DNV GL has launched a new iPad app that will make it easier for small businesses to participate in utility-sponsored energy efficiency programs. The Direct Install (DI) app reduces the time required for contractors to prepare and present a business-specific energy efficiency proposal. This streamlined process puts the customer on a fast-track to saving energy and cutting costs. For small businesses, these savings can provide a substantial boost to the bottom line.

DNV GL implements DI programs for many utilities across the U.S. “We developed the DI iPad app to expand small business participation and reduce program delivery costs,” said John Masiello, Area Manager for DNV GL. “This app will help contractors connect with more small businesses by providing timely delivery and enhanced motivational tools for cost-effective, energy efficiency improvements.” A prototype is now available from Apple’s iTunes store.

Adam Larson, an experienced Direct Install contractor with Oscar W. Larson Co., has integrated other mobile applications in the company’s day-to-day operations and noted that the new DI app would be greatly beneficial for increasing program participation.

With the iPad app, an approved DI contractor can perform a facility energy assessment, prepare recommendations for efficiency improvements and produce a proposal for the customer’s decision in one visit. In contrast to the current web-based portal, the app does not require an Internet connection to generate the proposal. The app also captures the customer signature on-site, so the approved project can be scheduled for installation.

“This will streamline the sales process by allowing real time quote adjustments in the field,” remarked Todd Meyer, president of Energy Wise America and experienced Direct Install contractor. “The coordination and travel required to return to a customer is costly, which makes this remote access a perfect next step in coordination between program and field contractors.”

Contractors can use the new iPad app to collect information about a facility’s lighting, refrigeration and HVAC equipment and to identify energy efficiency improvements. The system calculates the project cost and identifies utility rebates that reduce the upfront investment for eligible customers. All data is encrypted and transferred securely.

“That kind of access would speed things up a lot,” says Larson. Being able to build, adjust and present a proposal in one visit could “mean the difference between getting the job or not.”

Mark Derksen, an experienced Direct Install contractor from Demand Drop, adds, "We are always looking for more streamlined ways to do business. Having an iPad app specifically designed to do this type of work will save us tons of time and money."

DNV GL will customize the DI app to reflect utility-specific program details and branding.

Source: DNV GL