UDB Communication to certified EOs of the biofuels and bioliquids pathway.

To Economic Operators certified under the Voluntary Schemes,

To whom it may concern,

On Friday, the 20th of September 2024, there was a meeting between the European Commission and the voluntary schemes. The meeting discussed the upcoming deadlines for the implementation of the UDB database, as well as various issues raised by the schemes. The date when the database will be fully operational is the 21st of November 2024.

Below is a summary of the key points:

*    Initial Stock Registration

It has been confirmed that the requirement for the registration of initial stock from the 1st of January 2024 is no longer  mandatory. The EC will not enforce the retrospective registration of transactions from 1 January 2024. First Gathering Points (FGPs) are required to enter initial stock data, rather from the 1st of October 2024.

Downstream operators will receive transactions from upstream operators, enabling smooth and gradual use of the system by all downstream operators. This means, for example, that an oil producer will only begin registering transactions once they receive rapeseed from the FGP in the UDB.

*    Feedstock Transactions

As previously communicated, the European Commission UDB team plans to commence feedstock transactions for all economic operators from 1 October 2024. This will ensure that the necessary data is available in the UDB, allowing downstream operators to use the system. Therefore, it is extremely important for first gathering points (FGPs) to complete their data entry on
time – particularly data on non-certified suppliers (farmers, waste/residue points of origin).

*    Training

The European Commission UDB Team plans to organize training sessions aimed at FGPs. More information on these sessions will be provided shortly. The training will be conducted in English.

*    EU Regulation on the Use of UDB

The European Commission is drafting an EU regulation that will further clarify aspects related to the use of the UDB. We will keep you informed of any progress, as well as any new requirements or changes.

*    Verification of Certificates in the UDB

We remind you of the need to verify the accuracy of the certificates entered into the UDB by KZR INiG. Please pay special attention to the correct entry of locations, scopes, and input/output materials, as this will be a condition for conducting transactions.