Sulfur Hexafluoride Emission Reduction projects prevent emissions of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) to the atmosphere from equipment in the electricity transmission and distribution sector, through capture and storage, recycling, or destruction. Emissions reductions are determined in relation to baseline year emissions, using a mass-balance method that accounts for all SF6 used by the utility.
To qualify for the award CO2 offset allowances, Sulfur Hexafluoride offset projects must:
- Consist of incremental actions for management of SF6 beyond those taken during the baseline year.
- The utility owning and operating transmission or distribution equipment containing SF6 must demonstrate a baseline entity-wide SF6 emissions rate that is less than the applicable regional performance standard specified in state regulations. The emissions rate performance standards are based on weighted average 2004 emissions rates by region for utilities that are members of the U.S. EPA SF6 Partnership. Certain exemptions from the performance standards may apply for urban utilities or utilities with certain system characteristics that prevent optimal management of SF6 emissions.
Other eligibility requirements also apply. Sulfur Hexafluoride Emission Reduction projects are currently eligible in Connecticut.
For more information, please consult state regulations.
Parties evaluating potential offset projects in multiple RGGI States should also consult the Model Rule, which forms the basis for the development of individual state regulations. Note that the Model Rule is provided for informational purposes only, and state regulations apply.
Application Process and Model Materials
For more details on the application process, including relevant state offset project application instructions and materials, please see the Application Process page.
For additional context, draft model template application materials are provided below. These served as the basis for developing materially consistent state-specific offset project application and submittal materials. They are provided for informational purposes only and should not be submitted to RGGI States.