This page last reviewed September 25, 2012

Program Implementation

California’s cap-and-trade regulation took effect on January 1, 2012.  The enforceable compliance obligation begins on January 1, 2013, for Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions.  Throughout the year, ARB and its contractors will be providing guidance and training on elements of the cap-and-trade program for program stakeholders.

Key Dates in Cap-and-Trade Implementation:

• Cap-and-trade program registration:  January 2012.
• CITSS user registration and account application available:  July 2012.
• CITSS allowance issuance and transfer functions available:  October 2012.
• Auction notice:  September 15, 2012.
• Auction registration deadline:  October 15, 2012.
• Auction training/bidders conference:  October 2012.
• Bid guarantees for auction due:  November 2, 2012.
• First auction conducted:  November 14, 2012.

Current Guidance

Program Implementation Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

ARB has developed this compilation of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  to assist program stakeholders.  These FAQs provide information on systems for allowance tracking, auctions and reserve sales, and related financial services.  Separate guidance will be provided specific to regulatory changes and compliance information.

Project Development Schedule

The Project Development Schedule  provides a general overview of the activities being conducted to implement the cap-and-trade program with the expected timeframes for completing each activity and meeting the goals of overall program implementation.

Project Development Updates

The following memo from the ARB Executive Officer to Mary Nichols, ARB Chairman, describes the status and testing of the Compliance Instrument Tracking System Service and auction administration, including financial services administration and market monitoring. 

• Status of Market Infrastructure Development for the Cap-and-Trade Program (Memo)

Resource Archive