> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://open-carbon-protocol.gitbook.io/ocp-methodology-requirements/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://open-carbon-protocol.gitbook.io/ocp-methodology-requirements/sections/6.-start-date-reporting-period-and-crediting-period.md).

# 6. Start Date, Reporting Period and Crediting Period

You must define how the start date, reporting period and crediting terms are established in the context of a project.

#### **Start Date**

The date that measurement of reduction/removal activity begins.

#### **Reporting Period**

The recurring interval between project data submissions / data verifications. This is set at a methodology level, but must not be longer than 1 year.

The first reporting period usually begins on the project Start Date, so should be completed within 12 months of the Start Date.

For methodologies with a single issuance, data verification can be done in tandem with project validation, so the reporting period will represent the period of time between project start date and the project proposal submission (i.e. when all data is collected and reported).

#### **Crediting Period**

The total period during which the project can generate credits based on its baseline scenario. In general, most OCP projects have a 20 year crediting period maximum, unless otherwise agreed upon by the expert panel. The crediting period usually begins on the project Start Date.


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