Ontario GHGs : proposed regulation

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The Ontario government is seeking comments on a draft Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Reporting regulation that would phase in requirements and support the implementation of a cap and trade program that can link to other GHG systems. This proposal has been posted for a 30 day public review and comment period starting October 07, 2009 until November 06, 2009.

The regulation proposes the following requirements:

  • Reporting for all regulated sources that are emitting 25,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) or more per year;
  • Reporting of 2010 emissions in the year 2011, and reporting every following year ;
  • Flexibility to use the best alternative quantification methods for 2010 emissions, to be reported in 2011;
  • Use of standardized methods to quantify emissions starting for the reporting of 2011 emissions in 2012;
  • Third party verification for the 2011 emissions, to be verified in 2012 and every following year (Note: this phased in approach allows time to build capacity in Ontario for third party verification in accordance with the ISO 14064 and 14065 requirements);
  • Emission reports to be submitted on June 1 of each year starting in 2011; and
  • Verification to be completed by September 1 of each year, starting in 2012.

    Also, the regulation includes the following:

  • a guideline that outlines standardized mandatory methods to be used to quantify emissions;
  • the best alternative quantification methods that may be used during the first year of reporting.

    Smaller emitters: Facilities emitting between 10,000 and 25,000 tonnes are not required to report under the current proposed regulation, but the MOE will develop an outreach program to encourage voluntary reporting.

    Fuel suppliers: Ontario’s proposed regulation and guideline does not cover fuel suppliers. However, Ontario will consider their incorporation into the regulation, taking into account a review of the Western Climate Initiative methods (when finalized) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) future requirements.

    Harmonization of requirements: Ontario might harmonize its requirements with those of the federal government, the other provinces and the U.S. EPA, if possible.

    For more details, click here.