RFNBO Certification under the CertifHy EU Voluntary Scheme
Definition
The RFNBO scope of the CertifHy EU Voluntary Scheme is the dedicated certification framework for Renewable Fuels of Non-Biological Origin (RFNBOs). It enables economic operators to demonstrate compliance with sustainability, GHG savings, and traceability requirements for renewable hydrogen and derivatives.
Certification under this scope verifies adherence to the Renewable Energy Directive (RED) and its associated Delegated Acts. It covers lifecycle GHG emissions savings (minimum 70% compared to the fossil comparator), additionality, temporal and geographical correlation for renewable electricity, mass-balance traceability, and chain-of-custody rules.
In practice, RFNBO certification provides a robust, independent, and auditable proof of compliance. It supports regulatory counting toward RED transport and industry decarbonization mandates and thus facilitates the monetization of RFNBO attributes, transactions and access to incentives through the issuance of Proofs of Sustainability (PoS).
Core Principles of the RFNBO Scope
- Lifecycle GHG accounting using the Union methodology, demonstrating at least 70% GHG emissions savings.
- Sustainability and electricity sourcing criteria, including additionality, temporal correlation, and geographical correlation.
- Traceability and chain of custody via a mass-balance system for accurate tracking of certified volumes.
- Independent third-party verification by cooperating Certification Bodies, ensuring transparency and high integrity.
Applicability
RFNBO certification is essential for economic operators seeking proof of compliance for access to national incentives related to RED transport and industry mandates.
Scheme Implementation
CertifHy operates the RFNBO scope through a clear, practical, and auditable framework that includes comprehensive scheme documents, third-party audits by cooperating Certification Bodies, technical guidance, and full public transparency via the Certificates & Non-Conformity Database. The scheme is officially recognised by the European Commission and open to producers worldwide supplying the EU market.
Benefits
- Access to incentives and regulatory targets — Enable your RFNBO volumes to count toward EU and national renewable energy obligations in transport and industry, while unlocking available decarbonisation incentives.
- Risk mitigation and compliance assurance — Reduce regulatory and financial risks through independent audits and expert guidance on complex GHG methodology and electricity sourcing rules.
- Improved market access and buyer confidence — Deliver trusted Proofs of Sustainability (PoS) that strengthen offtake agreements and meet buyer requirements for verified renewable attributes.
- Efficient and economically viable certification — Benefit from practical implementation support that accelerates certification while optimising project economics. Not yet ready for full certification? Start with Precertification to de-risk your project early.
Documentation & Tools
The documents and tools below support Economic Operators, Certification Bodies, and all stakeholders working with the RFNBO scope of the CertifHy EU Voluntary Scheme. They provide practical, clear guidelines fully aligned with the Renewable Energy Directive (RED) and its associated Delegated Acts.
RFNBO Scope Documents
These official documents deliver general and technical guidance for certification under RED. They are designed to bring clarity and consistent implementation across the entire renewable hydrogen and e-fuels value chain.
Essential Tools & Links
- CertifHy EU Voluntary Scheme Documents — Complete scheme rules and general documentation
- RFNBO Guidance Documents — Practical interpretation and day-to-day implementation support
- CertifHy EU Voluntary Scheme Certification Process — Step-by-step overview from precertification to recurring audits
- Certificates & Non-Conformity Database — Public view of issued certificates and status
- Precertification — Early-stage assessment and de-risking service for your project
- FAQ — Answers to the most frequently asked questions related to renewable hydrogen certification under the CertifHy EU Voluntary Scheme
Prepare your organisation for RFNBO and low-carbon hydrogen certification
Gain the Skills & Obtain your Credentials with CertifHy Academy