On 4 December 2015, the UK government published its regulations regarding the Transitional National Plan for large combustion plants.
 
According to the Industrial Emissions Directive by the EU, which came into force on 1 January 2016, all member states were required to fulfill new energy standards. However, countries were allowed to submit Transitional National Plans (henceforth: TNPs), which allow designated enterpises to postpone compliance until 30 June 2020.
 
The list of affected sectors is based on the industries included in the TNP register. The measure was initially intended for energy producers but also includes manufacturers of steel, chemicals, sugar and boilers.