A report released this summer by the Division of Energy Resources, Minnesota Department of Commerce aims to highlight themes and strategies for achieving improved energy efficiency in the existing multifamily housing stock that comprises nearly one quarter of all housing units in the U.S.
While the study — Multifamily Energy Efficiency: Insights on Program Best Practices to Align Stakeholder Interests — offers a number of recommendations for program sponsors and policy makers, in some ways it raises more questions than it answers—and that is a good thing. Discussions with leading industry experts and practitioners and a review of published literature revealed a defining characteristic of the multifamily sector: This is a very diverse and challenging sector to address. It is only by laying out clear goals, engaging with multiple stakeholders, and thoughtfully considering the tradeoffs inherent in program design that sponsors can best ensure the success of their multifamily programs.
It is important to recognize that this study was a precursor to a more ambitious market characterization and energy savings potential analysis for existing multifamily housing (defined as structures with 5 or more housing units) in Minnesota. As such it focuses on offering a framework for understanding the best practices for program success—as identified by industry experts—rather than quantifying the size and sources of the energy savings opportunities. The study was prepared by Franklin Energy and Greenway Insights.
Sections in the paper include:
- Introduction: An outline of the content of this report, an executive summary of the findings, and context on the energy savings opportunities and challenges facing sponsors of multifamily energy efficiency programs
- Best Practice Themes: A framework for considering the dimensions of program success and a synthesis of feedback from study interviews and a review of published literature
- Literature that Illuminates: A synopsis of relevant key takeaways from 15 of the most useful publications reviewed as part of the study
- Program Profiles: A comparison of offerings from current ratepayer-funded energy efficiency programs targeting the multifamily sector
- References and Resources: A broader listing of publications and references reviewed for the study that may provide readers with additional insights
