EEVS welcomes new Association for Energy Performance & Verification
The beginning of this year saw the establishment of the Association for Energy Performance and Verification (AEPV), which aims to raise the profile of the vital role of good practice Measurement & Verification (M&V) and performance-focussed energy and carbon saving services (such as Energy Performance Contracts) in delivering against energy efficiency and net zero ambitions.
At EEVS we are delighted to be supporting AEPV. The association has recently become a training provider for EVO – owners of the IPMVP – and our training director Hilary Wood will be delivering M&V qualification training – PMVA & PMVE – for them.
Find out more and join as a free member at the AEPV website.
Join the launch webinar on 28th February 2025 2-4pm Registration Link.
This promises to be an exciting platform for industry and stakeholders to collaborate, drive best practices, and highlight the value of M&V and performance-focussed services.
Below is an interview Hilary gave in a recent AEPV newsletter:
Can you tell us a little about your current role and what you enjoy most about it?
I’m a Director at EEVS Insight Ltd, where we’re solely focussed on the Measurement & Verification (M&V) of energy efficiency and decarbonisation projects. I also deliver M&V training for energy professionals, including the PMVA and PMVE certifications. What I enjoy most about my role is its diversity, both in terms of the projects that we take on and my involvement in them – no two days are ever the same!
How did you first get involved in the energy sector?
My interest in low-carbon solutions initially led me to study sustainable energy generation. I then started my career with an energy efficiency technology supplier, where I was first introduced to the International Performance Measurement & Verification Protocol (IPMVP) framework. Recognising the critical role of M&V in valuing energy savings, I co-founded EEVS to offer dedicated M&V services to the wider energy efficiency industry.
What’s one project or achievement you’re particularly proud of?
As a long-time supporter and attendee of the UK’s National M&V Conference, I was honoured to continue the work of Vilnis Vesma (a familiar name to many readers) by leading its return as an in-person event last year. It was a fantastic experience, and we’re excited to build on its success by expanding its reach and scope in future editions.
In your experience, how do EPCs or M&V make a difference in energy projects?
This question reminds me of a section from the professional M&V training that states that M&V (among other benefits) can actually increase energy savings—which, at first glance, might seem debatable. However, in our experience, organisations that actively manage M&V tend to achieve the best results. Strong M&V practices often signal good overall project management, enabling teams to track performance effectively and respond quickly to any issues, ultimately maximising energy savings and project success.
What’s a simple energy-saving measure you think more organisations should adopt?
What better place to start than with good energy management? Some of the most successful projects that we’ve verified have been low-cost energy-saving initiatives focussed on improved control and optimisation strategies. While capital investments will be necessary to hit net-zero targets, starting with good energy management practices can deliver significant savings and set the foundation for future improvements.
What’s a common challenge you face in your work, and how do you overcome it?
Measurement & Verification (M&V) can be technically complex while still requiring clear, reliable evidence. The best way to address this is by establishing strong processes from the outset, including robust governance, structured data collection, and thorough documentation. This not only supports well-informed decision-making but also ensures transparency when reporting project outcomes.
Why is collaboration within the energy sector so important, and how can organisations like AEPV help?
Collaboration is essential because it allows organisations to share lessons learned, helping to improve standards and best practices across the industry. In my experience, approaches to project delivery and performance measurement vary widely—some organisations excel, while others repeat avoidable mistakes. Groups like AEPV can play a crucial role in bridging this gap by facilitating knowledge exchange, promoting consistency, and driving collective progress toward the delivery of effective and sustainable energy solutions.
What trends or innovations in the energy sector excite you the most?
The movement towards long-term decarbonisation. The push for net-zero has the potential to drive truly transformative carbon-focused innovations and technologies—not just cost-saving measures. Of course, financial viability will always be a key consideration, but the shift toward sustainable, impactful change is what makes this era particularly exciting.
What advice would you give to someone new to the energy sector?
The energy sector is constantly evolving, so a critical mindset will serve you well - be willing to question assumptions, verify information, and use data to guide your decisions. Networking is also invaluable; take advantage of industry events, from exhibitions & conferences to webinars, connect with experienced professionals and stay up to date with the latest trends and innovations.
What’s a goal or project you’re looking forward to in the near future?
There are some exciting developments in M&V training, particularly with the relatively new Performance Measurement & Verification Expert (PMVE) certification program. This course goes deeper into the preparation of M&V Plans, making it a valuable addition to existing qualifications. By helping practitioners refine their skills and improve standards, it has great potential to benefit both individual professionals and the industry as a whole.