The European Commission has published a new guidance document outlining the approval process for Monitoring Plans (MPs) under the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) and MRV Maritime Regulation. This ensures that shipping companies comply with emissions monitoring and reporting requirements.
Key Aspects of Monitoring Plan Approval
Submission and Verification
- Shipping companies must submit an MP for each ship via THETIS-MRV.
- MPs must first be assessed by accredited verifiers before submission to the administering authority (AA).
- Submission deadlines: April 1, 2024, for existing ships and within three months of the first port call for new ships.
Approval and Compliance Checks
- AAs assess MPs for completeness, accuracy, and regulatory compliance.
- Additional site visits or inspections may be conducted.
- Modifications to MPs must also be approved, with certain exceptions for company changes.
Impact on Shipping Companies
The standardized MP approval process improves emissions data accuracy and enforcement, reinforcing the EU’s climate goals in maritime transport.
Download Document PDFs Here: ETS and MRV Maritime RegulationGeneral guidance on the process for approval of monitoring plans by administering authorities (Guidance document No. 2, Final version, 4 July 2024)