A computing device for use with a demand response system is provided. The computing device includes a communication interface for receiving customer data of a plurality of customers, wherein the customer data includes a participation history and historical consumption values for each customer for participating in at least one demand response event. A processor is coupled to the communication interface and is programmed to select at least one customer from the plurality of customers by considering the participation history and the historical consumption values for each of the customers. The processor is also programmed to estimate a future reduction in energy consumption for the customer based on the customer data and to determine whether the estimated future reduction in energy consumption is substantially accurate.