Which version of a default value or data source must a Verra project use at validation and at each verification?

Verra's Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) says project proponents shall use the most recent version of available data sources, to set default values, data and parameters for validation, and to monitor data and parameters for verification.

The rule (section 3.14.5)

1. For validation: the most recent version of available data sources is used to set default values, data and parameters.
2. For verification: the most recent version of available data sources is used to monitor data and parameters.

What it does not say

The Standard does not say which source suits your parameter or when a methodology fixes a value for the crediting period. Our reading: where your methodology says a parameter is fixed at validation or monitored each year, follow the methodology, and use this rule to pick the version of the source it points to.

Where this bites in India

• Grid emission factors: the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) publishes a baseline database that changes by version (see the linked page on version 22). Note the version and date you used, in the project description.
• Fuel values: our suggestion is a recent national or measured value, with its source stated.
• Equipment data: nameplate and test data from the supplier, kept with the invoice.

A habit that saves audit questions

Keep a one-page register for each parameter with its value, source, version, date retrieved and where it is used. Our reading: the verifier checks that the source was the most recent available at the time.

What Senseible does here

Senseible reads fuel invoices and electricity bills into monthly records that you can keep with your project evidence. Its in-house check is not an accredited third-party verification, and Senseible is not part of Verra's process.

• Grid baseline database version 22
• Frozen grid factor in India's credit scheme
• Verra global warming potential values
• Carbon credits

Sources: Verra, VCS Standard v5.0 (16 December 2025)

Last reviewed 2026-11-05. Check the current VCS Standard, Registration and Issuance Process and Program Guide on Verra's site before you rely on this; Verra updates them periodically.