EU ETS compliance offers Brussels Airport Company control, certainty and long-term growth

Navigating complex EU ETS requirements with confidence

Brussels Airport Company NV (BAC) is the operator and manager of Brussels Airport, responsible for the development, management and operation of the airport’s infrastructure and services. As a key mobility hub for both passengers and freight, the airport manages complex, energy-intensive operations with a significant carbon footprint.

As a result, BAC falls under the European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS). However, EU ETS legislation is highly technical, continuously evolving and increasingly demanding. Internally, there was uncertainty about how specific regulatory requirements should be interpreted and applied, creating concerns around compliance, reporting obligations and future regulatory developments.

While operational data was available, there was no clear framework for translating this information into an up-to-date monitoring plan or a long-term approach to emissions management. The challenge was clear: how could BAC ensure full compliance with EU ETS requirements in an efficient and manageable way, without placing an excessive administrative burden on internal teams?

Developing a robust EU ETS monitoring framework

Encon acted as both a technical expert and strategic advisor throughout the process. Based on the available operational data, we developed a targeted approach focused on updating the monitoring plan in line with the requirements of Phase IV of the EU ETS.

We reviewed all relevant emission sources, assessed measurement methodologies and uncertainty levels, updated monitoring procedures and verified the performance and applicability of measurement equipment. The monitoring plan was fully revised using the latest European templates and adapted to the specific operational context of Brussels Airport Company.

Beyond updating the documentation, we also established a clear framework for the ongoing monitoring and management of CO₂ emissions under the EU ETS. This included identifying implications for future reporting, verification activities and strategic decision-making.

The result was not only regulatory compliance, but also a clear multi-year roadmap that provides guidance for emissions monitoring and compliance management through to 2030.

A clear roadmap for long-term compliance

The collaboration resulted in a monitoring plan that was delivered on time, based on validated data and fully compliant with current EU ETS requirements.

Today, Brussels Airport Company has a structured framework for monitoring, reporting and managing its emissions within the European Emissions Trading System. The organisation now has a clear understanding of which data must be collected, how emissions will be monitored over the coming years and which processes are required to ensure ongoing compliance.

By relying on Encon’s expertise, BAC significantly reduced the risk of compliance errors, penalties and unnecessary rework. At the same time, the organisation gained greater regulatory certainty, improved internal efficiency and the confidence that its emissions management approach is fit for the future.