A Market Diffusion Potential (MDP) Assessment Model for Residential Energy Efficient (EE) Technologies in the U.S.

Abstract

Abstract The Diffusion of Residential Energy Efficient (EE) Technologies has been studied for many years. Finding ways to bridge the energy efficiency gap and increase the diffusion of these technologies have been of much interest to researchers and practitioners alike. However, in most studies, diffusion is equated to adoption of EE technologies by consumers. The present study tries to break this mindset and develops a model to assess the diffusion of residential EE technologies from the market's perspective. The model assesses diffusion of an EE technology based on the market's ability to provide benefits to customers that are identified to be most important. The research contributes in several ways to the existing knowledge bank of residential EE technology diffusion. It provides an elaborate literature review on market attributes with associated components that help to develop the market attributes. The model allows to identify low rating attributes and helps to improve Market Diffusion Potential (MDP) MDP of technology cases by taking appropriate actions. Also, sensitivity analysis provides a snapshot of hypothetical situations that help decision makers to realize what to expect in case of extreme market situations and improve MDP of residential EE technologies by selecting appropriate business inclination strategy for excelling. The model can have several practical applications. The results of MDP assessment would aid in market transformation, utility program selection, as well as feed in information for R & D on prospective EE technologies and a wide array of other organizations with diversified interests in energy savings, climate change and sustainability.