Renewable energy has emerged as a crucial solution to combat climate change and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. As the world increasingly adopts cleaner and sustainable energy sources, one of the innovative mechanisms that have gained traction is the concept of 24/7 hourly-matched renewable Energy Attribute Certificates (EACs, also known as RECs, GOs, and REGOs). This approach holds tremendous promise in ensuring a stable and reliable supply of clean energy while also reaping numerous other benefits.
In this article, we will explore the advantages of these certificates and their significance in promoting a greener and more sustainable future.
1. Addressing the challenge of intermittency
One of the primary challenges faced by renewable energy sources like solar and wind power is their intermittency. These sources generate electricity based on weather conditions and time of day, making their output inconsistent and unpredictable.
The 24/7 hourly-matched certificates tackle this challenge by creating a system that guarantees an uninterrupted supply of energy. The certificates ensure that an equivalent amount of renewable energy is produced and fed into the grid in real-time, effectively balancing the intermittent nature of renewable generation.
2. Promoting investment in renewable infrastructure
By offering 24/7 hourly-matched certificates, renewable energy producers can maximise the income stream for their projects. This financial security makes investing in renewable infrastructure more attractive to developers and investors. The increased investment in the sector translates to accelerated growth and expansion of renewable energy capacity, fostering a rapid transition towards a low-carbon energy system.
3. Energy market stability
The volatility in the energy market can have significant economic and environmental impacts. The availability of 24/7 hourly-matched EACs contributes to market stability by providing a reliable and constant energy supply. This stability enhances grid management and reduces the reliance on traditional fossil fuel-based power plants for backup, lowering overall carbon emissions and promoting a more resilient energy system.
We’re definitely seeing a big shift in how tech companies think about clean energy — not just as a sustainability goal, but as a smart investment. Energy is a core part of their OPEX, and with electricity demand growing fast, there’s a strong financial case for it.
JP Cerda – CEO and Co-Founder, Renewabl
4. Enhanced grid integration
The hourly-matched certificates facilitate seamless integration of renewable energy into existing power grids. By ensuring a consistent flow of clean energy, grid operators can better plan and manage the distribution of electricity, reducing the need for short-term backup solutions. This integration optimises grid operations and minimises wastage of energy resources.
We believe 24/7 carbon-free energy is a real driver for change in how electricity markets work. When companies start aligning their consumption with clean generation hour by hour, it doesn’t just help them hit climate targets — it gives system operators clearer visibility into what’s actually happening on the grid.
JP Cerda – CEO and Co-Founder, Renewabl
5. Climate change mitigation
One of the most significant advantages of 24/7 hourly-matched certificates is their positive impact on climate change mitigation.
By incentivising the generation of renewable energy throughout the day and night, these certificates encourage a shift away from fossil fuels, which are the primary drivers of greenhouse gas emissions. This reduction in carbon emissions plays a vital role in combatting global warming and its adverse effects.
6. Fostering energy independence
By relying on renewable energy sources that are abundant and locally available, countries can enhance their energy independence.
24/7 hourly-matched certificates encourage the growth of domestic renewable energy production, reducing reliance on foreign oil and gas imports. This promotes national security and economic stability while reducing exposure to fluctuations in international energy prices.
7. Empowering consumer choice
The availability of 24/7 hourly-matched certificates empowers consumers to make greener choices regarding their energy consumption.
Energy suppliers can offer renewable energy packages backed by these certificates, allowing customers to support clean energy sources actively. This consumer-driven demand for renewables further stimulates the renewable energy market and accelerates the transition to a sustainable energy future.
8. Traceability
One of the core advantages of 24/7 hourly-matched certificates is the ability to establish a transparent record of energy generation.
Renewable EACs create an indisputable connection between the produced energy and the specific wind or solar asset responsible for its generation. This transparency not only instills confidence in consumers and investors but also serves as an effective safeguard against greenwash, enabling companies to substantiate their green claims with credible data and become compliant with initiatives like CDP/RE-100, SBTi, etc.
Conclusion: The advantages of 24/7 hourly matched certificates
The adoption of 24/7 hourly-matched certificates for renewable energy brings a host of benefits that are integral to creating a sustainable and clean energy ecosystem.
From addressing intermittency challenges to promoting investment, ensuring energy market stability, and mitigating climate change, renewable EACs play a critical role in accelerating the global shift towards renewable energy.
At Renewabl, we help corporate energy buyers run tenders for hourly-matched GOs and REGOs, as well as long-term Power Purchase Agreements.
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