Allocation of allowances

The UK Government sets the total cap on emissions of carbon dioxide for the UK.  Each installation participating in the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) is allocated a number of allowances as a proportion of the overall cap.

The UK has implemented a two stage allocation methodology, where the total number of allowances is divided between sectors on the basis of projected emissions. These sector totals are then distributed to installations on the basis of the historic emissions.

The National Allocation Plan (NAP) for Phase II has a significant part to play in ensuring that the EU meets its target under the Kyoto protocol. Key differences between Phases I and II of the system are the increased penalties imposed on any excess emissions, the option for Member States to choose to opt-in other greenhouse gases or sectors, and the ability for Member States to temporarily exclude certain installations.

To find out more about allowance allocations and how the National Allocation Plan affects your business visit the Department of Energy and Climate Change web page for the Phase II National Allocation Plan external link