# Can our Gold Standard design describe two possible technologies?

Canonical: https://senseible.earth/answers/gold-standard-several-design-scenarios-chosen-before-first-verification

Yes, if you cover every scenario fully. For each one you show additionality, stakeholder input, scale, methodology applicability and safeguards. The auditor validates all of them, and you choose the actual scenario before the first verification. This applies to projects seeking certified impact statements or products.

## The rule

Gold Standard rules allow several potential design scenarios in the project documents, as long as all aspects of each are discussed satisfactorily.

## What you must show for each scenario

- Additionality.
- Stakeholder inputs, gathered for each scenario.
- Scale of the project.
- Validity and applicability of the methodology.
- Sustainable development criteria, including the safeguarding principles assessment.

## The deadline for choosing

All potential scenarios must be validated by the VVB. The actual scenario must be chosen before the first verification.

## The cost of keeping options open

Every extra scenario multiplies the evidence and the stakeholder work. Use it when a real decision is pending, not as a hedge.

## Example with made-up scenarios

- Scenario A: 500 kW rooftop solar.
- Scenario B: 500 kW rooftop solar plus a battery.
- Document additionality, stakeholder feedback, scale, methodology fit and safeguards for both. Choose before the first verification.

Example only.

## What Senseible does here

Senseible is not a registry or an auditor. Its dated records show which equipment actually ran, which settles the choice of scenario.

- [Carbon credit signals](https://senseible.earth/carbon-credits)
- [Verra or Gold Standard: which to choose](https://senseible.earth/answers/verra-or-gold-standard-which-to-choose)
- [Stakeholder meeting rules](https://senseible.earth/answers/gold-standard-stakeholder-meeting-rules)

Sources: [Gold Standard for the Global Goals, Principles and Requirements v2.1 (January 2025), 4.1.11](https://globalgoals.goldstandard.org/standards/101_V2.1_PAR_Principles-Requirements.pdf)

Last reviewed 2026-11-03. Read from version 2.1 (31 January 2025), which listed an update for 5 December 2025. Check for a newer version before relying on it.