The credibility of every VCU comes down to one thing: the auditor needs to be able to verify, independently, that the claimed generation actually happened.
Here’s how that works in practice.
What data we collect
We collect metered generation data from your installation. The source depends on what you have available:
- Inverter outputs: the most common source for C&I solar
- Dedicated revenue-grade meters: for installations that already have them
- Monitoring platform data: SolarEdge, Solis, Huawei FusionSolar, and similar platforms
- SCADA exports: for larger installations with industrial-grade monitoring
The data is collected at intervals defined by the methodology, typically hourly or sub-hourly. We ingest it into our monitoring system and use it to calculate megawatt-hours generated for each monitoring period.
How the data becomes credits
The basic calculation is straightforward:
MWh generated × Verra’s approved grid emission factor = tonnes of CO₂ avoided
In practice, the methodology adds adjustments for technical losses, monitoring uncertainties, and grid emission factor revisions. We document these calculations against the methodology’s requirements and prepare the resulting tCO₂e figures for the verification audit.
Independent verification
A VVB (Validation and Verification Body, accredited by Verra) reviews:
- Whether the metering equipment is calibrated and trustworthy
- Whether the data ingestion preserves data integrity
- Whether the calculations are correct under the methodology
- Whether any anomalies (data gaps, unusual readings) have been investigated and resolved
For our portfolio, SustainCert completed the 2021–2024 verification in 2025. The audit confirmed 17,659 MWh of generation across 26 sites, supporting issuance of 18,247 tCO₂e of verified credits.
What you need to do
Your installation needs a calibrated electricity meter. This is a Verra requirement that guarantees the accuracy of your generation data, so inverter readings alone can’t be used. Most commercial solar installations already have a compliant meter in place. If yours doesn’t, or if the calibration has lapsed, we help arrange installation or recalibration through our metering partners. The cost is small relative to the revenue your credits generate, and we confirm your metering setup during technical due diligence after your agreement is signed.