Renewable Energy Credits (RECs)

What is a REC?

Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) are proof that a certain amount of electricity was generated using renewable sources. It’s like a badge of honor for environmentally friendly energy production, earned every time we produce one megawatt-hour (MWh) of clean electricity.

How do RECs Work?

RECs are essential for accounting and verifying ownership of renewable electricity generation on a shared grid, addressing the lack of information about electricity origin from the utility grid. Whether electricity is generated on-site or off-site, RECs serve as the necessary instrument for consumers to substantiate claims of using green power.

Why Do RECs Benefit CleanSky Customers?

When you choose a renewable energy plan from CleanSky Energy, the energy you use will have the equivalent number of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) purchased and retired on your behalf – ensuring that every kwh our customer use is accounted for.  We retire RECs into the North American Renewables Registry (NAR) on an aggregate basis.

What is the Difference Between RECs and Offsets?

Offsets and RECs both show environmental benefits in dealing with greenhouse gas emissions. Offsets measure emissions reduction, while RECs represent the features of generating 1 megawatt-hour of renewable electricity. These tools differ in how they qualify and receive credit within emissions footprints.

How Can I Learn More About RECs?

Information on RECs can be found here: https://www.epa.gov/green-power-markets/renewable-energy-certificates-recs