Amendment to the Rules of the F-Gas Portal: New Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/2473

On September 19, 2024, the European Commission published Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/2473 in the Official Journal of the European Union. This new regulation provides updated rules for the application of Regulation (EU) 2024/573 of the European Parliament and Council concerning the registration in the F-gas Portal. It also repeals the previous Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/661.

The F-gas Portal plays a crucial role in managing the European Union’s quota system for fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-gases), licensing requirements for imports and exports, and reporting obligations. The updated rules are designed to ensure that the portal functions smoothly, enabling the EU to meet its environmental goals effectively, while also supporting customs and market surveillance controls.

Key updates in the Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/2473 include:

1. Enhanced Registration Requirements:
   Companies must ensure valid registration in the F-gas Portal before engaging in activities such as quota allocation or use, import/export licensing, or authorizing the use of quota. Information such as the company’s location, business activities, and legal status must be provided to the portal to prevent quota system abuses and ensure compliance with the rules.

2. Integration with EU Single Window for Customs:
   To streamline customs controls, the F-gas Portal is integrated with the European Union Customs Single Window – Certificates Exchange System (EU CSW-CERTEX). This requires undertakings to provide certain information to support customs-related checks.

3. Representative Appointment for Non-EU Entities:
   Companies based outside the EU that wish to engage in quota-related activities must appoint a representative within the Union, ensuring that all relevant legal and administrative requirements are met.

4. Reporting and Auditing Requirements:
   Auditors verifying company reports under Articles 19(3) and 26(8) of Regulation (EU) 2024/573 must submit specific details for their registration in the portal, ensuring transparency and accountability.

5. Member State Collaboration:
   EU Member States will cooperate with the European Commission to verify the accuracy of information provided by companies registering in the F-gas Portal. This collaboration is vital for maintaining the integrity of the system and ensuring compliance.

The new regulation aims to prevent the misuse of the quota system and promote the adoption of climate-friendly practices in the use of fluorinated greenhouse gases across the European Union.

This regulatory update is a significant step forward in implementing the EU’s climate policies, reinforcing the importance of robust data management and compliance for companies dealing with F-gases.