Purchasing Renewable Power
Renewable Energy Business Opportunities Forum
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) held a forum on Feb. 12, 2008, to discuss business opportunities for deploying renewable energy technologies at DOE facilities under the TEAM Initiative. More
Agencies can purchase renewable power or renewable energy certificates ("green tags") from a utility or other organization. By purchasing renewable power, your facility can obtain a percentage of its energy from renewable sources and meet the federal renewable energy goal. Renewable power and renewable energy certificates can be good choices for facilities where on-site projects may be difficult or capital budgets are limited.
There are three different methods for purchasing renewable power:
- Regulated Utility Green Pricing Programs
Some utilities have voluntary programs that allow customers to sign up to purchase renewable energy. Federal agencies can participate in most of these programs, and competition is not required. To find out if your utility has a green pricing program, consult the Green Pricing map and the Green Pricing spreadsheet on the Green Power Network Web site. - Competitive Renewable Power
In states with competitive electricity markets, Federal agencies can purchase renewable power through competitive electricity procurements. The Green Marketing map on the Green Power Network Web site shows states that have competitive renewable power product offerings. - Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) Purchase
Agencies can purchase renewable energy certificates (RECs), also known as "tradeable renewable certificates", "renewable energy credits," "green energy certificates," or "green tags"—an attractive option in locations where renewable power is not readily available. RECs represent the environmental attributes of renewable generation, and can be sold separately from the electricity. For more information, read the Guide to Purchasing Green Power (PDF 1 MB; 50 pp). Download Adobe Reader.
Purchasing electricity from wind resources is the most popular option for federal facilities to purchase renewable power.
General Services Administration, the Defense Energy Support Center and Western Area Power Administration can assist federal agencies with renewable power or REC purchases.
Federal agencies that purchase renewable power may be eligible to join the EPA Green Power Partnership (GPP), a voluntary program designed to reduce the environmental impact of electricity generation by promoting renewable energy. FEMP can help you determine the best renewable power purchase option in your area and provide you with Green Power Partnership requirements and application procedures. FEMP also offers services to help you determine the best renewable energy power option in your area. Contact your DOE Regional Office FEMP representative, the FEMP Renewable Purchasing Experts listed under contacts, or your local utility to find out more about these options.