Green Energy Program

Renewable Energy

Renewable energy is energy generated by sources that naturally replenish themselves. The most popular types of renewable energy are solar, hydro, wind, geothermal, and biomass. These sources produce much less pollution and greenhouse gas emissions than fossil fuels, such as coal and natural gas. Renewable resources can be found locally and can increase energy security. Over time the use of renewable energy cna reduce volatility in natural gas markets.

Renewable Energy Certificates (RECS)

A REC represents the environmental attributes of one megawatt hour (MWh) of electricity generated from renewable resources delivered somewhere on the power grid. RECs make it easy for a buyer to purchase green power because they can be sold separately from electricity. They can be purchased from a variety of locations and energy sources, and the REC purchase can be based on any amount of electricity. Buying RECs provides support to renewable resources.

Green-e Energy

Green-e Energy is the nation's leading independent certification and verification program for renewable energy. Green-e Energy sets consumer protection and environmental standards for renewable electricity products. The Green-e Energy label certifies that the power is from an eligible renewable energy resource.

Leed Certification

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) was developed to act as a national benchmark in the design, construction and operation of environmentally friendly buildings. LEED provides a framework and checklist for new and existing structures desiring to meet set benchmark standards. Green-e certified RECs can be used to gain credits under LEED.