Project Scope
At Northmore Gordon, we help organisations unlock value from environmental certificates while optimising their energy efficiency. One of our recent projects was with Methodist Ladies’ College (MLC), where we supported the Measurement and Verification (M&V) process for their 274.5kW solar system under the Victorian Energy Efficiency Certificate (VEECVictorian Energy Efficiency Certificate) program.
The solar system was designed to generate 327MWh annually, with 90% of that energy expected to be consumed onsite and the remainder exported to the grid. Our role was to ensure accurate M&V reporting to maximise certificate creation while meeting compliance requirements.
The Challenges
Like many M&V projects, this one came with its share of complexities:
- Delayed Operating Period: Although the system was commissioned on 24 January 2023, the official operating period didn’t begin until 15 July 2023—5.5 months later than planned.
- Data Limitations: A full 12-month dataset was required, but gaps in solar generation data (13% of the total) posed verification challenges.
- Multiple Modelling Approaches: We needed to test and compare different modelling methods to ensure the most accurate and beneficial outcome for MLC.
Project Outcomes
Despite the hurdles, the project delivered excellent results:
- The solar system generated 290MWh, slightly below the modelled estimate but still providing significant energy savingsElectricity or gas savings or both..
- 85% of the energy was consumed onsite, close to the original target of 90%, reducing reliance on grid electricity.
- The actual number of VEECs created was 2,115, slightly exceeding the projected 2,111.
- In total, MLC received $122,709 (ex-GST) in financial benefits from VEECs, demonstrating the value of accurate M&V and expert advisory support.
At Northmore Gordon, we thrive on helping organisations navigate complex energy projects and maximise the benefits of environmental certificates. This project highlights how careful planning, accurate modelling, and expert verification can lead to strong financial and environmental outcomes—even when challenges arise.
For more information about Solar VEECs and LGCs contact: Madonna Ghajar
