Carbon Reduction Commitment Requirements, CRC
What is the meant by the abbreviation CRC ?
CRC is an abbreviation for Carbon Reduction Commitment. The CRC is required under the UK Climate Change Act 2008. The CRC is a mandatory emissions trading scheme required under statute and is starting in April 2010. Around 20,000 organisations in the UK will be affected by the new law and 5,000 organisations will participate in a Carbon Reduction Commitment League Table.
What companies/organisations will be affected by the CRC?
If your organisation used more than 6,000 MWh electricity in 2008 then it is possible that your organisation will be affected by the CRC. Another way of looking at it is organisations with annual electricity bills of £ 500,000 and over will be affected. Please contact Carbon Action if you need more specific information for your own organisation.
What does a CRC affected organisation/company need to do to comply ?
Organisations that are affected by the CRC will have to put together an annual report detailing the exact carbon emissions of the organisation. This report must be very accurate because the Environment Agency will audit and verify one in five company reports.
Who can carry out the Carbon Emissions Report ?
Any COMPETENT Carbon Consultant can measure your carbon emissions and formulate your carbon emissions report. This is called carbon quantification.
How do I know if the consultant is competent?
All COMPETENT consultants should have had training in carbon measurement to a recognised standard such as BS ISO 14064 or the Carbon Trust Standard. Make sure you ask the consultants for a copy of their Training Certificate for your files. The Carbon consultants who formulate the report should have successfully completed an accredited Carbon Quantification Course.
What will happen if I dont formulate my report?
The organisation will be fined for every breach. The fines outlined in the Act are very high and commence at £5,000 for not formulating the report. The fines can run into significant sums depending on the carbon footprint of the organisation !
What must I do if I exceed my limits?
If your organisation exceeds imposed limits then you must purchase carbon allowances for the company excess from the Government. This requirement comes into force from April 2011.
What do you need to do now about CRC?
Many organisations have not yet considered the financial, legal compliance, audit and carbon management implications of the new law. It is therefore important that you get a clear understanding of your legal obligations and CRC commitments.
Do you need more information on CRC or the UK Climate Change Act ?
Carbon Action is a leading provider in Carbon Consultancy and Training in the UK. Our expert consultants can walk you through the process and ensure you are meeting all your legal obligations in a cost effective and practical way. Please contact us on info@carbonaction.co.uk
