Building Measurement & Verification Capability for New Zealand’s Energy Future

The recent Certified Measurement and Verification Professional (CMVP) training program delivered at EECA (The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority) was a highly valuable experience for participants and an important investment in building capability across New Zealand’s energy efficiency and decarbonization sector.

The training brought together more than 20 participants from EECA and partner organizations, creating a strong opportunity to deepen understanding of measurement and verification (M&V) principles, share practical experiences, and build a common foundation for evaluating energy performance and emissions reduction projects.

Why M&V Capability Matters for New Zealand’s Energy Future

From an EECA perspective, the training supports our broader goal of ensuring that investment decisions, program design, and policy interventions are backed by credible evidence and a consistent approach to measuring outcomes. As New Zealand continues to invest in energy efficiency, industrial decarbonization, electrification, distributed flexibility, and renewable energy technologies, the ability to accurately quantify and verify outcomes becomes increasingly important. Strong M&V capability helps improve confidence in delivery, supports better decision-making, and strengthens the case for future investment.

One of the key reasons EECA chose to invest in this training was to build a common understanding of M&V across multiple functions within the organization. Whether designing programs, assessing funding applications, developing standards, engaging with markets, or evaluating outcomes, having a shared understanding of best-practice M&V principles is critical. It supports consistency in how program impacts are measured, reported, and communicated, helping ensure that EECA’s investments continue to deliver measurable value.

The Role of AI and Emerging Technology in Measurement & Verification

It was also valuable to explore how emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, are beginning to influence the M&V profession. As digital tools, data analytics, and AI capabilities continue to evolve, they have the potential to make M&V more efficient, accessible, and scalable. However, while these tools will undoubtedly improve how data is analysed and insights are generated, a strong understanding of the underlying principles remains essential. Technology can enhance M&V practice, but it cannot replace sound engineering judgement and a robust understanding of the concepts that underpin measurement and verification.

A particular strength of the course was that the trainer was highly knowledgeable not only in traditional M&V methodologies but also in how AI and emerging digital tools are being applied in the field. This helped connect established best practices with the future direction of the profession and generated valuable discussion among participants.

Kanchana Marasinghe
Manager, Innovation & Technology
Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA)