportunities and advantages;
- Measuring results is fundamental to achieving DSM goals.
The results of an exit survey of participants at the workshop revealed that the workshop was considered extremely useful. IndEco and the Alliance are preparing a workshop report that documents the results of the workshop in more detail.
Review the full report:
 (560 kb)
Workshop agenda:
 (32 kb)
About the author:
Shona Adamson is a consultant at IndEco Strategic Consulting Inc. Shona is an environmental researcher with extensive experience in a broad range of environmental issues. She has a background in physical and environmental science.
Related links:
IndEco services in energy management
IndEco services in regulatory affairs
IndEco services in strategic planning
An IndEco report on: Milton Hydro DSM plan for 2004
Ontario Minister of Energy's initial announcement on what he plans to do |