Fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-gases), significant contributors to global warming, fall under stringent EU and GB regulatory frameworks. Entities dealing with F-gases from production to market distribution (including importers, exporters), are required to report their activities accurately.
Normec Verifavia, as an independent verifier, plays a crucial role in the Verification process, conducting thorough audits to ensure data alignment with both the EU and GB regulations. This verification not only ensures compliance but also upholds transparency and environmental integrity in managing F-gases.
Verification activities of Normec Verifavia follow a sampling-based approach with the aim of reaching a verification opinion with reasonable assurance that the F-gas data reported and submitted by the undertaking are fairly and accurately stated. The evidence as well as the related findings are fully documented in the auditor’s internal verification documentation.
An F-gas verification report is a document, prepared by Normec Verifavia to verify the accuracy and completeness of an organization’s annual F-gas report. Our team verifies the calculations used to determine the quantities of F-gases produced, imported, exported, used as feedstock, or destroyed. This report must be submitted to the relevant authorities to comply with the F-Gas Regulations.
This regulation, often referred to as the F-gas Regulation, is a comprehensive piece of legislation aimed at reducing emissions of fluorinated greenhouse gases in the European Union.
Some key provisions included:
This regulation specifically targeted the use of F-gases in mobile air conditioning systems installed in new vehicles placed on the EU market.
The EU established a system to allocate quotas for placing HFCs on the market, with a phasedown schedule to reduce HFC availability.
These regulations adopted the EU F-gas Regulation (EC) No 517/2014 and made amendments to it to ensure it applied within the United Kingdom.
Like the EU system, the UK established a quota system for placing HFCs on the market, with a phasedown schedule to reduce HFC availability in the UK.
The UK also adopted regulations to manage F-gases used in mobile air conditioning systems in new vehicles.
The verifier, such as Normec Verifavia, reviews the company’s F-gas reporting framework, including the scope of activities, types of F-gases handled, and previous reports. This stage involves understanding the regulatory requirements under both EU and GB frameworks and preparing a verification plan tailored to the specific needs and operational context of the company.
The organization or the undertaking submits relevant documentation to the verifier, including detailed records of F-gas production, import, export, use, and destruction, as well as any measures taken to reduce F-gas emissions. The verifier assesses these documents to identify any discrepancies or areas requiring further clarification.
This step involves a thorough examination of the reported data against the supporting documentation and operational records. The verifier checks for accuracy, consistency, and completeness of the data in line with the ISO 17029 standards, and the specific requirements of the EU and GB F-gas regulations.
Depending on the verification plan and the complexity of the organization or undertaking‘s operations, the verifier may conduct site visits to observe processes, inspect equipment, and interview personnel. This helps in verifying the implementation of F-gas management practices and the accuracy of reported data.
The verifier compiles the findings, highlighting any discrepancies, non-compliances, or areas for improvement. A draft verification report is shared with the company for feedback, providing an opportunity to clarify or correct any identified issues.
Once any discrepancies are resolved and the verifier is satisfied that the reported data is accurate and complies with the regulations, a final verification report is issued. This report certifies that the organization or the undertaking‘s F-gas reporting meets the standards of ISO 17029, and the regulatory requirements of both the EU and GB. The company can then submit the verification report alongside the emission report to the EU portal or the GB environmental agency.
F-gas reporting involves documenting the production, import, and export of fluorinated greenhouse gases and gases listed in Annex II of the EU F-gas Regulation (EC) No 517/2014, including those contained in imported pre-charged equipment.
Entities that produce, import, or export 1 metric tonne or 100 tonnes of CO2 equivalent or more of F-gases, as well as those who destroy, use as feedstock, or place on the market 500 tonnes of CO2 equivalent or more of F-gases contained in products or equipment, are required to report their activities.
The verification process ensures that the reported data on F-gas activities is complete and free from material misstatements. It is a mandatory step to comply with EU and GB regulations and to confirm the accuracy of the data.
Non-compliance with F-gas reporting requirements can result in legal penalties, including fines and restrictions on business operations.
For example, in the EU, fines can reach up to €200,000 for serious breaches. In the UK, the Environmental Agency has the authority to impose civil sanctions, including fines that may vary based on the severity and duration of the non-compliance. It is crucial for entities to adhere to reporting deadlines to avoid these penalties. For detailed information on penalties, it is advisable to consult the relevant regulatory body’s official documentation or website.
Pre-charged F-gases are those contained within equipment like refrigeration units when they are imported or sold, requiring special reporting. Bulk F-gases are large quantities of F-gases, not contained within equipment, also subject to reporting requirements.
For F-gas reporting, both the EU and GB require annual submissions by March 31st for the preceding year’s activities. Specific verification documents vary for pre-charged equipment, a March 31st deadline ensures compliance with CO2 equivalent regulations, while a June 30th deadline applies to significant HFC market placements. This structured approach ensures thorough F-gas management and regulatory adherence across equipment importation and market activities.
