Obtaining Greenhouse Gas Emission Allowances in Canada: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Luiz Flavio Paiva Teixeira
- Mar 7, 2024
- 2 min read

1. Determine if your company needs emission allowances:
The federal carbon pricing system applies to large emitters of greenhouse gases (GHGs), such as power plants and industrial facilities.
Facilities that emit more than 50,000 tonnes of CO2e per year require emission allowances.
You can verify if your company needs allowances on the Government of Canada website: https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change.html
2. Create an account in the Emissions Management System (EMS):
The EMS is an online system that companies use to manage their emission allowances.
You can create an account in the EMS on the Government of Canada website: https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change.html
3. Conduct an emissions inventory:
An emissions inventory is a detailed report of all Greenhouse Gas Emission from a facility.
It is essential to have an accurate emissions inventory to determine how many emission allowances your company needs.
We recommend hiring third-party experts to conduct your emissions inventory.
4. Apply for emission allowances:
You can apply for emission allowances in the EMS.
You will need to provide information about your company and your GHG emissions.
The Government of Canada will review your application and issue emission allowances if approved.
5. Comply with reporting obligations:
Companies need to monitor their GHG emissions and report to the Government of Canada annually.
You can report your emissions in the EMS.
6. Pay for emission allowances:
Companies need to pay for the emission allowances they use.
The price of emission allowances is determined by a market-based system.
Costs:
The cost of obtaining emission allowances varies depending on the number of allowances you need and the price of allowances in the market.
The Government of Canada offers some financing options to help companies pay for emission allowances.
Additional Resources:
Environment and Climate Change Canada: https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change.html
Government of Canada - Carbon Pricing: https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/climate-change/pricing-pollution-how-it-will-work.html
The Pembina Institute: https://www.pembina.org/
Notes:
The federal carbon pricing system is constantly evolving. It is important to check the latest information with official sources.
Carbon pricing regulations can be complex. Consult a specialist for more information on how regulations apply to your company.
Tips:
Start the process of obtaining emission allowances as early as possible.
Stay up-to-date with the latest rules and regulations.
Consult a specialist for help with the process of obtaining emission allowances. Climate Care Taker could help you if needed.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your company complies with the federal carbon pricing system. This will help you to avoid penalties and contribute to Canada's efforts to reduce GHG emissions
留言