Green Steel Certification

The steel industry is one of the largest contributors to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. As the world moves towards a more sustainable future, the concept of “Green Steel” has emerged as a game-changer. To promote environmentally friendly practices in steel production, the Green Steel Certification program has been introduced, with guidelines that ensure reduced carbon emissions and sustainable practices. Here’s everything you need to know about this initiative.

What is Green Steel Certification?

Green Steel Certification is a recognition awarded to steel manufacturers who produce finished steel products with an emission intensity of less than 2.2 t-CO2e/tfs (tonnes of CO2 equivalent per tonne of finished steel). This certification is a testament to the company’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and adopting sustainable practices.

Scope of Emissions Considered 

The certification process evaluates emissions across three scopes:

Scope 1: Direct emissions from the steel plant.
Scope 2: Indirect emissions from energy consumption.
Limited Scope 3: Includes emissions from agglomeration (sintering, pellet making, coke making), beneficiation, and embodied emissions in purchased raw materials and intermediary products. However, it excludes upstream mining, downstream emissions, and transportation emissions.

Eligibility and Registration 

To apply for Green Steel Certification, companies must:

Register with the National Institute of Secondary Steel Technology (NISST) by filling out the registration form available on their website.
Pay a one-time registration fee of ₹10,000 + 18% GST.
Ensure that each plant or entity at different locations registers separately.

The certification is applicable starting from the financial year 2024-25.

Verification Process

The certification process involves the calculation and verification of CO2 equivalent emissions by a competent agency empanelled with the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE). The Measuring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) team plays a crucial role in this process. The team must include:

Team Leader: Accredited Energy Auditor with experience in energy audits and assessments.
GHG Lead Verifier: Expert in GHG inventory and life cycle assessments with experience in at least 10 projects.
Sector Expert (Process): Engineer with 15 years of process experience.
Member: Certified Energy Auditor with 5 years of industrial or auditing experience.

If the team leader possesses sector expertise, the team can be reduced to three members.

Issuance of Certification 

Once the verification agency submits the carbon verification report, NISST examines the documents. Upon approval and payment for the certified green steel quantity, the Green Steel Certificate is issued. Key points to note:

Certificates are issued within one month of document verification.
Certification is valid for one year but can be issued more frequently if the steel plant opts for more frequent MRV.

How to Achieve Green Steel Certification: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Registration

Begin by registering for the Green Steel Certification through the NISST web portal at https://nisst.org/green-steel-certification/. Pay the registration fee and submit the required form via email to director@nisst.org, technical@nisst.org, and info@nisst.org.

Step 2: Assign a Nodal Officer

Appoint a nodal officer within your plant who will oversee the certification process and act as the primary point of contact.

Step 3: Engage an ACVA Firm

Select an Accredited Carbon Verification Agency (ACVA) from the list provided on the NISST web portal. Collaborate with the chosen firm to prepare a mutually agreed-upon work order.

Step 4: Data Preparation

Start compiling data in the prescribed Excel format, including the GHG Emission Calculation Sheet and proof documents listed in Appendix A. Ensure the data is verified and sourced from ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Lighthouse) or log sheets, monthly, and quarterly reports.

Step 5: Facilitate Site Visits

Assist the ACVA firm during their site visits and document the proceedings in Minutes of Meetings (MOM) for both opening and closing meetings.

Step 6: Submit Verified Data

Submit the verified data to the ACVA, along with a signed and sealed Declaration and Undertaking form. Additionally, provide a hard copy of the Excel sheet with the plant official’s signature and seal.

Step 7: Fuel Analysis Compliance

Ensure all fuel analysis adheres to the guidelines outlined in the CCTS framework.

Step 8: Process Flow Diagram

Prepare a detailed process flow diagram showcasing all shops and material flow within the plant. This will be crucial for the report preparation.

Step 9: Review ACVA Report

Once the ACVA prepares the report, review it thoroughly. Address any ambiguities or discrepancies with the ACVA before final submission.

Step 10: Final Submission and Certification

After the ACVA submits the report to NISST, the certification will be awarded upon successful verification by NISST.

Why Green Steel Certification Matters

The Green Steel Certification program is a significant step towards decarbonizing the steel industry. By encouraging companies to adopt sustainable practices, it not only reduces GHG emissions but also aligns the industry with global climate goals. Additionally, NISST will maintain a registry of green-rated steel, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Conclusion

The Green Steel Certification is more than just a recognition; it’s a commitment to a sustainable future. As the steel industry embraces this initiative, it paves the way for a greener, cleaner planet. If you’re a steel manufacturer, now is the time to take the leap towards sustainability and apply for Green Steel Certification. Together, we can build a future where steel production and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.

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Source: Ministry of Steel

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