Measurement and Verification Protocol

An essential element of certifying plants for energy efficiency is validating industrial facility performance through measurement and verification (M&V). The Superior Energy Performance Industrial M&V Protocol will offer a best practice methodology to 1) verify the results and impact from implementation of the energy management standard; 2) quantify energy savings from specific measures or projects; and 3) track performance improvements over time for the overall facility. The M&V protocol will be designed to document normalized energy performance indicators, such as Btu/pound of product, and to validate energy savings so that reported savings can be used to determine carbon impact.

Application of the M&V Protocol requires separate classes of experts who can maintain independence during the verification process. This area is still under development. Based on other certification models, a two-part system is anticipated:

• SEP Performance Verifiers: Individuals who are certified to validate performance for a plant seeking certification
• SEP Verification Bodies: ANSI/ANAB-accredited organization(s) legally qualified to issue a certification to the plant based on the reported and validated energy performance improvement and energy management processes.

The Superior Energy Performance Industrial M&V Protocol has been piloted in Texas and is currently undergoing revisions.