This study proposes a Standardized Crediting Framework (SCF) as a new approach to crediting emission reductions for energy access, which goes beyond the current Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) Programme of Activities (PoA) model, has lower transaction costs and encourages private sector engagement in energy access investments. It is a concept developed to support the transition of the CDM project pipeline to the new regulatory environment of the Paris Agreement while enabling greater reform. The SCF would bring together many of the key reforms proposed for the CDM in recent years, and allow a wide variety of program proponents to earn emission reduction credits for implementing energy access activities.