This page last reviewed June 8, 2016

Compliance Offset Protocol Mine Methane Capture (MMC) Projects

Introduction

The Compliance Offset Protocol Mine Methane Capture (MMC) Projects was adopted by the Board in April 2014 and became effective on July 1, 2014.  

The MMC protocol provides methods to quantify greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions associated with the capture and destruction of methane (CH₄) that would otherwise be vented into the atmosphere as a result of mining operations at active underground and surface coal and trona mines and abandoned underground coal mines.  The protocol focuses on quantifying the change in methane emissions, but also accounts for effects on carbon dioxide emissions.

Offset Project Operators or Authorized Project Designees that install methane capture and destruction technologies must use the methods contained in this protocol to quantify and report GHGs.  The protocol provides eligibility rules, methods to quantify GHG reductions, offset project-monitoring instructions, and procedures for preparing Offset Project Data Reports.  Additionally, all offset projects must submit to annual, independent verification by ARB-accredited verification bodies.  Regulatory requirements for verification of Offset Project Data Reports are provided in the Cap and Trade Regulation. 

ARB Compliance Offset Protocol—Mine Methane Capture Projects (Adopted 04/25/2014)

Mine Methane Capture Projects Compliance Offset Protocol FAQs

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