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Core Mission and Approach

The firm's mission is to connect people, data, and technology to build a sustainable future. D+R International envisions a world where energy is consumed efficiently, remains accessible and affordable, and has a minimal environmental impact. Their approach is data-driven and results-oriented. By combining deep technical expertise with sophisticated market research and data analytics, they design and manage large-scale programs that overcome market barriers, educate consumers and professionals, and accelerate the adoption of efficient products and practices.

Key Services and Solutions

D+R International offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to support every stage of a sustainability program's lifecycle, from initial concept and design to implementation, evaluation, and evolution.

Program Design and Management: * D+R specializes in the ground-up development and ongoing management of complex energy efficiency programs. This includes creating incentive structures, developing program guidelines, managing stakeholders, and ensuring quality assurance. They have been instrumental in supporting some of the nation's most prominent initiatives on behalf of federal and state agencies.

Data Analytics and Market Research: * Data-Driven Strategy: At the core of D+R's work is rigorous data analysis. They collect, process, and analyze massive datasets related to energy consumption, product sales, and program performance to uncover market trends and opportunities. * Market Characterization: The firm conducts in-depth market research to understand the dynamics of specific industries, identify key actors, and pinpoint barriers to efficiency. This research informs program strategy and helps clients make well-informed decisions. * Technology Platforms: D+R develops and utilizes sophisticated databases and software tools, such as their Lumen platform, to manage program data, track progress, and provide stakeholders with actionable insights through dashboards and data visualization.

Education, Marketing, and Engagement: * Strategic Marketing: D+R designs and executes targeted marketing and outreach campaigns to drive participation in their programs. This includes creating compelling messaging, developing web and print collateral, and engaging with supply chain partners like manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. * Training and Education: The firm develops and delivers effective training programs and curricula for a variety of audiences, including contractors, building operators, and program administrators, to build technical capacity and empower professionals to implement energy-efficient solutions.

Policy and Technical Consulting: * D+R provides expert guidance to help clients navigate the complexities of energy and environmental policy. They offer technical consulting on product specifications, testing protocols, and emerging technologies to ensure that programs are built on a solid technical foundation.

Major Programs and Areas of Expertise

D+R International's portfolio demonstrates a broad range of expertise in promoting energy and resource efficiency across various sectors.

• ENERGY STAR?: Since 1996, D+R has been a key partner to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), providing critical support for the ENERGY STAR program. Their work has been vital in establishing the ENERGY STAR label as the leading national symbol for energy-efficient products.

• Lighting and Appliance Efficiency: The company has managed numerous initiatives to transform the market for efficient technologies. This includes work with the DesignLights Consortium (DLC) to create qualified product lists for commercial LED lighting and managing regional rebate programs for appliances and HVAC systems.

• Weatherization and Building Performance: D+R provides technical assistance, training, and quality assurance for weatherization programs on behalf of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), helping to improve the energy efficiency of homes across the country.

• Water Conservation: Leveraging their program management expertise, D+R supports water-saving initiatives, such as the EPA's WaterSense program, by promoting water-efficient products and practices.

• Voluntary and Regulatory Programs: The firm serves as an independent administrator and auditor for voluntary agreements within industries, such as the agreement to improve the energy efficiency of television set-top boxes, ensuring accountability and transparent data collection.

• Market Data and Analysis: D+R partners with industry organizations like the Heating, Air-conditioning & Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI) to collect and analyze sales data, producing valuable market share reports that track the adoption of high-efficiency HVAC products.