Verra has opened a public consultation on the draft Methodology for Grid-Connected Energy Storage Systems (methodology development ID #CN0157) in the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) Program. The consultation will run from February 26 through April 11, 2025.
The proposed methodology quantifies greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions from the operation of grid-connected energy storage systems to prioritize greater emission reductions over maximizing net revenues.
Specifically, it supports the accelerated decarbonization of the electric sector by having energy storage systems discharge electricity in periods of high carbon intensity (i.e., when the marginal emissions rate is higher) and charge in periods of lower carbon intensity (i.e., when the marginal emissions rate is lower). The marginal emissions rate refers to the amount of greenhouse gas emissions produced for each extra unit of electricity generated by the marginal generators (i.e., the power generators that are next in line to supply power to the grid if the demand increases).
An energy storage system also allows for the storage of additional energy from renewable energy sources, which can potentially reduce the curtailment of renewable energy sources that arises when these sources only supply to the grid.
This methodology is globally applicable to new and existing grid-connected energy storage systems. Projects under consideration comprise energy storage technologies (e.g., chemical batteries) of different types and sizes.
The draft of the methodology was developed by REsurety, Inc. (external) in collaboration with Meta Platforms, Inc., Engie Energy Marketing, and Tierra Climate, Inc., collectively representing The Energy Storage Solutions Consortium, along with Carbonomics, LLC.
Feedback
Please see the public consultation document (PDF) for the full background and details about the proposed updates. Verra has prepared a list of questions for respondents, which are included in the online feedback submission form.
Verra is accepting feedback through its new digital public consultation platform, which is hosted on the Verra Project Hub. Stakeholders will need to use the link provided to enter their personal details, confirm their email address, and access the online consultation form. For additional guidance, please review the user guide (PDF).
Comments may be submitted electronically via the online form by 11:59 pm Anywhere on Earth (UTC-12) on April 11, 2025. If you experience issues using the digital public consultation platform or have feedback on it, please contact hubsupport@verra.org.