NORA National Oilheat Research Alliance

The National Oilheat Research Alliance Act (NORA), enacted in 2001 by Congress, enabled the Oilheat industry to establish an industry-funded check-off program to support many industry activities. Oilheat distributors across the country are acting together to improve the value and benefits the public receives for every gallon of Oilheat consumed. The funds collected from this check-off program are being used for consumer education, Oilheat research and development, and technical training to the benefit of the consuming public and the industry.

While NORA is new for the Oilheat industry, the "check-off" format, which is the essence of NORA, has been highly effective for other industries for a number of years. Check-off programs you are likely familiar with include "Beef, It's what's for dinner;" "Pork, the other white meat;" and "Got Milk?" Those are indicative of large scale campaigns enabled by check-off programs. Each program established a universal theme for the product, provided research to improve the quality of the product, and strengthened the industry. Closer to our own Oilheat industry, you may be familiar with the Propane Education and Research Council (PERC) which is breaking new ground for the propane industry and energy distribution. NORA will provide the means by which consumers can gain even more value from Oilheat and for the public to be informed about why Oilheat is the viable and right energy choice for many homeowners in Oilheat climate regions.

Oilheat provides the best space and water heating option in many markets. Several studies by the Department of Energy have shown Oilheat to be the most cost efficient fuel in its prime marketing area. However, not all consumers are aware of this, and without marketing and education, they may not be in position to evaluate the many benefits of Oilheat.

NORA will accomplish much for consumers and the Oilheat industry, creating an improved environment for the Oilheat marketplace in coming years. NORA aims to ensure:

• the public knows the benefits of heating with oil,
• the technicians have the training to provide the best service to customers, and
• that the research to improve heating oil and the equipment it fuels continues to advance
  

What NORA Can Accomplish

• NORA is launching an ambitious research program to improve both fuel and equipment. Early research has shown that improvements to oilheat will improve the efficiency of furnaces and boilers, extend their life, and reduce maintenance and service costs.
• NORA is also undertaking technical research. This research is expected to lead to the commercialization of technology that will ensure heating systems operate at peak capacity at all times. NORA will also help develop self-diagnostic technology that will enable heating-systems to alert the consumer when the furnace is beginning to have problems.
• Nora plans to improve technical training and the diagnostic tools they use. Improved training of technicians will lead to fewer service calls and each service call will be more efficient and save consumers money in the long run.
• NORA will also begin working with realtors and home inspectors to ensure they understand the oilheating systems. Realtors will then be able to explain to potential customers what oilheat is and the advantages of it. New homebuyers can request that any oilheated homes be converted to another fuel source.

Information requests can be directed to:

NORA
211 North Union Street, Suite 100
Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 703-519-4204
E-mail: jhuber@nora-oilheat.org or prichardson@nora-oilheat.org