As we reach the end of our blog series on the UK ETS voluntary MRV-only period, it’s time to look ahead.
From 2026 to 2027, EfW and waste incineration operators have a unique opportunity to build their emissions monitoring systems, test their data, and shape future policy without compliance costs.
In this final post, we share key resources, outline what happens after the MRV-only period, and discuss the next steps.
Key Resources for Operators.
Below are just a few of the key documents that UK ETS operators can use to guide them through UK ETS compliance:
- VMRVP01 – Voluntary MRV Period Guidance for Waste Activities
- UKETS01–UKETS07 – Technical guidance series covering monitoring, reporting, verification, and compliance
- Monitoring and Reporting Regulation (MRR) – Technical guidance for operators on how to monitor and report greenhouse gas emissions under the UK ETS
- The Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme Order 2020 (the Order) – Government legislation that outlines the operators obligations under the UK ET
Regulator Contacts.
Operators must contact the correct regulator for technical support and guidance.
| England | Environment Agency | etswaste@environment-agency.gov.uk |
| Wales | Natural Resources Wales | GHGHelp@naturalresourceswales.gov.uk |
| Scotland | Scottish Environmental Protection Agency | emission.trading@sepa.org.uk |
| Northern Ireland | Northern Ireland Environment Agency | emissions.trading@daera-ni.gov.uk |
UK ETS Voluntary MRV-Only Period: What Happens After 2027?
The UK ETS voluntary MRV-only period ends on 31 December 2027. After that, the UK government intends to bring the waste sector fully into the UK ETS. This means the following, and on top of this, sector specific regulations will be confirmed closer to 2028.
- Mandatory participation for qualifying installations
- Buying and surrendering allowances
- Third-party verification of emissions data
- Penalties for non-compliance
Next Steps
We appreciate this blog series has contained a lot of information so let’s summarise:
- Confirm eligibility – Review your installation’s capacity and waste types
- Set up a METS account – Make sure this is completed as soon as possible
- Draft a VMP – Use the guidance to ensure it is comprehensive
- Submit for approval – Send your VMP to the regulator before January 2026
- Start monitoring – Begin collecting emissions data from 1 January 2026
- Report quarterly – Submit QERs and refine your systems with regulator support
- Experience verification – Although not mandatory, it would be a useful exercise for operators who have not been through it before
- Engage with the regulators – Share feedback to help shape future ETS policy
Our team of Carbon Consultants are experts in emissions reporting. If you would like us to support you through the voluntary MRV-only period, please contact us here.
