Methodologies

Methodologies describe the procedures, data and parameters used to calculate and monitor the carbon benefits of a PV Climate project, and they ensure these estimates meet the Standard’s requirements.

Methodology requirements are outlined in the PV Climate Methodology Requirements.

Every PV Climate project must use an approved methodology so that carbon benefits are estimated consistently, transparently and in line with the Standard’s requirements.

Methodology requirements are outlined in the PV Climate Methodology Requirements.

There are two types:

• Full methodologies, which include all necessary information in one document
• Modular methodologies, which refer to additional elements to meet the requirements.

A module defines procedures and data for estimating one or more values in a methodology, while a tool describes how to perform a specific analytical task used by a methodology or module.

Yes, if the project meets the specific applicability conditions listed for that methodology, module or tool.

If existing methodologies don’t apply, new methodologies, modules or tools can be developed and submitted to Plan Vivo for approval.

If an existing methodology doesn’t fit your project, you can submit a new methodology, module, or tool for approval. All submissions must:

1. Conform to the PV Climate Methodology Requirements.
2. Be linked to an overarching methodology (for modular approaches).
3. Begin with a Concept Note, which must be approved before full submission.

After submission, documents are:

• Made available for public comment
• Reviewed by the Plan Vivo Technical Review Panel (TRP) and an internal Methodology Approval Panel.
• Assessed against all requirements before approval

For full details on the assessment process, see the PV Climate Procedures Manual.

Documents submitted for approval — such as new methodologies, modules or tools — are made publicly available so stakeholders can provide feedback before final review.

Yes, modules and tools can be submitted separately. However, they must be embedded within an overarching modular methodology. Therefore, a minor update to the overarching methodology must be made to forward reference to the tool. This updated methodology would need to be submitted for review alongside the module or tool. For guidance on forward referencing and updating the overarching methodologies, please contact the Plan Vivo team.