New accreditation requirements: what they mean for ISCC EU, CBs, and System Users
Accreditation is an important topic for everyone involved in ISCC EU certification. As the implementation deadline for the new accreditation requirements under the Renewable Energy Directive (RED) approaches, we are working closely with accreditation authorities and our cooperating Certification Bodies (CBs) to support a smooth and harmonised transition.
In this article, we explain why accreditation requirements were introduced, what they mean in practice, where implementation currently stands, and how we are supporting our CBs and System Users throughout the process.
How the new accreditation framework came about
In 2022, the European Commission (EC) introduced new accreditation requirements for certification schemes recognised under the RED, such as ISCC EU. The aim is to further strengthen confidence in sustainability certification by adding an additional layer of independent oversight.
Recognising that implementing this new framework requires significant preparation by voluntary schemes, accreditation bodies and Certification Bodies alike, the EC postponed its application twice – most recently to 1 January 2027 through Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/196.
How the accreditation framework works
Accreditation provides assurance that certification activities are carried out competently and consistently by CBs that have been independently assessed. Thereby, it supports the credibility, consistency and integrity of sustainability certification and contributes to confidence throughout certified supply chains.
The new framework consists of two complementary processes:
- ISCC EU, as a RED-recognised voluntary scheme, is being assessed by DAkkS, the German national accreditation body, to determine its suitability for accreditation under the framework established by Regulation (EU) 2025/196.
- CBs cooperating with ISCC must obtain accreditation from their respective National Accreditation Bodies (NABs). This confirms that they are competent to perform ISCC EU audits in accordance with the applicable requirements.
Together, these two processes strengthen the governance of the ISCC EU system and help ensure a transparent, consistent and harmonised implementation of RED certification across Europe.
Who's who in the accreditation framework?
European Commission (EC) | Sets the legal framework for accreditation under the Renewable Energy Directive. |
The RED-recognised certification scheme being assessed for suitability for accreditation. | |
Germany’s National Accreditation Body. It is assessing ISCC EU and accredits German Certification Bodies. | |
Accredit Certification Bodies in their respective countries, confirming their competence to perform ISCC EU audits. | |
Coordinates the network of National Accreditation Bodies across Europe and promotes a harmonised accreditation system. | |
Conduct ISCC EU audits and certify companies. | |
System Users | Companies certified under ISCC EU. |
Implementation: your questions answered
Has the implementation timeline changed?
Currently, the EC is exploring a possible further extension to allow additional time to address outstanding accreditation-related matters. While no formal decision has yet been published, further information is expected after the summer. We anticipate an extension until 1 January 2028 and will inform you as soon as any formal decision is made.
What is the status of ISCC EU accreditation?
ISCC EU is currently undergoing its assessment by DAkkS regarding its suitability for accreditation under Regulation (EU) 2025/196. At this stage, we expect the ongoing evaluation to result in a positive outcome. We continue to engage closely with both DAkkS and the European co-operation for Accreditation (EA), which coordinates the NAB network across Europe, to support a transparent, consistent and harmonised implementation of the new accreditation requirements throughout Europe.
What do cooperating CBs need to do now?
Accreditation activities are progressing across Europe, and we encourage our cooperating CBs to begin the accreditation process now or as early as possible.
CBs established in the European Union must engage with their respective NAB regarding accreditation. For the following countries, we can provide more detailed information on the current status:
- CBs established in Germany may already engage with DAkkS regarding accreditation under the applicable RED requirements and ISCC EU scope.
- NABs in Greece, Austria and Latvia are already accepting ISCC EU accreditation applications from eligible CBs established in those countries.
- NABs in the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, Poland, Italy and Denmark are expected to extend their accreditation scope to ISCC EU once the relevant approvals by the EA have been completed.
For CBs established outside the European Union, it may be advisable to explore accreditation opportunities through European NABs.
We advise all our cooperating CBs to remain in regular contact with their respective NABs regarding national implementation.
Will anything change for System Users?
For System Users, the introduction of accreditation does not change the ISCC EU certification requirements or require any immediate action. Accreditation strengthens the governance framework behind certification by providing additional assurance that certification activities are carried out by competent and independently assessed CBs. While our cooperating CBs prepare for accreditation, certified companies can continue their certification activities as usual.
Looking ahead: we will keep you informed
The coming months will be important as accreditation activities continue to progress across Europe and further guidance becomes available from the EC and accreditation authorities.
We will continue to monitor developments closely, engage actively with DAkkS, the EA and NABs, and provide timely updates through our newsroom, system updates, and CB Notifications, which our cooperating CBs receive via email.
We appreciate the constructive collaboration with our cooperating CBs, System Users, accreditation authorities and all other stakeholders throughout this process. As further milestones are reached, we will continue to keep you informed and support you in preparing for the implementation of the new accreditation framework.
Explore ISCC EU
The ISCC EU certification scheme verifies compliance with the European Union’s legal requirements for sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions savings criteria for renewable fuels, as well as the production of electricity, heating and cooling from biomass.
