RFS legislation

Legislation for the Renewable Fuel Scheme

This page explains the legal framework for the Renewable Fuel Scheme (RFS). The NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (NSW DCCEEW) develops this framework. 

It includes: 

  • Electricity Supply Act 1995 (the Act)
  • Electricity Supply (General) Regulation 2014 (the Regulation)
  • Renewable Fuel Scheme Rule of 2024 (RFS Rule).

The RFS Rule is in draft stage.

See the RFS rule and changes topic for more information. 

The Act

The Electricity Supply Act 1995 (the Act) established the RFS under Electricity Supply Act 1995 No 94 - NSW Legislation.

Schedule 4A, Part 3, Division 1 of the Act sets out its legal framework. This includes IPART’s functions and responsibilities as Scheme Administrator and Scheme Regulator.

The Regulation

The Electricity Supply (General) Regulation 2014 (the Regulation) supports the Act. It has details about the core functions of the Scheme Administrator and the Scheme Regulator. Part 7A of the Regulation sets out the RFS's annual green hydrogen target. 

Amendments

There was an amendment to the Regulation in December 2024. This relates to scheme penalty rates from 2026 to 2036. 

Read the amendment.

Key dates for scheme participants

The Scheme Regulator has deferred scheme participants’ obligations until 2026. Scheme participants now have more time to meet 2024 and 2025 compliance obligations. 

The earliest deadline has been deferred to 30 September 2026. 

See the updated key dates in Notice 08/2024 - Renewable Fuel Scheme - Key dates for the 2024 & 2025 compliance periods.

Updates

NSW DCCEEW is currently investigating options to expand the RFS to include other renewable fuels.  Check our website regularly for updates.  You can also visit the NSW Climate and Energy Action website.