Normative Comparisons

Normative Comparison modules compare a customer's energy usage against their own past usage or that of their neighbors. These modules are designed to motivate customers to understand the differences in each comparison and subsequently reduce energy. Types of normative comparisons include:

• Three-Bar Neighbor Comparison: The Three-Bar Neighbor Comparison is designed to motivate customers to save energy based on how they see themselves in relation to their neighbors. It compares the customer (“You”) to two groups: “Efficient Homes” and “Similar Homes.” The results are displayed in a horizontal bar graph.
• Efficiency Zone: The Efficiency Zone is composed of a bar graph depicting the use of the customer and similar homes relative to a green efficiency zone, paired with the key insights or takeaways for the customer. If the customer's bar is at the green vertical threshold line or to the left of it, within the light green box, they are considered "in the efficiency zone." The Efficiency Zone threshold represents the average use of the 20th percentile of similar homes during that bill period and will change with each report.
• Seasonal Normative Comparison: The Seasonal Normative Comparison compares the customer's cooling or heating energy use from the previous season compared to other homes.
• Peak-Focused Normative Comparison: The Peak Focused Normative Comparison module includes total electricity usage values so that the customer can have a better understanding of what their peak use is compared to their total use.

Note: Utilities have the option of including either the Efficiency Zone or the Three-bar Neighbor Comparison module in some report experiences. It is recommended that utilities with a savings focus include a Three-Bar Neighbor Comparison in their report experience.

The design of the modules varies by the customer's report type and program design. Go to the individual module page to learn about the details of each module experience.

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