Expiry ends the period of time after production when an EAC can be used for an end-user renewable claim. It represents one of two ways that an EAC lifecycle ends (the other being cancellation). Expiry rules vary per jurisdiction and per EAC type: GOs under the EECS framework have a dual-deadline: certificates are tradeable for 12 months, then enter a 6-month redemption-only window (meaning cancellation is allowed), hard-capped at 18 months (all functionality ceases). UK REGOs implement a 16-month rolling expiry, with Ofgem executing automatic cancellations as per this schedule. North American RECs show the widest variation, ranging from 3-months in New England to 4-years in Wisconsin. I-RECs have no registry-level expiry and remain technically valid indefinitely.
‍

Note: Registry functionality is the technical maximum, but reporting frameworks can vary in vintage matching rules, causing a functional expiry separate from registry mechanics. See claims and vintage to learn more.