Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, and the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) contracted with NMR to implement a Residential Appliance Saturation Survey (RASS) for the state of New Jersey. The objective of the study was to document current saturations, efficiency levels, and usage behaviors associated with energy consuming equipment and features of single-family and two- to four-unit multifamily residences.
NMR completed a multimedia self-report survey of 1,251 homes with a nested sample of 70 on-site surveys. The surveys asked homeowners and tenants to provide information related to energy consuming equipment in their homes, including heating, cooling, water heating, appliances, consumer electronics, distributed energy systems, and electric vehicles. The on-site surveys included verification of the self-reported data and collected data on lighting and building shell. NMR implemented the survey in 2023.
The study provided statewide results weighed proportionally across electric utility service areas, as well as results by overburdened community status, income levels, and energy-efficiency program participation history. The results of this study can inform the basis from which utility energy-efficiency programs claim savings; support the assessment of demand-side resource potential; and aid in the development of market intervention strategies.