SBP Standards v2.1 published

At the end of April, we published v2.1 of the SBP Standards, marking an important step in the continued evolution of our certification scheme. The update strengthens sustainability safeguards, improves audit consistency, and reinforces alignment with the EU Renewable Energy Directive (REDIII), whilst maintaining our established risk-based certification framework.

SBP Standards v2.1 build on practical experience from the implementation of v2.0, incorporating insights from certification audits, normative interpretations, and stakeholder feedback from our stakeholder consultation on v2.1 drafts. The result is a more streamlined and consistent set of requirements, designed to support clearer and more effective implementation across the scheme.

The newly updated framework includes SBP Standards 1 to 6, the Glossary, and Instruction Documents 1A and 5E, alongside revised supporting materials such as Q&As and Normative Interpretations. We have also published an Overview of Changes and Stakeholder Comments and our responses to provide transparency on the updates.

SBP Standards v2.1 will come into effect on 29 July 2026, with a transition period running until 28 October 2027. During this time, Certificate Holders can prepare for implementation and align updates with their audit cycles.

Clearer safeguards for sustainable feedstock sourcing are introduced, alongside strengthened recognised risk management pathways, including the use of Company Risk Assessments where appropriate, and enhanced governance, data integrity, and audit consistency across the scheme.

To support stakeholders, we have published a range of accompanying resources on our website. These include detailed documentation, supporting guidance, and practical tools to assist with understanding and implementation.

A recording of the SBP Standards v2.1 launch webinar is available, providing an overview of the key changes and what they mean in practice. In addition, updated training videos have been released to help Certificate Holders and Certification Bodies prepare for the transition. These supporting materials have been supplemented with the v2.1 Q&A webinars held on 30 June.

For more information, please contact our Standards Manager, Alex Orban.