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Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture

and Combustion
Carbon Competitiveness Incentive Regulation
Version 3.0
November 2018
Title: Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion
Number: 3.0
Program Name: Alberta Emission Offset System
Effective Date: November 31, 2018

This document was updated November 2018


on:
ISBN number: 978-1-4601-4186-1

Disclaimer: This document is not a substitute for legal requirements. Emission offset
project developers must comply with all applicable laws, including but not
limited to those set out in the Climate Change and Emissions Management
Act (the Act), the Carbon Competitiveness Incentive Regulation (the
Regulation), and Part 1 of the Standard for Greenhouse Gas Emission Offset
Project Developers (the Standard).

If there is a conflict between this quantification protocol and the Act, the
Regulation or Part 1 of the Standard, the Act, Regulation or Standard prevails
over the quantification protocol.

All quantification protocols are subject to review as deemed necessary, and


will be revised periodically to ensure they reflect best available scientific
knowledge and practices. For information regarding the withdrawal and
replacement of quantification protocols, please see the Standard.

Copyright in this publication, regardless of format, belongs to Her Majesty the Queen in right of the Province of
Alberta. Reproduction of this publication, in whole or in part, regardless of purpose, requires the prior written
permission of Alberta Environment and Parks.

© Her Majesty the Queen in right of the Province of Alberta, 2018

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 2 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
Summary of Revisions

Version Date Summary of Revisions


3.0 October 2018 • The Protocol Scope was updated to exclude emissions from fuels subject to
the carbon levy under the Climate Leadership Act from the emission offsets
calculation. Displacement of emissions from fuels with a carbon levy
exemption certificate is an eligible activity under this protocol.
• The Baseline Condition was updated to quantify emissions from fossil fuel
use for landfill gas capture and combustion for projects with applicable
baseline conditions.
• The Quantification was updated by adding equations to quantify net
reductions, offset-eligible reductions and levied emissions.
• The Quantification Methodology was updated to:
o account for methane emissions from landfill gas combustion.
o revise the quantification method to determine nitrous oxide emissions
from landfill gas combustion.
o account for emissions from the combustion of fossil fuel used to
supplement the flare.
o account for end-use landfill gas combustion emissions when place into
a pipeline network.
• Standard conditions for gas quantification are now explicitly defined and
gas densities have been revised to align with standard conditions.
• Appendix A was updated to differentiate the default destruction efficiency
for unassisted and steam/air assisted flares and to include methane densities
at different reference temperatures.
2.0 July 2015 • The Protocol Flexibility mechanisms were reduced and modified.
• Former flexibility mechanism 1 allowing project developers to use
alternative monitoring methodologies and/or equipment and flexibility
mechanism 4 allowing the opportunity to generate emission offsets for
upgrading an open flare to a controlled flare were removed.
• Former flexibility mechanism 2 allowing landfill gas to be sent to pipeline
no longer requires the use of a flexibility mechanism.
• The Baseline Condition was updated to include Methane Surface
oxidation of methane as it travels through the landfill cover and
emissions associated with project fossil fuel use.
• The Project Condition was updated to use site specific destruction
efficiencies for combustion devices and include emissions from fossil fuel
energy use.
• Project Sources and Sinks were updated to reflect current industry

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 3 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
practice.
• The Quantification Methodology was clarified to provide for quantifying
on-site and off-site heat and electricity generation and use.
• The protocol was updated to clarify Documents and Records
requirements. The contingent data collection procedures were removed.
Minimum data requirements specified in the protocol must be met.
1.0 September 2007 • Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion was
published for use in the Alberta emission offset system.

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 4 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
Table of Contents
1.0 Introduction ........................................................................................................................................ 7
1.1 Protocol Scope ................................................................................................................................... 7
1.2 Protocol Applicability ........................................................................................................................ 9
1.3 Protocol Flexibility ............................................................................................................................ 9
1.4 Glossary of Terms ............................................................................................................................ 10
2.0 Baseline Condition ........................................................................................................................... 11
2.1 Identification of Baseline Sources and Sinks ................................................................................... 13
3.0 Project Condition ............................................................................................................................. 19
3.1 Identification of Project Sources and Sinks ..................................................................................... 21
4.0 Quantification................................................................................................................................... 26
4.1 Quantification Methodology ............................................................................................................ 32
4.1.1 Net Emission Reductions ................................................................................................................. 32
4.1.2 Offset Eligible Reductions ............................................................................................................... 33
4.1.3 Levied Fuel Emissions (reported but not included in offset calculation) ........................................ 33
4.1.4 Biogenic CO2 Emissions (reported but not included in offset calculation) ..................................... 34
5.0 Documents and Records................................................................................................................... 58
5.1 Documents ....................................................................................................................................... 58
5.2 Records ............................................................................................................................................ 59
5.3 Quality Assurance/Quality Control Considerations ......................................................................... 60
5.4 Liability ............................................................................................................................................ 61

List of Tables
Table 1: Eligible Project Scenarios ............................................................................................................................9
Table 2: Baseline Sources and Sinks ........................................................................................................................15
Table 3: Project Condition Sources and Sinks .........................................................................................................23
Table 4: Comparison of Sources and Sinks ..............................................................................................................27
Table 5: Quantification Methodology ......................................................................................................................35
Table 6: Examples of Documents Required to Meet Offset Criteria........................................................................59
Table 7: Record Requirements and Examples of Records .......................................................................................59

List of Figures
Figure 1: General Representation of the Baseline and Project Conditions.................................................................8
Figure 2: Simplified Process Flow Diagram for Possible Baseline Conditions .......................................................12
Figure 3: Baseline Sources and Sinks for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion ...................................................14
Figure 4: Simplified Process Flow Diagram for Possible Project Condition ...........................................................20
Figure 5: Project Conditions Sources and Sinks for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion ...................................22

List of Appendices
Appendix A: Quantification Parameters………………………………………………………………………... …62 ........

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 5 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
Alberta Climate Change Office and Other Related Publications
• Climate Leadership Act
• Climate Leadership Regulation
• Carbon Competitiveness Incentive Regulation
• Climate Change and Emissions Management Act
• Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act
• Technical Guidance for Offset Protocol Development and Revision
• Technical Guidance for the Assessment of Additionality
• Carbon Offset Emission Factors Handbook
• Standard for Greenhouse Gas Emission Offset Project Developers
• Standard for Greenhouse Gas Verification
• Waste Control Regulation
• Code of Practice for Landfills

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 6 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
1.0 Introduction
Anaerobic decomposition of organic waste materials in a landfill generates greenhouse gases including methane.
Over time these gases migrate to the surface where they are vented to the atmosphere.
The installation of landfill gas (LFG) capture and combustion technology can convert the methane to carbon
dioxide resulting in a reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Combustion with energy recovery can
further reduce GHG emissions by displacing fossil fuel sourced energy used to generate electricity and heat.
1.1 Protocol Scope
The scope of this protocol enables generation of emission offsets for:
• landfill gas capture and combustion, and/or
• combustion of landfill gas in an energy recovery system that displaces electricity.
Fossil fuels that are subject to the Alberta carbon levy, such as levied fuels used for heating, are included in
the quantification and reporting but are not eligible for generation of emission offsets. Fossil fuels that are
subject to the carbon levy must be tracked and reported to ensure project eligibility.
The project must clearly delineate and where applicable, measure the baseline condition for the three years
immediately prior to the project start date. This protocol prescribes three baseline conditions, namely:
1. A project may have a baseline condition where landfill gas is passively emitted from the landfill or a
portion of the landfill to the atmosphere. Project conditions may include landfill gas capture and
combustion in a flare, combustion in an energy recovery system or placement into a natural gas
pipeline.
2. A project may have a baseline condition where landfill gas is captured and combusted in a flare. In
this scenario the project condition would be combustion of landfill gas in an energy recovery system
that displaces electricity.
3. A project may have a baseline condition that is a combination of the aforementioned baselines. In this
scenario the project condition would be combustion of landfill gas in an energy recovery system that
displaces electricity.
Placement of the landfill gas into a natural gas transmission or distribution pipeline is considered eligible as
combustion, so long as the proponents are able to prove ownership of the emission offsets. Energy recovery
systems may use dual generating fuels (supplemental fossil fuel and landfill gas) providing it is clear how
much energy is being produced by the landfill gas alone.
Figure 1 provides an overview of the components of the landfill gas protocol.

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 7 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
Figure 1: General Representation of the Baseline and Project Conditions

Baseline Project

Landfill Gas
Emissions from Capture
Landfill

Fossil Fuel-
Sourced Energy
Landfill Gas
Landfill Landfill Gas
Use for
Emissions from Gas Placement into
Electricity or
Flaring (if Combustion a Natural Gas
Heat
applicable) in a Flare Pipeline
Generation

Eligible project conditions include the following:


• Projects must install a landfill gas capture and controlled combustion system;
• Projects may either combust landfill gas to displace fossil fuel sourced for heat and/or electricity,
combust the landfill gas in a flare (if there was no combustion by flare in the baseline condition), or
place the landfill gas into a natural gas pipeline;
• Landfill facilities must meet Alberta Environment and Park’s registration and approval authorization
requirements; and
• The project cannot adversely affect other waste diversion policies or initiatives.
This protocol does not estimate or quantify the total GHG emissions from a landfill. Rather, the GHG
calculation is based on the measured volume and composition of landfill gas collected and combusted. The
greenhouse gases affected by the activities described in this protocol include methane (CH4), carbon dioxide
(CO2) and nitrous oxide (N2O). The applicable Global Warming Potential (GWP) for each gas is available in
the Carbon Offset Emission Factors Handbook.
Table 1 describes the project scenarios eligible under this protocol and their respective baseline scenarios. For
instance, a project that captures and combusts landfill gas in a flare in the baseline condition can generate
emission offsets for combusting the landfill gas in an energy recovery system in the project condition.

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© 2018 Government of Alberta
Table 1: Eligible Project Scenarios

Baseline Project
Baseline Methane
Scenarios LFG Energy
Emissions Fossil Fuel Use Surface
Combustion Recovery
Oxidation
If project
Passive
CO2, condition
venting of
CH4, displaces fossil Yes Yes Yes or No
LFG to
N2O fuel energy
atmosphere
generation
CO2,
LFG
Trace CH4, Yes No Yes Yes
combustion
N2O
Combination CO2,
of two CH4, Yes Yes Yes Yes
scenarios N2O

1.2 Protocol Applicability


Project developers must be able to demonstrate the emission offset project meets the requirements of the
Carbon Competitiveness Incentive Regulation, published documents or standards for the Alberta emission
offset system and this quantification protocol.
In particular, the project developer must provide sufficient evidence to demonstrate that:
1. The combustion is carried out under controlled conditions as demonstrated by a description of the
landfill gas (LFG) end use and specifications of the combustion device in use;
2. Destruction efficiencies from flares or other combustion equipment must be site specific if the
information is available. That is, destruction efficiencies used must be obtained from manufacturer or
vendor specifications unless otherwise justified;
3. If applicable, the energy produced from landfill gas is offsetting fossil fuel-generated energy in the
form of heat and/or electricity or the landfill gas is processed and placed in a pipeline for use;
4. Metering of gas volume takes place downstream from capture within a reasonable distance of either
the combustion device or point of inclusion in the off-site pipeline network such that the meter will
account for potential fugitive emissions as demonstrated by project schematics;
5. Reductions achieved by the project are based on actual measurement and monitoring, as per this
protocol; and,
6. This protocol does not include emission offset eligibility for the displacement of emissions from fuels
subject to the carbon levy. It is still a requirement to quantify these emissions with a reasonable level
of assurance. However, displacement of emissions from fuels subject to the carbon levy may be
eligible for consideration under this protocol with a carbon levy exemption certificate under the
Climate Leadership Act.
1.3 Protocol Flexibility
The protocol prescribes using site specific, manufacturer specified landfill gas destruction efficiencies as they
result in higher accuracy relative to using generic destruction efficiencies. Flexibility is allowed through the
use of the generic destruction efficiencies listed in Appendix A where there is insufficient information to
support site specific landfill gas destruction efficiencies for quantification. Justification for use of the generic
destruction efficiencies must be provided in the project plan.

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© 2018 Government of Alberta
1.4 Glossary of Terms
Anaerobic Decomposition A biological process in which bacteria break down organic matter in the
absence of oxygen.
Cogeneration The combined production of heat and electricity for use in industrial facilities.
Electricity not used within the plant may be offered to the competitive
electricity market.
Combustion The oxidation of fuel/biomass that forms water and carbon dioxide in an
exothermic reaction.

Destruction Efficiency The efficiency of the combustion device in oxidizing the methane to carbon
dioxide.

Heat The useful thermal energy that is generated in a heat generation plant (e.g., a
boiler, a cogeneration unit, thermal solar panels, etc.) and transferred to a heat
carrier (e.g., hot liquids, hot gases, steam, etc.) for use in thermal applications
and processes, including electricity generation but excluding waste heat.
Landfill A waste management facility for the intentional placement of waste on or in
land as the waste’s final resting place (as per section 2(1)(i) of the
Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act Activities Designation
Regulation).
Landfill Gas (LFG) Gas resulting from the decomposition of organic wastes placed in a landfill
comprised primarily of methane, carbon dioxide, and other trace compounds.

Methane Surface The process that results when methanotrophic bacteria metabolize methane to
Oxidation carbon dioxide under aerobic conditions.
Municipal Solid Waste Non-hazardous waste materials picked up by a municipality or self-hauled to
(MSW) depots, transfer stations and disposal facilities. Municipal solid waste is
composed of residential and non-residential materials from construction,
renovation, and demolition or commercial and institutional waste.

Standard temperature and Standard conditions are defined to be 15 °C and 101.325 kPa (1 atm).
pressure
Waste Any solid or liquid material or combination that is or is intended to be treated
or disposed of or that is intended to be stored and then treated or disposed of,
but does not include recyclables.
Waste Management A facility registered under the Alberta Code of Practice for Landfills or
Facility approved under Alberta’s Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act or
other legislation for the collection, storage, treatment or disposal of waste. In
Alberta, all waste must be disposed in a waste management facility.

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 10 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
2.0 Baseline Condition
The baseline is the most appropriate and best estimate of GHG emissions that would have occurred in the absence
of the project. The three baseline conditions that exist for this activity are:
1. Landfill gas that is passively vented to atmosphere
2. Landfill gas that is combusted in a flare; or
3. A combination of the two above scenarios.
Emissions associated with heat and electricity generation, as well as on- and off-site energy, are quantified
separately to ensure that the appropriate emission factors are used.
The protocol uses a dynamic, projection-based baseline for quantifying avoided landfill methane emissions. That
is, baseline landfill gas emissions are projected based on the volume of landfill gas combusted in a flare or energy
recovery device in the project condition with application of a methane oxidation factor to account for oxidation of
methane by methanotropic bacteria as it passes through the landfill cover. Baseline fossil fuel use is calculated
based on the net energy generation in the project and fossil fuel use in the baseline and project conditions. In
baseline scenarios which include flaring of landfill gas, three years of records are required to support the extent of
landfill gas flaring when determining the baseline condition.
The baseline GHG emissions are then calculated annually based on the net amount of landfill gas sourced energy
generated in the project condition and the equivalent volume of fossil fuels that would have been used to meet the
same energy needs in the absence of the project.
A simplified process flow diagram for possible baseline conditions is shown in Figure 2. More detail on each of
these sources/sinks is provided in Section 2.1.

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© 2018 Government of Alberta
Figure 2: Simplified Process Flow Diagram for Possible Baseline Conditions

Waste
Diversion
Projects

Waste
Waste Waste Waste Waste
Collection &
Generation Processing Disposal Decomposition
Transportation

Landfill Gas
Capture and
Flaring

On-site Fossil Fuel


Sourced
Electricity and/or Off-site Fossil
Heat Fuel Sourced
Electricity
and/or Heat

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© 2018 Government of Alberta
2.1 Identification of Baseline Sources and Sinks
The identification of sources and sinks in the baseline condition is based on ISO 14064-2:2006 1: Specification
with guidance at the project level for quantification, monitoring and reporting of greenhouse gas emission
reductions or removal enhancements. Sources and sinks are determined to be either controlled, related or
affected by the project and are defined as follows:
Controlled: The behaviour or operation of a controlled source and/or sink is under the direction and
influence of a project developer through financial, policy, management or other
instruments.
Related: A related source and/or sink has material and/or energy flows into, out of or within a
project but is not under the reasonable control of the project developer.
Affected: An affected source and/or sink is influenced by the project activity through changes in
market demand or supply for projects or services associated with the project.
All sources and sinks were identified by reviewing the relevant process flow diagrams, consulting with
technical experts and reviewing best practice guidance. This iterative process confirmed that sources/sinks in
the process flow diagrams covered the full scope of eligible activities under this protocol.
Based on the process flow diagram provided, the baseline sources/sinks were organized into life cycle
categories as provided in Figure 3. A description of each source/sink and its classification as controlled,
related or affected is provided in Table 2.

1
International Organization for Standardization. 2006. ISO 14064-2: Specification with guidance at the project level for
quantification, monitoring and reporting of greenhouse gas emission reductions or removal enhancements.

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© 2018 Government of Alberta
Figure 3: Baseline Sources and Sinks for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion

Upstream Sources/Sinks During Baseline

B3 B4 B2
B1 B5
Waste Handling and Fuel Extraction and Waste Collection and
Waste Generation Fuel Delivery
Disposal Processing Transportation

Upstream Sources/Sinks Before On-Site Sources/Sinks During Baseline Downstream Sources/Sinks After
Baseline Baseline
B14
B13
On-site Electricity
Waste
Generation Displaced
Decomposition
by Project
B8 B9
Site Development Building Equipment
B16
B15
On-site Heat and
On-site Heat
Electricity B18
Generation Displaced
B11 Generation Not Site Decommissioning
B10 by Project
Construction On Displaced by Project
Transportation of
Equipment Site
B20
B17 Supplemental Fossil
Waste Diversion Fuel Needed for
B12 Flaring
Testing of
Equipment

B21 B22
Landfill Gas Flaring Fossil Fuel Use

Downstream Sources / Sinks During Baseline


Legend
B6 B7 B19
Off-site Electricity Off-site Heat Off-site Heat and Related Source/Sink Controlled Source/Sink Affected Source/Sink
Generation Displaced Generation Displaced Electricity Not
by Project by Project Displaced by Project

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© 2018 Government of Alberta
Table 2: Baseline Sources and Sinks

Controlled, Affected,
Sources/Sinks Description
Related
Upstream Sources and Sinks Before Baseline
B8 - Site Development Baseline site development could include: civil infrastructure such as access to electricity, Related
natural gas and water supply, sewer, etc; clearing, grading, building access roads, etc;
and building of structures for the facility such as storage areas and offices, and structures
to enclose, support and house any equipment. Greenhouse gas emissions would be
primarily attributed to the use of fossil fuels and electricity used to power equipment
required to develop the site including, but not limited to graders, backhoes, trenching
machines, etc.
B9 - Building Equipment Equipment may need to be built either on site or off site. This includes all of the Related
components of the storage, handling, processing, combustion, air quality control, system
control and safety systems. These may be sourced as pre-made standard equipment or
custom built to specification. Greenhouse gas emissions would be primarily attributed to
the use of fossil fuels and electricity used to power equipment for the extraction of the
raw materials, processing, fabrication and assembly.
B10 - Transportation of Equipment built off site and the materials to build equipment on site need to be delivered Related
Equipment to the site. Transportation may be completed by train, truck or other transportation.
Greenhouse gas emissions are primarily attributed to the use of fossil fuels for
transportation.
B11 - Construction On Site Site construction uses a variety of heavy equipment, smaller power tools, cranes and Related
generators. The operation of this equipment has associated greenhouse gas emission from
the use of fossil fuels and electricity.
B12 - Testing of Equipment Equipment may need to be tested to ensure that it is operational. This may result in Related
running the equipment using fossil fuels in order to ensure that the equipment runs
properly. These activities result in greenhouse gas emissions associated with the
combustion of the test fuels and the use of electricity.
Upstream Sources and Sinks During Baseline
B1 - Waste Generation Waste is generated when post-consumer and other wastes are sent for permanent disposal Related
in a landfill.

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© 2018 Government of Alberta
Controlled, Affected,
Sources/Sinks Description
Related
B2 - Waste Collection and Solid waste may be transported to the project site by truck and/or train. The related Related
Transportation energy inputs for fuelling this equipment are captured under this source/sink. Type of
equipment, number of loads and distance traveled would be used to evaluate functional
equivalence with the project condition.
B3 - Waste Handling and Waste may be handled at a disposal site by transferring the waste from the transportation Controlled
Disposal container, spreading, burying, processing, and otherwise dealing with the waste using a
combination of loaders, conveyors and other mechanized devices. Greenhouse gas
emissions result from the combustion of fossil fuel to operate the equipment. Volumes
and types of fuels must be tracked.
B4 - Fuel Extraction and Greenhouse gas emissions are associated with fossil fuel extraction and processing. Related
Processing Emissions are attributed to the various processes involved in the production, refinement
and storage of the fuels. The total volumes of fuel for each of the on-site sources/sinks
are considered under this source/sink. Volumes and types of fuels must be tracked.
B5 - Fuel Delivery This source/sink accounts for emissions associated with transporting each of the fuels Related
used on site to the site. This may include shipment by truck, rail or pipeline. Fuel sourced
by taking equipment to an existing commercial fuelling station is excluded as the fuel
used to take the equipment to the site is captured under other source/sinks.
On-site Sources and Sinks During Baseline
B13 - Waste Decomposition This source/sink is applicable for projects that passively vent landfill gas to the Controlled
atmosphere in the baseline condition. Waste decomposing in the landfill results in the
production of methane. GHG emissions from waste decomposition are accounted by
measuring the volume of landfill gas collected and combusted or included in a natural
gas pipeline network to determine the amount of landfill gas that would have been
released in the absence of an operating landfill gas capture system. A methane oxidation
factor is applied to account for oxidation of methane by methanotrophic bacteria as
methane travels through the landfill cover system.
B14 - On-site Electricity This source represents the emissions from on-site generation that occurred in the baseline Controlled
Generation Displaced by Project that would have been replaced by the project. This could be all or part of the historic
electricity generation onsite. The emissions from this source are calculated using site
specific emission factors.

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© 2018 Government of Alberta
Controlled, Affected,
Sources/Sinks Description
Related
B15 - On-site Heat Generation This source/sink represents the emissions from on-site heat generation that has been Controlled
Displaced by Project replaced by the project. This could be all or part of the historic heat generation on site.
The emissions from this source/sink are calculated using site specific factors for the
baseline heat production on-site. Changes in the heat demand or other forms of efficiency
that reduce the heat load of the facility are not included, but may be eligible under other
offset protocols.
B16 - On-Site Heat and On-site emissions related to electricity and heat use which continue after the project is Controlled
Electricity Generation Not implemented. These emissions are a continuation of the baseline condition and are not
Displaced by Project impacted by the project.
B17 - Waste Diversion Waste management facilities manage wastes through a number of on- and off-site Controlled
initiatives including waste disposal, waste diversion and waste minimization. Waste
diversion programs must be documented and must not be adversely impacted by the
installation of the landfill gas capture project, but emissions associated with waste
diversion are excluded from the greenhouse gas quantification.
B20 - Supplemental Fossil Fuel This source/sink is applicable for projects that have flaring in the baseline condition. This Controlled
Needed for Flaring source/sink represents the emissions resulting from additional fossil fuel needed to
increase the heat content of gas sent to flare to meet the destruction efficiency for the
flare.
B21 - Landfill Gas Flaring This source/sink is applicable for projects that have flaring in the baseline condition. Controlled
Carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide are emitted as a result of landfill gas flaring.
Methane and nitrous oxide produced from landfill gas flaring will be included in this
source/sink.
B22 - Fossil Fuel Use This source/sink is applicable for projects that have flaring in the baseline condition. This Controlled
source/sink includes the greenhouse gas emissions resulting from fossil fuel used for the
operation of the landfill gas capture and combustion system. This may also include
emissions associated with upgrading of landfill gas for flare.
Downstream Sources and Sinks During Project
B6 - Off-site Electricity Emissions associated with generation of electricity off-site which have been displaced Controlled
Generation Displaced by through the project activity. This occurs either through the export of electricity off site
Project and/or reduced import of grid electricity.

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© 2018 Government of Alberta
Controlled, Affected,
Sources/Sinks Description
Related
B7 - Off-site Heat Generation Emissions associated with generation of heat off-site which have been displaced through Controlled
Displaced by Project the project activity. This occurs through the export of heat off-site and/or reduced import
of heat that was generated off-site.
B19 - Off-site Heat and The remainder of off-site emissions associated with heat and electricity generation which Related
Electricity Not Displaced by has not been displaced in the project condition.
Project
Downstream Sources and Sinks After Project
B18 - Site Decommissioning Once the facility is no longer operational, the site must be decommissioned. This may Related
involve the disassembly of the equipment, demolition of on-site structures, disposal of
some materials, environmental restoration, re-grading, planting or seeding, and
transportation of materials off site. Greenhouse gas emissions are primarily attributed to
the use of fossil fuels and electricity used to power equipment required to decommission
the site.

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© 2018 Government of Alberta
3.0 Project Condition
The project condition is the capture and combustion of landfill gas in a flare, for energy generation, or placement
into a natural gas pipeline. GHG emission reductions are achieved through the combustion of methane in landfill
gas and, if applicable, the displacement of fossil fuel energy. Projects that were passively venting methane in the
baseline can combust landfill gas in a flare, combust landfill gas for energy generation, or place landfill gas into a
natural gas pipeline. Projects that were capturing and flaring landfill gas in the baseline condition may implement
an on-site energy recovery project and qualify for emission offsets for the energy displacement.
Projects that are upgrading and placing landfill gas into a natural gas pipeline where the ownership of the
reduction is established 2 can qualify for emission offsets for the reductions that are achieved through the
destruction of methane. Such projects may also be eligible for the end-user’s displacement of fossil fuel energy
with the landfill gas sourced energy as long as the project proponent can clearly demonstrate the end-user fuel use
is the landfill gas.
In all cases, the destruction efficiency provided by the manufacturer must be used. If the device has no known
destruction efficiency, the project proponent must reference default destruction efficiencies from Table A1:
Default Values for Methane Destruction Efficiency to quantify greenhouse gas emission reductions for landfill
gas combustion. Justification for using the default destruction efficiency in Table A1 must be provided.
A process flow diagram for the project condition is provided in Figure 4. More detail on each of these
sources/sinks is provided in Section 3.1.

2
Must be able to demonstrate that no other credits are being claimed for methane destruction.
Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 19 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
Figure 4: Simplified Process Flow Diagram for Possible Project Condition

Waste
Waste Waste Waste Waste
Collection and
Generation Handling Disposal Decomposition
Transportation

LFG Capture

LFG
Processing

Electricity Heat
Flaring Placement in a
Generation Generation
Pipeline
and Use and Use

Upset Flaring Upset Flaring Natural Gas


Use

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© 2018 Government of Alberta
3.1 Identification of Project Sources and Sinks
Figure 5 provides a list of sources and sinks associated with landfill gas capture and combustion projects. All
included sources and sinks applicable to the project must be identified in the project plan. If a source or sink is
not applicable to the project, sufficient justification must be provided to support the exclusion.
Based on the process flow diagram provided in Figure 4, the project sources and sinks were organized into
life cycle categories as provided in Figure 5. Descriptions of each of the sources and sinks and their
classification as controlled, related or affected are provided in Table 3.

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 21 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
Figure 5: Project Conditions Sources and Sinks for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion

Upstream Sources / Sinks During Project

P6
P2 P3 P4
P1 P5 Off-site Heat and
Waste Collection Waste Handling and Fuel Extraction and
Waste Generation Fuel Delivery Electricity Not
and Transportation Disposal Processing
Displaced by Project

Upstream Sources / Sinks Before On-site Sources / Sinks During Project Downstream Sources / Sinks After
Project Project

P13
P7 P8 P12 Supplemental Fossil
Site Development Building Equipment Fossil Fuel Use Fuel Needed for
Flaring
P17
Site Decommissioning
P14
P9 P10
On-site Heat and P15
Transportation of Construction On
Electricity Not Waste Diversion
Equipment Site
Displaced by Project

P18
P11 P16
Biogenic CO2 from
Testing of On-site Landfill Gas
Landfill Gas
Equipment Combustion
Combustion

Downstream Sources / Sinks During Project


Legend
P19
Off-site Landfill Gas Related Source/Sink Controlled Source/Sink Affected Source/Sink
Combustion

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© 2018 Government of Alberta
Table 3: Project Condition Sources and Sinks

Controlled,
Sources/Sinks Description
Affected, Related
Upstream Sources and Sinks Before Project
P7 - Site Greenhouse gas emissions associated with site preparation and development for the landfill gas capture and Related
Development combustion system results are associated with preparing civil infrastructure such as access to electricity,
natural gas, water supply, sewer, clearing, grading, building access roads, construction of structures for the
facility such as storage areas, storm water drainage, offices, vent stacks, firefighting water storage lagoons,
and enclose, support and house the equipment.
P8 - Building New equipment may need to be built, either on or off site. This includes all of the components of the new Related
Equipment system, including, but not limited to, storage, handling, processing, combustion, air system controls and
safety systems. These may be sourced as pre-made standard equipment or custom built to specification.
These activities generate greenhouse gas emissions from the use of fossil fuels and electricity to power
equipment for the extraction of the raw materials, processing, fabricating and assembly.
P9 - Transportation Greenhouse gas emissions are associated with fuel combustion to transport equipment and materials to the Related
of Equipment site. Transportation may be completed by train, truck or combination.
P10 - Construction Greenhouse gas emissions are associated with the use fossil fuels and electricity to power heavy Related
On-Site equipment, smaller power tools, cranes and generators used to construct the site.
P11 - Testing of Equipment may need to be tested to ensure that it is operational. This may result in running the equipment Related
Equipment using fossil fuels in order to ensure that the equipment runs properly. These activities will result in
greenhouse gas emissions associated with the combustion of fossil fuels and the use of electricity.
Upstream Sources and Sinks During Project
P1 - Waste Waste is generated when post-consumer and other wastes are sent for permanent disposal in a landfill. Related
Generation
P2 - Waste Solid waste may be transported to the project site by truck and/or train. The related energy inputs for Related
Collection and fuelling this equipment are captured under this source/sink. Type of equipment, number of loads and
Transportation distance traveled would be used to evaluate functional equivalence with the baseline condition.

P3 - Waste Waste may be handled at a disposal site by transferring the waste from the transportation container, Controlled
Handling and spreading, burying, processing or otherwise dealing with the waste using a combination of loaders,

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Controlled,
Sources/Sinks Description
Affected, Related
Disposal conveyors and other mechanized devices. Greenhouse gas emissions result from the combustion of fossil
fuel to operate the equipment. Volumes and types of fuels must be tracked.
P4 - Fuel Greenhouse gas emissions are associated with fossil fuel extraction and processing. Emissions are Related
Extraction and attributed to the various processes involved in the production, refinement, and storage of the fuels. The
Processing total volumes of fuel for each of the on-site sources/sinks are considered under this source/sink. Volumes
and types of fuels must be tracked.

P5 - Fuel Delivery This source/sink accounts for emissions associated with transporting each of the fuels used on site to the Related
site. This may include shipment by truck, rail or pipeline. Fuel sourced by taking equipment to an existing
commercial fuelling station is excluded as the fuel used to take the equipment to the site is captured under
other source/sinks.
P6 - Off-site Heat Emissions associated with off-site electricity and heat generation that has not been displaced by the project Controlled
and Electricity Not activity.
Displaced
On-site Sources and Sinks During Project
P12 - Fossil Fuel This source/sink includes the greenhouse gas emissions resulting from fossil fuel used for the operation of Controlled
Use the landfill gas capture and combustion system. This may also include emissions associated with upgrading
of landfill gas for flare.
P13 - Suppemental This represents the emissions resulting from additional fossil fuel needed to increase the heat content of gas Controlled
Fossil Fuel Needed sent to flare to meet the destruction efficiency for the flare.
for Flaring
P14 – On-site Heat The emissions associated with pre-existing and non-project related on-site heat and electricity generation Controlled
and Electricity Not that have not been displaced by heat or electricity produced by the project.
Displaced
P15 - Waste Waste management facilities manage wastes through a number of on- and off-site initiatives including Controlled
Diversion waste disposal, waste diversion and waste minimization. Waste diversion programs must be documented,
and must not be adversely impacted by the installation of the landfill gas capture project, but emissions
associated with waste diversion are excluded from the greenhouse gas quantification.

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Controlled,
Sources/Sinks Description
Affected, Related
P16 – On-site Carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide are emitted as a result of on-site combustion of landfill gas. Controlled
Landfill Gas Methane and nitrous oxide produced from the combustion of landfill gas will be included in this
Combustion source/sink.
P18 – Biogenic CO2 Carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide are emitted as a result of combustion of landfill gas. The carbon Controlled
from Landfill Gas dioxide produced is biogenic, and will be included in this source/sink. This will include the biogenic
Combustion carbon dioxide for both on and off-site landfill gas combustion.
Downstream Sources and Sinks During Project
P19 – Off-site If the landfill gas is placed into a natural gas pipeline, carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide are Controlled
Landfill Gas emitted as a result of downstream combustion of the landfill gas. Methane and nitrous oxide produced from
Combustion the downstream combustion of landfill gas will be included in this source/sink.
Downstream Sources and Sinks After Project
P17 - Site Once the facility is no longer operational, the site must be decommissioned. This may involve the Related
Decommissioning disassembly of the equipment, demolition of on-site structures, disposal of some materials, environmental
restoration, re-grading, planting or seeding, and transportation of materials off site. Greenhouse gas
emissions are primarily attributed to the use of fossil fuels and electricity used to power equipment
required to decommission the site.

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4.0 Quantification
Baseline and project conditions were assessed against each other to determine the scope for reductions quantified
under this protocol. Sources and sinks were either included or excluded depending on how they were impacted by
the project condition. Sources that are not expected to change between baseline and project conditions are
excluded and not quantified as it is assumed that excluded activities will occur at the same magnitude and
emission rate during the baseline and project.
Emissions that increase or decrease as a result of the project must be included and associated greenhouse gas
emissions must be quantified as part of the project condition.
Table 4 lists all sources and sinks as included or excluded and provides rationale, whereas Table 5 outlines the
quantification methodologies for all included sources and sinks.

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Table 4: Comparison of Sources and Sinks

Baseline Project Include or


Identified Sources and Sinks Exclude from Justification
(C, R, A)* (C, R, A)* Quantification
Upstream Sources and Sinks Before Project
B8 – Site Development R N/A Exclude Emissions associated with site development are minimal
relative to overall project emissions and are expected to be
P7 – Site Development N/A R comparable between baseline and project site development.
B9 – Building Equipment R N/A Exclude Emissions associated with building equipment are expected
to be similar between the baseline and project condition.
P8 – Building Equipment N/A R
B10 – Transportation of R N/A Exclude Emissions associated with the transportation of equipment
Equipment are expected to be similar in the baseline and project
condition.
P9 – Transportation of Equipment N/A R
B11 – Construction On Site R N/A Exclude Emissions associated with construction on site are expected
to be similar in the baseline and project condition.
P10 – Construction On Site N/A R
B12 – Testing of Equipment R N/A Exclude Emissions associated with the testing of equipment are
expected to be similar in the baseline and project condition.
P11 – Testing of Equipment N/A R
Upstream Sources and Sinks During Project
B1 – Waste Generation R N/A Exclude The generation of solid waste is not impacted by the
project. Emissions during the baseline and project are
P1 – Waste Generation N/A R
expected to be equivalent.
B2 – Waste Collection and R N/A Exclude The generation of greenhouse gas emissions due to
Transportation transportation of waste is expected to be equivalent in the
baseline and project condition.
P2 – Waste Collection and
N/A R
Transportation

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Baseline Project Include or
Identified Sources and Sinks Exclude from Justification
(C, R, A)* (C, R, A)* Quantification
B3 – Waste Handling and C N/A Exclude The generation of greenhouse gas emissions due to waste
Disposal processing and disposal is expected to be equivalent in the
baseline and project condition.
P3 – Waste Handling and N/A C
Disposal
B4 – Fuel Extraction and R N/A Include Included to take into account emissions resulting from fuel
Processing extraction and processing for fuels used to operate landfill
gas combustion by flaring in the baseline condition.
P4 – Fuel Extraction and N/A R Include Included to take into account emissions resulting from fuel
Processing extraction and processing for fuels used to operate the
project activity.
B5 – Fuel Delivery R N/A Exclude The emissions from fuel delivery are expected to be the
same in the baseline and project condition.
P5 – Fuel Delivery N/A R
P6 – Off-site Fossil Fuel Exclude The emissions for this generation will be the same in the
Generated Heat and Electricity N/A R baseline and project condition.
Not Displaced by Project
On-site Sources/Sinks During Project
B13 – Waste Decomposition C N/A Include This source/sink is applicable for projects that passively
vent methane to the atmosphere in the baseline condition.
The avoided emissions resulting from waste decomposition
are quantified by measuring the volume of landfill gas
combusted or placed into a natural gas pipeline (in the
project condition).
B14 – On-site Electricity C N/A Include These emissions occur from fossil fuel-generated heat and
Generation Displaced by the electricity generated on-site in the baseline condition that
Project are displaced by on-site heat and electricity generation in

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Baseline Project Include or
Identified Sources and Sinks Exclude from Justification
(C, R, A)* (C, R, A)* Quantification
B15 – On-site Heat Generation C N/A the project condition.
Displaced by the Project
B22 – Fossil Fuel Use C N/A Include The consumption of fossil fuels is subject to the carbon levy
under the Climate Leadership Act. This source/sink is
required to be quantified but is not eligible for emission
offsets. The emissions resulting from fossil fuel used to run
the landfill gas combustion and recovery system are
included.
P12 – Fossil Fuel Use N/A C Include The consumption of fossil fuels is subject to the carbon levy
under the Climate Leadership Act. This source/sink is
required to be quantified but is not eligible for emission
offsets. The emissions resulting from fossil fuel used to run
the landfill gas combustion and recovery system are
included.
B20 – Supplemental Fossil Fuel C N/A Include This source/sink is applicable for projects that have flaring
Needed for Flaring in the baseline condition. These emissions result from fossil
fuel used to maintain the heat content of the landfill gas to
ensure destruction efficiency of the flare.
P13 – Supplemental Fossil Fuel N/A C Include These emissions result from fossil fuel used to maintain the
Needed for Flaring heat content of the landfill gas to ensure destruction
efficiency of the flare.
B16 – On-site Heat and C N/A Exclude These emissions are from on-site heat or electricity
Electricity Not Displaced by generation that are not displaced by the project and remain
Project the same between the baseline and project condition.

P14 – On-site Heat and N/A C


Electricity Not Displaced by
Project

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Baseline Project Include or
Identified Sources and Sinks Exclude from Justification
(C, R, A)* (C, R, A)* Quantification
B17 – Waste Diversion C N/A Exclude These emissions are associated with waste diversion
initiatives and are excluded. The project developer must
P15 – Waste Diversion N/A C
document waste diversion initiatives. The project cannot
result in adverse impacts on waste diversion initiatives.

B21 – Landfill Gas Flaring C N/A Include This source/sink is applicable for projects that have flaring
in the baseline condition. These emissions result from
flaring landfill gas. Methane and nitrous oxide are
quantified under this source/sink.
P16 – On-site Landfill Gas N/A C Include These emissions result from on-site landfill gas combustion
Combustion by flaring or in energy recovery systems. Methane and
nitrous oxide are quantified under this source/sink.

P18 – Biogenic CO2 from N/A C Include These emissions result from landfill gas combustion by
Landfill Gas Combustion flaring or in energy recovery systems. Carbon dioxide is
quantified under this source/sink and is considered to be
biogenic.
Downstream Sources/Sinks During the Project
P19 – Off-site Landfill Gas N/A C Include These are emissions from downstream landfill gas
Combustion combustion resulting from placement into a natural gas
pipeline network. Methane and nitrous oxide are quantified
under this source/sink.
B6 – Off-site Electricity C N/A Include Included as these emissions displaced through the export of
Generation Displaced by Project electricity off site or the reduction of grid electricity use as
a result of the project.

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Baseline Project Include or
Identified Sources and Sinks Exclude from Justification
(C, R, A)* (C, R, A)* Quantification
B7 – Off-site Heat Generation C N/A Include Included as these are the off-site fossil fuel generated
Displaced by Project emissions displaced through the export of heat off site as a
result of the project.

B19 – Off-site Heat and R N/A Exclude The emissions for this generation will be the same in the
Electricity Not Displaced by baseline and project condition.
Project
Downstream Sources/Sinks After the Project
B18 – Site Decommissioning R N/A Exclude These emisions are from decommissioning and are not
material given the long project life.
P17 – Site Decommissioning N/A R
* Where C is Controlled, R is Related, and A is Affected.

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4.1 Quantification Methodology
Net emission reductions are quantified by calculating emissions from included sources and sinks in both the
baseline and in the project and then calculating the net change. Outlined below is the general approach to
quantifying greenhouse gas emission reductions and offset eligible emissions reductions, as stated in ISO
14064-2:2006.
4.1.1 Net Emission Reductions
Net emission reductions are the emission reductions calculated by comparing all quantified sources and
sinks in the baseline and project conditions. The net emission reduction of a project can be calculated by
using the following equation.

Net Emissions Reductions = Emissions Baseline – Emissions Project

where:

Emissions Baseline = Emissions Fuel Extraction/Processing + Emissions Off-site Electricity Displacement +


Emissions Off-site Heat Generation + Emissions Waste Decomposition + Emissions On-site
Electricity Displacement + Emissions On-site Heat Generation + Emissions Fuel for Flare +
Emissions LFG Flaring + Emissions Fossil Fuel Use

Emissions Baseline = sum of the emissions under the baseline condition

= Emissions from B4 Fuel Extraction and Processing


+Emissions from B6 Off-site Electricity Generation Displaced by Project
+ Emissions from B7 Off-site Heat Generation Displaced by Project
+ Emissions from B13 Waste Decomposition
+ Emissions from B14 On-site Electricity Generation Displaced by Project
+ Emissions from B15 On-site Heat Generation Displaced by Project
+ Emissions from B20 Supplemental Fossil Fuel Needed for Flaring
+ Emissions from B21 Landfill Gas Flaring
+ Emissions from B22 Fossil Fuel Use

and

Emissions Project = Emissions Fuel Extraction/Processing + Emissions Fossil Fuel Use + Emissions Fuel for Flare +
Emissions On-site LFG Combustion + Emissions Off-site LFG Combustion + Emissions Biogenic
LFG Combustion

Emissions Project = sum of the emissions under the project condition

= Emissions from P4 Fuel Extraction and Processing


+ Emissions from P12 Fossil Fuel Use
+ Emissions from P13 Supplemental Fossil Fuel Needed for Flaring
+ Emissions from P16 On-site Landfill Gas Combustion
+ Emissions from P19 Off-site Landfill Gas Combustion

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4.1.2 Offset Eligible Reductions
Offset eligible reductions are the emission reductions eligible for generating emission offsets calculated
by comparing offset eligible sources and sinks in the baseline and project conditions. The offset eligible
emission reductions can be calculated by using the following equation.

Offset Eligible Emissions Reductions = Emissions Non-levied Baseline – Emissions Non-levied Project

where:

Emissions Non-levied = Emissions Waste Decomposition + Emissions Fuel Extraction/Processing + Emissions Off-site
Baseline Electricity Displacement + Emissions On-site Electricity Displacement + Emissions LFG Flaring

Emissions Non-levied = sum of the emissions under the baseline condition that are not subject to the
Baseline carbon levy

= Emissions from B13 Waste Decomposition


+ Emissions from B4 Fuel Extraction and Processing
+ Emissions from B6 Off-site Electricity Generation Displaced by Project
+ Emissions from B14 On-site Electricity Generation Displaced by Project
+ Emissions from B21 Landfill Gas Flaring

and

Emissions Non-levied Project = Emissions Fuel Extraction/Processing + Emissions On-site LFG Combustion + Emissions Off-site
LFG Combustion

Emissions Non-levied Project = sum of the emissions under the project condition that are not subject to the
carbon levy

= Emissions from P4 Fuel Extraction and Processing


+ Emissions from P16 On-site Landfill Gas Combustion
+ Emissions from P19 Off-site Landfill Gas Combustion

4.1.3 Levied Fuel Emissions (reported but not included in offset calculation)
Levied fuel emissions are quantified by calculating the levied fuel sources and sinks as outlined in Table
5. The levied fuel emission reductions can be calculated by using the following equation.

Levied Emissions Reductions = Emissions Levied Baseline – Emissions Levied Project

where:

Emissions Levied Baseline = Emissions On-site Heat Generation + Emissions Off-site Heat Generation + Emissions Fuel for Flare
+ Emissions Fossil Fuel Use

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Emissions Levied Baseline = sum of the emissions under the baseline condition that are subject to the
carbon levy.

= Emissions from B15 On-site Heat Generation Displaced by Project


+ Emissions from B7 Off-site Heat Generation Displaced by Project
+ Emissions from B20 Supplemental Fossil Fuel Needed for Flaring
+ Emissions from B22 Fossil Fuel Use

and

Emissions Levied Project = Emissions Fossil Fuel Use + Emissions Fuel for Flare

Emissions Levied Project = sum of the emissions under the project condition that are subject to the carbon
levy

= Emissions from P12 Fossil Fuel Use


+ Emissions from P13 Supplemental Fossil Fuel Needed for Flaring

4.1.4 Biogenic CO2 Emissions (reported but not included in offset calculation)

Biogenic CO2 emissions are quantified by calculating the biogenic CO2 sources and sinks as outlined in
Table 5. The biogenic CO2 emission reductions can be calculated by using the following equation.

Biogenic CO2 Emissions = Emissions Biogenic Project

where:

Emissions Biogenic Project = Emissions Biogenic LFG Combustion

Emissions Biogenic Project = sum of the biogenic CO2 emissions under the project condition.

= Emissions from P18 Biogenic CO2 from Landfill Gas Combustion

The quantification equations provided in Table 5 on the following pages calculate total emissions in carbon
dioxide equivalent (tonnes CO2e). The project developer will be required to calculate emissions for each
source and sink in the baseline and project condition for each relevant greenhouse gas (carbon dioxide,
methane, and nitrous oxide).

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Table 5: Quantification Methodology
Justify Measurement or
Parameter / Measured/
Source/Sink Unit Method Frequency Estimation and
Variable Estimated
Frequency
Baseline Condition
B13 - Waste Emissions Waste Decomposition = Vol LFG * F CH4 * ρ CH4 * (1 - OX) * GWP CH4
Decomposition
Emissions Waste tonnes CO2e N/A N/A N/A Quantity being calculated.
Decomposition

Vol LFG m3LFG Measured Direct measurement of Continuous Frequency of metering is at


landfill gas volume metering highest level possible.
Volume of (measured or
Frequency of
Landfill Gas adjusted to
reconciliation provides for
Combusted or represent at
reasonable diligence.
Placed into standard
Pipeline temperature and
pressure)
F CH4 m3CH4 / Measured Direct measurement Monthly sampling Landfill gas composition
m3LFG or more frequent should remain relatively
Average Fraction
stable during steady-state
of Methane in the
operation.
Landfill Gas
ρ CH4 tonnes CH4 / Estimated 0.0006785 at standard N/A If this value is used, all
m3 CH4 temperature and pressure volumes must be adjusted
Density of
for standard temperature
methane
and pressure. Agreement
must be achieved between
volume and density of
methane in the
measurement. Values for
CH4 density at other
reference temperatures can
be found in Table A2.

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Justify Measurement or
Parameter / Measured/
Source/Sink Unit Method Frequency Estimation and
Variable Estimated
Frequency
OX % Estimated Provided in the Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
Methane
Handbook.
Oxidation
GWP CH4 Unitless Estimated Provided in the Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
Global Warming
Handbook.
Potential for CH4
B15 - On-site If (Hg proj – Hc proj) < 0, then:
Heat Generation
Emissions On-site Heat Generation = 0
Displaced by
Project Otherwise:
Emissions On-site Heat Generation = EF HO * lesser of [(Hg proj – Hc proj), Hg historic]
Emissions On-site Heat tonnes CO2e N/A N/A N/A Quantity being calculated.
Generation

Hg proj GJ Measured Direct metering of heat Continuous Continuous direct metering


produced by the project Metering represents the industry
Heat Generated by
practice and the highest
Project
level of detail. Pressure,
temperature, and flow rate
are measured to provide
heat generated.
Hc proj GJ Measured Direct metering of all heat Continuous Continuous direct metering
consumed by the project Metering represents the industry
Heat Consumed
practice and the highest
by the Project
level of detail.

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Justify Measurement or
Parameter / Measured/
Source/Sink Unit Method Frequency Estimation and
Variable Estimated
Frequency
Hg historic GJ Calculated Average of measured on-site Continuous Historic heat generated
generation for three years Metering must be shown to go to a
Historic Level of
preceding the project useful purpose. The
On-site Heat
baseline for new facilities
Generation
assumes that heat was
produced on site using
natural gas.
EF HO tonnes CO2e Estimated Calculated based on historic Annual This site specific emissions
per GJ performance of on-site heat factor must be used.
Heat Emissions
generation (emissions of three
Factor
previous years for heat
generation divided by total
generation for three previous
years)

B7 - Off-site Emissions Off-site Heat Generation = EF HE * maximum of [(Hg proj − Hc proj − Hg historic), 0]
Heat Generation
Displaced by Emissions Off-site tonnes CO2e N/A N/A N/A Quantity being calculated.
Project Heat Generation Heat exported must be
shown to go to a useful
purpose.
Hg proj GJ Measured Direct metering of all heat Continuous Continuous direct metering
produced by the project Metering represents the industry
Heat Generated by
practice and the highest
Project
level of detail. Pressure,
temperature, and flow rate
are measured to provide
heat generated.

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Justify Measurement or
Parameter / Measured/
Source/Sink Unit Method Frequency Estimation and
Variable Estimated
Frequency
Hc proj GJ Measured Direct metering of all heat Continuous Continuous direct metering
consumed by the project Metering represents the industry
Heat Consumed
practice and the highest
by the Project
level of detail.
Hg historic GJ Calculated Average of measured on-site Continuous Historic heat generated
generation for three years Metering must be shown to go to a
Historic Level of
preceding the project useful purpose.
On-site Heat
Generation
EF HE tonnes CO2e Calculated Calculated based on historic Annual This site specific emissions
per GJ performance of off-site heat factor must be used.
Heat Export
generation (emissions of three
Emissions Factor
previous years for heat
generation divided by total
generation for three previous
years)

B4 – Fuel Emission Fuel Extraction/Processing = [∑ (Vol Fuel i * EF i CO2) + ∑ (Vol Fuel i * EF i CH4 * GWP CH4) + ∑ (Vol Fuel i * EF i N2O * GWP N2O) ] / 1000
Extraction and
Processing Emission Fuel tonnes CO2e N/A N/A N/A Quantity being calculated.
Extraction/Processing

Vol Fuel i L, m3, or Measured Direct metering or Continuous Both methods are standard
reconciliation of volume in metering or practice. Frequency of
Volume of Fuel Other
storage (including volumes monthly metering is highest level
Combusted (In
received) reconciliation possible. Frequency of
B20 and B22)
reconciliation provides for
reasonable diligence.

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Justify Measurement or
Parameter / Measured/
Source/Sink Unit Method Frequency Estimation and
Variable Estimated
Frequency
EF i CO2 kg CO2 per Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
L, m3, or Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
CO2 Emission
other Handbook.
Factor for
Extraction and
Processing of
Each Fuel
EF i CH4 kg CH4 per Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
L, m3, or Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
CH4 Emission
other Handbook.
Factor for
Extraction and
Processing of
Each Fuel
EF i N2O kg N2O Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
N2O Emission per L, m3, or
Handbook.
Factor for other
Extraction and
Processing of
Each Fuel
GWP CH4 Unitless Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
Global Warming
Handbook.
Potential for CH4
GWP N2O Unitless Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
Global Warming
Handbook.
Potential for N2O
B6 – Off-site Emissions Off-site Electricity Displacement = EF EG * (Eg proj – Ec proj)

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Justify Measurement or
Parameter / Measured/
Source/Sink Unit Method Frequency Estimation and
Variable Estimated
Frequency
Electricity Emissions Off-site tonnes CO2e N/A N/A N/A Quantity being calculated.
Generation Electricity Displacement

Displaced by
Eg proj MWh Measured Direct metering of all Continuous Continuous direct metering
Project electricity produced by the Metering represents the industry
Electricity
project practice and the highest
Generated by
level of detail.
Project
Ec proj MWh Measured Direct metering of all Continuous Continuous direct metering
electricity consumed by the Metering represents the industry
Electricity
project practice and the highest
Consumed by the
level of detail.
Project
EF EG tonnes CO2e Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
per MWh Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
Electricity Grid
Handbook.
Displacement
Factor
B14 – On-site If (Eg proj – Ec proj) < 0, then:
Electricity
Emissions On-site Electricity Displacement = EF EG * (Eg proj – Ec proj) or EF EO * (Eg proj – Ec proj)
Generation
Displaced by Otherwise:
Project Emissions On-site Electricity Displacement = EF EO * lesser of [(Eg proj – Ec proj), Eg historic]

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Justify Measurement or
Parameter / Measured/
Source/Sink Unit Method Frequency Estimation and
Variable Estimated
Frequency
Emissions On-site tCO2e N/A N/A N/A Quantity being calculated.
Electricity Displacement B14 can result in negative
values if the project
consumes more electricity
than it generates, and
makes up the deficit via on-
site electricity generation
or import from the grid.
Site specific or grid factor
must be used accordingly.
Eg proj MWh Measured Direct metering of all Continuous Continuous direct metering
electricity produced by the Metering represents the industry
Electricity
project practice and the highest
Generated by
level of detail.
Project
Ec proj MWh Measured Direct metering of all Continuous Continuous direct metering
electricity consumed by the Metering represents the industry
Electricity
project practice and the highest
Consumed by the
level of detail.
Project
Ec historic MWh Calculated Average of measured on-site Continuous On-site displacement
generation for three years Metering should not exceed historic
Historic Level of
preceding the project levels of on-site generation.
On-site Electricity
Generation

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 41 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
Justify Measurement or
Parameter / Measured/
Source/Sink Unit Method Frequency Estimation and
Variable Estimated
Frequency
EF EO tCO2e / Estimated Calculated based on historic Annual This site specific emission
MWh performance of on-site factor must be used. New
Electricty
electricity generation builds must use the grid
Emissions On-site
(emissions of three previous factor published by the
Factor
years for electricity generation department.
divided by total generation for
three previous years)
EF EG tCO2e / Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
MWh Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
Electricty
Handbook.
Emissions Grid
Factor
B20 – Emissions Fuel for Flare = Vol Fuel * EF CO2 / 1000 + Vol Fuel * F CH4 * ρ CH4 * (1 – DE CH4) * GWP CH4 + Vol Fuel * EF N2O * GWP N2O / 1000
Supplemental
Fossil Fuel Emissions Fuel for tonnes CO2e N/A N/A N/A Quantity being calculated.
Needed for Flare

Flaring

Vol Fuel m3 Measured Direct metering or Continuous Both methods are standard
reconciliation of volumes metering or practice. Frequency of
Volume of
transferred monthly metering is highest level
supplemental
reconciliation possible. Frequency of
fossil fuel used
reconciliation provides for
reasonable diligence.

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 42 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
Justify Measurement or
Parameter / Measured/
Source/Sink Unit Method Frequency Estimation and
Variable Estimated
Frequency
F CH4 m3CH4 / m3NG Estimated or At standard conditions Estimated or According to the supplier’s
measured based on measured each specifications
Average Volume
invoicing invoicing interval
Fraction of
Methane in the
Supplemental
Fossil Fuel
ρ CH4 tonnes CH4 / Constant 0.0006785 at standard N/A If this value is used, all
m3 CH4 temperature and pressure volumes must be adjusted
Density of
for standard temperature
methane
and pressure. Agreement
must be achieved between
volume and density of
methane in the
measurement. Values for
CH4 density at other
reference temperatures can
be found in Table A2.
DE % Estimated Methane destruction N/A The manufacturer or
efficiency of the combustion vendor’s specifications
Destruction
device. To be obtained from represent the industry
Efficiency of the
manufacturer or vendor’s practice and the highest
flare
specifications (or from level of detail.
Appendix A: Default Values
for Methane Destruction
Efficiency)
GWP CH4 Unitless Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
Global Warming
Handbook.
Potential for CH4

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 43 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
Justify Measurement or
Parameter / Measured/
Source/Sink Unit Method Frequency Estimation and
Variable Estimated
Frequency
EF CO2 kg CO2 / m3 Constant Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
Emission factor
Handbook.
for carbon dioxide
as a result of fossil
fuel combustion
EF N2O kg N2O / m3 Constant Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
Emission factor
Handbook.
for nitrous oxide
as a result of fossil
fuel combustion
GWP N2O Unitless Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
Global Warming
Handbook.
Potential for N2O

B21 – Landfill
Gas Flaring Emissions LFG Flaring = Vol LFG * F CH4 * ρ CH4 * (1 – DE) * GWP CH4 + Vol LFG * EF N2O * GWP N2O / 1000

Emissions LFG Flaring tonnes CO2e N/A N/A N/A Quantity being calculated.

Vol LFG m3 LFG Direct metering Continuous metering Continuous Direct metering represents
the industry practice and
Volume of LFG (measured or
the highest level of detail.
combusted in the adjusted to
flare represent at
standard
temperature and
pressure)

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 44 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
Justify Measurement or
Parameter / Measured/
Source/Sink Unit Method Frequency Estimation and
Variable Estimated
Frequency
F CH4 m3 CH4 / m3 Measured Direct measurement Monthly sampling Landfill gas composition
LFG or more frequent should remain relatively
Average Fraction
stable during steady-state
of Methane in the
operation.
Landfill Gas
ρ CH4 tonnes CH4 / Constant 0.0006785 at standard N/A If this value is used, all
m3 CH4 temperature and pressure volumes must be adjusted
Density of
for standard temperature
methane
and pressure. Agreement
must be achieved between
volume and density of
methane in the
measurement. Values for
CH4 density at other
reference temperatures can
be found in Table A2.
DE % Estimated Methane destruction N/A The manufacturer or
efficiency of the combustion vendor’s specifications
Destruction
device. To be obtained from represent the industry
Efficiency of the
manufacturer or vendor’s practice and the highest
flare
specifications (or from level of detail.
Appendix A: Default Values
for Methane Destruction
Efficiency)
GWP CH4 Unitless Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
Global Warming
Handbook.
Potential for CH4

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 45 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
Justify Measurement or
Parameter / Measured/
Source/Sink Unit Method Frequency Estimation and
Variable Estimated
Frequency
EF N2O kg N2O / m3 Constant N/A N/A Reference value in
Greenhouse Gas Inventory
Emission factor
Guidance: Direct
for nitrous oxide
Emissions from Stationary
as a result of
Combustion Sources
landfill gas
published by the United
combustion
States Environmental
Protection Agency, 2016
GWP N2O Unitless Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
Global Warming
Handbook.
Potential for N2O

B22 - Fossil Fuel Emissions Fossil Fuel Use = [∑ (Vol Fuel i * EF Fuel i CO2) + ∑ (Vol Fuel i * EF Fuel i CH4 * GWP CH4) + ∑ (Vol Fuel i * EF Fuel i N2O * GWP N2O)] / 1000
Use
Emissions Fossil Fuel tonnes CO2e N/A N/A N/A Quantity being calculated.
Use

Vol Fuel i m3 Measured Direct metering or Continuous Both methods are standard
reconciliation of volumes metering or practice. Frequency of
Volume of Each
transferred monthly metering is highest level
Type of Fuel used
reconciliation possible. Frequency of
to run the landfill
reconciliation provides for
gas capture and
reasonable diligence.
flaring system
EF Fuel i CO2 kg CO2 / m3 Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
CO2 Emission
Handbook.
Factor for Each
Fuel Combusted

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 46 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
Justify Measurement or
Parameter / Measured/
Source/Sink Unit Method Frequency Estimation and
Variable Estimated
Frequency
EF Fuel i CH4 kg CH4 / m3 Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
CH4 Emission
Handbook.
Factor for Each
Fuel Combusted
EF Fuel i N2O kg N2O / m3 Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
N2O Emission
Handbook.
Factor for Each
Fuel Combusted
GWP CH4 Unitless Estimated Provided Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
Global Warming
Handbook.
Potential for CH4

GWP N2O Unitless Estimated Provided Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
Global Warming
Handbook.
Potential of N2O

Project Condition
P4 - Fuel Emissions Fuel Extraction/Processing = [∑ (Vol Fuel i * EF i CO2) + ∑ (Vol Fuel i * EF i CH4 * GWP CH4) + ∑ (Vol Fuel i * EF i N2O * GWP N2O)] / 1000
Extraction and
Processing Emissions Fuel tonnes CO2e N/A N/A N/A Quantity being calculated.
Extraction/Processing

Vol Fuel i L, m3, or Measured Direct metering or Continuous Both methods are standard
reconciliation of volume in metering or practice. Frequency of
Volume of Fuel Other
storage (including volumes monthly metering is highest level
Combusted (In
received) reconciliation possible. Frequency of
P12 and P13)
reconciliation provides for
reasonable diligence.

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 47 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
Justify Measurement or
Parameter / Measured/
Source/Sink Unit Method Frequency Estimation and
Variable Estimated
Frequency
EF i CO2 kg CO2 per Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
L, m3, or Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
CO2 Emission
other Handbook.
Factor for
Extraction and
Processing of
Each Fuel
EF i CH4 kg CH4 per Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
L, m3, or Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
CH4 Emission
other Handbook.
Factor for
Extraction and
Processing of
Each Fuel
EF i N2O kg N2O Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
N2O Emission per L, m3, or
Handbook.
Factor for other
Extraction and
Processing of
Each Fuel
GWP CH4 Unitless Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
Global Warming
Handbook.
Potential for CH4
GWP N2O Unitless Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
Global Warming
Handbook.
Potential for N2O
P12 - Fossil Fuel Emissions Fossil Fuel Use = [∑ (Vol Fuel i * EF Fuel i CO2) + ∑ (Vol Fuel i * EF Fuel i CH4 * GWP CH4) + ∑ (Vol Fuel i * EF Fuel i N2O * GWP N2O)] / 1000
Use

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 48 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
Justify Measurement or
Parameter / Measured/
Source/Sink Unit Method Frequency Estimation and
Variable Estimated
Frequency
Emissions Fossil Fuel tonnes CO2e N/A N/A N/A Quantity being calculated.
Use

Vol Fuel i m3 Measured Direct metering or Continuous Both methods are standard
reconciliation of volumes metering or practice. Frequency of
Volume of Each
transferred monthly metering is highest level
Type of Fuel used
reconciliation possible. Frequency of
to run the landfill
reconciliation provides for
gas combustion
reasonable diligence.
and recovery
system
EF Fuel i CO2 kg CO2 / m3 Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
CO2 Emission
Handbook.
Factor for Each
Fuel Combusted
EF Fuel i CH4 kg CH4 / m3 Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
CH4 Emission
Handbook.
Factor for Each
Fuel Combusted
EF Fuel i N2O kg N2O / m3 Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
N2O Emission
Handbook.
Factor for Each
Fuel Combusted
GWP CH4 Unitless Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
Global Warming
Handbook.
Potential for CH4
GWP N2O Unitless Estimated Provided Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 49 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
Justify Measurement or
Parameter / Measured/
Source/Sink Unit Method Frequency Estimation and
Variable Estimated
Frequency
Global Warming Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
Potential for N2O Handbook.

P13 - Emissions Fuel for Flare= Vol Fuel * EF CO2 / 1000 + Vol Fuel * F CH4 * ρ CH4 * (1 – DE CH4) * GWP CH4 + Vol Fuel * EF N2O * GWP N2O / 1000
Supplemental
Fossil Fuel Emissions Fuel for tonnes CO2e N/A N/A N/A Quantity being calculated.
Needed for Flare

Flaring Vol Fuel m3 Measured Direct metering or Continuous Both methods are standard
reconciliation of volumes metering or practice. Frequency of
Volume of
transferred monthly metering is highest level
supplemental
reconciliation possible. Frequency of
fossil fuel used
reconciliation provides for
reasonable diligence.
F CH4 m3 CH4 / m3 Estimated or At standard conditions Estimated or According to the supplier’s
NG measured based on measured each specifications
Average Volume
invoicing invoicing interval
Fraction of
Methane in the
Supplemental
fossil fuel

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 50 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
Justify Measurement or
Parameter / Measured/
Source/Sink Unit Method Frequency Estimation and
Variable Estimated
Frequency
ρ CH4 tonnes CH4 / Constant 0.0006785 at standard N/A If this value is used, all
m3 CH4 temperature and pressure volumes must be adjusted
Density of
for standard temperature
methane
and pressure. Agreement
must be achieved between
volume and density of
methane in the
measurement. Values for
CH4 density at other
reference temperatures can
be found in Table A2.
DE % Estimated Methane destruction N/A The manufacturer or
efficiency of the combustion vendor’s specifications
Destruction
device. To be obtained from represent the industry
Efficiency of the
manufacturer or vendor’s practice and the highest
combustion device
specifications (or from level of detail.
Appendix A: Default Values
for Methane Destruction
Efficiency)
EF CO2 kg CO2 / m3 Constant Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
Emission factor
Handbook.
for carbon dioxide
as a result of fossil
fuel combustion
GWP CH4 Unitless Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
Global Warming
Handbook.
Potential for CH4

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 51 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
Justify Measurement or
Parameter / Measured/
Source/Sink Unit Method Frequency Estimation and
Variable Estimated
Frequency
EF N2O kg N2O / m3 Constant Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
Emission factor
Handbook.
for nitrous oxide
as a result of fossil
fuel combustion
GWP N2O Unitless Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
Global Warming
Handbook.
Potential for N2O
P16 – On-site Emissions On-site LFG Combustion = Vol LFG * F CH4 * ρ CH4 * (1 – DE) * GWP CH4 + Vol LFG * EF N2O * GWP N2O / 1000
Landfill Gas
Combustion
Emissions LFG tonnes CO2e N/A N/A N/A Quantity being calculated.
Combustion

Vol LFG m3LFG Direct metering Continuous metering Continuous Direct metering represents
the industry practice and
Volume of LFG (measured or
the highest level of detail.
combusted in the adjusted to
combustion device represent at
(either a flare or standard
energy recovery temperature and
system) pressure)
F CH4 m3CH4 / Measured Direct measurement Monthly sampling Landfill gas composition
m3LFG or more frequent should remain relatively
Average Fraction
stable during steady-state
of Methane in the
operation.
Landfill Gas

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 52 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
Justify Measurement or
Parameter / Measured/
Source/Sink Unit Method Frequency Estimation and
Variable Estimated
Frequency
ρ CH4 tonnes CH4 / Constant 0.0006785 at standard N/A If this value is used, all
m3 CH4 temperature and pressure volumes must be adjusted
Density of
for standard temperature
methane
and pressure. Agreement
must be achieved between
volume and density of
methane in the
measurement. Values for
CH4 density at other
reference temperatures can
be found in Table A2.
DE % Estimated Methane destruction N/A The manufacturer or
efficiency of the combustion vendor’s specifications
Destruction
device. To be obtained from represent the industry
Efficiency of the
manufacturer or vendor’s practice and the highest
combustion device
specifications (or from level of detail.
Appendix A: Default Values
for Methane Destruction
Efficiency)
GWP CH4 Unitless Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
Global Warming
Handbook.
Potential for CH4

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 53 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
Justify Measurement or
Parameter / Measured/
Source/Sink Unit Method Frequency Estimation and
Variable Estimated
Frequency
EF N2O kg N2O / m3 Constant N/A N/A Reference value in
Greenhouse Gas Inventory
Emission factor
Guidance: Direct
for nitrous oxide
Emissions from Stationary
as a result of
Combustion Sources
landfill gas
published by the United
combustion
States Environmental
Protection Agency, 2016
GWP N2O Unitless Estimated Provided in Carbon Offset N/A Reference value in Carbon
Emission Factors Handbook Offset Emission Factors
Global Warming
Handbook.
Potential for N2O
P19 – Off-site Emissions Off-site LFG Combustion = Vol LFG * F CH4 * ρ CH4 * (1 – DE) * GWP CH4 + Vol LFG * EF N2O * GWP N2O / 1000
Landfill Gas
Combustion Emissions LFG
tonnes CO2e N/A N/A N/A Quantity being calculated.
Combustion

Direct metering
Vol LFG
(measured or
Volume of LFG adjusted to Direct metering represents
3
Placed into a m LFG represent at Continuous metering Continuous the industry practice and
Natural Gas standard the highest level of detail.
Pipeline Network temperature and
pressure)
F CH4 Landfill gas composition
Average Fraction m3CH4 / Monthly sampling should remain relatively
Measured Direct measurement
of Methane in the m3LFG or more frequent stable during steady-state
Landfill Gas operation.

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 54 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
Justify Measurement or
Parameter / Measured/
Source/Sink Unit Method Frequency Estimation and
Variable Estimated
Frequency
If this value is used, all
volumes must be adjusted
for standard temperature
and pressure. Agreement
ρ CH4 must be achieved between
tonnes CH4 / 0.0006785 at standard
Density of Constant N/A volume and density of
m3 CH4 temperature and pressure
methane methane in the
measurement. Values for
CH4 density at other
reference temperatures can
be found in Table A2.
Methane destruction
efficiency of the combustion If placed into a natural gas
DE device. To be obtained from pipeline network, the
Appendix A: Default Values combustion device will
Destruction % Estimated for Methane Destruction N/A likely not be known
Efficiency of the Efficiency. If the combustion therefore the most
combustion device device is not known the most conservative value in Table
conservative value must be A1 must be used.
used.
GWP CH4 Reference value in Carbon
Provided in Carbon Offset
Global Warming Unitless Estimated N/A Offset Emission Factors
Emission Factors Handbook
Potential for CH4 Handbook.

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 55 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
Justify Measurement or
Parameter / Measured/
Source/Sink Unit Method Frequency Estimation and
Variable Estimated
Frequency
Reference value in
EF N2O Greenhouse Gas Inventory
Emission factor Guidance: Direct
for nitrous oxide Emissions from Stationary
kg N2O / m3 Constant N/A N/A
as a result of Combustion Sources
landfill gas published by the United
combustion States Environmental
Protection Agency, 2016
GWP N2O Reference value in Carbon
Provided in Carbon Offset
Global Warming Unitless Estimated N/A Offset Emission Factors
Emission Factors Handbook
Potential for N2O Handbook.

P18 – Biogenic Emissions Biogenic LFG Combustion = Vol LFG * F CH4 * ρ CH4 * DE * 44/16
CO2 from
Emissions Biogenic tonnes CO2e N/A N/A N/A Quantity being calculated.
Landfill Gas
LFG Combustion
Combustion
Vol LFG m3 LFG Direct metering Continuous metering Continuous Direct metering represents
the industry practice and
Volume of LFG (measured or
the highest level of detail.
combusted in the adjusted to
combustion device represent at
(either a flare or standard
energy recovery temperature and
system) or placed pressure)
into a natural gas
pipeline.
F CH4 m3 CH4 / m3 Measured Direct measurement Monthly sampling Landfill gas composition
LFG or more frequent should remain relatively
Average Fraction
stable during steady-state
of Methane in the
operation.
Landfill Gas

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 56 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
Justify Measurement or
Parameter / Measured/
Source/Sink Unit Method Frequency Estimation and
Variable Estimated
Frequency
ρ CH4 tonnes CH4 / Constant 0.0006785 at standard N/A If this value is used, all
m3 CH4 temperature and pressure volumes must be adjusted
Density of
for standard temperature
methane
and pressure. Agreement
must be achieved between
volume and density of
methane in the
measurement. Values for
CH4 density at other
reference temperatures can
be found in Table A2.
DE % Estimated Methane destruction N/A The manufacturer or
efficiency of the combustion vendor’s specifications
Destruction
device. To be obtained from represent the industry
Efficiency of the
manufacturer or vendor’s practice and the highest
combustion device
specifications (or from level of detail.
Appendix A: Default Values
for Methane Destruction
Efficiency)
44/16 Unitless Constant N/A N/A N/A
Molar Mass Ratio
of Carbon Dioxide
to Methane

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 57 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
5.0 Documents and Records
Documentation (documents and records) are a key element to project development. The types of documents and
records required to demonstrate that an offset project meets regulatory and protocol requirements can vary by
project. It is the project developer’s responsibility to ensure the project plan clearly outlines documents and
records for the offset project.
The verification process relies heavily on the quality and availability of documentation to support the GHG
assertion. Projects are audited to a reasonable level of assurance. A list of required objective evidence of project
implementation is outlined in Table 7. Attestation is not considered objective evidence and is not accepted as
proof that an activity took place.
Documents and records are required to be:
• Legible, identifiable, traceable;
• Centrally located;
• Dated;
• Easily located (easily searched);
• Orderly;
• Retained as per section 29(4) of the Carbon Competitiveness Incentive Regulation; and,
• Prevented from loss.
In the case of aggregated projects, subproject owners and the aggregator must both retain records as required
above.
Project developers, including aggregators, are required to retain copies of all required records and any additional
records needed to support the GHG reduction. The project developer shall establish and apply quality
management procedures to manage data and information. Written procedures must be established for each
measurement task outlining responsibility, timing and record location requirements. The greater the rigour of the
management system for the data, the more easily verification/re-verification can be conducted for the project.
5.1 Documents
Documents are the instructions or plan on how a certain activity is carried out.
Documents may be required to demonstrate that an offset project meets program criteria, eligibility, baseline
eligibility and project offset quantification. Examples of documents include offset project plan, procedures,
specifications, drawings, regulations, standards, guidelines, etc. These documents must include a list of
records available to the verifier that demonstrate the offset criteria have been met. The offset project
documents should also indicate how the records will be managed (i.e., retention, storage and access).
Documents may be stand-alone or interdependent. Documents may be subject to change or periodic update.
The project developer must be able to demonstrate that the most current quantification version of a document
is being used. Older versions applicable to specific GHG assertions must be retained as part of the project
documentation as per section 29(4) of the Carbon Competitiveness Incentive Regulation.
In addition to the criteria outlined in this protocol, the emission offset project developer is required to provide
documents to show that general offset criteria in the Standard for Greenhouse Gas Emission Offset Project
Developers have been met. These criteria are summarized in Table 6.

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 58 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
Table 6: Examples of Documents Required to Meet Offset Criteria
Offset Criterion Example of Document
Counted once Written explanation of where the risks of double counting may be and
mitigation strategies to ensure that no double counting occurs. Mitigation
strategies should include a methodology for assuring no double counting.
Beyond business as usual Requirements outlined in the Carbon Competitiveness Incentive Regulation and
(BAU) and sector future additionality directives are met.
common practice
No leakage Written explanation of how the project ensures there is no leakage of
greenhouse gase emissions.
Permanence Written explanation of how permanence is addressed.
Project eligibility Written explanation of how the project is eligible to generate emission offsets.
Criteria include demonstrating ownership, project location within Alberta, and
adherence to an approved protocol.
Baseline condition Methodology used to measure baseline condition stated in the protocol (this is
the baseline practice over the three year period immediately prior to the offset
project start date). The baseline condition must address the level of service,
frequency and duration of measurement, units, emissions factors, and default
values for quantifying baseline emissions.
Project quantification Methodology used to measure the project condition over the entire project
period. Project quantification includes the frequency and duration of the
measurement, units, emissions factors, frequency of calibration, default values
for quantifying emissions, and other relevant criteria stated in the protocol.

5.2 Records
Records are required to prove completion of the project as planned. Records include, but are not limited to,
invoices, contracts, metered results, maintenance logs, calculations, databases, photographs, calibration
records, etc.
Records must be retained according to the requirements outlined in Section 5.0 and as indicated in the offset
project plan. In the case of an aggregated project, the individuals and the aggregator must both retain
sufficient records to demonstrate that the offset criteria have been met. Table 7 outlines examples of records
that are required to support this protocol. Records must be available and be disclosed to a verifier and/or
government re-verifier upon request.
Table 7: Record Requirements and Examples of Records
Record Examples of Records
Requirement
Project in Alberta • Evidence that the project has occurred in Alberta.

Activity start date • Evidence that the reduction activity started on or after January 1, 2002 such as a
on or after January work order, invoice, or dated procedure.
1, 2002

Ownership • Evidence that the emission offsets are clearly owned or allowed to be collected
by the project developer, which may include agreements, contracts, etc.

Nov 2018 Quantification Protocol for Landfill Gas Capture and Combustion Page 59 of 62
© 2018 Government of Alberta
Measurement • Description of meters used, meter model number, serial number, manufacturer’s
equipment calibration procedures and calibration records or standards of calibration.
• For commercial purchases, proof of commercial grade metering from the supplier
is required.
• For computer control system data, a description of the data.

Baseline • Raw data in database and/or spreadsheet format, including all necessary
calculations information and records for the project’s baseline condition as defined by the
protocol.
• Baseline data must include three years that immediately precede the project.
• If sampling was used, summary statistics and methods used to calculate statistics.
• A record of all adjustments made to raw baseline data with justifications and
support on how adjustments are in alignment with the protocol.

Project calculations • Raw data and calculations in database and/or spreadsheet format, including all
necessary information and records for the project’s project condition as defined
by the protocol.
• If sampling was used, summary statistics and methods used to calculate statistics.
• A record of all adjustments made to raw project data with justifications and
support on how adjustments are in alignment with the protocol.

Protocol • Evidence to demonstrate that the project is implemented in alignment with


applicability protocol applicability requirements

Note: Attestations are not considered sufficient proof that an activity took place and do not meet
verification requirements.

5.3 Quality Assurance/Quality Control Considerations


Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) procedures are applied to add confidence that all measurements
and calculations have been made correctly. These include, but are not limited to:
• Ensuring that the changes to operational procedures continue to function as planned and achieve GHG
reductions;
• Ensuring that the measurement and calculation system and GHG reduction reporting remains in place
and accurate;
• Checking the validity of all data before it is processed, including emission factors, static factors and
acquired data;
• Performing recalculations of quantification procedures to reduce the possibility of mathematical
errors;
• Storing the data in its raw form so it can be retrieved for verification;
• Protecting records of data and documentation;
• Recording and explaining any adjustment made to raw data in the associated report and files;
• A contingency plan for potential data loss;
• Instrument calibration performed regularly to ensure accuracy; and,
• Sampling protocols are followed to ensure accuracy.

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© 2018 Government of Alberta
5.4 Liability
Carbon offset projects must be implemented according to the approved protocol and in accordance with
government regulations. The department reserves the right to re-verify emission offsets and associated
projects submitted to the department for compliance under the Carbon Competitiveness Incentive Regulation
and may require corrections based on re-verification findings.

Any comments or questions regarding the content of this document may be directed to:

Alberta Climate Change Office


Regulatory and Compliance Branch
12th Floor, 10025 – 106 Street
Edmonton, Alberta, T5J 1G4
E-mail: AEP.GHG@gov.ab.ca

Original signed by: Date: October 31, 2018


Justin Wheler
Executive Director
Climate Change Regulatory and Compliance Branch
Alberta Climate Change Office

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© 2018 Government of Alberta
APPENDIX A: Quantification Parameters

Methane Destruction Efficiency


The methane destruction efficiency (DECH4) is defined as the efficiency of the combustion device in oxidizing
methane in landfill gas to carbon dioxide. The following default values are taken from the Technical Guidance for
the Quantification of Specified Gas Emissions from Landfills which refers to the USEPA for non–halogenated
species 3. They are distinguished between boiler/steam and gas turbines, flares and internal combustion (IC)
engines.

Table A1: Default Values for Methane Destruction Efficiency (USEPA)


Type of LFG Control Device Methane Destruction Efficiency
Range (%) Average (%)
Boiler / Steam Turbines 67-99+ 99.8
Gas Turbines 97-99+ 98.2
Unassisted Flares 38-99+ 98.0
Air or Steam Assisted Flares^ 38-99+ 99.5
IC Engines 25-99+ 86.1* (98+)
Passive Venting 0
*A recent review of literature and experiences from members of the Landfill Gas Working Group have shown average destruction efficiencies for IC engines
of 98% or greater.
^Must be properly operated and highly turbulent

Methane Density
The appropriate methane density can be selected from Table A2 based on the desired reference temperature.

Table A2: Density of CH4 at 1 atm/101.325kPa


Temperature (°C) Temperature (K) Density (kg/m3) 4
0 273.15 0.718
5 278.15 0.705
10 283.15 0.692
15 288.15 0.680
20 293.15 0.668
25 298.15 0.657

3
United States Environmental Protection Agency. (1998). 2.4 Municipal Solid Waste Landfills. In AP-42. Retrieved from
https://www3.epa.gov/ttnchie1/ap42/ch02/final/c02s04.pdf

4
Setzmann, U., & Wagner, W. (1991). A New Equation of State and Tables of Thermodynamic Properties for Methane Covering the Range from the
Melting Line to 625 K at Pressures up to 1000 MPa.J. Phys. Chem. Ref. Data, 20(6):1061-1151.

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© 2018 Government of Alberta

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