Implementing the Emissions Performance Standard
Seeks views on our proposed approach to the regulations that will fully implement the Emissions Performance Standard (EPS).
The Energy Act 2013 established an Emissions Performance Standard (EPS) to limit carbon dioxide emissions from new fossil fuel power stations. The way in which the EPS applies to new fossil fuel generation plant is defined in primary legislation. However, the Act allows for regulations to be made to provide limited tailoring of the arrangements in specified circumstances and for the creation of monitoring and enforcement arrangements.
This consultation seeks views on the draft regulations. Some principal issues addressed by these regulations include:
- Proposals for monitoring and enforcement of the EPS
- Operation of the time-limited exemption from the EPS for Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) projects
- Arrangements to apply in circumstances where an existing coal power plant upgrades to supercritical technology or replaces a main boiler or installs an additional one (installed generation capacity served by the new boiler to become subject to the EPS)
We are also seeking views on a draft statement of policy relating to any future exercise of the Secretary of State’s power to modify or suspend the EPS. The Act provides that this power is exercisable in limited circumstances, where there is an electricity shortfall or a risk of one.