Tendril Participant Test
Tendril’s Participant Test* measures the quantifiable benefits and costs for customers who participate in an energy program.
The Participant Test is ideal for judging customers’ initial desirability and potential participation levels. You can also use the test in program design, such as to determine minimum incentive levels, whether incentives are necessary to encourage participation and if by changing incentive levels, you can achieve desired participation amounts.
Key elements of the Tendril Participant Test include:
Measured Benefits
The benefits of participating in an energy program comprise of cost reductions in customers’ utility bills; any incentives paid by the utility or other third parties; and any provided federal, state or local tax credit.
Measured Costs
Costs to consumers translate to out-of-pocket expenses from participating in a program, plus any increase in customers’ utility bills. Out-of-pocket expenses include any purchased equipment or materials (including sales tax and installation), any ongoing operation and maintenance costs, any removal costs, and the value of customers’ time in arranging for project-related installations.
Test Results
The Participant Test primarily provides results as the net present value (NPV) for the total program. Depending on your requirements, the test can also display results as NPV per average participant, as a benefit-cost ratio and as a discounted payback.
* Reference: California Standard Practice Manual, October 2010