Get ready to report: National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting

Introduced in 2007, the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting (NGER) scheme is designed to help us understand and manage the volume of emissions generated across Australia, while providing a consistent framework for businesses to measure their impact, and governments to embed emission-reduction policies and targets. With the annual NGER reporting cycle kicking off on 1 July, here are my top NGER tips for businesses.   

Know your threshold

Whether you are required to report is based on the amount of emissions and energy produced and/or consumed by your organisation as a whole (controlling corporation), and/or your facilities.

NGER legislation specifies annual thresholds, above which businesses are required to register with the Regulator and report annually on their emissions. The thresholds apply to all sectors and operations, though the types of industries most likely to need to report include resources, energy, aviation and primary manufacturing.

In line with Australia’s commitments to reduce our emissions impact, NGER thresholds have periodically reduced since the scheme was first introduced. This is important to note, because even though you may not have had to report in the past, lower thresholds mean you may be obligated to do so for the first time. 

The current thresholds for reporting are:

Facilities:

• 25 kt of greenhouse gases (CO2-e)

• produces 100 TJ of energy or

• consumes 100 TJ of energy

Corporations:

• 50 kt of greenhouse gases (CO2-e)

• produces 200 TJ of energy, or

• consumes 200 TJ of energy.

Timing matters

The annual NGER reporting cycle begins on 1 July each year. Whether you have reported before or it is your first time registering, there are a number of steps to take and milestones to meet throughout the reporting period.

For facilities or corporations triggering a reporting threshold for the first time during the 1 July 2022 to 30 June 2023 period, you must be registered with the Clean Energy Regulator by 31 August 2023 and must submit an NGER report by 31 October 2023.

Avoid penalties and improve your NGER performance

Failing to register or report under the NGER scheme can incur steep fines and legal penalties, so it is really important to know your obligations and have a plan in place for collecting information and submitting your report. Each action has a maximum civil penalty of $444,000, and up to $22,200 for each day that an organisation fails to comply.

While reporting is a legislative requirement, monitoring emissions and energy impacts represents a real opportunity for businesses. Having a clear understanding of your emissions profile, identifying opportunities to improve your performance can add significant value and benefit, while demonstrating your commitment to accountability and transparency.    

RPS regularly assists organisations to understand, manage and undertake their NGER reporting, so if you need assistance in assessing your reporting obligations, registering under the NGER scheme, developing your NGER strategy or compiling your report, please get in touch.