Normative documents for SBP Standards v2.1
SBP Standards v2.1 will come into effect on 29 July 2026. A transition period will apply from this date until 28 October 2027, allowing Certificate Holders time to review their systems, align their practices with the updated requirements and incorporate the updates to their normal audit cycle. Audits against the v2.1 Standards may only be conducted once a Certification Body has formally updated its accreditation scope to include the new version.
SBP Standards v2.1 represent the next step in the evolution of the SBP certification scheme. The update strengthens sustainability safeguards, improves auditability and consistency, and reinforces alignment with the EU Renewable Energy Directive (REDIII), whilst maintaining the core principles and risk‑based architecture of the SBP scheme.
The v2.1 update builds on experience from the implementation of SBP Standards v2.0, including insights gained through certification audits and the application of normative interpretations and guidance. These lessons have been reviewed and, where appropriate, embedded directly into the Standards to improve clarity, consistency, and practical implementation. Stakeholder input received during the public consultation has also informed the finalised framework.
Please note that as a result of the changes to SBP Standard 1, SBP-endorsed and interim Regional Risk Assessments (RRAs) will need to be updated. We aim to release updated RRAs by 29 July 2026, the effective date of v2.1.
