Our Energy Consumption Model (ECM)
A data-driven, engineering-reviewed methodology that delivers accurate, compliant, property-specific utility allowances.
How Our Methodology Works
DPC’s Energy Consumption Model (ECM) generates precise utility allowances by integrating a wide range of property details — including unit size, building design, mechanical systems, occupancy, and current utility rates.
Developed in collaboration with licensed professional engineers and refined over two decades, our model is designed to meet and exceed the requirements of 26 CFR § 1.42-10 and state housing-finance agencies nationwide.
DPC’s Proprietary ECM System
DPC has developed a proprietary, multi-tiered system built on the Energy Consumption Model framework. This system allows us to:
Tailor allowances by property characteristics and historical energy standards,
Incorporate climate and construction variables with precision,
Efficiently produce accurate, property-specific utility allowance reports,
Deliver complete submission packages, including required backup documentation.
Key Features of Our Methodology
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Comprehensive Data Inputs
Captures year of construction, square footage, bedroom mix, HVAC efficiency, insulation values, appliance types, building orientation, local climate data, and more.
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Category & Bedroom Adjustments
Separate allowances for single-family, duplex, and multifamily buildings — further adjusted for unit size and occupancy (0 – 5 bedrooms).
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Detailed Utility Breakouts
Individual allowance calculations for heating, cooling, water heating, cooking, water, sewer, trash, and other resident-paid electricity.
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Additional Design Factors
Accounts for extensive technical parameters such as BTU heat loss, efficiency ratings, design temperature differentials, water-heating recovery rates, appliance power usage, lighting wattage, and miscellaneous loads.
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Current Utility Rates
All allowances are based on verified residential rates documented within 60 days of the ECM report date — ensuring accuracy and compliance.
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Fees, Taxes & Local Adjusters
Includes all applicable service charges, riders, surcharges, volume discounts, and taxes for electric, gas, water, sewer, and trash utilities.
Built for Compliance
Every study produced through DPC’s ECM methodology is designed to meet and exceed the requirements of 26 CFR § 1.42-10.
Our consistent acceptance rate reflects the rigor of our documentation, the precision of our model, and the engineering oversight we apply to every study.
State agencies, lenders, underwriters, and other approving authorities rely on DPC for accurate, supportable utility allowances.
