Overview
The LIPAedge Program was developed to help the Long Island Power Authority take the peak load “edge” off the commercial and residential HVAC load that impacts their system during the Summer months.

This innovative technology uses cellular telephone signals and internet interface, allowing LIPA to remotely adjust or override the programmable thermostat’s settings between the hours of 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. (peak). If LIPA finds that peak load is reaching a critical state, they can remotely and selectively reduce the HVAC load by adjusting the temperature set point up 2 or 3 degrees. The customer has complete manual control and, additionally, gets the ability to check the status of each thermostat remotely via the internet, change settings or re-program it at any time.

Implementation
LIPA had been focusing on residential customers via bill stuffers, and contracted APT to penetrate the hard-to-get-at small business market on Long Island.

By demographically mapping small businesses (<50 kW) and utilizing 3 APT Field representatives, APT was able to cost effectively promote the concept to small business owners and acquire a 60% buy in.  Customers were offered a free LIPAedge Programmable thermostat, which was installed by an HVAC contractor. As an incentive, they were also offered a $50 mail in rebate.

In addition, APT designed and conducted a survey of all businesses we solicited. This survey comprised 9 questions regarding awareness of LIPA Energy Efficiency programs, product purchasing habits and rationale, and helped to identify other energy efficiency measure opportunities on site. This dramatically helped LIPA to better understand, and hence serve, this market sector.

Summary of Results
In 10 months, APT surveyed over 1,500 small businesses resulting in the installation of over 900 LIPAedge Programmable thermostats.  Going forward, LIPA enjoyed considerable spill over benefits such as residential pick-up, increased enery efficiency measure awareness and opportunity in this sector.