Gold Standard publishes two methodologies for solar lighting and safe drinking water

Gold Standard published two new methodologies, Powering Universal Lighting via Solar Energy (PULSE) and Safe Drinking Water Supply (SDWS) Version 2.0, on 9 July 2026. These methodologies aim to channel climate finance to projects providing essential services to underserved communities, replacing legacy methodologies AMS-III.AR and the previous SDWS. Both methodologies are aligned with the Paris Agreement and Net Zero trajectories, incorporating features like falling baselines and enhanced digital monitoring. PULSE focuses on replacing fossil fuel-based lighting with solar LEDs, while SDWS quantifies emissions avoided by providing safe drinking water where boiling with biomass or fossil fuels is common. The updates introduce more rigorous monitoring, safeguards, and accessibility for diverse geographies.