The UK Emissions Trading Scheme (UK ETS) is expanding and the waste sector is next in line. This latest update looks at which waste incineration and energy-from-waste (EfW) installations qualify for the UK ETS voluntary MRV-only period. What is the eligibility criteria to enable you to assess whether your installation is included?
Which Installations Are Covered?
The MRV-only period applies to waste incineration and energy-from-waste (EfW) installations that meet specific thresholds below. These thresholds are based on the permitted capacity of the installation, not actual throughput. If your permit allows you to exceed these limits, you’re in scope — even if you don’t currently operate at full capacity.
- Non-hazardous waste incineration: Facilities with a capacity of more than 3 tonnes per hour
- Hazardous waste incineration: Facilities with a capacity of more than 10 tonnes per day
Low Emitters
Installations that emit less than 25 000 tCO2 per year will be classed as low emitters. They will be subject to simplified monitoring and reporting requirements, for example when applying for a VMP they are not required to:
- Submit an uncertainty assessment
- Submit the outcomes of a risk assessment
Low emitters may also:
- Use purchase records or estimated stock changes to determine activity data
- Apply tier 1 for activity data, calculation factors and measurement-based methodologies without proving a higher tier is technically unfeasible or would lead to unreasonable costs
- Use a laboratory that is not EN ISO/IEC 17025 accredited to determine calculation factors by analysis
What Types of Waste Are Included?
The scheme covers a wide range of waste types. If your installation processes any of these waste types, and meets the capacity thresholds, you’re likely included.
- Municipal solid waste
- Clinical waste
- Mixed waste streams
- Waste-derived fuels (e.g. RDF, SRF)
What Types of Waste Are Included?
Not every installation is required (or eligible) to participate, for example:
- High-temperature hazardous waste incinerators are excluded from the MRV-only period.
- Installations below the threshold are not expected to participate.
- Landfill sites and anaerobic digestion plants are not covered under the current guidance.
Not sure if your installation qualifies for UK ETS? Why not complete our free Eligibility Check or contact us here.
Our next update will take you through how to apply for a METS account and prepare your Voluntary Monitoring Plan (VMP).
Make sure to follow us on LinkedIn to get notified when the next blog in the EfW series is released. If you would like to speak to a Swan Energy consultant, get in touch.
