1. The operator of an installation at which a regulated activity is carried out and for which a greenhouse gas emissions permit (including a greenhouse gas emissions permit within the meaning of GGETSR 2012) issued for the first time is in force may apply to the regulator:

(a) for free allocation in the 2021-2025 allocation period, if the permit is issued in the period beginning on 1 July 2019 and ending on 30 June 2025;

(b) for free allocation in the 2026-2030 allocation period, if the permit is issued in the period beginning on 1 July 2025 and ending on 30 June 2029.

2. An application may be made at any time after the end of the year in which the start of normal operation occurs.

3. But where an installation has not been operating for a full calendar year after the start of normal operation, an application may not be made unless:

(a) in the case of an application under paragraph 1(a), the start of normal operation is on or after 1 January 2021;

(b) in the case of an application under paragraph 1(b), the start of normal operation is on or after 1 January 2026.

3a. [deleted]

4. For the purposes of the application, the operator must divide the installation into subinstallations in accordance with Article 10.