Landfill methane recovery and destruction (protocol version 1.1)

Federal offset protocol
Version 1.1
February 2023

Foreword

Canada’s Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Offset Credit System is established under Part 2 of the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act (GGPPA) to provide an incentive to undertake projects that result in domestic GHG reductions that would not have been generated in the absence of the project, that go beyond legal requirements and that are not subject to carbon pollution pricing mechanisms.

Canada’s GHG Offset Credit System consists of:

Only projects following a federal offset protocol included in the Compendium and meeting all requirements outlined in the Regulations can generate offset credits under the Regulations.

Document revision history

Version number

Publication date

Summary of changes

1.1

February 24, 2023

The approach for the destruction efficiency values for destruction devices was modified regarding the use of either default values or device-specific values (Section 8.2).

Eligibility is no longer restricted to landfills designed and constructed by landfill cells but is now inclusive of landfills not designed and constructed by landfill cells (Section 4.1).

Some provisions in the protocol were clarified or streamlined without changing the scope and intent.

1.0

June 8, 2022

Initial version of the protocol.

1.0 Introduction

Methane (CH4) emissions from landfills are generated by the anaerobic decomposition of organic material in the buried waste. The installation of a landfill gas (LFG) recovery and destruction system enables the landfill CH4 to be converted into biogenic carbon dioxide (CO2), instead of allowing it to be passively released to the atmosphere.

The Landfill Methane Recovery and Destruction protocol is intended for use by a proponent undertaking a project to actively recover and destroy LFG to generate offset credits under the Canadian Greenhouse Gas Offset Credit System Regulations (the Regulations). The requirements contained in this protocol are part of the Regulations and must be read in conjunction with provisions in the Regulations.

The proponent must follow the methodology and requirements set out in this protocol, including those to quantify and report greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions generated by eligible project activities. This protocol is designed to ensure a project generates GHG emission reductions that are real, additional, quantified, verified, unique and permanent. The protocol is also developed in accordance with the principles of ISO 14064-2:2019 Greenhouse gases – Part 2 – Specification with guidance at the project level for quantification, monitoring and reporting greenhouse gas emission reductions or removal enhancements to ensure reported GHG emission reductions generated as a result of implementing a project are relevant, complete, consistent, accurate, transparent, and conservative.

GHG emission reductions generated by a project under this protocol can only result from avoided CH4 emissions achieved through the active recovery of LFG from within the project site and its destruction in  an eligible destruction device, which can include open and enclosed flares, boilers, turbines, internal combustion engines, stations for the direct injection of upgraded LFG into a natural gas network, or stations for the compression or liquefaction of upgraded LFG prior to its transport and injection into a natural gas network.

Projects that use the recovered LFG to generate energy or heat may reduce their GHG emissions from fossil fuel combustion. While this activity is encouraged, GHG emission reductions from fossil fuel displacement (i.e. fuel switching) are not additional, as the emission sources are subject to carbon pollution pricing, therefore, they are not included in the quantification of GHG emission reductions under this protocol. Proponents may be able to generate credits for this activity under other crediting mechanisms, such as the Clean Fuel Regulations. However, proponents are responsible for ensuring that any GHG emission reductions credited under Canada’s GHG Offset Credit System are unique, that is, they are not credited under another offset program or another GHG reduction mechanism.

2.0 Terms and definitions

Act
means the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act (GGPPA).
Active recovery
means the recovery of LFG by a system, which includes gas collection wells, connective piping, blowers, and other technologies, creating a pressure gradient to actively extract LFG. This does not include passive venting.
Adjacent facility
means a facility adjacent to the landfill site where landfill CH4 is destroyed in an eligible destruction device owned by an end user or the proponent.
Biogenic carbon dioxide (CO2)
means CO2 emissions resulting from the decomposition or destruction of organic material, including those produced from the destruction of landfill CH4; they are considered to be a natural part of the carbon cycle.
Destruction
means the combustion of LFG and the resulting conversion of landfill CH4 into biogenic CO2.
Eligible destruction device
means a device, listed in Table 1, that can destroy landfill CH4 and generate offset credits.
Global Warming Potential (GWP)
means a metric representing the ability of a GHG to trap heat in the atmosphere compared to CO2, as provided in Column 2 of Schedule 3 to the Act.
Landfill
means an identifiable area of public or private land where waste is or has been intentionally placed above or below ground for permanent disposal.
Landfill cell
means a unique and discrete section of a landfill designed and constructed to contain a volume of waste.
Landfill gas (LFG)
means a mixture of gases resulting from the decomposition of organic material disposed of in a landfill comprised primarily of CH4, biogenic CO2, and other compounds in low concentrations.
Landfill methane (landfill CH4)
means the CH4 portion of LFG, generated by the anaerobic decomposition of organic material disposed of in a landfill.
Landfill site
means an identifiable area of public or private land where a landfill and all supporting buildings and infrastructure are located.
Project site
means the area of the landfill site from which LFG is actively recovered and the area where it is destroyed in the eligible destruction device(s) that may include portions of an adjacent facility, if applicable.
Regulations
means the Canadian Greenhouse Gas Offset Credit System Regulations.

3.0 Baseline scenario

3.1 Baseline condition

The following baseline condition must apply in the baseline scenario in order for a project to be eligible under this protocolFootnote 1 .

4.0 Project scenario

4.1 Project conditions

The following project conditions must apply in the project scenario in order for a project to be eligible under this protocolFootnote 2 .

4.2 Eligible project activities and equipment

Eligible project activities include the:

Table 1: Eligible destruction devices
Type Description
Open flare A device with a pilot flame at the top of a vertical stack that is exposed to atmosphere that combusts and destroys a gas.
Enclosed flare A device with an insulated cylinder stack surrounding a burner manifold and combustion/cooling air louvers that combusts and destroys a gas.
Boiler A device that combusts a fuel in order to heat a fluid, such as water or leachate, generating vapour that provides thermal energy for various purposes.
Turbine (micro or large) A device that compresses air to combust with a fuel in order to produce expanding gas that turns turbine blades, generating mechanical energy that can be harnessed by a load (e.g. a generator producing electricity).
Internal combustion engine (stationary or mobile) A device that compresses and combusts an air-fuel mixture in a cylinder in order to produce expanding gas that moves a piston and crankshaft, generating rotary mechanical energy that can be harnessed by a load (e.g. a generator producing electricity).
Station for direct injection of upgraded LFG into a natural gas networkFootnote 3  A device that monitors and prepares upgraded LFG for injection into a natural gas network; this can include odourizing the gas, metering the flow, regulating the pressure, and monitoring the chemical composition prior to injection.
Station for compression or liquefaction of upgraded LFG prior to transport and injection into a natural gas network A device that compresses or liquefies upgraded LFG for transport to a station for its injection into a natural gas network (see above).

5.0 Additionality

5.1 Legal additionality

GHG emission reductions generated by a project must not occur as a result of federal, provincial or territorial regulations, municipal by-laws, or any other legally binding mandates such as operating permits. This includes legal requirements to recover and destroy all or a portion of LFG from the landfill to reduce GHG emissions from the landfill or control of the release of LFG for reasons such as safety precautions (to reduce potential for an explosion) or odour control.

A project at a landfill site with a legal requirement to recover and destroy any portion of its LFG is not considered to be additional and, therefore, is not eligible for registration.

If at any time after project registration the GHG emission reductions generated by the project become required by law or the result of a legal requirement, the GHG emission reductions will no longer be additional and, therefore, can only be quantified and offset credits can only be generated up to the date immediately preceding the date on which the law or the legal requirement comes into force.

5.2 Provincial or federal pricing mechanisms for GHG emissions

Any emission sources that are included in an industrial facility’s GHG emissions reported under a federal, provincial or territorial pricing mechanism for GHG emissions are not eligible for offset credits. This includes on-site landfills at covered facilities under the federal Output-Based Pricing System.

6.0 General requirements

6.1 Project start date

The start date of a project corresponds to the first day that LFG actively recovered from within the project site is destroyed in an eligible destruction device. In the case of the injection of upgraded LFG into a natural gas network, the LFG is considered to be destroyed once it is delivered to a station for direct injection or a station for compression or liquefaction.

6.2 Project location and geographic boundaries

The proponent must document and report the location and geographic boundaries of the project site and submit a site plan. The site plan must show where the project site is situated with respect to the landfill site and any adjacent facilities, including the delineation of relevant landfill cells or discrete landfill sections. The site plan must also show the location and arrangement of all the project components associated with LFG recovery and destruction, including the active recovery system within the project site; treatment, purification and upgrading equipment; eligible destruction devices; measuring devices; and any other equipment associated with the GHG sources, sinks and reservoirs (SSRs) within the project GHG boundary (Section 7.0).

The geographic boundary of the project site cannot change after the first reporting period, but project activities can expand within the boundary. Any changes to the site plan must be communicated as specified in the Regulations.

6.3 Environmental and social safeguards

The proponent must ensure that the project activities comply with any operating permits, municipal by-laws or regulations applicable to the landfill site, including those related to minimizing odour, and ensuring the safe operation of all systems within the project site.

7.0 Project GHG boundary

The project GHG boundary (Figure 1) contains the eligible project activities and the GHG SSRs that must be assessed by the proponent in order to determine the GHG emission reductions generated by the project relative to the baseline scenario.

Table 2 provides additional details on the SSRs identified for the baseline and project scenarios, as well as justification for their inclusion or exclusion in the quantification of GHG emission reductions. The proponent must assess each of the “included” SSRs that are relevant to the specific activities taking place in the baseline and project scenarios.

Three GHGs are relevant to the SSRs in this protocol: carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O). CO2 emissions from the decomposition of organic material and destruction of landfill CH4 are considered biogenic and are excluded from the quantification of GHG emissions in this protocol.

Figure 1: Illustration of the project GHG boundary 

Long Description for Figure 1

Figure 1 depicts an illustration of the project GHG boundary. This includes a flow chart depicting the relationship between the SSRs that are relevant to the project, and a dotted line delineating those within the project GHG boundary.

SSR 1, SSR 2 and SSR 3 are related to the baseline and project scenarios, but are upstream from the project GHG boundary and, therefore, outside of the dotted line.

SSR 4 is within the project GHG boundary for the both baseline and project scenarios.

SSR 5 to SSR 12 are within the project GHG boundary for the project scenario only.

SSR 1 leads into SSR 2 which leads into SSR 3 which leads into SSR 4 which leads into SSR 5. SSR 5 then leads into SSR 7 to 12 individually. SSR 6 leads exclusively into SSR 7.

Table 2: Details on baseline and project scenario SSRs
SSR Title Description Type Baseline or project scenario GHGFootnote 4 Included or excluded
1 Waste materials generation Generation of waste materials before their collection and placement into the landfill. Related

Baseline (B1)

Project (P1)

CO2 Excluded: GHG emissions from this source are assumed to be the same in both the baseline and project scenarios.
CH4
N2O
2 Waste materials collection Combustion of fossil fuels for vehicles used to collect waste materials and transport them to the landfill site. Related

Baseline (B2)

Project (P2)

CO2 Excluded: GHG emissions from this source are assumed to be the same in both the baseline and project scenarios.
CH4
N2O
3 Waste materials placement Combustion of fossil fuels to operate equipment for the handling and placement of waste materials into the landfill. Related

Baseline (B3)

Project (P3)

CO2 Excluded: GHG emissions from this source are assumed to be the same in both the baseline and project scenarios.
CH4
N2O
4 Waste materials decomposition Generation of LFG from the anaerobic decomposition of waste materials in the landfill. Controlled Baseline (B4) CH4 Included: Quantified based on landfill CH4 actively recovered in the project scenario, using Equation 2.
N2O Excluded: N2O emissions from anaerobic decomposition are not significantFootnote 5 .
Project (P4) CH4 Included: Quantified based on undestroyed landfill CH4 following the destruction of LFG in the eligible destruction device(s), using Equation 9.
N2O Excluded: N2O emissions from anaerobic decomposition are not significant.
5 Operation of LFG recovery system, treatment equipment and destruction devices Combustion of fossil fuels or consumption of grid electricity for the operation of the active LFG recovery system, treatment equipment, and destruction devicesFootnote 6 .

Fossil Fuels: Controlled

Electricity:

Related

Project (P5) CO2 Included: Quantified using Equation 6 and Equation 7.
CH4
N2O
6 Supplemental fuel combustion – Flare Combustion of supplemental fossil fuel to support the operation of an open or enclosed flare. Controlled Project (P6) CO2 Included: Quantified based on combustion of supplemental fossil fuel in a flare, using Equation 8.
CH4
N2O
7 LFG destruction – Flare Destruction of LFG in an open or enclosed flare, as identified in Table 1. Controlled Project (P7) CH4 Included: Quantified based on undestroyed landfill CH4 and N2O from the destruction of LFG in a flare, using Equation 10.
N2O
8 LFG destruction – Boiler Destruction of LFG in a boiler, as identified in Table 1. Controlled Project (P8) CH4 Included: Quantified based on undestroyed landfill CH4 and N2O from the destruction of LFG in a boiler, using Equation 10.
N2O
9 LFG destruction – Turbine Destruction of LFG in a turbine, as identified in Table 1. Controlled Project (P9) CH4 Included: Quantified based on undestroyed landfill CH4 and N2O from the destruction of LFG in a turbine, using Equation 10.
N2O
10 LFG destruction – Internal combustion engine Destruction of LFG in an internal combustion engine, as identified in Table 1. Controlled Project (P10) CH4 Included Quantified based on undestroyed landfill CH4 and N2O from the destruction of LFG in an internal combustion engine, using Equation 10.
N2O
11 LFG destruction – Natural gas network direct injection Destruction of upgraded LFG after its direct injection into a natural gas network, as identified in Table 1. Related Project (P11) CH4 Included Quantified based on undestroyed landfill CH4 and N2O from the destruction of LFG after its direct injection into a natural gas network, using Equation 10.
N2O
12 LFG destruction – Compression or liquefaction for natural gas network injection Destruction of upgraded LFG after its compression or liquefaction, transport and injection into a natural gas network, as identified in Table 1. Related Project (P12) CH4 Included Quantified based on undestroyed landfill CH4 and N2O from the destruction of LFG after its compression or liquefaction, transport and injection into a natural gas network, using Equation 10.
N2O

8.0 Quantification methodology

This section contains the quantification methodology that must be followed to quantify baseline and project scenario GHG emissions, which are subsequently used to quantify the GHG emission reductions generated by a project.

Raw data must be converted to align with the units presented in the quantification methodology, if necessary. Schedule A provides the reference condition values that must be applied to complete the quantification. Emission factors that must be used are provided in the Emission Factors and Reference Values document and may also need to be converted to align with the units presented in the quantification methodology. The proponent must use the most recent version of the Emission Factors and Reference Values document.

Baseline scenario GHG emissions are the GHG emissions that would have occurred in the absence of a project, quantified based on SSRs within the project GHG boundary. Project scenario GHG emissions are the actual GHG emissions that occur from SSRs within the project GHG boundary.

The GHG emission reductions generated by the project are quantified by deducting the project scenario GHG emissions from the baseline scenario GHG emissions as outlined in Section 8.3.

The quantification of both baseline and project scenario GHG emissions must include all the GHG emissions that occurred during the reporting period, and must include sub-totals in tonnes of CO2 equivalent (t CO2e) for each full or partial calendar year to support issuance of the resulting offset credits by calendar year.

8.1 Baseline scenario GHG emissions

The proponent must follow the quantification methodology below to quantify the baseline scenario GHG emissions for each full or partial calendar year covered by the reporting period, based on the included SSRs outlined in Table 2.

This protocol quantifies the baseline scenario GHG emissions through the use of a dynamic baseline approach based on measurements made in the project scenario instead of modelling the GHG emissions generated by the landfill in the baseline scenario. This means that the baseline scenario GHG emissions are quantified based on the quantity of landfill CH4 that is actively recovered in the project scenario, which may vary over time.

Equation 1: Baseline scenario GHG emissions

Long description for Equation 1

BEc = CH4RECPR  x (1-OX)

The baseline scenario GHG emissions during a calendar year covered by the reporting period are equal to the quantity of landfill methane recovered by the active LFG recovery system during a calendar year covered by the reporting period, multiplied by, open parenthesis, one minus the factor for the oxidation of landfill methane by bacteria in soil or materials covering the waste, close parenthesis.

The baseline scenario GHG emissions during a calendar year covered by the reporting period are represented by the symbol BE sub C and are expressed in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.

The quantity of landfill methane recovered by the active LFG recovery system during a calendar year covered by the reporting period corresponds to SSR B4, is represented by the symbol CH4REC sub PR, is expressed in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent and is quantified as per Equation 2.

The factor for the oxidation of landfill methane by bacteria in soil or materials covering the waste is represented by the symbol OX and is unitless.

The calendar year is represented by the symbol C.

Baseline scenario GHG emissions are quantified based on the presumption that the landfill CH4 actively recovered in the project scenario would have been passively released to the atmosphere in the baseline scenario. Oxidation of landfill CH4 emissions must be accounted for in the baseline scenario. If a non-geomembrane cover system or other CH4 oxidation technology is present, it can be presumed that the landfill CH4 would have been subject to oxidation by bacteria in the soil or materials covering the waste prior to being released to the atmosphere. If a geomembrane covers the entire landfill area and no CH4 oxidation technology is present, it can be presumed that the landfill CH4 would not have been subject to oxidation.

Oxidation of landfill CH4 emissions must be accounted for in the following manner:

Equation 2 and Equation 3 must be used to quantify the quantity of landfill CH4 recovered by the active LFG recovery system for each full or partial calendar year covered by the reporting period.

Equation 2: Quantity of landfill CH4 attributed to the anaerobic decomposition of waste recovered by the active LFG recovery system (SSR B4)

Long description for Equation 2

CH4RECPR=[∑i^n(Qi) x ρCH4 /1000]x GWPCH4

The quantity of landfill methane recovered by the active LFG recovery system during a calendar year covered by the reporting period is equal to, open square brackets, the summation of the volume of landfill methane delivered to eligible destruction device, i, during a calendar year covered by the reporting period, for the number of eligible destruction devices, n, multiplied by the reference density of methane, divided by the conversion factor for kilograms to tonnes, close square brackets, all multiplied by the global warming potential of methane.

The quantity of landfill methane recovered by the active LFG recovery system during a calendar year covered by the reporting period corresponds to SSR B4, is represented by the symbol CH4REC sub PR and is expressed in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.

The volume of landfill methane delivered to eligible destruction device, i, during a calendar year covered by the reporting period is represented by the symbol Q sub i, is expressed in cubic meters of methane and is quantified as per Equation 3.

The reference density of methane, as set out in Schedule A – Reference condition values, is represented by the symbol rho sub CH4 and is expressed in kilograms of methane per cubic meter of methane.

The global warming potential of methane, as provided in Column 2 of Schedule 3 to the Act, is represented by the symbol GWP sub CH4 and is unitless.

The conversion factor for kilograms to tonnes is 1000 kilograms per tonne.

Equation 3: Volume of landfill CH4 delivered to an eligible destruction device

Long description for Equation 3

Qi= ∑t^n( LFGi,t x LFGCH4,t)

The volume of landfill methane delivered to eligible destruction device, i, during a calendar year covered by the reporting period is equal to the summation of the corrected volume of LFG delivered to eligible destruction device, i, during measurement period, t, multiplied by the average methane content of the LFG during measurement period, t, for the number of measurement periods in a calendar year covered by the reporting period, n.

The volume of landfill methane delivered to eligible destruction device, i, during a calendar year covered by the reporting period is represented by the symbol Q sub i and is expressed in cubic meters of methane.

The corrected volume of LFG delivered to eligible destruction device, i, during measurement period, t, is represented by the symbol LFG sub i,t, is expressed in cubic meters of LFG and is quantified as per automatic correction or Equation 4.

The average methane content of the LFG during measurement period, t, is represented by the symbol LFG sub CH4,t and is expressed in cubic meters of methane per cubic meter of LFG.

All flow meter data must be corrected to the reference temperature and pressure conditions set out in Schedule A – Reference condition values. If the flow meter does not automatically correct the measured volume to the reference temperature and pressure conditions, the proponent must quantify the corrected volume following Equation 4. Equation 4 is not needed if the flow meter automatically corrects the volume.

Equation 4: Volume of LFG delivered to an eligible destruction device, corrected to reference condition

Long description for Equation 4

LFGi,t= LFGUC x Tref/Tm x Pm/Pref

The corrected volume of LFG delivered to eligible destruction device, i, during measurement period, t, is equal to the uncorrected volume of LFG delivered to eligible destruction device, i, during measurement period, t, multiplied by the fraction of the reference temperature of the LFG, over the measured temperature of the LFG for the measurement period, t, multiplied by the fraction of the measured pressure of the LFG for the measurement period, t, over the reference pressure of the LFG.

The corrected volume of LFG delivered to eligible destruction device, i, during measurement period, t, is represented by the symbol LFG sub i,t and is expressed in cubic meters of LFG.

The uncorrected volume of LFG delivered to eligible destruction device, i, during measurement period, t, is represented by the symbol LFG sub UC and is expressed in cubic meters of LFG.

The measured temperature of the LFG for the measurement period, t, is represented by the symbol T sub m and is expressed in Kelvin.

The reference temperature of the LFG, as set out in Schedule A – Reference condition values, is represented by the symbol T sub ref and is expressed in Kelvin.

The measured pressure of the LFG for the measurement period, t, is represented by the symbol P sub m and is expressed in kilopascals.

The reference pressure of the LFG, as set out in Schedule A – Reference condition values, is represented by the symbol P sub ref and is expressed in kilopascals.

8.2 Project scenario GHG emissions

The proponent must follow the quantification methodology below to quantify the project scenario GHG emissions for each full or partial calendar year covered by the reporting period, based on the included SSRs outlined in Table 2.

The project scenario GHG emissions correspond to the GHG emissions attributed to energy inputs into the active LFG recovery system, treatment equipment, and destruction devices (other than a flare); supplemental fossil fuel used to support the operation of a flare; and the destruction of LFG in the eligible destruction device(s).

Equation 5: Project scenario GHG emissions

Long description for Equation 5

PEc= FFGHG+ELGHG+ FFsupp,GHG+LFGGHG

The project scenario GHG emissions during a calendar year covered by the reporting period are equal to the quantity of GHG emissions attributed to the use of fossil fuels for the operation of the active LFG recovery system, treatment equipment, and destruction devices during a calendar year covered by the reporting period, plus the quantity of GHG emissions attributed to the use of grid electricity for the operation of the active LFG recovery system, treatment equipment, and destruction devices during a calendar year covered by the reporting period, plus the quantity of GHG emissions attributed to the use of supplemental fossil fuels to support the operation of a flare during a calendar year covered by the reporting period, plus the quantity of GHG emissions attributed to the destruction of LFG in the eligible destruction device(s) during a calendar year covered by the reporting period.

The project scenario GHG emissions during a calendar year covered by the reporting period are represented by the symbol PE sub C  and are expressed in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.

The quantity of GHG emissions attributed to the use of fossil fuels for the operation of the active LFG recovery system, treatment equipment, and destruction devices during a calendar year covered by the reporting period corresponds to SSR P5, is represented by the symbol FF sub GHG, is expressed in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent and is quantified as per Equation 6.

The quantity of GHG emissions attributed to the use of grid electricity for the operation of the active LFG recovery system, treatment equipment, and destruction devices during a calendar year covered by the reporting period corresponds to SSR P5, is represented by the symbol EL sub GHG, is expressed in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent and is quantified as per Equation 7.

The quantity of GHG emissions attributed to the use of supplemental fossil fuels to support the operation of a flare during a calendar year covered by the reporting period corresponds to SSR P6, is represented by the symbol FF sub supp,GHG, is expressed in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent and is quantified as per Equation 8.

The quantity of GHG emissions attributed to the destruction of LFG in the eligible destruction device(s) during a calendar year covered by the reporting period corresponds to SSR P7, SSR P8, SSR P9, SSR P10, SSR P11, and SSR P12, is represented by the symbol LFG sub GHG, is expressed in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent and is quantified as per Equation 10.

The calendar year is represented by the symbol C.

Equation 6 and Equation 7 quantify the GHG emissions from the operation of the active LFG recovery system, treatment equipment, and destruction devices during each full or partial calendar year covered by the reporting period, which correspond to SSR P5. The proponent must use the appropriate equation(s) dependent on the energy inputs required for the operation of the active LFG recovery system, treatment equipment, and destruction devices; these can include blowers, equipment for LFG treatment and purification, destruction devices (other than flares), equipment for the conveyance of LFG to an adjacent facility, and/or equipment for the upgrading, compression or liquefaction, and injection of upgraded LFG into a natural gas network. If both fossil fuels and grid electricity are used for these purposes, the proponent must use the summation of Equation 6 and Equation 7 to quantify SSR P5.

Equation 6: Quantity of GHG emissions attributed to the use of fossil fuels for the operation of the active LFG recovery system, treatment equipment, and destruction devices (SSR P5)

Long description for Equation 6

FFGHG= ∑j^m [(FFj  x EFCO_2,j)+(FFj x EFCH_4,j x GWPCH_4 )+(FFj x EFN2O,j x GWPN2O)/1000]

The quantity of GHG emissions attributed to the use of fossil fuels for the operation of the active LFG recovery system, treatment equipment, and destruction devices during a calendar year covered by the reporting period is equal to the summation of, open square brackets, open parenthesis, the volume of fossil fuel, j, consumed by the active LFG recovery system, treatment equipment, and destruction devices during a calendar year covered by the reporting period, multiplied by the carbon dioxide emission factor for fossil fuel, j, close parenthesis, plus, open parenthesis, the volume of fossil fuel, j, consumed by the active LFG recovery system, treatment equipment, and destruction devices during a calendar year covered by the reporting period, multiplied by the methane emission factor for fossil fuel, j, multiplied by the global warming potential of methane, close parenthesis, plus, open parenthesis, the volume of fossil fuel, j, consumed by the active LFG recovery system, treatment equipment, and destruction devices during a calendar year covered by the reporting period, multiplied by the nitrous oxide emission factor for fossil fuel, j, multiplied by the global warming potential for nitrous oxide, close parenthesis, all divided by the conversion factor for kilograms to tonnes, for the number of types of fossil fuels, m, close square brackets.

The quantity of GHG emissions attributed to the use of fossil fuels for the operation of the active LFG recovery system, treatment equipment, and destruction devices during a calendar year covered by the reporting period corresponds to SSR P5, is represented by the symbol FF sub GHG and is expressed in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.

The volume of fossil fuel, j, consumed by the active LFG recovery system, treatment equipment, and destruction devices during a calendar year covered by the reporting period is represented by the symbol FF sub j and is expressed in cubic meters.

The carbon dioxide emission factor for fossil fuel, j, as set out in the Emission Factors and Reference Values document, is represented by the symbol EF sub CO2,j and is expressed in kilograms of carbon dioxide per cubic meter.

The methane emission factor for fossil fuel, j, as set out in the Emission Factors and Reference Values document, is represented by the symbol EF sub CH4,j and is expressed in kilograms of methane per cubic meter.
The global warming potential of methane, as provided in Column 2 of Schedule 3 to the Act, is represented by the symbol GWP sub CH4 and is unitless.

The nitrous oxide emission factor for fossil fuel, j, as set out in the Emission Factors and Reference Values document, is represented by the symbol EF sub N2O,j and is expressed in kilograms of nitrous oxide per cubic meter.
The global warming potential of nitrous oxide, as provided in Column 2 of Schedule 3 to the Act, is represented by the symbol GWP sub N2O and is unitless.

The conversion factor for kilograms to tonnes is 1000 kilograms per tonne.

Equation 7: Quantity of GHG emissions attributed to the use of grid electricity for the operation of the active LFG recovery system, treatment equipment, and destruction devices (SSR P5)

Long description for Equation 7

ELGHG=  (EL x EFEL,GHG)/1000

The quantity of GHG emissions attributed to the use of grid electricity for the operation of the active LFG recovery system, treatment equipment, and destruction devices during a calendar year covered by the reporting period is equal to the grid electricity consumed by the active LFG recovery system, treatment equipment, and destruction devices during a calendar year covered by the reporting period, multiplied by the GHG consumption intensity emission factor for grid electricity from the project jurisdiction, all divided by the conversion factor for kilograms to tonnes.

The quantity of GHG emissions attributed to the use of grid electricity for the operation of the active LFG recovery system, treatment equipment, and destruction devices during a calendar year covered by the reporting period corresponds to SSR P5, is represented by the symbol EL sub GHG and is expressed in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.

The grid electricity consumed by the active LFG recovery system, treatment equipment, and destruction devices during a calendar year covered by the reporting period is represented by the symbol EL and is expressed in megawatt hours.

The GHG consumption intensity emission factor for grid electricity from the project jurisdiction, as set out in the Emission Factors and Reference Values document, is represented by the symbol EF sub EL,GHG and is expressed in kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent per megawatt hour.

The conversion factor for kilograms to tonnes is 1000 kilograms per tonne.

Equation 8 quantifies the GHG emissions from supplemental fossil fuel used to support the operation of a flare during each full or partial calendar year covered by the reporting period, which corresponds to SSR P6. Equation 8 is not needed if the project does not include a flare as a destruction device.

Equation 8: Quantity of GHG emissions attributed to the use of supplemental fossil fuel to support the operation of a flare (SSR P6)

Long description for Equation 8

FFsupp,GHG= ∑j^m[((FFsupp,j  x EFCO_2,j  )+(FFsupp,j  x FFCH_4,j  x ρCH4 x (1-DECH_4 )  (x GWP)CH_4 )+(FFsupp,j x EFN2O,j  x GWPN2O))/1000] 

The quantity of GHG emissions attributed to the use of supplemental fossil fuels to support the operation of a flare during a calendar year covered by the reporting period is equal to the summation of, open square brackets, open parenthesis, the volume of supplemental fossil fuel, j, consumed by a flare during a calendar year covered by the reporting period, multiplied by the carbon dioxide emission factor for supplemental fossil fuel, j, close parenthesis, plus, open parenthesis, the volume of supplemental fossil fuel, j, consumed by a flare during a calendar year covered by the reporting period, multiplied by the average methane content of supplemental fossil fuel, j, multiplied by the reference density of methane, multiplied by, open parenthesis, one minus the methane destruction efficiency of the flare, close parenthesis, multiplied by the global warming potential of methane, close parenthesis, plus, open parenthesis, the volume of supplemental fossil fuel, j, consumed by a flare during a calendar year covered by the reporting period, multiplied by the nitrous oxide emission factor for supplemental fossil fuel, j, multiplied by the global warming potential of nitrous oxide, close parenthesis, all divided by the conversion factor for kilograms to tonnes, for the number of types of supplemental fossil fuels, m, close square brackets.

The quantity of GHG emissions attributed to the use of supplemental fossil fuels to support the operation of a flare during a calendar year covered by the reporting period corresponds to SSR P6, is represented by the symbol FF sub supp,GHG and is expressed in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.

The volume of supplemental fossil fuel, j, consumed by a flare during a calendar year covered by the reporting period is represented by the symbol FF sub supp,j and is expressed in cubic meters.

The carbon dioxide emission factor for supplemental fossil fuel, j, as set out in the Emission Factors and Reference Values document, is represented by the symbol EF sub CO2,j and is expressed in kilograms of carbon dioxide per cubic meter.

The average methane content of supplemental fossil fuel, j, obtained from the supplier, is represented by the symbol FF sub CH4,j and is expressed in cubic meters of methane per cubic meter.

The reference density of methane, as set out in Schedule A – Reference condition values, is represented by the symbol rho sub CH4 and is expressed in kilograms of methane per cubic meter of methane.

The methane destruction efficiency of the flare, as set out in Table 3 or specific to the device, is represented by the symbol DE sub CH4 and is unitless.

The global warming potential of methane, as provided in Column 2 of Schedule 3 to the Act, is represented by the symbol GWP sub CH4 and is unitless.

The nitrous oxide emission factor for supplemental fossil fuel, j, as set out in the Emission Factors and Reference Values document, is represented by the symbol EF sub N2O,j and is expressed in kilograms of nitrous oxide per cubic meter

The global warming potential of nitrous oxide, as provided in Column 2 of Schedule 3 to the Act, is represented by the symbol GWP sub N2O and is unitless.

The conversion factor for kilograms to tonnes is 1000 kilograms per tonne.

Equation 9 and Equation 10 must be used to quantify GHG emissions due to the destruction of LFG in the eligible destruction device(s) during each full or partial calendar year covered by the reporting period. Equation 9 determines the undestroyed landfill CH4 generated from the anaerobic decomposition of waste and released to atmosphere from the eligible destruction device(s), corresponding to SSR P4. This value is then accounted for within Equation 10, which quantifies the GHG emissions from the destruction of LFG in the eligible destruction device(s), corresponding to SSR P7, SSR P8, SSR P9, SSR P10, SSR P11, and SSR P12.

Equation 9: Quantity of undestroyed landfill CH4 generated from the anaerobic decomposition of waste and released to atmosphere based on the destruction efficiency of the eligible destruction device(s) (SSR P4)

Long description for Equation 9

CH4UND=[∑i^n ([Qi  x (1-DECH_4,i )  ]  x ρCH4 /1000  )]x GWPCH4  

The quantity of undestroyed landfill methane released to atmosphere during a calendar year covered by the reporting period based on the destruction efficiency of the eligible destruction device(s) is equal to, open square brackets, the summation of, open square brackets, the volume of landfill methane delivered to eligible destruction device, i, during a calendar year covered by the reporting period, multiplied by, open parenthesis, one minus the methane destruction efficiency of eligible destruction device, i, close parenthesis, for the number of eligible destruction devices, n, close square brackets, multiplied by the reference density of methane, divided by the conversion factor for kilograms to tonnes, close square brackets, all multiplied by the global warming potential of methane.

The quantity of undestroyed landfill methane released to atmosphere during a calendar year covered by the reporting period based on the destruction efficiency of the eligible destruction device(s) corresponds to SSR P4, is represented by the symbol CH4 sub UND and is expressed in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.

The volume of landfill methane delivered to eligible destruction device, i, during a calendar year covered by the reporting period is represented by the symbol Q sub i, is expressed in cubic meters of methane and is quantified as per Equation 3.

The methane destruction efficiency of eligible destruction device, i, as set out in Table 3 or specific to the device, is represented by the symbol DE sub CH4,i and is unitless.

The reference density of methane, as set out in Schedule A – Reference condition values, is represented by the symbol rho sub CH4 and is expressed in kilograms of methane per cubic meter of methane.

The global warming potential of methane, as provided in Column 2 of Schedule 3 to the Act, is represented by the symbol GWP sub CH4 and is unitless.

The conversion factor for kilograms to tonnes is 1000 kilograms per tonne.

The amount of landfill CH4 destroyed in each eligible destruction device is dependent on the CH4 destruction efficiency for each device (DECH4). Table 3 sets out default CH4 destruction efficiencies that can be used by the proponent for each eligible destruction device in the project. The proponent may also determine a device-specific destruction efficiency for each eligible destruction device in the project. Testing for the device-specific destruction efficiency must be conducted each full or partial calendar year, and include at least three test runs, with the accepted final value being one standard deviation below the mean of the measured efficiencies.

Table 3: Default CH4 destruction efficiencies by eligible destruction device (DECH4)
Eligible destruction device Efficiency (DECH4)Footnote 8 
Open Flare 0.96
Enclosed Flare 0.995
Boiler 0.98
Turbine (micro or large) 0.995
Internal Combustion Engine (stationary or mobile) 0.936
Station for direct injection of upgraded LFG into a natural gas network 0.98
Station for compression or liquefaction of upgraded LFG prior to transport and injection into a natural gas network 0.95

Equation 10 must be used to quantify the quantity of undestroyed landfill CH4 and generated N2O emissions from the destruction of LFG in the eligible destruction device(s) during each full or partial calendar year covered by the reporting period.

Equation 10: Quantity of GHG emissions attributed to the destruction of LFG in the eligible destruction device(s) (SSR P7, SSR P8, SSR P9, SSR P10, SSR P11, SSR P12)

Long description for Equation 10

LFGGHG=[CH4UND ]+[∑i^n(Qi  x ρCH_4)/1000  x (EFLFG, N2 O,i)/1000) ×GWPN2O ]

The quantity of GHG emissions attributed to the destruction of LFG in the eligible destruction device(s) during a calendar year covered by the reporting period is equal to the quantity of undestroyed landfill methane released to atmosphere during a calendar year covered by the reporting period based on the destruction efficiency of the eligible destruction device(s), plus, open square brackets, the summation of, open parenthesis, the volume of landfill methane delivered to eligible destruction device, i, during a calendar year covered by the reporting period, multiplied by the reference density of methane, divided by the conversion factor for kilograms to tonnes, all multiplied by the nitrous oxide emission factor for the destruction of LFG in eligible destruction device, i, divided by the conversion factor for kilograms to tonnes, for the number of eligible destruction devices, n, close parenthesis, multiplied by the global warming potential of nitrous oxide, close square brackets.

The quantity of GHG emissions attributed to the destruction of LFG in the eligible destruction device(s) during a calendar year covered by the reporting period corresponds to SSR P7, SSR P8, SSR P9, SSR P10, SSR P11, and SSR P12, is represented by the symbol LFG sub GHG and is expressed in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.

The quantity of undestroyed landfill methane released to atmosphere during a calendar year covered by the reporting period based on the destruction efficiency of the eligible destruction device(s) corresponds to SSR P4, is represented by the symbol CH4 sub UND, is expressed in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent and is quantified as per Equation 9.

The volume of landfill methane delivered to eligible destruction device, i, during a calendar year covered by the reporting period is represented by the symbol Q sub i, is expressed in cubic meters of methane and is quantified as per Equation 3.

The reference density of methane, as set out in Schedule A – Reference condition values, is represented by the symbol rho sub CH4 and is expressed in kilograms of methane per cubic meter of methane.

The nitrous oxide emission factor for the destruction of LFG in eligible destruction device, i, as set out in the Emission Factors and Reference Values document, is represented by the symbol EF sub LFG,N2O,i and is expressed in kilograms of nitrous oxide per tonne of methane

The conversion factor for kilograms to tonnes is 1000 kilograms per tonne.

The global warming potential of nitrous oxide, as provided in Column 2 of Schedule 3 to the Act, is represented by the symbol GWP sub N2O and is unitless.

8.3 GHG emission reductions

The GHG emission reductions (ER), determined in accordance with Equation 11, correspond to the GHG reductions generated by a project, determined in accordance with section 20 of the Regulations.

Equation 11: GHG emission reductions

Long description for Equation 11

ERc = BEc - PEc

The GHG emission reductions during a calendar year covered by the reporting period are equal to the baseline scenario GHG emissions during a calendar year covered by the reporting period minus the project scenario GHG emissions during a calendar year covered by the reporting period.

The GHG emission reductions during a calendar year covered by the reporting period are represented by the symbol ER sub C and are expressed in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.

The baseline scenario GHG emissions during a calendar year covered by the reporting period are represented by the symbol BE sub C, are expressed in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent and are quantified as per Equation 1.

The project scenario GHG emissions during a calendar year covered by the reporting period are represented by the symbol PE sub C, are expressed in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent and are quantified as per Equation 5.

The calendar year is represented by the symbol C.

9.0 Measurement and data

9.1 Measuring devices

The proponent must ensure the appropriate measuring devices are installed and operated as per the requirements in Section 9.0.

9.1.1 Flow meters

The LFG recovery and destruction system must include permanent flow meters that directly and separately measure the volume of LFG actively recovered from within the project site and delivered to the individual eligible destruction device(s). The volume of any fossil fuels used for the operation of the active LFG recovery system, treatment equipment, or eligible destruction devices must be measured by permanent flow meters or determined using purchasing records. Volume data must be converted into cubic metres (m3) to align with the quantification methodology presented in Section 8.0.

9.1.2 Temperature and pressure gauges

If a flow meter automatically corrects the LFG volume to the reference temperature and pressure conditions set out in Schedule A – Reference condition values, no additional temperature and pressure gauges are required.

If a flow meter does not automatically correct the LFG volume, permanent temperature and pressure gauges must be installed to measure temperature and pressure at the same measurement frequency as the uncorrected volume of LFG (Section 9.2). LFG temperature and pressure must be measured under the same conditions (wet or dry basis) as the LFG volume.

The LFG volume data must be corrected from measured temperature and pressure conditions to the reference temperature and pressure conditions set out in Schedule A – Reference condition values by using Equation 4.

9.1.3 Methane analyzers

The active LFG recovery system must include permanent methane analyzers (e.g. gas chromatographs) that directly measure the CH4 content in the LFG on a volumetric basis.

9.1.4 Arrangement of measuring devices

Flow meters and methane analyzers must be arranged in such a way as to ensure the data is representative of the LFG actively recovered and destroyed by the project.

Additionally, flow meters and methane analyzers must be placed to:

Measuring devices should be arranged such that LFG CH4 content is measured under the same conditions (wet or dry basis) as LFG volume, temperature and pressure. However, a moisture-removing component may separate a methane analyzer and a flow meter where the methane analyzer is placed upstream of the moisture-removing component (CH4 content measured on a wet basis), and the flow meter is placed downstream of the moisture-removing component (LFG volume measured on a dry basis). A moisture-removing component must not separate a methane analyzer and flow meter in any other configuration other than previously described. No other devices or equipment that could change the LFG composition by volume may separate a methane analyzer and a flow meter.

9.2 Measurement frequency

Table 4 identifies the measurement frequency of the parameters that must be measured in order to gather the data required to quantify GHG emissions reductions generated by a project.

Table 4: Measurement frequency for measured parameters for a landfill CH4 recovery and destruction project

Parameter

Description

Units

Measurement frequency

Equations

LFGi,t

Corrected volume of LFG delivered to eligible destruction device, i, during measurement period, t

m3 LFG

Measured continuously with volume recorded every measurement period. The measurement period can be a maximum of 15 minutes.

or

Quantified as per Equation 4 if flow meter does not automatically correct volume.

3, 4

LFGCH4,t

Average CH4 content of the LFG during measurement period, t

m3 CH4/m3 LFG

Measured continuously with CH4 content averaged over the measurement period. The measurement period can be a maximum of 15 minutes.

3

LFGUC

Uncorrected volume of LFG delivered to eligible destruction device, i, during measurement period, t

m3 LFG

Measured continuously with volume recorded every measurement period. The measurement period can be a maximum of 15 minutes.

4

Tm

Measured temperature of the LFG for the measurement period, t

K

Measured continuously with value recorded every measurement period if flow meter does not automatically correct volume. The measurement period can be a maximum of 15 minutes but must be the same frequency as for LFGUC.

4

Pm

Measured pressure of the LFG for the measurement period, t

kPa

Measured continuously with value recorded every measurement period if flow meter does not automatically correct volume. The measurement period can be a maximum of 15 minutes but must be the same frequency as for LFGUC.

4

FFj

Volume of fossil fuel, j, consumed by the active LFG recovery system, treatment equipment, and destruction devices during a calendar year covered by the reporting period

m3

Measured continuously with volume recorded at least once every 15 minutes and summed for each calendar year covered by the reporting period.

or

Calculated from fossil fuel purchasing records and/or equipment specifications and summed for each calendar year covered by the reporting period.

6

EL

Grid electricity consumed by the active LFG recovery system, treatment equipment, and destruction devices during a calendar year covered by the reporting period

MWh

Measured using meter and summed for each calendar year covered by the reporting period.

or

Calculated from electricity purchasing records and/or equipment specifications and summed for each calendar year covered by the reporting period.

7

FFsupp,j

Volume of supplemental fossil fuel, j, consumed by a flare during a calendar year covered by the reporting period

m3

Measured continuously with volume recorded at least once every 15 minutes and summed for each calendar year covered by the reporting period.

or

Calculated from fossil fuel purchasing records and/or equipment specifications and summed for each calendar year covered by the reporting period.

8

9.3 Quality assurance and quality control

Quality assurance and quality control procedures must be implemented to ensure that all measurements and calculations have been made correctly and can be verified.

All flow meters and methane analyzers must be:

The measurement accuracy of all measuring devices must show that the measuring device provides a reading that is within a ± 5% accuracy range. When the accuracy of the measuring device deviates from the ± 5% range, the appropriate corrective action(s) must be taken, in accordance with the manufacturer specifications. 

After the corrective action(s), the measuring device must be rechecked for accuracy. If the accuracy of the measuring device is still not within the ± 5% range, the measuring device must be calibrated by the manufacturer or by a third party certified for that purpose and following manufacturer specifications, no more than two months after the end of the reporting period.

When the measurement accuracy of a measuring device indicates a reading outside of a ± 5% accuracy range, the following rules must be applied for the entire period from the last time the measuring device showed a reading within ± 5% accuracy until the measuring device shows a return to ± 5% accuracy:

9.4 Missing data

If a measuring device fails to produce data as required in Section 9.2, missing data may be substituted using the methodology in this section. If missing data is not substituted using the methodology below, no GHG emission reductions can be quantified for the period during which data is missing.

Missing data from a measuring device may only be substituted if the following two conditions are met during the period of missing data:

Missing data from a flow meter or methane analyzer may only be substituted in accordance with the following rules:

For a project with LFG volume or CH4 content data missing for a period of up to seven consecutive days, the appropriate substitution method from Table 5 may be employed to substitute the data.

In the event that periods of missing data occur more than once during the reporting period, data may be substituted for:

Table 5: Missing data substitution methods

Missing data period

Substitution method

Less than 6 consecutive hours

Use the average of the 4 hours immediately prior to and after the missing data period.

6 to less than 24 consecutive hours

Use the 95% upper or lower confidence limit of the 72 hours prior to or after the missing data period, whichever results in greater conservativeness.

1 to 7 consecutive days

Use the 90% upper or lower confidence limit of the 72 hours prior to or after the missing data period, whichever results in greater conservativeness.

More than 7 consecutive days

No data may be substituted after the 7th consecutive day, and no GHG emission reductions may be quantified.

9.5 Operational status of eligible destruction devices

The operational status of the eligible destruction device(s) must be monitored with a destruction device monitoring instrument and recorded at least hourly to ensure LFG destruction is occurring.

For a flare (open or enclosed), the operational status must be determined based on data from a thermocouple. The thermocouple must indicate that the flare temperature meets or exceeds 260°C, the minimum combustion temperature for CH4. If the temperature is below 260°C, no GHG emission reductions can be quantified for the period during which the temperature remains below 260°C.

For boilers, turbines, internal combustion engines, stations for the direct injection of upgraded LFG into a natural gas network, or stations for the compression or liquefaction of upgraded LFG prior to its transport and injection into a natural gas network, a destruction device monitoring instrument must monitor and measure an indicator of operational status (e.g. energy output). If the operational status is not monitored and an indicator is not measured, no GHG emission reductions can be quantified for the period during which monitoring data is not measured.

In cases where LFG is destroyed in an eligible destruction device located at an adjacent facility and owned by an end user, monitoring data demonstrating the operational status of the eligible destruction device must be made available to the proponent, otherwise the GHG emission reductions can not be included in the quantification.

If an eligible destruction device, thermocouple or other destruction device monitoring instrument is not operating or functioning properly in accordance with the manufacturer specifications, no GHG emission reductions can be quantified for the period during which they are not operating or functioning properly.

10.0 Records

In addition to the record keeping requirements in the Regulations, the proponent must retain records that support the implementation of a project under this protocol, including invoices, contracts, metered results, maintenance records, calculations, databases, photographs, and calibration records, at the location and for the period of time specified in the Regulations. These records apply to any eligible destruction devices, measuring devices or meters located at the landfill site or adjacent facility, if applicable. Additional records include:

11.0 Reporting requirements

In addition to the reporting requirements specified in the Regulations, the proponent must report the quantified GHG emissions for each SSR included in the baseline and project scenarios in t CO2e for each full or partial calendar year covered by the reporting period.

Schedule A

Reference condition values

Parameter

Description

Value

Units

Reference source

Tref

Reference temperature of the LFG

298.15

K

Physical constant

Pref

Reference pressure of the LFG

101.325

kPa

Physical constant

ρCH4

Reference density of CH4
(at Tref and Pref conditions)

0.656

kg/m3

Physical constant

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