Ricardo methodology enables remote delivery of waste auditing during lockdown

Ricardo’s waste experts have adapted their methodology to perform independent annual sustainability audits – required by UK gas and electricity market regulator, Ofgem, for selected sites operating under the Non-Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) – to allow them to continue to be performed during the ongoing lockdown.

With many UK customer sites temporarily closed or with limited access to control the Covid-19 pandemic, the ability for companies to meet their regulatory obligations is a significant challenge. Ricardo’s experts have implemented the company’s ‘digital-first’ strategy to enable the effective delivery of remote RHI sustainability audits for sites utilising wastes as feedstocks.

The new methodology developed by Ricardo waste experts enables them to continue to get an in-depth understanding of a customer’s processes and procedures, while eliminating the need for a site visit.  The approach aligns with Ofgem’s guidance that recognizes the importance of applying alternative approaches during ‘exceptional circumstances’ to ensure that companies can continue to meet their obligations. Although alternative approaches can be implemented, audits must still be performed in accordance with the International Standard for Non-Financial Assurance Engagements, ISAE 3000. A consequence of companies not complying with the requirement for an audit is the potential for enforcement action, which can include the suspension of payments under the scheme.

Ricardo waste experts are also utilizing the same tools and principles to deliver technical due diligence for waste technology projects. The approach enables the waste experts to work closely with the customer’s site team virtually to enable critical infrastructure to continue and providing investors with robust insight into their projects.

Phil White, Ricardo waste technical services manager, commented “I’m proud of the response our waste experts have taken to efficiently develop a robust science-led approach that enables our customers to continue to meet their sustainability obligations during these challenging times. It’s important that even with everything that is happening that we continue to help companies keep sustainability as a focus.”