The Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme Regulations 2012 is a regulatory framework that aims to control and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in a market-based approach. The scheme applies to entities in the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland and is designed to promote the transition towards a low-carbon economy.

The purpose of these regulations is to establish a cap-and-trade system, wherein a maximum limit (cap) is set on the total amount of greenhouse gas emissions allowed from covered entities. These entities are required to hold a certain number of emissions allowances equal to their emissions. The allowances can be traded among participants, allowing more flexibility and encouraging emission reductions where they can be achieved at the lowest cost.

Under the regulations, entities that fall within the scope of the scheme are obligated to monitor, report, and verify their greenhouse gas emissions. They must submit annual reports detailing their emissions and surrender an equivalent number of allowances to cover their emissions. If an entity exceeds its allocated allowances, it will face financial penalties.

The scheme applies to various sectors, including energy-intensive industries, power generation, aviation, and manufacturing. It covers installations that meet certain emission thresholds and aviation operators conducting flights to or from airports within the European Economic Area (EEA).

Overall, The Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme Regulations 2012 establishes a market-driven approach to incentivize emission reductions, drive technological innovation, and contribute to the UK's and Northern Ireland's climate change targets.

The Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme Regulations 2012 sets out specific evidence requirements for entities participating in the scheme. These requirements are essential to ensure accurate monitoring, reporting, and verification of greenhouse gas emissions. Here is a summary of the evidence requirements under the regulations:

1. Monitoring Plans: Covered entities must develop and implement monitoring plans to track their greenhouse gas emissions accurately. These plans should outline the methods, procedures, and frequency of monitoring emissions from relevant installations or activities.

2. Emission Reports: Entities are obligated to prepare annual emission reports detailing their greenhouse gas emissions. These reports should include comprehensive data on the type and quantity of emissions, energy consumption, and relevant activity data. The reports must be prepared in accordance with established methodologies and guidance.

3. Independent Verification: The regulations require entities to undergo independent verification of their emission reports. An accredited verifier, external to the entity, must assess the accuracy and completeness of the reported data, ensuring compliance with the monitoring plan and regulatory requirements.

4. Auditing and Quality Assurance: The regulations stipulate the need for auditing and quality assurance of the monitoring plans and emission reports. This process involves reviewing and assessing the effectiveness of monitoring systems, data collection, and reporting procedures to maintain the integrity and credibility of the reported emissions.

5. Record-Keeping: Covered entities are required to maintain records of their emissions, monitoring plans, independent verification reports, and other relevant documentation. These records must be retained for a specified period and be readily available for inspection by the competent authorities.

Compliance with these evidence requirements is crucial to ensure the transparency, accuracy, and consistency of greenhouse gas emissions reporting within the trading scheme. By adhering to these requirements, entities contribute to the overall effectiveness of the scheme in driving emission reductions and achieving climate change targets.