1. For fuels or materials containing biomass, the operator may either assume the absence of biomass and apply a default biomass fraction of 0 % or determine a biomass fraction in accordance with paragraph 2, applying tiers as defined in Section 2.4 of Annex II to this Regulation.

2. Where, subject to the tier level required, the operator has to carry out analyses to determine the biomass fraction, it shall do so on the basis of a relevant standard and the analytical methods therein, provided that the use of that standard and analytical method are approved by the competent authority.

Where, subject to the tier level required, the operator has to carry out analyses to determine the biomass fraction, but the application of the first subparagraph is technically not feasible or would incur unreasonable costs, the operator shall submit an alternative estimation method to determine the biomass fraction to the competent authority for approval. For fuels or materials originating from a production process with defined and traceable input streams, the operator may base the estimation on a material balance of fossil and biomass carbon entering and leaving the process.

The Commission may provide guidelines on further applicable estimation methods.

2a.[deleted]