Heat Savers M&V Study

Advanced Measurement & Verification

Michaels Energy conducted advanced measurement & verification (M&V) research for Xcel Energy’s residential natural gas demand response (DR) pilot program in Colorado’s Mountain region. The program aimed to relieve pipeline constraints, reduce peak load, and defer costly infrastructure upgrades.

Our Approach

• Designed and tested two baseline strategies: control/treatment groups and the 10-in-10 method
• Evaluated event effectiveness, thermostat adjustments, and staggered start times
• Quantified reductions in peak demand, emissions impacts, and participant engagement

Figure 1 Change in Natural Gas Usage per Site by Event Period 

Key Findings

• 74 Therms saved per household during 4-hour DR events
• 90% participation rate among early adopters
• Staggered start times reduced peak demand by 38.9%
• Events achieved an overall net reduction of 0.25 Therms within ±2 hours