New York State Energy Research Development Authority (NYSERDA)

New York Energy $martSM Products Program

NYSERDA's New York Energy $martSM Products Program is a market transformation program focusing on increasing the supply of energy efficient, ENERGY STAR products through partnerships with retailers, manufacturers, and distributors, and creating demand through consumer awareness, the understanding of the ENERGY STAR label, and the benefits of energy efficiency. To date, program participants include more than 700 retailer partners and 30 major manufacturer partners.

Product Promotions

The program supports promotion of ENERGY STAR dishwashers, refrigerators, clothes washers, room air conditioners, through-the-wall air conditioners, compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs), lighting fixtures, light-emitting diode (LED) fixtures & light bulbs, LED holiday lighting strings, ceiling fans, freezers, dehumidifiers, room air cleaners, programmable thermostats, televisions, DVD players, VCR/DVD combos, computers, and monitors.

Retail Support

NYSERDA's dedicated field staff supports retailers by providing training and program updates, replenishing POP materials, and maximizing the effectiveness of in-store promotions. As a result of these strong partnerships, the willingness of the program retail partners to participate in advertising and special promotions over the past 9 years has proved a significant factor in the ongoing growth and recognition of ENERGY STAR products throughout New York State.

Retail Training

Field staff conduct in-store training within 30 days of a retailer becoming a NYSERDA program partner. Training is required of all staff at each participating partner location. Initial partner training consists of a 45-minute presentation on the benefits of ENERGY STAR and energy-efficient lighting products and includes information how to promote the products to consumers. Handouts, such as sales pocket guides, training booklets, and samples of advertisements and promotional materials are also provided. NYSERDA provides an annual formal training session, plus ad hoc training sessions as needed. Training typically consists of:

• Annual sales and presentation skills workshops. Trainees attend a one-day workshop to hone their sales and presentation skills. This workshop prepares the staff for making presentations to large partner groups, buyer groups, and national partner sales staff.
• Refresher training sessions. As new products are introduced, the field staff are required to participate in refresher training sessions to learn about new energy-efficient products. NYSERDA contacts manufacturers to arrange programs to provide training on these products.
• PowerPoint presentations. NYSERDA has developed field staff training presentations providing information on ENERGY STAR appliances, lighting, consumer electronics, and HVAC products.

Community Outreach

In addition to partner support, NYSERDA's Get Energy Smart site offers consumer education by providing interactive energy-saving tips, product facts, and information on resources and events. The site provides links to programs that address the needs of specific consumer audiences, such as renters, homeowners, building owners, and low income households. The site receives approximately 15,000 hits per week and is promoted through print and online marketing materials.

NYSERDA community outreach events are conducted across the state, including numerous home shows, fairs, ENERGY STAR Home events, Socket Boy appearances (NYSERDA's costumed energy-saving superhero), and LED holiday lighting events. NYSERDA also promotes ENERGY STAR through regional television energy education segments.

Visit NYSERDA

Go to NYSERDA's GetEnergySmart.org for more ideas on promoting energy efficiency education.