How AVERT Works

AVERT represents the dynamics of electricity dispatch based on the historical patterns of actual generation in one selected year. Currently, AVERT v4.3 has data for 2017–2023. With a previous version of AVERT, users can access data beginning in 2007.

1. AVERT's Statistical Module uses hourly "prepackaged" data from EPA’s Air Markets Program Data (AMPD) and National Emissions Inventory to perform statistical analysis on actual behavior of past generation, heat input, PM_2.5, SO₂, NO_x, CO₂, VOCs, and NH₃ emissions data given various regional demand levels. (AVERT’s Statistical Module can also analyze user-modified data created in AVERT’s Excel-based Future-Year Scenario Template). AVERT’s Statistical Module produces regional data files that are input files used in AVERT’s Excel-based Main Module.
2. AVERT’s Main Module prompts users to select one of 14 AVERT regional data files and enter energy changes (MWh, MW, or the number of electric vehicles by type) from a selection of options.
3. The AVERT Main Module calculates emissions impacts based on the hourly electric generating unit information in the regional data files and the impacts entered into the tool.
4. Use avoided emission rates generated from AVERT to quickly estimate the magnitude of emission impacts within an AVERT region for eight categories: onshore wind energy, offshore wind energy, rooftop-scale photovoltaic installations, rooftop photovoltaic paired with solar, utility-scale photovoltaic installations, utility-scale photovoltaic paired with solar, portfolio energy efficiency programs, and baseload energy efficiency programs.