Energy efficiency is a proven, low-cost strategy for reducing carbon emissions and meeting other environmental goals. As with any vehicle for change, success must be measurable. Energy efficiency evaluation, measurement, and verification (EM&V) comprises actions undertaken to assess and document the outcomes of energy efficiency activities. As part of the Global Power Best Practice Series, RAP reviews EM&V processes in China, Europe, India, and the United States.

The authors focus primarily on EM&V for energy efficiency programs in which consumers are provided with some incentive to purchase and install energy efficient measures or to take actions that will increase the energy efficiency of a business or residence. The EM&V protocols, methodologies, and practices discussed in this paper may also be applied when assessing energy efficient building codes, energy performance standards for appliances and equipment, and impacts on wholesale and retail energy markets. Learn more about the energy efficiency targets, policies, and programs within each of these four regions that determine potential requirements for energy efficiency EM&V and how states, provinces, and nations in each region can more effectively implement EM&V within the unique context of the region’s goals. The authors also identify gaps in EM&V practices in each region and suggest possible solutions to these gaps.