Commercial building energy efficiency method

This Methodology Determination (method) provides the rules for crediting the emissions reductions from improved fuel combustion and electricity consumption in commercial buildings as part of the Emissions Reduction Fund (ERF).

Read the Carbon Credits (Carbon Farming Initiative - Commercial Buildings) Methodology Determination 2015.

Using the method

The department develops the methods and has policy oversight of the ERF.

The Clean Energy Regulator manages project registration, compliance and crediting of emissions reductions for projects under the ERF. To use this method in your project and take part in the ERF, you need to apply to the Clean Energy Regulator.

View eligibility requirements and how to apply on the Clean Energy Regulator website.

Calculating the abatement

The method uses the National Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS) energy ratings and tools to quantify emissions reductions and energy savings from activities undertaken as part of the ERF. NABERS rates the energy performance of office buildings, shopping centres, data centres and business hotels.

The method calculates emissions reductions from upgrades to office buildings, shopping centres and business hotels, but not data centres.

View the NABERS website.

Developing the method

TheEmissions Reduction Assurance Committee (ERAC) conducts public consultations. Once finalised the ERAC advises the Minister on whether the method meets the offsets integrity standards.

Public consultation, drafting of the method, and the ERAC’s advice to the Minister is on the department’s Consultation Hub.

Read more

• The department is responsible for developing methodology determinations
• The Emissions Reduction Fund incentivises Australian businesses to cut the amount of greenhouse gases they create and to undertake activities that store carbon

Contact us

Email emissions-reduction@industry.gov.au