Learn about Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs), tradable commodities proving electricity was generated from renewable sources, and their role in LEED certification.
Table of Contents
Question
Which of the following is a tradable commodity representing proof that a unit of electricity was generated from a renewable source?
A. Tradable Energy Credit (TEC)
B. Renewable Wind Certificate
C. Renewable Energy Certificate
D. Certificate for Innovative Renewables
Answer
C. Renewable Energy Certificate
Explanation
A Renewable Energy Certificate (REC) is a tradable commodity that represents proof that a unit of electricity was generated from a renewable energy source, such as solar, wind, hydro, or biomass. RECs are also known as green tags, green energy certificates, or tradable renewable certificates.
When renewable energy is generated and supplied to the grid, the environmental attributes associated with that energy can be sold separately from the actual electricity in the form of RECs. Each REC typically represents one megawatt-hour (MWh) of renewable energy generation.
RECs play a crucial role in the renewable energy market by providing a mechanism for tracking and trading the environmental benefits of renewable energy generation. They allow consumers, businesses, and organizations to support renewable energy development and claim the environmental attributes of renewable energy, even if they do not have direct access to renewable energy sources.
In the context of LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification, RECs can be purchased as a means of meeting the green power requirements for a building or project. By purchasing RECs, a project can demonstrate its support for renewable energy generation and offset a portion of its conventional energy use.
The other options mentioned in the question are not accurate:
- Tradable Energy Credit (TEC) is not a commonly used term in the renewable energy market.
- Renewable Wind Certificate is too specific, as RECs can represent various types of renewable energy, not just wind.
- Certificate for Innovative Renewables is not a recognized term in the industry.
In summary, Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) are the tradable commodities that represent proof of renewable energy generation, and they play a significant role in the LEED certification process.
USGBC LEED Green Associate certification exam practice question and answer (Q&A) dump with detail explanation and reference available free, helpful to pass the USGBC LEED Green Associate exam and earn USGBC LEED Green Associate certification.