Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) explained
Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) are a way of proving that electricity has been generated from renewable sources such as wind, solar, hydro or biomass. They help organisations show their commitment to renewable generation and support claims about their use of renewable electricity.
Confirm your environmental credentials with certificates
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Watch this video to understand what RECs are and how you can use them to help your organisation improve its sustainability.
The benefits of RECs
RECs can deliver Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) benefits and address your reporting of emissions. They also help to encourage renewable energy generation.
Back-up ESG claims
RECs can help to substantiate your environmental claims and therefore satisfy the demands of your stakeholders.
Report zero emissions
Getting both renewable power and RECs means you can report zero indirect emissions from purchased electricity.
Support renewables
RECs encourage organisations to expand (or start) generating and stimulate the renewable power industry.
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Renewable Energy Certificates - FAQs
How do Renewable Energy Certificates work?
When renewable electricity is generated, a corresponding certificate is issued. Organisations can purchase and retire these certificates to demonstrate that the electricity associated with their consumption came from renewable sources.
What is the purpose of Renewable Energy Certificates?
RECs help businesses evidence their use of renewable electricity, support sustainability initiatives and achieve renewable energy procurement objectives as part of wider environmental strategies.
How do Renewable Energy Certificates support Scope 2 emissions reporting?
Renewable Energy Certificates are commonly used to support market-based Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions reporting by enabling organisations to demonstrate that their electricity consumption is matched with renewable generation.
What is the difference between RECs and carbon offsets?
Renewable Energy Certificates relate specifically to renewable electricity generation and are typically associated with Scope 2 emissions reporting. Carbon offsets are a separate mechanism used to address emissions that cannot be reduced directly and may be associated with other emission categories.
Who should buy Renewable Energy Certificates?
RECs may benefit organisations looking to increase their renewable energy credentials, support ESG objectives, improve sustainability reporting, or demonstrate progress towards corporate environmental goals.