The Center for Energy and Environmental Systems Analysis (CEESA) is conducting research to advance the scientific and technical foundations of voluntary GHG reporting. This work encompasses the design and evaluation of data systems and archival data produced from U.S. EPA Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program (GHGRP) reporting frameworks, data quality and validation methodologies, and approaches to public data access and transparency—all informed by the standards and structure of the GHGRP. For openGHGRP, the initial research focus is on oil and natural gas reporting as under 40 C.F.R. Part 98, Subparts C and W, with a framework intended to expand to additional sectors as the program develops.

Governance and Stakeholder Engagement

openGHGRP is committed to broad, inclusive participation. The program actively engages—and welcomes involvement from—companies, trade associations, environmental NGOs, state and federal government agencies, investors, and other stakeholders with an interest in the continuity and quality of national GHG emissions data. No patentable or licensable outputs are anticipated from this work; all results are intended for broad public benefit.

During the initial phase, governance is structured through UT Austin’s Industrial Affiliates Program (IAP) framework, with a Steering Committee composed of member representatives and CEESA leadership.

All IAP members are encouraged to participate in program activities and are welcome to attend all program meetings, including Steering Committee meetings. The program seeks broad participation across all membership tiers—Affiliate, Charter and Founding—in discussions related to program implementation, stakeholder communication, transparency, data quality, and the long-term credibility of voluntary GHG reporting.

The EPA-approved reporting protocols adopted by openGHGRP, i.e., the GHGRP Continuity Basis, are established independently by UT Austin researchers and will remain unchanged throughout the duration of the openGHGRP program.