The weather normalization settings in the Use Vs Weather tab make it a valuable interactive tool for Cost Avoidance determination. Weather calculations are ordinarily based on a 12-month baseline period. However, EnergyCAP gives you the option of performing more exhaustive analysis based on up to three years of billing data.

To change the analysis Method, click on the radio button corresponding to the preferred method:

• The Combined Method includes all the billing period data points for up to three years in a single-line linear regression analysis.
  

NOTE: The Combined Method only analyzes billing data PRECEDING the End Date for the baseline period, regardless of the date displayed in the Analysis Begins: window.

EXAMPLE: If the baseline period ended 12/31/06, a three-year combined linear regression would use cost/use data from 12/1/04 through 12/31/06. A two-year combined linear regression would use cost/use data from 12/1/05 through 12/31/06.By combining multiple years to provide additional data points for the analysis, it is possible to determine the calculated line slope with higher confidence.

• The Separate Method plots each year of data with a separate regression line. If the Separate Method is chosen, the Analysis Begins: text box will be enabled. To set a beginning date for weather regression analysis, input the desired date of the billing month in the Analysis Begins: text box. Each year of data will be represented on the graph in a different color. The color/shape "key" to the regression graph is indicated to the right of the selected (active) year, which is shown in the "default" green color.
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NOTE: The primary purpose of the Separate Method of analysis is to illustrate how the weather sensitivity of a meter may have changed over time. When the regression lines coincide, there has been little change in weather sensitivity. When one regression line intersects the left vertical lower than another yet the slope is the same, this means that the non-weather loads (lighting, plug loads) were less. When the left (Y-axis) intersects are about the same but the slope of one regression line is lower than another, that year was less weather sensitive (possibly due to better controls, lower thermostat settings, improved insulation and equipment, etc.)

• The Off Method turns off multi-year analysis.

To use the results obtained using the Combined method for Cost Avoidance calculations, click on the Wrench button while the relevant data is displayed in the Cost Avoidance Manager. 

The Manual Slope Adjustment window will open.

Enter or verify the Cooling and/or Heating Base Load values, as well as the Use/Degree value (line slope as displayed using the Combined method) using the text fields provided. Click the relevant Use Manual Summer/Winter Values check box(es).

Click OK to close accept the changes and close the window.