How Do RECs Work?
A renewable energy credit (REC)—also sometimes referred to as a renewable energy certificate or green tag—is created for each megawatt-hour (1 MWh, or 1000 kilowatt-hours) of renewable electricity generated and delivered to the power grid.
What is a REC?
When renewable energy is generated by wind, solar, biomass, geothermal, and certain hydropower sources, two things are created: (i) the actual electricity and (ii) the environmental benefits associated with the fact that the electricity was produced without burning fossil fuels like coal or natural gas. RECs are the way those environmental benefits or “attributes” are tracked and accounted for.
Why purchase them?
In an ideal world, we would all have small wind farms or solar panels that generate exactly the amount of energy we need to power our lives. But let’s face it, that’s pretty tough to do. By purchasing RECs, you are supporting clean energy and displacing emissions associated with fossil fuel-powered electric generation.
EPA & Green Power Partnership
The Environmental Protection Agency recognizes your commitment to green power through its Green Power Partnership, which also provides advice and other resources. All REC products purchased through Terrapass qualify for recognition by EPA through the Green Power Partnership.
Know exactly what you’re getting.
Terrapass RECs are Green-e certified, which means they are verified through the nation’s leading independent consumer protection program for the sale of renewable energy in the retail market. You’ll receive a product content label (PCL) with your order so you know where and how each and every kilowatt hour was produced.
Get started now.
We make it easy for your company to get the RECs you need to support your triple bottom line (People, Profits, Planet). Order online now or contact an advisor for additional resources at 877-210-9581 or [email protected].
What about RECs for LEED projects?
The United States Green Building Council (USGBC) offers up to six LEED points for buildings that match some or all of their energy use in the first two years with certified RECs and verified carbon offsets. Terrapass offers both RECs and carbon offsets so that green building professionals can earn more LEED points. Learn more about LEED credits for green power and carbon offsets.