Many jurisdictions have applied the NSPM benefit-cost analysis (BCA) framework to develop or modify a BCA test for a single DER or multiple DERs, and across a range of regulatory contexts.  

To track how the manual is referenced and formally applied across jurisdictions, explore our interactive NSPM References Map. 

Below is a summary table of state applications, followed by in-depth case studies of how specific states have applied the NSPM framework to establish jurisdiction-specific tests (JSTs). 

Summary of States Applying the NSPM

Maryland’s BCA efforts have been guided by the NSPM across several stages, starting with developing an electric vehicle (EV) BCA methodology, followed by energy efficiency (EE), before evolving into a unified BCA (UBCA) framework applicable to all DERs.  

BCA for EV and EE (2020-22)

This phase established distinct BCA frameworks for EVs and EmPOWER Maryland EE programs, laying the groundwork for a single, unified test. 

Key Filings and Reference Materials 
 
Unified BCA (UBCA) Phase I (2023-24)  

UBCA Phase I established the overarching framework for a consistent UBCA test across all DER types, determining which impacts should be included in A Maryland jurisdiction-specific test (JST). 

Key Filings and Reference Materials 
 
Unified BCA (UBCA) Phase II (2024-26)  

UBCA Phase II built on Phase I by defining specific methodologies for quantifying and monetizing key impacts. 

Key Filings and Reference Materials 

The Clean Energy DC Omnibus Amendment of 2018 charged the DC Public Service Commission with evaluating the effects of utility proposals on global climate change and achievement of the District’s commitments to reduce greenhouse gases (GHGs). To fulfill this mandate, the Commission opened Case No. GD-2019-04-M and directed the establishment of the Clean Energy Act Implementation Working Group (CEIWG) to address key issues, including the development of a BCA framework. PSC Staff facilitated the CEIWG from fall 2020 through October 2021, with technical assistance provided by Rábago Energy and NESP. Following extensive stakeholder engagement and application of NSPM guidance, PSC Staff filed a 325-page majority consensus report recommending a D.C. JST. In December 2023, the Commission issued a final decision adopting the consensus recommendations in the report and opened a Phase II proceeding to develop methodologies for quantifying specific impacts.  

Building on Phase II, outside consultants in coordination with Commission Staff, produced a draft BCA Model Guidebook in early 2025, following by a draft BCA Model for stakeholder comment. In April 2026, the Commission issued Order No. 22823, adopting a revised BCA Model – Part A, addressing stakeholder feedback and procedural motions, and directing staff to clarify the underlying framework using the NSPM prior to implementation. 

In accordance with Chapters 794 and 818 of the 2024 Virginia Acts of Assembly, the Virginia State Corporation Commission (“Commission”), per case number PUR-2024-00120, established a stakeholder process to develop testing standards for assessing the cost-effectiveness of energy efficiency programs implemented by utility companies within its jurisdiction. Led by commission staff with support from an independent monitor, the stakeholder group was tasked with developing regulations that include a single, consistent cost-effectiveness test by which all electric utility-sponsored energy efficiency programs will be measured. The Commission directed its Staff, per the legislative requirements of Chapter 794, to refer to the benefit-cost analysis framework and process outlined in the NSPM for DERs during the stakeholder process and regulation development. A comprehensive report documenting the stakeholder process, facilitated by Keystone Policy Group with technical support from Energy Futures Group and E4TheFuture (NESP), was submitted alongside Draft Regulations in March 2025. In a September 2025 Order, the Commission adopted the JST as the single cost-effectiveness test to be used by investor-owned electric utilities in Virginia beginning with the 2029 energy efficiency plans and thereafter.  

Key Filings and Reference Materials 

Starting in 2021, the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) addressed cost-effectiveness testing for distributed energy resources in Case U-20898 as part of the MI Power Grid New Technologies and Business Models workgroup. In an October 2023 Order, the Commission provided guidance on substantive aspects of the jurisdiction specific test (JST) developed by the state’s utilities—DTE Electric Company and Consumers Energy—following extensive stakeholder input. Informed by the NSPM framework and guidance, the new cost-effectiveness test is designed specifically for evaluating utility pilot initiatives (at scale), covering a broad range of emerging technologies and DER applications, including energy efficiency, demand response, distributed generation, distributed storage, EVs, and building electrification. With application of the NSPM, Michigan’s JST accounts for benefits and costs that align with state policy goals, including safety, reliability, affordability, resiliency, environmental justice and equity, and decarbonization of the energy system. In 2025, MPSC staff facilitated a BCA Tool Collaborative process with NESP support to develop methodologies for quantifying impacts via OpenBCA. 

Key Filings and Reference Materials 

The Minnesota Department of Commerce (DOC) applied the NSPM BCA framework to develop a new cost-effectiveness test for evaluating the state’s energy efficiency programs (referred to Conservation Improvement Programs or CIPs).  A comprehensive report and proposed decision were prepared by the DOC staff and its consultants –including a description of the NSPM process, stakeholder comments/positions, and staff recommendations, and submitted to the DOC commissioners for review in early 2023. A final decision issued in March 2023 requiring use of the new Minnesota Cost Test (MCT) to be applied to the utilities’ 2024-2026 Conservation Improvement Program (CIP) Triennial Plans.  

Key Filings and Reference Materials 

Early Adopters and Energy Efficiency Case Studies  

These legacy cases showcase states that applied the foundational 2017 NSPM for Energy Efficiency (2018-2020).