AVERT Tutorial: Overview

AVERT is a tool that estimates the PM_2.5, SO₂, NO_x, CO₂ , VOCs, and NH₃ emissions impacts of energy programs in the contiguous 48 states and Washington, DC. Specifically, AVERT combines historical hourly generation data with energy efficiency, renewable energy, electric vehicle, and energy storage load impact profiles to enable you to:

• Compare the emissions benefits of different types of energy programs or technologies.
• Incorporate energy policies and programs into state implementation plans for the National Ambient Air Quality Standards with the concurrence of appropriate EPA Regional Office (power sector only—not suitable for vehicle emissions).
• Estimate emission impacts during peak energy demand periods in a historical year or near-term future year.

It is important to note that AVERT should be used only to assess the impacts of energy efficiency, renewable energy, electric vehicle, energy storage, and other energy programs, policies, and projects—not to assess changes to an electric generating unit (EGU) fleet. For example, AVERT is not equipped to examine changes in emissions that result from retirements, changes to heat rates, or specific fuel changes. AVERT uses data based on historical dispatch patterns and cannot credibly estimate emissions reductions resulting from changes to the overall pattern of dispatch.

AVERT operates in a basic desktop environment and is freely available, requiring no proprietary data or assumptions to operate. This tutorial demonstrates the use of the downloadable AVERT tools. A web-based version of the AVERT Main Module offers much of the same functionality, but in a more accessible online format.

Learn about how AVERT works in greater detail by clicking the "Next" arrow.