Overview
At Ark Energy, precise energy savings reporting requires not only advanced analytics but also rigorous documentation of operational anomalies that may impact energy use. To strengthen the integrity of our M&V process, we developed the Operational Incident Log Tool a structured platform that enables real-time tracking of events that may cause Non-Routine Adjustments (NRAs). This tool bridges the communication gap between ESCOs and clients, ensuring that all claimed NRAs are verified, documented, and justified.
Challenge
During the M&V reporting period, operational changes—such as equipment failures, maintenance shutdowns, or usage pattern shifts can affect energy consumption independently of retrofit measures. ESCOs often submit these incidents as justification for NRAs, but without centralized tracking or client confirmation, invalid or excessive NRA claims can distort savings results. The challenge was to create a transparent and accountable system for validating these incidents and avoiding unjustified adjustments.
Solution
Ark Energy introduced the Operational Incident Log Tool, an integrated digital system for logging, reviewing, and verifying operational events across all active M&V projects. The tool allows: - ESCOs to submit detailed incident reports during the reporting period
- Ark Energy to cross-verify these incidents with project data and logs
- Clients to review and confirm the occurrence and impact of each incident
- Final validation of whether incidents are eligible as NRAs, based on documented evidence
This tool has been rolled out across multiple sectors, ensuring consistency in how operational anomalies are tracked and evaluated during performance reporting.
Conclusion
The deployment of the Operational Incident Log Tool helped in the following: - Ensuring traceability and validation of all operational incidents affecting energy use
- Preventing invalid or exaggerated NRA claims, preserving the credibility of savings reports
- Improving communication and transparency between clients, ESCOs, and Ark Energy’s M&V team
- Enhancing overall governance of the M&V process through digital documentation and real-time accountability
By implementing the Operational Incident Log Tool, Ark Energy has introduced a new layer of rigor to the M&V process. The tool not only protects clients from inflated savings claims but also builds trust by ensuring that every adjustment is backed by verified evidence. It reflects our continued commitment to transparent, fair, and high-integrity M&V reporting essential for delivering true value in energy performance contracting.