Carbon Credits (Carbon Farming Initiative) (Destruction of Methane from Piggeries using Engineered Biodigesters) Methodology Determination 2013 1
Carbon Credits (Carbon Farming Initiative) Act 2011
I, MARK DREYFUS, Parliamentary Secretary for Climate Change and Energy Efficiency, make this Methodology Determination under subsection 106 (1) of the Carbon Credits (Carbon Farming Initiative) Act 2011.
Dated 29 January 2013
MARK DREYFUS
Parliamentary Secretary for Climate Change and Energy Efficiency
Contents
Part 1 Preliminary
1.1 Name of Determination 4
1.2 Commencement 4
1.3 Definitions 4
1.4 Kind of project to which this Determination applies 7
Part 2 Requirements for declaration as eligible project
2.1 Eligible projects 8
2.2 Requirement 1—Project mechanism 8
2.3 Requirement 2—Engineered biodigesters 8
2.4 Requirement 3—Waste 8
2.5 Requirement 4—Flaring systems 10
Part 3 Requirements for operation of eligible projects
3.1 Operation of eligible projects 11
Division 3.2 Project classification
3.2 Project must be classified 11
3.3 Standard projects 11
3.4 Additional waste projects 11
Division 3.3 Greenhouse gas assessment boundary
3.5 Greenhouse gases that must be accounted for 12
Part 4 The net abatement amount
Division 4.1 The net abatement amount
4.1 The net abatement amount 14
Division 4.2 Baseline
4.2 How the baseline is calculated 14
4.3 Calculating the baseline for a standard project 14
4.4 Calculating the baseline for an additional waste project that contains only CFI eligible additional waste 15
4.5 Calculating the baseline for an additional waste project that contains only CFI ineligible additional waste or a combination of additional waste 15
Division 4.3 Calculations
Subdivision 4.3.1 Preliminary
4.6 General 17
Subdivision 4.3.2 Calculating the baseline
4.7 Calculating the baseline 17
Subdivision 4.3.3 Calculating net greenhouse gas abatement
4.8 Calculating the net abatement (A) 20
Subdivision 4.3.4 Calculating emissions avoided
4.9 Calculating greenhouse gas emissions avoided (Ap) 21
4.10 Calculating the volume of methane sent to a combustion device (QCH4,h) for a standard project 22
4.11 Calculating the volume of methane sent to a combustion device (QCH4,h) for an additional waste project 22
4.12 Capping the volume of methane 25
4.13 Quantity of emissions combusted in an internal combustion engine – optional verification methods 25
Subdivision 4.3.5 Calculating project emissions (Ep)
4.14 Calculating project emissions (Ep) 27
4.15 Calculating emissions from fuel and electricity (EFE) 27
4.16 Calculating emissions from transport (ETRAN) for additional waste projects 30
4.17 Calculating emissions from the biogas capture system (EBCS) 31
4.18 Calculating emissions from combustion devices (Ecom) 33
4.19 Calculating emissions from manure management systems (EMMS) 34
4.20 Calculating emissions from post treatment (EPOST) 36
Part 5 Monitoring, record-keeping and reporting requirements
Division 5.1 General
5.1 General 40
Division 5.2 Measuring requirements
5.2 Project measurement 40
5.3 Measuring volatile solids from additional waste before it enters the biodigester (VS) 48
5.4 Measuring volatile solids for waste discharged from the biodigester into a lagoon (VSEFF) 48
5.5 Measuring the methane producing capacity for volatile solids for additional waste (Boe) (Boin) (BoEFF) 49
5.6 Measuring the quantity of biogas sent to a combustion device (Qbiogas) 49
5.7 Measuring the percentage of methane in biogas (WCH4) 50
5.8 Gas measurement error margins 51
Division 5.3 Monitoring requirements
5.9 General 51
5.10 Monitoring requirements 51
Division 5.4 Record-keeping requirements
5.11 General 52
5.12 Record keeping 52
Division 5.5 Offsets report requirements
5.13 Report requirements 55
Schedule 1—Categories of CFI eligible additional waste and attributable biogas methane generation rates 57
Schedule 2—Categories of CFI ineligible additional waste and biogas methane generation rates 58
Schedule 3—Methane capture rates for Australian States and Territories 60
Schedule4—Emissions factors for the decay of digestate in landfill 61
Part 1 Preliminary
1.1 Name of Determination
This Determination is the Carbon Credits (Carbon Farming Initiative) (Destruction of Methane from Piggeries using Engineered Biodigesters) Methodology Determination 2013.
1.2 Commencement
This Determination is taken to have commenced on 1 July 2010.
1.3 Definitions
In this Determination:
Act means the Carbon Credits (Carbon Farming Initiative) Act 2011 as in force from time to time.
additional waste means waste that is not piggery manure.
American Public Health Association method means a method approved by the American Public Health Association Agency.
A link to these methods is available at: http://www.climatechange.gov.au
anaerobic decomposition means biological process where organic matter is broken down by bacteria in the absence of oxygen.
biogas means a mixture of gases that is generated as a result of anaerobic decomposition of organic material.
biogas capture system means a unit that captures and holds biogas, and includes pumps and pipes leading to any combustion device.
Bo means the maximum methane producing capacity for manure.
carbon dioxide equivalence (CO2-e) means the carbon dioxide emissions equivalence of a substance that produces greenhouse gas emissions.
combustion device means an open flare or a closed flare, an internal combustion engine or a gas boiler.
continuously stirred tank reactor means a tank operated in a steady state with mixing to achieve uniform composition and temperature for which inputs and products are continuously added and withdrawn.
continuous monitoring system means the equipment used continuously to acquire data, process the data, and deliver the required information.
conventional piggery means a facility that houses pigs within sheds with slatted floors where effluent is flushed to a central system and does not include deep litter housing systems or outdoor piggeries.
deep litter housing system means housing that is comprised of large open-sided sheds or structures, that contain deep litter flooring, including rice hulls, straw or sawdust, to accommodate groups of pigs.
digestate means the sludge that flows from an engineered biodigester.
Effluent and Manure Management Database means the Effluent and Manure Management Database for the Australian Dairy Industry published by Dairy Australia in 2008, which is available at http://www.climatechange.gov.au
enclosed flare means a device where residual gas is burned in a cylindrical or rectilinear enclosure that includes a burning system and a damper where air for the combustion reaction is admitted.
engineered biodigester means a closed unit in which the biological treatment of biomass or other organic matter occurs through anaerobic digestion. This includes, but is not limited to, high rate anaerobic lagoons, plug-flow reactors, continuously stirred tank reactors, fixed film digesters, and upflow anaerobic sludge blanket digesters.
fixed film digester means a tank digester in which methane forming microorganisms grow on supporting media such as wood chips or small plastic rings that fill a digestion column.
flaring system means the system used to combust biogas, which includes an open flare or an enclosed flare.
frequently sparking flare means a flare that sparks at least every 2 seconds.
gas boiler means a combustion device for gaseous fuels, including biogas, that is used for heating water or raising steam.
GWPCH4 means the global warming potential of methane, as prescribed in the NGER Regulations.
highly variable Bo substrate means food waste, vegetable matter, and green pruning.
high rate anaerobic lagoon means a purpose-built lagoon into which animal manure, including piggery manure, is fed and which is fitted with mixing devices and heating elements to produce biogas.
internal combustion engine means an engine in which the combustion of a fuel occurs with an oxidizer in a combustion chamber.
laboratory means a laboratory that has an established capability in Bo measurement and a documented quality management system in accordance with AS ISO/IEC 17025:2005.
lagoon means a dam into which effluent is deposited, stored, and treated.
monitoring instrument means an instrument for measuring a quantity or a biophysical characteristic.
NATA means the National Association of Testing Authorities, Australia (ACN 004 379 748).
National Measurement Act means the National Measurement Act 1960 as in force from time to time.
NGER (Measurement) Determination means the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting (Measurement) Determination 2008 as in force from time to time.
NGER Regulations means the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting Regulations 2008 as in force from time to time.
open flare means a device where residual gas is burned in open air with or without any auxiliary fuel assistance.
PigBal model means PigBal Version 2.14 produced by Queensland Department of Primary Industries, which is used to calculate nutrient and salt content in the waste from a piggery and is comprised of:
· the PigBal Manual; and
· the PigBal workbook.
A link to the Pigbal model is available at: http://www.climatechange.gov.au
piggery manure means a mixture of water, excreta, liquid waste and slurry generated from the piggery shed, piggery feedpad or any pig housing.
plug-flow reactor means a tank into which animal manure, including piggery manure, flows and displaces volume which causes an equal amount of material to flow out and does not require mechanical mixing.
post treatment means the treatment of digestate before it is applied to land and may include effluent liquid and solid separation, liquid effluent storage, aerobic and anaerobic treatment of digestate, drying and pelletising.
pre-treatment means the treatment of effluent before it enters a biodigester and may include screening, liquid/solid separation, thickening, crushing, pulping, mixing, pasteurisation, and pH adjustment.
Regulations means the Carbon Credits (Carbon Farming Initiative) Regulations 2011 as in force from time to time.
standard conditions has the same meaning provided in the NGER (Measurement) Determination.
sub-optimal flaring occurs if there is no record of the temperature of the exhaust gas of a flare or if the recorded temperature is less than 500°C for any period exceeding 20 minutes in any particular hour.
system failure includes failure of engineered biodigester cover materials, the digester vessel, or the gas collection system or a failure that occurs as a result of operator error or other unintended occurrence.
upflow anaerobic sludge blanket digester means a tank digester that forms a blanket of granular suspended sludge through which waste water flows at optimal velocity and is processed by anaerobic microorganisms to produce biogas.
US EPA Method means the test method by the same name approved by the United States Environmental Protection Agency as amended from time to time.
A link to this method is available at: http://www.climatechange.gov.au
venting event means the release of biogas into the atmosphere that occurs:
(a) deliberately, for safety or maintenance purposes; or
(b) unintentionally, due to a system failure.
volatile solids (VS) means that portion of the total solids converted to volatile (combustible) gases when heated at 550 degrees Celsius (+/- 50 degrees) for at least one hour.
Note Other words and expressions used in this Determination have the meaning given by the Act. These terms include:
baseline
eligible offsets project
emission
greenhouse gas
offsets project
offsets report
project
project area
project proponent
Regulator
reporting period
1.4 Kind of project to which this Determination applies
Note See paragraph 106(1)(a) of the Act.
This Determination applies to a project that:
(a) is an agricultural emissions avoidance project; and
(b) proposes to capture and combust biogas generated by the anaerobic decomposition of piggery manure by directing a piggery manure stream into an engineered biodigester.
Part 2 Requirements for declaration as eligible project
Note See paragraphs 27(4)(c), 35(2)(a) and 106(1)(b) of the Act and regulations 1.12 and 3.26 of the Regulations.
2.1 Eligible projects
To be declared an eligible offsets project, a project to which this Determination applies must meet the requirements in this Part.
Note These requirements are in addition to those set by the Regulations for applications for a declaration.
2.2 Requirement 1—Project mechanism
The project must propose to:
(a) use one or more engineered biodigesters to prevent the emission of biogas;
(b) collect the biogas from the engineered biodigester; and
(c) combust the methane component of the biogas to convert it to carbon dioxide.
2.3 Requirement 2—Engineered biodigesters
(1) The engineered biodigesters used in the project must:
(a) replace or be installed instead of anaerobic lagoons at a conventional piggery;
(b) receive piggery manure that would otherwise be directed to a lagoon to undergo anaerobic decomposition;
(c) have been replaced or installed in accordance with paragraph (1) (a) after 1 July 2010.
2.4 Requirement 3—Waste
(1) Subject to subsection (2), only piggery manure may be deposited into the engineered biodigesters used in the project.
Additional waste
(2) Additional waste may be deposited into an engineered biodigester used in the project under the following circumstances:
(a) where the additional waste is combined with piggery manure to make a homogenous stream in accordance with subsection (3);
(b) where the additional waste is categorised, before it is combined with piggery manure, in accordance with subsections (4) or (5) as either:
(i) CFI eligible waste; or
(ii) CFI ineligible waste;
(c) where the additional waste is tested for VS before it enters the engineered biodigester in accordance with section 5.3;
(d) where the additional waste is categorised as CFI eligible additional waste—the waste would have been treated in an anaerobic lagoon if it was not accepted by the proponent; and
(e) where the additional waste is categorised as CFI ineligible additional waste—the volume of methane released from that waste:
(i) will not exceed 50% of the total methane released from the engineered biodigester;
(ii) will not contain more than 20% methane from highly variable Bo substrates; and
(iii) will not contain more than 20% methane from a single substrate that is a highly variable Bo substrate.
Note The measured methane sent to the combustion devices is capped at the theoretical volume of methane from the piggery and CFI eligible waste streams, and Australian Carbon Credit Units will not be issued for the destruction of methane from CFI ineligible waste.
Homogenous stream
(3) For the purposes of this Determination, a homogenous stream is a combination of piggery manure and additional waste that:
(a) maintains a pH range of between 6 and 8 in the engineered biodigester; and
Note For the avoidance of doubt, this means that the addition of the homogenous stream should not result in a change in pH range that moves below 6 or above 8.
(b) has an average particle size of less than 5 millimetres, unless the engineered biodigester is:
(i) a plug-flow digester; or
(ii) a UASB digester.
CFI eligible additional waste
(4) For the purposes of this Determination, CFI eligible additional waste is waste that comprises of one or more of the types listed in Schedule 1; and
CFI ineligible additional waste
(5) For the purposes of this Determination, CFI ineligible additional waste is:
(a) additional waste of the kind specified in Schedule 2; or
(b) additional waste that is not one of the following:
(i) waste of the kind specified in Schedule 1;
(ii) waste of the kind specified in Schedule 2; or
(iii) piggery manure.
2.5 Requirement 4—Flaring systems
(1) Any flaring system used in the project must:
(a) use a frequently sparking flare to ensure continuous destruction of methane when the flare is operational; or
(b) include a temperature monitoring system that ensures the flare is operating at the temperature required for complete combustion of methane; and
(c) include a control system that:
(i) shuts down biogas flow through to the flare when the flare temperature drops below the temperature required for complete combustion of methane; and
(ii) prevents biogas flow through the flare when the flare is not operational.
Part 3 Requirements for operation of eligible projects
Note See paragraphs 27 (4) (c), 35 (2) (a) and 106 (1) (b) of the Act and regulation 3.26 of the Regulations.
3.1 Operation of eligible projects
An eligible offsets project must be operated in accordance with this Part.
Division 3.2 Project classification
3.2 Project must be classified
A project to which this Determination applies must be classified, in accordance with this Division, as either:
(a) a standard project: or
(b) an additional waste project.
3.3 Standard projects
(1) For the purposes of this Determination, a project is a standard project if:
(a) it does not include additional waste; or
(b) it includes additional waste that is incidental.
(2) The inclusion of additional waste is taken to be incidental if, in a reporting period:
(a) the volume of an individual source of additional waste entering a biodigester is less than 0.5% of the total volume of piggery manure;
(b) the total volume of all individual sources of additional waste added to the piggery manure waste is less than 2% of the total volume of waste entering the biodigester; and
(c) the total increase by volume in biogas produced after all individual sources of additional waste in the feed is added to the biodigester is less than 3 %.
3.4 Additional waste projects
(1) For the purposes of this Determination, a project is an additional waste project if:
(a) it includes additional waste; and
(b) the additional waste is not incidental within the meaning provided by subsection 3.3 (2).
Division 3.3 Greenhouse gas assessment boundary
3.5 Greenhouse gases that must be accounted for
The following greenhouse gases from the following sources within the project must be taken into account when making calculations under Part 4. No other gases may be taken into account in respect of a source.
Source
Greenhouse gas
Baseline
Greenhouse gas emissions from piggery manure and CFI eligible additional waste treated in an anaerobic lagoon
Methane (CH4)
Project
Electricity generation —gas capture and combustion via internal combustion engine
Methane (CH4)
Nitrous oxide (N2O)
Electricity from the grid and fuel used for pre-treatment, gas capture and combustion and post-treatment
CO2
CH4
N2O
Gas capture and combustion via gas boiler used to heat water or generate steam
Methane (CH4)
Nitrous oxide (N2O)
Gas capture and combustion via flaring
Methane (CH4)
Nitrous oxide (N2O)
Engineered biodigester fugitive emissions
Methane (CH4)
Effluent from the engineerd biodigester; open storage of liquid effluent component during post treatment
Methane (CH4)
Aerobic post treatment of digestate
Methane (CH4)
Nitrous oxide (N2O)
Anaerobic post treatment of digestate
Methane (CH4)
Part 4 The net abatement amount
Division 4.1 The net abatement amount
4.1 The net abatement amount
Note See paragraph 106 (1) (c) of the Act.
For an eligible offsets project to which this Determination applies, the carbon dioxide equivalent net abatement amount for the project in relation to a reporting period for the project is taken to be:
(a) the quantity of methane emissions avoided as a consequence of the project, minus emissions from project activities;
(b) where those quantities are calculated in accordance with Division 4.3.
Division 4.2 Baseline
4.2 How the baseline is calculated
Note See paragraph 106 (4) (f) and section 107 of the Act.
For an eligible offsets project to which this Determination applies, the baseline must be calculated as follows:
(a) where the project is classified as a standard project—in accordance with section 4.3; and
(b) where the project is classified as an additional waste project—in accordance with section 4.4 or 4.5, whichever is applicable.
4.3 Calculating the baseline for a standard project
(1) If a project is classified as a standard project, the baseline must be calculated as follows:
(a) by determining the VS using the PigBal model in accordance with the Pigbal Manual; and
(b) multiplying the VS by:
(i) the maximum methane producing capacity from VS in piggery manure (Bo); and
(ii) the methane conversion factor (MCF), which is the portion of Bo that is achieved under temperature and treatment specifications.
Note the baseline for a standard project must be calculated in accordance with Division 4.3.
4.4 Calculating the baseline for an additional waste project that contains only CFI eligible additional waste
(1) This section applies where:
(a) a project is classified as an additional waste project; and
(b) the additional waste only contains only CFI eligible additional waste.
(2) The baseline for an additional waste project that contains only CFI eligible additional waste must be calculated as follows:
(a) for the part of the stream that is piggery manure—using the method outlined in section 4.3;
(b) for the part of the stream that is CFI eligible additional waste—using the method outlined in subsection (3); and
(c) the values of (a) and (b) must be added together to determine the total amount of methane generated from piggery manure and CFI eligible additional waste.
(3) For CFI eligible additional waste, the baseline must be calculated as follows:
(a) by measuring the VS in accordance with section 5.3; and
(b) multiplying the VS by:
(i) the maximum methane producing capacity from VS in the CFI eligible additional waste (Bo) as prescribed in Schedule 1; and
(ii) the methane conversion factor (MCF), which is the portion of Bo that is achieved under temperature and treatment specifications.
Note These calculations must be performed for each CFI eligible additional waste stream.
4.5 Calculating the baseline for an additional waste project that contains only CFI ineligible additional waste or a combination of additional CFI eligible additional waste and CFI ineligible addition waste
(1) This section applies where:
(a) a project is classified as an additional waste project; and
(b) the additional waste only contains CFI ineligible additional waste or contains a combination of CFI eligible additional waste and CFI ineligible additional waste.
(2) The baseline for an additional waste project that only contains CFI ineligible additional waste or a combination of CFI eligible additional waste and CFI ineligible additional waste must be calculated using:
(a) Method 1, as outlined in subsection (3); and
(b) Method 2, as outlined in subsection (4); and
(c) the lower value from Method 1 and Method 2.
Method 1
(3) For the purposes of paragraph (2) (a), Method 1 is:
(a) the value for the piggery manure and the CFI eligible additional waste—calculated in accordance with section 4.4;
Method 2
(4) For the purposes of paragraph (2) (b), Method 2 is:
(a) taking the total volume of methane combusted from all waste in the project, calculated in accordance with subsection (5); and
(b) subtracting the volume of methane for the CFI ineligible additional waste calculated in accordance with subsection (6).
(5) The total amount of methane combusted from all waste in the project must be calculated:
(a) in accordance with section 4.9 (2);
(b) where Qcom is not capped in accordance with section 4.12.
(6) The amount of methane generated from the CFI ineligible additional waste must be calculated:
(a) by measuring the VS in accordance with section 5.3; and
(b) multiplying the VS by:
(i) the maximum methane producing capacity from VS in CFI ineligible additional waste (Bo), which is either taken from Schedule 2 or measured in accordance with section 5.5; and
(ii) the methane conversion factor (MCF), which is the portion of Bo that is achieved under temperature and treatment specifications.
Division 4.3 Calculations
Subdivision 4.3.1 Preliminary
4.6 General
(1) In this Part:
(a) all calculations are in respect of activities undertaken, or outcomes achieved, during the reporting period for the eligible offsets project;
(b) unless otherwise specified:
(i) a reference to a project is a reference to an eligible offsets project that meets the requirements of Part 2;
(ii) a reference to a biodigester or combustion device is a reference to a biodigester or combustion device used in the project;
(iii) all references to Parts, Divisions, sections, subsections, paragraphs and Equations are references to corresponding parts of this Determination.
(c) for all equations, unless otherwise specified:
(i) n = number of combustion devices; and
(ii) h denotes a combustion device.
(d) References to a factor or parameter prescribed in the NGER (Measurement) Determination or the NGER Regulations are, for the entire offsets reporting period, references to the NGER (Measurement) Determination or NGER Regulations in force at the time that the offsets report was required to be submitted.
Subdivision 4.3.2 Calculating the baseline
4.7 Calculating the baseline
(1) Baseline methane emissions must be calculated as follows:
Equation 1.1
Where:
Eb = total methane emissions that would have occurred from the operation of all of the lagoons used in the project, as if the project did not occur, in tonnes of CO2-e (t CO2-e).
= the factor 6.784 x 10-4 x , which converts cubic metres of methane to tonnes of CO2-e at standard conditions.
Qb = total volume of methane that would be emitted from the operation of the lagoons used in the project, as if the project did not occur, in cubic metres of methane (m3 CH4) at standard conditions.
(2) Qb must be calculated as follows:
Qb = (VSp × Bop × MCFl) + (VSe × Boe x MCFl)
Equation 1.2
Where:
= the total volume of methane that would be atmosphere emitted from the operation of the lagoons used in the project, as if the project did not occur, including that the lagoons were uncovered, in cubic metres of methane (m3 CH4) at standard conditions.
Note See subsection (4) for additional waste projects that include CFI ineligible additional waste.
VSp = the quantity of volatile solids from piggery manure deposited into the biodigester, in kilograms, determined using the PigBal model.
Bop = 0.45, which is the maximum methane-producing capacity from volatile solids from piggery manure, in cubic metres of methane per kilogram of VS (m3 CH4/kg VS).
MCFl = 0.9, which is the methane conversion factor that reflects the portion of Bo that is achieved under temperature and treatment specifications for anaerobic lagoons.
VSe = the quantity of VS from each CFI eligible additional waste stream entering the project biodigester, in kilograms, measured in accordance with section 5.3.
Boe = the maximum methane-producing capacity from volatile solids from each CFI eligible additional waste stream, in cubic metres of methane per kilogram of VS (m3 CH4/kg VS), determined in accordance with subsection (3).
(3) Boe must be determined by:
(a) using the relevant factor prescribed in Schedule 1; or
(b) direct measurement in accordance with section 5.5.
(4) For additional waste projects that include CFI ineligible additional waste, Qb must be determined by using:
(a) Method 1, outlined in subsection (5);
(b) Method 2, outlined in subsection (6); and
(c) Taking the lower value from Method 1 and Method 2.
Method 1
(5) For method 1—Qb is calculated in accordance with Equation 1.2.
Method 2
(6) For method 2—Qb is calculated as follows:
Qb = ‒ (VSin × Boin × MCFl)
Equation 1.3
Where:
= the total volume of methane that would be emitted from the operation of the lagoons used in the project, as if the project did not occur, including that the lagoons were uncovered, in cubic metres of methane (m3 CH4) at standard conditions.
Qcom = the volume of methane destroyed by combustion device h, in cubic metres (m3), calculated in accordance with section 4.9 (2) and which has not been capped in accordance with section 4.12.
VSin = the quantity of volatile solids from CFI ineligible waste entering the project biodigester in kilograms, and measured in accordance with section 5.2.
Boin = the maximum methane-producing capacity from the volatile solids from CFI ineligible waste, in units of cubic metres of methane per kilogram of volatile solids (m3 CH4/kg VS), determined in accordance with subsection (7).
MCFl = 0.9, which is the methane conversion factor that reflects the portion of Bo that is achieved under temperature and treatment specifications for anaerobic lagoons.
(7) Boin must be determined, in accordance with the choice of a proponent, either:
(a) by using the value prescribed in Schedule 2; or
(b) by measuring the amount in accordance with section 5.5.
Subdivision 4.3.3 Calculating net greenhouse gas abatement
4.8 Calculating the net abatement (A)
Net abatement must be calculated as follows:
Equation 2.1
Where:
A = net greenhouse gas abatement due to the project, in tonnes of CO2-e.
= total quantity of emissions avoided as a consequence of the project, in tonnes of CO2-e, calculated using Equation 2.2.
= total emissions from activities undertaken for the purpose of the project, measured in tonnes of CO2‑e, calculated using Equation 3.1.
Subdivision 4.3.4 Calculating emissions avoided
4.9 Calculating greenhouse gas emissions avoided (Ap)
(1) Emissions avoided as a consequence of carrying out a project must be calculated as follows:
Equation 2.2
Where:
Ap = the quantity of methane emissions avoided as a consequence of the project, in tonnes of CO2-e (t CO2-e).
γ = the factor 6.784 x 10-4 x , which converts cubic metres of methane to tonnes of CO2-e at standard conditions.
Qcom = the volume of methane destroyed by all combustion devices, in cubic metres (m3), calculated using Equation 2.3.
(2) Qcom must be calculated as follows:
Equation 2.3
Where:
Qcom = the volume of methane destroyed by combustion device h, in cubic metres (m3) and capped in accordance with section 4.12.
QCH4, h = the volume of methane sent to combustion device h, in cubic metres (m3), determined in accordance with subsection (3).
OEh = the average operation efficiency for device h determined in accordance with section 5.2.
(3) The volume of methane destroyed by a combustion device must be calculated:
(a) For standard projects—using Equation 2.4, where the volume of methane is ; or
(b) For additional waste projects—using Equation 2.5, where the volume of methane is QCH4 CFI.
4.10 Calculating the volume of methane sent to a combustion device (QCH4,h) for a standard project
For standard projects, QCH4, h must be calculated for each combustion device as follows:
Equation 2.4
Where:
QCH4, h = the volume of methane sent to combustion device h, in cubic metres (m3), capped according to section 4.12.
Qbiogas, h = the total volume of biogas sent to combustion device h, in cubic metres (m3), measured in accordance with section 5.2 and adjusted to standard conditions.
WCH4 = the proportion of the volume of biogas that is methane, measured in accordance with section 5.7.
4.11 Calculating the volume of methane sent to a combustion device (QCH4,h) for an additional waste project
(1) For additional waste projects, the volume of methane sent to the combustion devicemust be calculated for each combustion device as follows:
QCH4 CFI ,h = R × QCH4,h
Equation 2.5
Where:
QCH4 CFI ,h = the volume of methane sent to the combustion device that is from CFI eligible additional waste, capped in accordance with section 4.12.
R = the proportion of the volume of methane sent to the combustion device that is from CFI eligible additional waste, calculated using Equation 2.6.
QCH4,h = the volume of methane sent to combustion device h, in cubic metres (m3), capped in accordance with section 4.12.
(2) R must be calculated as follows:
Equation 2.6
Where:
R = the proportion of the volume of methane sent to the combustion device that is from CFI eligible additional waste.
QCFI = the total volume of methane generated from piggery manure and CFI eligible additional waste, calculated using Equation 2.7.
Qin = the volume of methane generated from CFI ineligible additional waste, calculated using Equation 2.8.
(3) QCFI must be calculated as follows:
(VSp × Bop) + (VSe × Boe)
Equation 2.7
Where:
QCFI = the volume of methane sent to the combustion device h that is from CFI eligible additional waste, in cubic metres (m3).
VSp = the quantity of volatile solids from piggery manure entering the biodigester, in kilograms, determined using the PigBal model.
Bop = 0.45, which is the maximum methane-producing capacity from the volatile solids from piggery manure, in units of cubic metres of methane per kilogram of volatile solids (m3 CH4/kg VS).
VSe = the quantity of volatile solids from CFI eligible additional waste entering the biodigester, in kilograms, measured in accordance with section 5.3.
Boe = the maximum methane-producing capacity from volatile solids from CFI eligible additional waste, in units of cubic metres of methane per kilogram of Volatile Solids (m3 CH4/kg VS), determined in accordance with subsection (4).
(4) Boe must be determined, in accordance with the choice of a proponent, either:
(a) by using the value prescribed in Schedule 1; or
(b) by measuring the amount in accordance with section 5.5.
(5) Qin must be calculated as follows:
VSin × Boin
Equation 2.8
Where:
Qin = the volume of methane sent to the combustion device h that is from CFI ineligible additional waste, in cubic metres (m3).
VSin = the quantity of volatile solids from CFI ineligible additional waste entering the project biodigester in kilograms, and measured in accordance with section 5.2.
Boin = the maximum methane-producing capacity from the volatile solids from CFI ineligible additional waste, in units of cubic metres of methane per kilogram of volatile solids (m3 CH4/kg VS), determined in accordance with subsection (6).
(6) Boin must be determined, in accordance with the choice of a proponent, either:
(a) by using the value prescribed in Schedule 2; or
(b) by measuring the amount in accordance with section 5.5.
4.12 Capping the volume of methane
(1) Qb (calculated using Equation 1.2 or in accordance with section 4.5) and (calculated using Equation 2.3) must be estimated over the same time period and at least once every 12 months.
(2) If the value of the volume of methane destroyed by all combustion devices () is greater than the value for baseline methane emissions (Qb), the value for is, for the purposes of this Determination, deemed to be:
(a) for standard projects—Qb in Equation 1.2; or
(b) for additional waste projects—the baseline determined in accordance with section 4.7 (4).
4.13 Quantity of emissions combusted in an internal combustion engine – optional verification methods
(1) This section applies if a project uses an internal combustion engine for electricity generation which is fed by methane generated by the project activity.
(2) If subsection (1) applies, a project proponent must, in accordance with Equation 2.3:
(a) measure the average operating efficiency of the internal combustion engine using section 5.5; and
(b) calculate the volume of methane combusted (Qcom,h), where h is the internal combustion engine.
(3) In addition to subsection (2), a project proponent may verify Qcom,h by using the quantity of methane combusted by the internal combustion engine for electricity generation (). This may be calculated using Equation 2.9 and Equation 2.10.
Note To compare Qcom,h with Acom,ice for the purposes of subsection (3) the figure produced at (2) (b) will need to be multiplied by 6.784 x 10-4 x to obtain tonnes CO2-e.
(4) may be calculated using the following formula:
Equation 2.9
Where:
= amount of methane destroyed as a consequence of an internal combustion engine, in tonnes CO2-e.
QE = energy content of the methane sent to the internal combustion engine, in gigajoules (GJ) calculated in accordance with Equation 2.10.
CH4 conversion factor = 0.018.
= the global warming potential of methane as prescribed in the NGER Regulations.
(5) QE may be calculated using the following formula:
Equation 2.10
Where:
QE = quantity of energy produced as a result of methane combustion in the internal combustion engine, in gigajoules (GJ).
Electricity produced = the total amount of electricity produced by the internal produced combustion engine (supplied to the grid or used on-site) in megawatt hours (MWh).
= 3.6, which is the energy in GJ per megawatt hours (MWh).
Eff = electrical efficiency factor for the internal combustion engine for conversion of energy to electricity, expressed as a fraction, determined in accordance with subsection (6).
(6) Eff is either:
(a) the value prescribed by the manufacturer in the manufacturer’s specifications for the equipment; or
(b) if there is no value prescribed by the manufacturer—0.36.
Subdivision 4.3.5 Calculating project emissions (Ep)
4.14 Calculating project emissions (Ep)
The total emissions from activities undertaken for the purpose of the project must be calculated as follows:
Ep = EFE + ETRAN + EBCS + EMMS+ EPOST
Equation 3.1
Where:
EP = total emissions from the activities undertaken for the purpose of the project.
EFE = the total emissions from fuel and electricity used in the operation of the project, measured in tonnes of CO2-e (t CO2- e), and calculated in accordance with section 4.15.
ETRAN = total emissions from the transport of CFI eligible additional waste to the project site, calculated using Equation 3.4.
EBCS = total emissions from the engineered biodigester and biogas capture system, including any fugitive emissions, calculated using Equation 3.6.
EMMS = total emissions of methane from the uncontrolled anaerobic treatment of CFI eligible additional waste, calculated using Equation 3.17.
EPOST = total emissions from the treatment of piggery manure and digestate from the engineered biodigester before it is applied to land, calculated using Equation 3.18.
Note As no credits may be received for CFI ineligible additional waste, emissions from the transport of CFI ineligible additional waste and emissions from the uncontrolled anaerobic treatment of CFI ineligible additional waste do not need to be included in calculations.
4.15 Calculating emissions from fuel and electricity (EFE)
Calculating emissions from fuel
(1) Emissions from fuel (Ef) must only be calculated where fuel is used to operate any of the following equipment used in the project:
(a) pre-treatment equipment;
(b) heating and mixing systems;
(c) gas capture and combustion devices; or
(d) post treatment equipment.
Calculating emissions from electricity
(2) Emissions from electricity (Eelec) must be calculated as follows:
(a) for the consumption of grid derived electricity that occurred between 1 July 2010 and 1 July 2012—in accordance with Equation 3.5; and
(b) where the project uses grid derived electricity after 1 July 2012—Eelec must be taken to be zero.
(3) Subject to subsections (1) and (2), EFE must be calculated as follows:
Equation 3.2
Where:
EFE = the total emissions from fuel and electricity used in the operation of the project, measured in tonnes of CO2-e (t CO2- e).
Ef = the total emissions from fuel use, measured in tonnes of CO2-e (t CO2-e).
Eelec = the total emissions from consumption of grid-derived electricity, measured in tonnes of CO2-e (t CO2-e).
(4) Subject to subsection (1), Ef must be calculated as follows:
Equation 3.3
Where:
Ef = the total emissions from fuel use, in tonnes of CO2-e (t CO2-e).
j = the greenhouse gas type (CO2, N2O, CH4).
i = the fuel type.
= the emissions from fuel type (i) and greenhouse gas (j).
n = the number of different fuel types (i).
N = the number of different gas types (j) emitted (CO2, CH4 or N2O).
R = the proportion of the volume of methane that is from CFI eligible additional waste, determined in accordance with Equation 2.6.
(5) Subject to subsection (1), Ei,j must be calculated as follows:
Equation 3.4
Where:
= emissions of greenhouse gas type (j) released from the combustion of fuel type (i).
Qi = the quantity of fuel type (i), measured in appropriate units in accordance with Schedule 1 of the NGER (Measurement) Determination.
ECi = the energy content factor of fuel type (i) in gigajoules per kilolitre (GJ/kL), determined in accordance with subsection (6).
EFijoxec = the emission factor for each gas type (j) and for fuel type (i) in kilograms of CO2-e per gigajoule (kg CO2-ee/GJ) as prescribed in the NGER (Measurement) Determination.
(6) To determine the value of ECi, the following rules apply:
(a) where Qi is measured in gigajoules—ECi is 1;
(b) where Qi is not measured in gigajoules—ECi is the value prescribed in the NGER (Measurement) Determination.
(7) Subject to subsection (2), Eelec must be calculated as follows:
Equation 3.5
Where:
Eelec = the total emissions from consumption of grid-derived electricity, in tonnes of CO2-e (t CO2-e).
Qelec = the quantity of electricity purchased from the grid in kilowatt hours (kWh) in accordance with section 5.2.
EF = the scope 2 emissions factor for the relevant State, Territory or electricity grid where consumption occurs, as prescribed in Schedule 1 of the NGER (Measurement) Determination and measured in kg CO2-e per kilowatt hour (kg CO2-e /kWh).
(8) If Qelec is measured in gigajoules, the quantity of kilowatt hours must be calculated by dividing the amount of gigajoules by 0.0036.
4.16 Calculating emissions from transport (ETRAN) for additional waste projects
(1) This section applies where:
(a) the project is classified as an additional waste project; and
(b) waste transport operations have changed as a result of carrying out the project.
Note As no credits may be received for CFI ineligible additional waste, emissions from the transport of CFI ineligible additional waste do not need to be calculated.
(2) Subject to subsection (1), emissions from the transport of additional waste must be calculated as follows:
Equation 3.6
ETRAN = the total emissions from the transport of additional waste.
i = the fuel type.
j = the greenhouse gas type (CO2, CH4 or N2O).
n = the number of different fuel types (i).
N = the number of different gas types (j) emitted (CO2, CH4 or N2O).
= emissions of greenhouse gas type (j) released from the combustion of fuel type (i), calculated using Equation 3.7.
(3) Eij must be calculated as follows:
Equation 3.7
Where:
Eij = emissions of greenhouse gas type (j) released from the combustion of fuel type (i), in tonnes of CO2-e (t CO2-e).
Qi = the quantity of fuel type (i), in kilolitres (kL) or gigajoules (GJ), combusted for transport energy purposes.
ECi = the energy content factor of fuel type (i) in gigajoules per kilolitre (GJ/kL), determined in accordance with subsection (4).
EFijoxec = the emission factor for each gas type (j) and for fuel type (i) in kilograms of CO2-e per gigajoule (kg/GJ) as prescribed in the NGER (Measurement) Determination.
(4) To determine the value of ECi, the following rules apply:
(a) where Qi is measured in gigajoules—ECi is 1;
(b) where Qi is not measured in gigajoules—ECi is the value prescribed in the NGER (Measurement) Determination.
4.17 Calculating emissions from the biogas capture system (EBCS)
(1) Emissions from the engineered biodigester and biogas capture system resulting from venting events and incomplete combustion must be calculated as follows:
EBCS = (EFug CH4 + E COM) × R
Equation 3.8
Where:
EBCS = emissions from the engineered biodigester and biogas capture system resulting from venting events and incomplete combustion.
EFug CH4 = the fugitive emissions of methane from venting events or sub-optimal flaring, calculated using Equation 3.9.
ECOM = the emissions of methane and nitrous oxide from incomplete combustion in combustion devices, calculated using Equation 3.11.
R = the proportion of the volume of methane that is from CFI eligible additional waste, determined in accordance with Equation 2.6.
(2) EFugCH4 must be calculated as follows:
Equation 3.9
Where:
EFug CH4 = the fugitive emissions of methane from venting events or sub-optimal flaring, in tonnes of CO2‑e.
γ = the factor 6.784 x 10-4 x , which converts cubic metres of methane at standard conditions to tonnes of CO2-e (t CO2-e).
QCH4,h = the volume of methane sent to combustion device h in cubic metres (m3), calculated using Equation 2.4 or Equation 2.5.
BCE = 0.98, which is the assumed methane collection efficiency of the biogas capture system.
OEh = the average operation efficiency for device h, expressed as a fraction, determined in accordance with section 5.2.
QCH4 Vent, q = the volume of methane, in cubic metres (m3), vented to the atmosphere due to a biogas capture system venting event calculated in accordance with subsection (4).
(3) QCH4 Vent, q must only be calculated where:
(a) a system failure or a system shutdown occurs; and
(b) as a result, methane is released into the atmosphere.
(4) For the purposes of subsection (3), if it can be demonstrated that biogas was not released into the atmosphere during a system shutdown, a project proponent may elect to not calculate QCH4 Vent, q.
(5) Subject to subsection (4), QCH4 Vent, q must be calculated as follows:
QCH4 Vent, q = [MSBCS + (Fpw x t)] × WCH4
Equation 3.10
Where:
QCH4 Vent, q = the volume of methane, in cubic metres (m3), released to the atmosphere due to a venting event, q.
MSBCS = the maximum biogas storage capacity of the biogas capture system, in cubic metres, determined in accordance with subsection (6).
Fpw = the average total daily flow of biogas from the digester for the entire week prior to the venting event, in cubic metres per day (m3/day).
t = the number of days that the venting event is uncontrolled.
WCH4 = the proportion of the volume of biogas that is methane, measured in accordance with section 5.7.
(6) MSBCS is either:
(a) where there is a failure or shut down of all combustion devices, or where there is a failure of the storage systems that are upstream from the combustion device—the maximum biogas storage capacity of the biogas capture system; or
(b) where there is more than one combustion device and there is a failure of only one combustion device and the storage systems upstream of the combustion devices remain intact—zero.
4.18 Calculating emissions from combustion devices (Ecom)
(1) The total emissions from combustion of biogas must be calculated as follows:
Equation 3.11
Where:
ECOM = the total emissions of methane and nitrous oxide from incomplete combustion in combustion devices, in tonnes of CO2-e (t CO2-e).
j = the greenhouse gas type, which is either nitrous oxide or methane (N2O, CH4).
= the emissions of greenhouse gas (j) from the combustion of biogas in tonnes of CO2-e.
(2) must be calculated as follows:
Equation 3.12
Where:
= the emissions of greenhouse gas (j) from the combustion of biogas in tonnes of CO2-e.
Qcom = the total volume of methane destroyed by all combustion devices measured in cubic metres (m3) calculated using Equation 2.3.
EC = the energy content factor of biogas, in gigajoules per cubic metre (GJ/m3) as prescribed in the NGER (Measurement) Determination.
EFj = the technology based emission factor for the biogas for each greenhouse gas type (j), in kilograms of CO2-e per gigajoule (kg CO2-e/GJ) as prescribed in the NGER (Measurement) Determination.
4.19 Calculating emissions from manure management systems (EMMS)
(1) This section applies where:
(a) the project is classified as a standard project; or
(b) the project is classified as an additional waste project and the additional waste contains CFI eligible additional waste; and
(c) there has been uncontrolled anaerobic treatment of the waste at the site of livestock operations that contribute the waste to the engineered biodigester.
Note Additional waste projects that only add ineligible waste do not need to calculate and include EMMS.
(2) For the purposes of subsection (1), if it can be demonstrated that there was no uncontrolled anaerobic treatment of waste at any of the livestock operation sites that contribute waste to the engineered biodigester, a project proponent may elect to not calculate EMMS.
(3) Emissions of methane from the treatment of CFI eligible additional waste in manure management systems (EMMS) is either:
(a) where paragraph (1) (a) applies—zero; or
(b) where paragraph (1) (b) and (c) apply—calculated using Equation 3.13.
(4) Subject to subsections (1) and (2), EMMS must be calculated as follows:
EMMS =
Equation 3.13
Where:
EMMS = emissions of methane from the uncontrolled anaerobic treatment of waste in manure management systems at the livestock operation(s) contributing waste to the engineered biodigester.
γ = the factor 6.784 x 10-4 x , which converts cubic metres of methane at standard conditions to tonnes of CO2-e.
VSp, un = the quantity of volatile solids from piggery manure that is treated in uncontrolled anaerobic process, in kilograms, determined using the Pigbal Model.
Bop, = 0.45, which is the maximum methane-producing capacity from the volatile solids from the waste sent to an uncontrolled anaerobic treatment process, in units of cubic metres of methane per kilogram of volatile solids (m3CH4/kg VS).
MCFl = 0.9, which is the methane conversion factor for treatment of waste in uncovered anaerobic lagoons.
f = the proportion of the reporting period that the waste has been stored in an uncontrolled anaerobic lagoon.
VSe,un = the quantity of volatile solids from each eligible waste stream that is treated in an uncontrolled anaerobic process, in kilograms.
Boe, = the maximum methane-producing capacity from the volatile solids from each eligible waste stream, in units of cubic metres of methane per kilogram of volatile solids (m3 CH4/kg VS), determined in accordance with subsection (5).
(5) Boe must be determined:
(a) by using the relevant factor prescribed in Schedule 1; or
(b) by carrying out sampling and analysis in accordance with section 5.5.
4.20 Calculating emissions from post treatment (EPOST)
(1) Emissions from the post treatment of the digestate removed from the engineered biodigester must be calculated where:
(a) the digestate is treated in accordance with one of the treatment types prescribed in Schedule 4;
(b) the digestate is sent to a landfill; or
(c) the digestate is sent to an open lagoon.
(2) Where subsection (1) applies, Epost must be calculated as follows:
EPOST = ELF + EEFF + EAER
Equation 3.14
Where:
ELF = emissions of methane from decomposition of digestate at a landfill, calculated using Equation 3.15.
EAER = emissions of methane and nitrous oxide from aerobic treatment of digestate, including stockpiling, calculated using Equation 3.17.
EEFF = emissions of methane from engineered biodigester piggery manure in an open lagoon, as calculated using Equation 3.16.
(3) ELF must be calculated as follows:
ELF = WD, LF × EFLF × (1 – CSTATE) x R
Equation 3.15
Where:
ELF = emissions of methane from decomposition of digestate at a landfill, in units of tonnes CO2-e.
WD, LF = the wet weight of the digestate sent to a landfill in the reporting period, measured in tonnes.
EFLF = 0.3, which is theemission factor for the decay of digestate in a landfill, in tonnes CO2-e per tonne of wet waste.
CSTATE = the capture rate, expressed as a fraction, for methane emissions at a landfill in each state, as prescribed in Schedule 3.
R = the proportion of the volume of methane that is from CFI eligible additional waste, determined in accordance with subsection (4).
(4) R is either:
(a) where a project is classified as a standard project—1; or
(b) where a project is classified as an additional waste project—calculated using Equation 2.6.
(5) EEFF must be calculated as follows:
EEFF = γ ×VSEFF × BoEFF × MCFEFF × R ×
Equation 3.16
Where:
EEFF = emissions of methane from engineered biodigester piggery manure in an open lagoon, in units of tonnes of CO2-e (t CO2- e).
γ = the factor 6.784 x 10-4 x , which converts cubic metres of methane at standard conditions to tonnes of CO2-e (t CO2-e).
VSEFF = the quantity of volatile solids in the piggery manure discharged from the engineered biodigester into the lagoon, in kilograms, measured in accordance with section 5.2.
BoEFF = the maximum methane-producing capacity of the piggery manure from the engineered biodigester, in units of kilograms of methane per kilogram of volatile solids, determined in accordance with subsection (6).
MCFEFF = 0.2, which is the methane conversion factor for the lagoon.
R = the proportion of the volume of methane that is from CFI eligible additional waste, determined in accordance with subsection (7).
(6) BOEFF is, in accordance with the choice of a proponent, either:
(a) measured in accordance with section 5.5; or
(b) 0.3 m3CH4/ kg VS.
(7) R is either:
(a) where a project is classified as a standard project—1
(b) where a project is classified as an additional waste project—calculated using Equation 2.6.
(8) EAER must be calculated as follows:
EAER = WD, AER × EFAER x R
Equation 3.17
Where:
EAER = the emissions of methane and nitrous oxide from aerobic treatment of digestate in tonnes of CO2-e.
WD, AER = the wet weight of digestate treated aerobically on-site or off- site for the reporting period, measured in tonnes.
EFAER = the emission factor for the aerobic treatment of digestate based on the risk that the treatment will produce emissions, as prescribed in Schedule 4.
R = the proportion that is from CFI eligible additional waste, determined in accordance with subsection (9).
(9) R is either:
(a) where a project is classified as a standard project—1; or
(b) where a project is classified as an additional waste project—calculated using Equation 2.6.
Part 5 Monitoring, record-keeping and reporting requirements
Note See subsection 106(3) of the Act.
Division 5.1 General
5.1 General
For the purposes of subsection 106 (3) of the Act, a project proponent of an offsets project to which this Determination applies must comply with the monitoring, record-keeping and reporting requirements of this Part.
Division 5.2 Measuring requirements
5.2 Project measurement
A project proponent must measure the matters specified in the following table, in the manner and frequency specified, for the purposes of calculating baseline emissions and the net abatement amount.
Note Unless otherwise specified, terms used for calculating the baseline have the same meaning as the PigBal Model.
Parameter
Description
Unit
Measurement procedure
Measurement frequency
OEh
Average operation efficiency for device h
Expressed as a fraction
(1) Flare operation can be detected using temperature measurement.
(2) Uptime must be represented by a number between zero and 1 where:
(a) zero—represents a device that is not operating; and
(b) 1—represents a device that is operating.
(3) If a device was operational for 45 minutes of an hour the record for that hour and device must show a fraction of 0.75.
(4) For flares:
(a) if there is no record of the temperature of the exhaust gas of the flare; or
(b) if the recorded temperature is less than 500°C for any period exceeding 20 minutes in any particular hour,
then it must be assumed that during that hour the flare operation efficiency is zero.
Hourly records of combustion device uptime must be kept.
The average uptime for each day should be summed to provide the average operation efficiency for the reporting period.
pH levels
(1) pH levels must be measured using:
(a) a calibrated pH meter; or
(b) sampling and analysis in accordance with:
(i) APHA Method 4500-H+ or
(ii) USEPA Method 9040C
(iii) or an equivalent method.
(2) samples in accordance with (1) (b) must be:
(a) sampled on enough occasions to obtain a representative sample; and
(b) free of bias so that any estimates are neither over nor under estimates of the true value; and
(c) sampled immediately after additional waste is added; or
(d) where additional waste is continuously added—sampled on a weekly basis.
Immediately after waste is added; or
If additional waste is continuously added—sampled on a weekly basis
Pig numbers
This is the number of pigs in each class housed in the shed.
Number per class
From shed records.
Daily
Feed used
Weight of each feed type
Kg of feed type
From delivery records.
For each type of feed mix used, the weight delivered to the facility minus the stockpile remaining each year.
Daily
Pre‑treatment screening
Presence or absence of screens:
Yes/No
As prescribed in the PigBal workbook.
From shed maintenance records.
Recorded when added or removed.
Screen removal efficiency
Note: Solids removal efficiency is required to be used in the Pigbal Model.
Solids and nutrient removal for different separation devices
Percentage
In accordance with the choice of a project proponent, either:
(1) where no screens are installed, a value of zero for all removal percentages; or
(2) the figure prescribed from the supplier of the separator unit appropriate for piggery waste; or
(3) the highest value for the type of separation unit prescribed in Appendix A of the Effluent and Manure Management Database; or
(4) measured, where the samples are:
(a) taken on enough occasions to produce an unbiased, representative sample; and
(b) representative of the piggery waste stream and the total solids concentrations at the project site; and
(c) only be used for the piggery operation for which it was intended to be representative.
For direct measurement, solids removal must be measured for a one week period for each season (four times per year) in accordance with the Effluent and Manure Management Database.
VSe
Volatile solids of each eligible waste stream that is not from the project piggery operation but added to the project digester.
Kg
The standards and protocol for measurement as outlined at section 5.3.
In accordance with section 5.3.
Boe
Maximum methane producing capacity from the VS in eligible waste stream.
m3 CH4/kg VS
From Schedule 1 or measured in accordance section 5.5.
In accordance with section 5.5.
VSin
Volatile solids of each ineligible waste stream added to project digester
Kg
In accordance with section 5.3.
In accordance with section 5.3.
Boin
Maximum methane producing capacity from VS in CFI each ineligible waste stream
m3 CH4/kg VS
From Schedule 2 or measured in accordance with section 5.5.
If measured — in accordance with section 5.5.
Additional CFI eligible waste
Amount of CFI eligible additional waste—for each eligible waste stream that would have been treated in an anaerobic lagoon.
kL or kg
(1) The amount of waste received during the reporting period as evidenced by invoices; or
(2) The amount of waste received during the reporting period as measured by an accepted industry measurement device calibrated to a measurement requirement; or
(3) If devices mentioned in subsection (2) are absent—according to industry practice.
Daily
Additional CFI ineligible additional waste
Amount of CFI ineligible additional waste.
kL or kg
(1) The amount of waste received during the reporting period as evidenced by invoices; or
(2) The amount of waste received during the reporting period as measured by an accepted industry measurement device calibrated to a measurement requirement; or
(3) If devices mentioned in subsection (2) are absent—according to industry practice.
Daily
MSBCS
Maximum storage capacity of the biogas capture system
Cubic metres
From installation and maintenance records.
Recorded when installations or upgrades to the physical equipment of the biogas capture system occur that would change the storage capacity of the biogas capture system.
Fpw
Average total flow of biogas from project digester for the week prior to a venting event.
Cubic metres
From records for Qbiogas.
Weekly
t
Number of days biogas is venting uncontrolled from the biogas capture system.
Days
From daily record.
Monthly
Qbiogas,h
Quantity of biogas sent to combustion device h.
m3
In accordance with section 5.6.
Continuous monitoring — an average value in a time interval not greater than 1 hour.
Fuel used
Qi
Quantity of fuel type (i) used for the operation of gas capture and combustion equipment.
For liquid fuels, measured in kL, or for gaseous fuels, measured in m3 unless otherwise specified in the NGER (Measurement) Determination.
(1) For each fuel used (diesel, LPG, etc) —the amount must be estimated as a proportion of totals for the project activities.
(2) The estimation may be made from a reading from a meter or from invoices.
(3) Manufacturer’s specifications can be used to assist with these estimates for the gas capture and combustion component.
At least once during the reporting period
Electricity used
Qelec
Quantity of electricity used for the operation of gas capture and combustion equipment
Kilowatt hours (kWh)
(1) Meter measuring the electricity used by equipment installed, the electricity usage is the value from that meter
(2) Electricity used to operate the biogas capture and combustion equipment may be estimated as a proportion of the total electricity used on the property.
(3) Project proponents must provide a justification for all estimates.
(1) If estimated from invoices—estimate from total electricity used for the reporting period.
(2) If submetering is used—monthly.
Electricity produced
Quantity of electricity produced by methane combustion in the internal combustion engine generator.
MWh
(1) For electricity sent to the grid—meter data recording electricity sent to the grid; or
(2) For electricity used on site—meter data recording electricity produced by the internal combustion engine generator (for electricity used on site).
(3) The accuracy of the meter used must be equivalent of a revenue meter.
Total amount of electricity produced during the reporting period
Electrical Efficiency Factor (Eff)
The electrical efficiency factor of the internal combustion engine generator.
%
As specified by the manufacturer of the generator in the technical manual for the equipment or the default value of 36%.
Set value as per manufacturer’s specification or default.
WD,LF
Wet weight of digestate sent to landfill.
Tonnes
From daily record.
Daily.
VSEFF
VS of piggery manure discharged from project biodigester into lagoon.
Kg
In accordance with section 5.4.
In accordance with section 5.4.
BoEFF
Maximum methane producing capacity of the effluent discharged from project biodigester.
Tonnes of methane per kilogram of VS
In accordance with section 5.5.
Annually.
5.3 Measuring volatile solids from additional waste before it enters the biodigester (VS)
Note See section 2.4 of this Determination.
(1) Volatile solids in additional waste must, in accordance with subsection (2), be measured:
(a) for each different waste stream—at least once before it is combined with piggery manure and enters a biodigester; and
(b) at least once every month following commencement of a project; and
(c) where there is a change to the process, being either a change to the type or order of engineered biodigester unit operations used in the process or the addition of one or more new waste types—at least once immediately after that change.
(2) Volatile solids must be measured by:
(a) collecting samples from composite amounts of waste sent to the project biodigester;
(b) collecting enough samples to produce a representative sample; and
(c) analysing those samples in accordance with the following:
(i) method 2540E of the American Public Health Association; or
(ii) an equivalent Australian or international standard.
5.4 Measuring volatile solids for waste discharged from the biodigester into a lagoon (VSEFF)
Note See section 4.20 of this Determination.
(1) Volatile solids in additional waste must, in accordance with subsection (2), be measured:
(a) at least once every month following commencement of a project; and
(b) where there is a change to the process, being either a change to the type or order of unit operations used in the process or the addition of one or more new waste types—at least once immediately after that change.
(2) Volatile solids must be measured by:
(a) collecting samples from composite of amounts of waste sent to the project biodigester;
(b) collecting enough samples to produce a representative sample; and
(c) analysing those samples in accordance with the following:
(i) method 2450E of the the methods of American Public Health Association ; or
(ii) an equivalent Australian or international standard.
5.5 Measuring the methane producing capacity for volatile solids for additional waste (Boe) (Boin) (BoEFF)
Note See sections 4.7, 4.11, 4.19 and 4.20 of this Determination.
(1) This section applies if a project proponent elects to measure the methane producing capacity for:
(a) the volatile solids of additional waste streams (Boe and Boin); and
(b) the effluent discharged from a project biodigester into a storage lagoon (BoEFF).
Note This section is not required if a project proponent elects to use the relevant figure prescribed in Schedule 1 or Schedule 2.
(2) The methane producing capacity for Boe, Boin and BoEFF must be measured:
(a) annually for each waste type;
(b) by collecting samples on at least three separate occasions in accordance with the following standards:
(i) method 6211 (1998) or method 2720 (1997) of the American Public Health Association Method; or
(ii) an equivalent Australian or international standard; and
(c) by causing those samples to be:
(i) delivered to a laboratory within 24 hours of collection; and
(ii) analysed in a laboratory in triplicate.
(3) Methane composition must be measured in a laboratory throughout the Bo test, and the Bo must be reported as m3CH4/kgVS.
5.6 Measuring the quantity of biogas sent to a combustion device (Qbiogas,h)
(1) Qbiogas, h must be measured in accordance with the following requirements:
(a) Gas flow must be measured:
(i) at the delivery location of the gaseous fuel;
(ii) using a gas volumetric flow meter that uses a continuous monitoring system; and
(iii) in cubic metres per hour (m3 per hour).
(b) Subject to paragraph (b), gas flow must be measured using equipment that:
(i) is rated for use with a process gas/biogas/dirty stream;
(ii) is rated for use at the expected flow rate and pressure;
(iii) is designed for use in the anticipated operating temperature range; and
(iv) is to be accurate to +/‑ 5% for flow measurement.
(c) Gas flow must be continuously recorded and integrated using an integration device that is isolated from the flow computer in such a way that if the computer fails, the integration device will retain the last reading, or the previously stored information, that was on the computer immediately before the failure.
(d) All measurements must comply with the National Measurement Act.
5.7 Measuring the percentage of methane in biogas (WCH4)
(1) The percentage of methane in biogas () must be measured using either:
(a) an online gas analyser; or
(b) analysis, taken from samples, at an accredited laboratory.
(2) Where subsection (1) (a) applies, the following requirements apply:
(a) paired values of the methane fraction of the gas and gas flow that are averaged for the same time interval must be used in the calculation of emission reductions; and
(b) measurement of the methane fraction must occur at the same time as flow measurement.
(3) Where subsection (1) (b) applies, the following requirements apply:
(a) gas composition samples must be taken at the delivery location of the gaseous fuel;
(b) gas composition samples must be taken on a regular basis, occurring no less than once per month;
(c) the sampling vessel must be set up to provide a time period for the instrument to stabilise and carry out initial checks in accordance with the instrument provided by the manufacturer; and
(d) there must be no leaks in the sampling train or between the sampling train and the instrument; and
(e) gas samples must be analysed using US EPA Method 3 gas chromatography or mass spectrometry.
5.8 Gas measurement error margins
(1) The measurement of gas pressures must be carried out using equipment that complies with the following accuracy and transmitter requirements:
(a) pressure
