It’s time again for another issue of NEEA’s Market Research and Evaluation (MRE) quarterly newsletter!
This is an eventful fall for the MRE team, as five of NEEA’s seven product groups will launch studies in the fourth quarter. The HVAC product group will kick off four research efforts for the different Market Transformation programs in that group: Variable Speed Heat Pumps (VSHP), Efficient Rooftop Units (RTU), and High Performance HVAC programs will all field studies to close remaining gaps in NEEA’s understanding of the supply chain and to answer priority research questions to help refine program strategies prior to moving into the full Market Development phase. A study for the water heater programs to look at the price range (for efficient gas water heaters) and purchasing arrangements that potential water heater purchasers might consider will also kick off. The Building Envelope Product Group will explore barriers and opportunities for thin triple windows (TTW) in the Northwest through a market characterization study. Also note that several annual evaluations are wrapping up next quarter. NEEA recently posted the Commercial Code Enhancement and Manufactured Homes Market Progress Evaluation reports (MPERs) to its website. Look for three more MPERs to post this next quarter: Luminaire Level Lighting Controls, Retail Product Portfolio, and Heat Pump Water Heaters.
Lastly, this fall marks a bittersweet ending for the MRE team as our colleague and friend, Steve Phoutrides, will retire after ten years at NEEA. During his time at NEEA, he supported many of our Market Transformation programs as well as our Codes and Standards evaluation work. He will be missed for his wit and wisdom, but we wish him many happy adventures in his retirement.
Warm regards,
Amy Webb, Manager MRE
