Measurement & Verification

IPMVP

Energy efficiency projects — whether performance contracting retrofits or LEED BD&C projects — entail risk. Their benefits are known only after the fact. When it comes to building performance, “trust, but verify” is good advice. Actual performance of any building or project is highly dependant on how the building is used and the systems are operated, conditions that may change over time.

Measurement & verification is used to show that efficiency improvements are operating as intended and are providing claimed energy, water, and cost savings. If savings are not being realized, measurement results will provide useful information to understand what is happening and why.

The International Performance Measurement & Verification Protocol (IPMVP) is used worldwide. In the USA, the Association of Energy Engineers offers the Certified Measurement & Verification Professional (CMVP) Program
a 2.5 day workshop and exam that leads to the CMVP designation. To arrange international training, contact the Efficiency Valuation Organization (EVO) for more information or to download a copy of the IPMVP.

Learning Objectives
·    Describe the four different IPMVP methods.
·    Apply baseline adjustments to account for facility changes.
·    Write an IPMVP adherent M&V plan.
·    Successfully complete the CMVP exam.

ASHRAE

Evaluating the Performance of LEED-Certified Buildings

LEED-Certified buildings are intended to be more energy-efficient than their peers, but reality does not always meet expectations. LEED EB/O&M requires specific performance criteria, but LEED BD&C certification is based on projections of expected performance. This course provides an overview of performance verification methods under LEED EB/O&M and BD&C 2009 as well as a preview of LEED 2012.

Existing buildings earn Energy & Atmosphere credits by achieving or exceeding a specific Portfolio Manager score based on actual energy use. Additional EA credits can be earned through additional reductions in energy use and by installing sub-metering systems. For BD&C, projected energy use must be less than a particular threshold and can earn additional points through further energy reductions. In both programs, the owner must participate in the Building Performance Partnership. This course describes the Energy & Atmosphere prerequisites and credits available related to achieving and verifying performance of LEED certified buildings under the EB/O&M and BD&C programs.