Division 4.3 Process

To determine the most accurate available data sources, the operator shall select the most accurate data sources which are technically feasible and do not incur unreasonable costs, and which ensure a clear data flow with lowest inherent risk and control risk (referred to hereinafter as ‘primary data sources’). The operator shall use the primary data sources for the purpose of compiling the baseline data report.

To the extent feasible without incurring unreasonable costs, for the purpose of the control system in accordance with Article 11, the operator shall strive to identify and use additional data sources or methods for determining data which allow corroboration of the primary data sources (referred to hereinafter as ‘corroborating data sources’). The selected corroborating data sources, if any, shall be documented in the written procedures referred to in Article 11(2) and in the monitoring methodology plan.

For selecting the primary data sources, the operator shall compare all available data sources for the same data set using the generic data sources listed in sections 4.4 to 4.6, and use one of the highest ranked data sources that are considered as most accurate data sources. Only if any of the derogations in accordance with Article 7(2) apply, other data sources may be used. In such case, the next highest ranked data source shall be applied unless it is technically not feasible, would incur unreasonable costs or another data source has equivalent or lower level of associated uncertainty. Where needed, further data sources can be considered.

For selecting the corroborating data sources, the operator shall compare all available data sources for the same data set using the generic data sources listed in sections 4.4 to 4.6, and use an available data source other than the most accurate available data source.

For selecting data sources in order to determine all the data required in accordance with Annex IV, the operator shall proceed for the following main types of data sets as follows:

1. (a)

   For the determination of quantities of products, fuels and other materials the operator shall take into account the generic data sources and their hierarchy laid down in section 4.4 of this Annex;

2. (b)

   For the determination of quantities of energy flows (measurable or non-measurable heat, electricity) the operator shall take into account the generic data sources and their hierarchy laid down in section 4.5 of this Annex;

3. (c)

   For the determination of properties of products, fuels and other materials, the operator shall take into account the generic data sources and their hierarchy laid down in section 4.6 of this Annex.

For the purpose of improving the monitoring methodology plan, the operator shall check regularly and at least once per year, whether new data sources have become available. In case such new data sources are considered more accurate in accordance with the ranking described in sections 4.4 to 4.6, they shall be applied and the monitoring methodology plan shall be changed in accordance with Article 9.