As we countdown to the first Emissions Reduction Fund auction next month, the Federal Government has released four new methods for public consultation.
We are providing opportunities for more emissions reduction projects across the economy, as part of our commitment to continue developing more methods of interest to businesses and the community.
With the first ERF auction set for 15 April, Australian businesses are taking a strong interest in opportunities to reduce emissions.
Three of the methods announced today focus on energy use and have the potential to improve energy efficiency in commercial and public lighting, commercial appliances and fan motors. The fourth method aims to reduce fugitive emissions from oil and natural gas processes.
The draft commercial and public lighting method would apply to lighting system upgrades in commercial and industrial buildings and public lighting such as pedestrian, street and traffic lighting.
The draft high-efficiency commercial appliances method would apply to projects that install high-efficiency commercial appliances such as refrigerated display cabinets and close control air conditioners. A project could involve installing new appliances to replace or supplement existing appliances, or simply to service a new facility or function.
The draft fan motor method would apply to projects that upgrade fan motors in refrigeration or ventilation systems.
The draft oil and gas fugitives method could apply to projects that reduce fugitive emissions from flaring and venting for oil and natural gas extraction, production, transport and processing facilities.
These methods will be available for use in future auctions.
Emissions reduction methods set out the rules for estimating emissions reductions from proposed activities. The draft methods were approved by the Emissions Reduction Assurance Committee for public consultation and developed in consultation with technical working groups and industry.
The current list of methods for use in the Emissions Reduction Fund is available on the ComLaw website.
Businesses, community organisations and individuals are invited to make submissions on the draft methods by 5pm AEST 15th April 2015.
Further details about the draft methods and how to make a submission are available on the Department’s website at: www.environment.gov.au/emissions-reduction-fund
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