The Australian government has formally launched its guarantee of origin (GO) scheme, a voluntary framework that tracks emissions and related data across the supply chain.
The GO scheme will certify emissions of products like hydrogen and green metals, giving consumers and investors confidence in their low-carbon credentials.
The scheme will also certify renewable electricity to provide clear evidence to support claims of renewable electricity generation use.
Businesses can register with the Clean Energy Regulator for two types of certificates.
Product guarantees of origin (PGOs) certificates will account for emissions arising from clean products, such as green hydrogen.
The renewable electricity of guarantee (REGO) certificate will verify the use of power from renewable sources. REGO will overlap with the Renewable Energy Target (RET) certification scheme for five years.
Chris Bowen, Minister for Climate Change and Energy, said: “Our scheme will mean that our exporters, farmers, and industries will be able to seize the benefits of net zero globally, while helping to protect our environment for future generations.”
The GO scheme will allow companies to access the government’s Future Made in Australia initiatives, including the AU$4 billion Hydrogen HeadStart program and the AU$6.7 billion Hydrogen Production Tax Incentive.
Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy Josh Wilson said: “The GO Scheme will help Australia to realise the full economic potential of the energy transition by supporting jobs and investment in a Future Made in Australia, and it will give Australian producers the confidence and credibility they need to compete in a global economy that’s rapidly decarbonising.”
“GO is a high-integrity certificate scheme that will demonstrate how products are made and attest to their lifecycle emissions, opening access to high-value domestic and international markets that demand low emissions products and transparency.”
GO will expand to cover other low-emissions products such as green metals, low carbon liquid fuels and biomethane.
CEO of the Australian Hydrogen Council Dr Fiona Simon said: “This certification scheme is aligned with global standards and has been informed by significant consultation that AHC has been proud to lead as part of our ongoing advocacy to build hydrogen capability in Australia to support sustainable fuel production and industrial decarbonisation.”
