The carbon pricing mechanism is up and running, so what now?

Key Points:

Although the first emissions liability surrender period is not until 15 June 2013, energy consumers and suppliers should be taking steps now to ensure they're ready.

The start of the new year means we are now more than halfway through the first year of the Federal Government's carbon pricing mechanism (CPM).

Although the first emissions liability surrender period – when liable entities will need to surrender eligible emissions units for 75% of their emissions liability, or pay a unit shortfall charge – is not until 15 June 2013, the price imposed on carbon is beginning to be felt and passed through the Australian economy (albeit in less sensational fashion than some anticipated).