Green Power Purchasing

Green power can mean two different things in the electric industry. Green power may refer to special utility rates that are based upon electricity sourced from renewable energy assets, which can be provided by the local utility. More commonly, green power refers to the commoditized attributes of renewable electric generation known as Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs), which are sold separately by energy suppliers, generators, or third parties. RECs are also known as Renewable Energy Credits or Renewable Electricity Certificates. One REC is intended to demonstrate that one megawatt-hour (1 MWh) of electric power has been generated by renewable energy. RECs can be bought and traded, but they do not actually represent real, tangible energy.

Sieben Energy Associates (SEA) is very familiar with both forms of green power, but we do not sell or source RECs in our own name. Instead, we survey the marketplace and advise our clients on the best available options for them. We are not affiliated with any particular electric utility, retail supplier, or REC purveyor. We serve our clients by presenting them with green power product options that meet their requirements at a favorable price point. RECs certified by Green-e, a leading independent consumer protection program, have become the preferred choice among green power buyers because of Green-e’s stringent certification criteria. Our purchasing recommendations to clients typically include Green-e options.

We have seen growing demand for green power as large energy consumers seek to position themselves as sustainable enterprises, and as small energy consumers wish to stand apart from the crowd. Green power can confer a competitive business advantage, and help an organization meet its carbon reduction objectives. In addition, the purchase of green power can be used to achieve credits required for LEED Certification. SEA has purchased green power for many LEED projects, including those handled by the experienced LEED Consultants on our green buildings team.

The energy purchasing team at SEA employs a proven process that evaluates a client’s objectives based upon the renewable power source and location of origin. SEA has served a variety of clients who have requested green power to satisfy their environmental mission. Our understanding of the green power markets delivers peace of mind, and our clients have confidence in our recommendations. Prices for green power rise and fall over time, and they can be very market-specific. Choose SEA for the expertise you require when considering a green power purchase.