Tendril Utility Test
The Tendril Utility Test* (also known as the Program Administrator Cost Test) measures the net costs of energy programs based on costs incurred by the organization issuing the program, and excluding any net costs experienced by participants.
Key elements of the Tendril Utility Test include:
Measured Benefits
Calculated benefits include avoided supply costs associated with energy and demand, and reductions in transmission, distribution, generation and capacity that are valued at marginal costs during load reduction time periods.
Measured Costs
Cost calculations include program costs incurred by the organization issuing the program, incentives paid to customers, and increased supply costs for increased load time periods.
Test Results
The Tendril Utility Test primarily provides results as net present value for the total program. Depending on your requirements, the test can also display results as a benefit-cost ratio or as levelized costs.
* Reference: California Standard Practice Manual, October 2010