Reported baselines for existing facilities were determined by the Clean Energy Regulator based on National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting (NGER) scheme data reported in the five year period between 2009–10 and 2013–14. Reported baselines were set at the highest level of scope 1 emissions for each facility over this period.
By using the highest level of historical emissions, factors such as natural variability in emissions were accommodated (for example, changes in production levels, plant maintenance or the types of inputs used).
Reported baselines will expire on 1 July 2020. From this date, facilities that do not have either a calculated baseline or a production adjusted baseline in force will revert to a default emissions baseline (100,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent). It is anticipated that most facilities with a reported baseline will apply for a new baseline that reflects the facility’s current operating conditions.
Facilities that had a reported baseline, but no longer have emissions that exceed 100,000 tonnes will not need to take any further action.