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SEAI Gap-to-Target Model

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Date: 12 May 2021

Release of the latest version of the Gap to Target Spreadsheet Tool

The SEAI Public Sector Programme has released the latest version of the Gap to Target spreadsheet tool (v3.04). This gap-to-target model (GTT model) is a spreadsheet model for use by public bodies to evaluate their energy performance over time, using data and methodologies from SEAI’s Public Sector Monitoring & Reporting (M&R) System and this latest version incorporates new functionality to model the decarbonisation of your organisation’s energy use over the period to 2030.

The new functionality allows for:
  • Configuration of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions targets for 2030 for your organisation
  • Calculating emission pathways for the period to 2030 for your organisation, accounting for anticipated supply-side decarbonisation gains from electricity and biofuel blending.
  • Modelling the impact of additional decarbonisation initiatives on your emissions pathway.
  • Calculating the gap-to-target from current GHG levels and future emissions pathways.

Several key calculations, including the target configuration calculations for GHGs and the gap-to-target calculations are very sensitive to forecasts for future values of the primary energy conversion factor and the CO2 emission factor for Ireland’s electricity system. SEAI prepares forecasts for both these factors, which are refined continually and incorporate a large number of variables and assumptions. Carefully consideration needs to be given as to the appropriateness for use in your particular circumstances, particularly if using the forecast values for making investment decisions.

The tool can now be downloaded from within the M&R system (from ‘Your Scorecard’ and ‘Your Consumption Profile’ reports) and is automatically populated with your organisation’s M&R data, including project data. SEAI have also created a User Guide and will run an online training session for PSMs and public bodies in the coming weeks. Some Case Studies of the GTT model will also be presented at the SEAI Public Sector Energy Conference on the 3rd June.