This course is intended to provide students with a thorough understanding of the key issues in measurement and verification (M&V) of energy savings performance contracts (ESPCs) so that they can negotiate for better M&V in their projects. There are three modules. The first introduces basic M&V concepts such as the critical importance of M&V in performance contracts, the inherent un-measurability of savings, savings uncertainty, the difference between retrofit isolation and whole building M&V approaches, and the four IPMVP-sanctioned M&V "options." The second module discusses each of the M&V options in greater detail and provides guidance on why one would select a specific option over the others, given a realistic project scenario and energy conservation measure (ECM). The third module covers some of the common issues that one might encounter in evaluating an energy service company's (ESCO's) proposed M&V plan and introduces M&V resources available to help address them.

Learning Objectives

By completing this course you will have a demonstrated knowledge of:

• Describe the rationale for M&V in ESPCs and the general process for how it should be conducted;
• Identify the four main M&V options (retrofit isolation options, A & B; whole building utility bill analysis, Option C; and calibrated simulation, Option D) and choose an appropriate one given a representative ECM and project scenario;
• Understand the four categories of operational characteristics relevant to M&V: constant load, timed schedule (CLTS); variable load, timed schedule (VLTS); constant load, variable schedule (CLVS); and variable load, variable schedule (VLVS); and
• Recognize common issues in ESCOs' M&V plans and describe potential solutions; in addition, identify some of the key M&V resources from FEMP and other organizations and understand their applicability.