Addicted to Rebates? Or are they just what the doctor ordered?

摘要

Rebates have been integral parts of many energy efficiency programs and marketing of many non-energy-related products for years. Rebates can be quite effective at inspiring participants to take action. Some energy efficiency rebate programs have made substantial progress in transforming their markets. On the other hand, it is possible that rebates can create unintended, negative consequences in the market. In this paper we present case studies of rebate programs that have contributed to market transformation and some hypothetical negative consequences of rebates. We also suggest some research approaches that could be used to provide evidence for or against some of these negative possibilities. We will conclude by offering some advice on how some of the potential negative effects of rebates could be mitigated or avoided.