New Study Maps Energy Efficiency Patterns Across New York State

On March 8, Dr. Joe Nyangon and Professor John Byrne published a peer-reviewed study in Energy Sources, Part B: Economics, Planning and Policy examining how residential energy-efficiency measures (EEMs) are adopted across New York State and what this means for future energy demand and rebound effects.

Titled “Spatial Energy Efficiency Patterns in New York and Implications for Energy Demand and the Rebound Effect,” the paper applies a spatial Durbin error model (SDEM) to analyze adoption trends from 2012 to 2016. Drawing on socioeconomic, building, and household demographic data, the study uncovers clear spatial patterns in energy-efficiency investments across rural, suburban, and urban communities.

The findings show that building attributes—particularly multifamily structures and gas-heated homes—play a stronger role in EEM adoption than socioeconomic factors alone. Higher education levels and proximity to neighboring ZIP codes with strong EEM uptake also significantly increase adoption, highlighting the importance of spatial spillover or “neighbor” effects.

Importantly, the research demonstrates that well-designed energy-efficiency policies can generate positive, reinforcing impacts across communities. The authors emphasize that policymakers should periodically reassess incentive programs to reflect changes in the built environment and address persistent spatial disparities in energy-efficiency investments.

By combining advanced spatial modeling with policy-relevant insights, the study offers a valuable framework for designing more effective, equitable energy-efficiency strategies in New York State and beyond.