1 + 1 = 3, Carbon Can’t Count [Carbon 101 Series]

Originally published: 15 March 2022. Archive context, checked 26 October 2026.

What this article covered

The original Carbon 101 article compared electricity attributes, energy-savings certificates and carbon credits, and discussed how selling or surrendering instruments affects claims. It referred to Climate Active under the rules and program expectations at publication.

Current-use checks

For a current inventory or claim, distinguish physical energy savings, market-based electricity attributes, external carbon credits and issued certificate quantities. Selling a certificate transfers associated claim rights under its scheme; check the actual registry and contract. A forecast or project registration is not an issued unit.

The human-facing original at this address retains the full historical article. For current project advice, see certificate services, Climate Active transition guidance or contact Northmore Gordon.

Is this article current programme or certification advice?

No. It was published on 15 March 2022. The Australian Government announced on 24 July 2026 that Climate Active certification will end, with 30 June 2027 proposed after a transition period. Verify current rules, dates and eligibility with the relevant administrator.

What distinction between certificate types remains important?

Physical energy savings change site consumption. Renewable electricity attributes may support a market-based electricity claim under an applicable framework. Carbon credits represent eligible greenhouse-gas reductions or removals under their own programme. Their units, ownership, registry and permitted claims differ.

What evidence should support a present-day certificate claim?

Document the entity and reporting period, actual instrument and registry, issuance status, quantity, vintage, geography, ownership, transfer or retirement record, and the exact public claim. A project forecast, historic price example or registration alone is not evidence that units were issued or retired.

Does a voluntary certificate or past Climate Active certification satisfy mandatory reporting?

No. NGER, Safeguard, sustainability reporting and voluntary frameworks have separate scope, thresholds, periods and methods. Assess each obligation or target under its current rules; do not substitute a historical article or certificate purchase for compliance.

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