External Verification Process

An external verification process is a key element of Sustainable Electricity initiative.  An independent, qualified verifier is retained by CEA to review implementation of the Sustainable Electricity program by utilities on a rotating basis, using a three year, geographically distributed cycle. 

The verifier reviews the Utility Progress Reports submitted by individual utilities for data integrity and quality of information provided. This includes, but is not to be limited to, test checks of the indicators and metrics provided by utilities through the reporting process.  The review also looks at the degree to which a utility embraces and communicates with internal and external stakeholders on their Sustainable Electricity program activities. 

The implementation of management systems and programs necessary to support the utilities’ commitment to the program principles, in particular the establishment of an EMS consistent with ISO 14001, is also assessed.  The scope and nature of the systems are reviewed to ensure they adequately cover each utility’s operations. Key system elements, such as third-party certifications, internal audits and senior management reviews are also reviewed to ensure that the systems have been implemented and are being continuously improved.