The SENSEI project aimed to tackle the challenges associated with scaling up energy efficiency interventions in buildings by introducing innovative business models based on the pay-for-performance (P4P) approach, that would enhance the value of energy retrofit projects.
The project conducted an in-depth analysis of the market value of energy savings, developed useful tools such as EEVALUE, and provided comprehensive guidelines for designing effective P4P schemes. By examining existing P4P pilots outside the EU and identifying the factors that enable or hinder their implementation, the project generated widely downloaded reports and recommendations for replicating successful pilots within the EU. These activities served as a foundation for establishing P4P schemes in the EU, highlighting their benefits and providing practical tools to motivate their adoption.
Building upon the established Energy Performance Contracting (EPC) model, SENSEI went beyond traditional approaches by designing a transaction model that compensates energy efficiency based on its actual impact on the power system. This involved selecting building data, conducting assessments, and deriving P4P arrangements that aligned the interests of stakeholders while considering compensation structures. Additionally, the project explored the interplay between P4P and demand response, showcasing their complementarity. SENSEI developed guidelines and a business model for energy efficiency aggregation, addressing benefit allocation, engaging third-party investors, and exploring policy developments within the EU.
To support the implementation of these innovative smart energy services, SENSEI developed an advanced M&V tool named EENSIGHT. This tool accurately measures energy savings, while the SENSEI Platform integrated various web tools for building data monitoring, estimating savings potential, and assessing grid friendliness. The project also considered standards and data privacy considerations to ensure compatibility and compliance. Moreover, SENSEI analyzed policy developments and technology advancements as potential risks and opportunities, aiming to adapt the P4P business model to ensure social acceptability.
The project organized diverse activities, including workshops, conferences, and online events, to engage stakeholders and gather valuable input. Communication and dissemination efforts were also a priority for SENSEI, as key messages were formulated, and various channels, including a dedicated website and social media profiles, were utilized to reach policymakers, building owners, ESCOs, energy providers, and investors. The project provided support activities such as webinars, workshops, an e-learning platform and capacity building events to stakeholders interested in initiating P4P pilots.
Overall, the SENSEI project achieved its objectives successfully. Noteworthy accomplishments include the development of advanced open-source tools like the EEVALUE tool for quantifying the market value of energy savings and the EENSIGHT tool for measuring energy savings. The project contributed to rethinking energy-saving accounting methods and facilitated the design of pilot P4P schemes in Northwest Europe (via Interreg) and the UK. Moreover, it fostered applied research activities related to P4P through partner-led exploitation efforts. At a higher level, SENSEI influenced EU policy documents and national-level discussions by advocating for P4P, offering supportive documentation for establishing relevant business models, and providing tools and platforms to support learning and adoption.
