News
Articles
The role of Consumers in the Energy Transition, session hosted by AIB and REScoop
The Association of Issuing Bodies (AIB) and REScoop.EU are hosting the session “Involving consumers in the energy transition – accountability, CSR and carbon accounting” during the EU Sustainlable Energy Week (EUSEW).
Eurelectric position paper REDII
Eurelectric has prepared a legislative proposal to the European Commission to revise the Renewable Energy Directive (REDII) on some crucial points. Like RECS International and many other stakeholders, they propose that the intentions for auctioning the Guarantee of Origin be omitted in the final version of this important document. For various reasons the intended auctioning system will be detrimental to a carefully constructed GO market. More about this can be read in this news item.
You can read the Eurelectric paper here.
RECS International continues to welcome new members
RECS International is pleased to announce a new member: Natural Capital Partners. With 19 years’ experience and a global network of project partners, Natural Capital Partners works with their clients to deliver high quality solutions that ensure immediate, positive impact on the world’s natural capital. They work with more than 300 clients in 33 countries to ensure their environmental programmes deliver value for their business.
RECS International is looking forward to working with Natural Capital Partners and supporting each other in meeting the demand for more renewable electricity.
For more information on Natural Capital Partners please visit their website
Changes in AIB rules for EECS-GOs
Minor corrections have been made to the published EECS Rules 7v9, to account for the agreed changes to Reviewers, as agreed at the last General Meeting. These occur on pages 13, 18 and 61.
For more information please contact the secretariat at secretariat@recs.org
Support for REDII but concerns about GO auction
In an effort to strengthen consumer choice as well as clarify post-2020 regulations, on 30thNovember 2016 the European Commission released its vision for a new Renewable Energy Directive (REDII). However, there is one critical place where end-users, market players, environmental groups and many national governments all disagree. In article 19:2 of the draft text there is mention of a mandatory auction of Guarantees of Origin (GOs), the ‘currency’ that drives the renewable electricity market. There is considerable concern that this auction, in its current form, would take away consumer choice in the electricity market and restrict the ability to support specific renewable projects.
CEER publication reviewing EU renewables support schemes
There is a wide range of compliance and voluntary instruments available on the electricity market to promote the generation of renewable electricity across Europe, such as Feed-In tariffs (FITs), feed-in premiums (FIPs) and investment grants. While support schemes for renewables can stimulate growth in terms of production, the demand-driven focus is lost. This tends to lead to market distortion, resulting in an inefficient allocation of renewables (e.g. new solar production in regions with a low radiation input). Moreover they tend to have an impact on grid balancing and other regulatory frameworks as such EU support schemes have varying degrees of inefficiency. Moving towards market-based support schemes provides more efficient ways to use tax money.
AIB Paper: Views on the provisions of the Clean Energy Package relating to GOs and disclosure
The AIB, together with its members, has compiled a detailed consideration of the Guarantee of Origin scheme in the “Clean Energy for all Europeans” package. It is taking a close look at the proposals in the upcoming RED II directive and providing comments on among other things the auctioning of GOs and GOs for gas.
Looking back: Seminar Groen Inkopen - Dutch Language Seminar
On the 11th of April Reconnect and RECS International organized a seminar on the procurement of renewables by the corporate industry. The seminar took place in Arnhem, the Netherlands, and was attended by some 30 people from various backgrounds: government, NGO, energy providers and commodity traders.
Looking back: RECs Market Meeting 2017 a big success
From Monday 20 to Wednesday 22 of March the annual RECs Market Meeting took place at the Krasnapolsky hotel in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. This year’s event, entitled “Consumers driving the energy transition”, focused on end-consumers' increasing influence on the global electricity markets. With the use of attribute tracking systems electricity end-users are able to claim the use of renewable electricity and direct investments in electricity to the production of their choice.
RECs Market Meeting 2017 Updates
Less than three weeks left to the seventh edition of the RECs Market Meeting. This year we have seen a growing interest in the event and an impressive diversity of backgrounds of people attending the conference. We are happy to see that we have delegates from around the world and from all positions in the market: from The US to Europe, Mali to Brazil and from from NGOs to corporates end-users.
Annual European EECS-GO statistics published
The European Energy Certificate System (EECS) Standard for Guarantee of Origin held by the Association of Issuing Bodies released their annual statistics for the use of the GO-market.
Statistics can be seen via the following links:
· Issuing, transfer and cancellation statistics can be found here
· Ex-Domain Cancellations statistics can be found here
For any questions regarding the statistics, please contact the RECS International secretariat at: secretariat@recs.org
CEPS paper on Disclosure of Guarantees of Origin
CEPS, a leading think tank and forum for debate on EU affairs, has published the paper “The Disclosure of Guarantees of Origin: Interactions with the 2030 Climate and Energy Framework”.
New RE100 report promoting EU energy policy changes
In the light of the upcoming revision of the EU Renewable Energy Directive a new report from RE100 calls on policy makers to ensure a better policy framework, allowing for companies to have easier access to renewable power in Europe.
RECs Market Meeting 2017 is picking up speed
On 21 and 22 March 2017 RECS International is holding its seventh edition of the RECs Market Meeting in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. This is the only European event focusing on the demand side of the European and the international energy market.
Registration for Expert Meeting and Open Markets Committee in Baden is now closed
Registration for the Open Markets Committee and the Expert Meeting on Consumer Claims Standards is now closed. Meeting details and both agendas can be found here.
DCCE authorized by Dubai Supreme Council of Energy to become I-REC Standard Issuer
On November 7 2016 the Dubai Supreme Council granted the Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence (DCCE) the exclusive rights to document and issue RECs in the United Arab Emirates. The I-REC secretariat is working together with the I-REC Standard board and DCCE to ensure the I-REC Standard is implemented in the UAE in a reliable and transparent manner. Issuance is expected in early 2017.
Q3 AIB statistics for EECS-GOs now available
The AIB regularly publishes statistics for GOs adherent to the EECS Standard. New statistics for the third quarter of 2016 are now available.
Towards the 1st EU-wide Guarantee of Origin for Renewably-produced Hydrogen
The CertifHy Project has finalized its work on ‘Developing the 1st EU-wide Guarantee of Origin for Premium Hydrogen’ and presented the results and next steps during the event: “Implementing the 1st EU-wide Guarantees of Origin Scheme for Premium Hydrogen” on October 19th, in Brussels. In this article Vanessa Wabitsch from Hinicio elaborates on the future of premium hydrogen GO's.
WBCSD report on corporate renewable PPAs
Using PPAs to procure renewable energy is becoming more and more standard practice. The World Business Council for Sustainable Development has now released a new report that guides companies through the process of procuring renewable power via Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs).
RECS International welcomes new members from the US
RECS International is happy to announce a new member from the US: Renewable Choice Energy.
CNMC to commence issuance of EECS GOs in Spain
CNMC has long been the official issuing body for guarantees of origin in Spain and as of July 26 2016 these GOs were standardized according to the EECS regulations held by the Association of Issuing Bodies. On September 22nd the first exports from Spain took place via the AIB Hub.
A big thanks to the Renewable Energy Markets Conference 2016
On October 17 and 18 RECS International attended the Renewable Energy Market 2016 in San Francisco organized by the Center for Resource Solutions.
RECS International promotes dual reporting of production and consumption
Recently several articles have been published describing RECS International’s vision for how electricity consumption is reported at the European and national levels.
RECS International welcomes new members
RECS International is happy to announce two new members: First Climate and EDF Trading.
London event on global corporate energy strategies
The electricity market is changing. The focus is shifting from production to consumer demands, putting the end user in the driver's seat. On the 1st of November 2016 EY, in conjunction with RECS International and the RE100 group, will invite you to the event “Energy Strategy: 100% Renewable Energy”. Presenters and panelists will dedicate the afternoon to discussing the various topics related to these strategic developments. The event will be attended by global procurement directors, sustainability leaders, environmental heads and leading policy professionals, who will be sharing their knowledge and insights. The main focus will be on strategic options for corporates to source 100% renewables globally.
Revival of RECS Good Practice
GO’s and other attribute tracking certificates are well established within European and U.S. electricity markets and are increasingly developing world wide. RECS International believes it is important to bring the focus to consumers adhering to best practice standards. For this reason RECS International is going to revive RECS Good Practice as a way to encourage transparency in product procurement.
RECS International describes the importance of acknowledging consumer demand for renewable energy
Consumers must play a larger role in the energy transition but without the right tools in place the influence of the consumer is limited. Across Europe consumers are increasingly choosing renewable energy even though this is not reflected in national statistics. Reporting on both the production and consumption of renewable electricity will support consumer choice and action in the electricity market. A recently published article by the Secretary General of RECS International elaborates on this topic and can be read here.
Political discussion and developments regarding Norwegian disclosure and Guarantees of Origin
Earlier this year the Norwegian government, pressured by industry players, has considered abandoning the pan-European GO system in favour of a so-called “production-based tracking system”. These developments were placing a consumer-driven market for renewable electricity under threat. RECS International called on all stakeholders in Norway to protect consumer choice and begin a dialogue over these issues.
AIB publishes 2015 European residual mixes
The Association of Issuing Bodies (AIB) has published European residual mix figures for 2015.
RECS International release their annual report 2015
RECS International released their 2015 annual report.
Norwegian RECS International members release joint statement
In the Norwegian Aftenbladet newspaper local RECS International members have joined forces to combat recent statements from the Minister of Petroleum and Energy. This comes less than a week after the press release from RECS International on the same topic.
DG Energy release initial results from REDII consultation
In preparation for 2020 DG Energy released a consultation for the second Renewable Energy Directive (REDII) late last year. The first results from the consultation document have been released and are available online for public review.
Press release: Norway is placing the consumer-driven market for renewable electricity under threat
RECS International published a press release emphasizing the importance of the consumer-driven market for renewable electricity in Norway and around Europe. Recent developments in Norway have shown us that more information about these systems is needed and that stakeholders must increase dialogue over these issues both on national and international levels.
Green-e publishes residual mix calculations for US and Canada
Those familiar with the recent Greenhouse Gas Protocol Scope 2 Guidance document will know that the creation of residual mix calculations are important for the integrity of emissions accounting and renewable electricity markets more generally.
Q1 2016 EECS-GO statistics available in new format
RE100 publishes technical briefing, Making credible renewable electricity usage claims
The technical briefing is described on the RE100 website as, “…a technical deep-dive into corporate transparency and credibility, and shows companies how to accurately describe their use of renewable electricity.”
RECS International considering an Oslo workshop, explaining the GO system
RECS International is considering to organize a workshop in Oslo and is looking for input from members.
Initial data released for 2015 statistical analysis work
Members are invited to take a quick look at some of the statistical analysis work for the 2015 trading of GOs.
OFGEM provides clarifications on the consumption of overseas electricity
OFGEM published their decision on proof of UK consumption of overseas electricity following their consultation from 12 January 2016. Following the release of the document on 19 April 2016 OFGEM published a clarification on 28 April 2016 for 2015/2016 GOs and implicit trading.
U.S. Renewables Portfolio Standards 2016 annual report published by LBNL
The Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory has released their annual report describing the status of U.S. renewable portfolio standards.
AIB changes HUB provider, promise new statistics
Unicorn Systems launched the new registry HUB application for the Association of Issuing Bodies (AIB) during the weekend of March 5/6. With this milestone it means the transition from the old Atos system is now complete.
Spain and Germany become AIB member, Spain joins EECS
The Spanish regulatory authority and official GO issuing body, CNMC, has become an AIB member and is now adherent to the EECS Standard. The German competent body for GOs, UBA, has been adherent to the EECS Standard since 2014 and has recently decided to become an AIB member.
RECS International appoints new Secretary-General, Peter is thanked
On March 7, 2016 Peter Niermeijer resigned as Secretary-General of RECS International. The former Deputy Secretary-General, Jared Braslawsky, was appointed to the position.
Thank you! The RECs Market Meeting 2016 was a huge success
Thank you to everyone who participated in the RECs Market Meeting 2016. It is because of you that the event this year was such a success.
Green-e developing international renewable energy certificate program and standard
Green-e, a program of the nonprofit Center for Resource Solutions (CRS), has been working in the field of renewable energy certification and verification for nearly 20 years. Green-e’s primary focus has been to support transparent renewables purchasing for North American consumers. In an effort to expand access to consistent, credible, and impactful purchasing options throughout the world Green-e is working to develop the Green-e Energy International Standard.
CDP mentions RECs Market Meeting and RECS International in new post
The blog post, "Taking corporate renewable energy use to the next level" focuses primarily on the interaction of corporate reporting, CDP and the activities of the RE100 Techincal Advisory Group. RECS International has been an active participant on the RE100 Technical Advisory Group since its inception in 2014. Together with the other Advisory Group members RECS International intends to set clear guidelines for the procurement of renewable energy by RE100 corporate companies.
Ofgem releases guidance on the use of GOs in fuel mix disclosure
During the announcement of the summer budget on 8 July 2015 it was revealed that Levy Exemption Certificates (LECs) for electricity generated on or after 1 August 2015 would no longer be issued. As a result of this change Ofgem began a consultation process to clarify how GOs should be presented to Ofgem.
RECS International releases renewable directive consultation
The European Commission is reviewing the renewable energy directive (RED) and creating new legislative proposals for the period following 2020 with the possibility of implementing some immediate changes as soon as 2017. In order to coordinate stakeholder and citizen suggestions the commission released a public consultation document for, “the new renewable energy directive (REDII)”.
RECS International welcomes new member from the US
RECS International is proud to announce a new member with their head offices in the United States, 3Degrees.
Czech OTE suspended from EECS-hub, remains AIB member
As of December 4, 2015 the Czech GO issuing body has suspended its connection to the EECS-hub and electricity tracking standard. OTE, the competent authority for GO issuance in the Czech Republic, will remain a member of the AIB.
Norwegian registry shows all exports and ex-domain cancellations
The Norwegian EECS-GO registry now provides data on cancellations, allowing a sneak-peek into the world of ex-domain cancellations as well.
Q3 statistics show continued growth in GO market
The Q3 statistics recently released by the Association of Issuing Bodies show that the Guarantee of Origin market has continued to grow.
RECs Market Meeting 2016 announced and first speakers confirmed
The RECs Market Meeting 2016 will take place on 8 and 9 March 2016 in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. This year the event is titled, “Consumers Choose Renewable Energy” to reflect the grassroots support for renewable energy procurement from consumers large and small.
Ofgem opens consultation on proposed changes to GO process after CCL removal
This consultation seeks the views of stakeholders on proposed changes to the procedure for presenting Guarantees of Origin (GOs) to Ofgem after the removal of the Climate Change Levy (CCL) exemption for renewables from 1 August 2015. In light of the absence of Levy Excemption Certificates for output from 1 August 2015, Ofgem is now consulting on proposed changes to the way GOs are presented to the UK national authorities.
Campaign launched to inform consumers about MiFID II
MiFID II: the European Securities and Market Authority (ESMA) has published its draft regulatory technical standards which are designed to establish ways of working under MiFID II. If this is passed in its current form, some stakeholders are concerned that the legislation would result in energy companies being subject to similar requirements to those affecting investment banks.
AIB takes on residual mix calculations with the help of Grexel
The Association of Issuing Bodies, with technical help from Grexel Systems Ltd., will take over the calculation of the European attribute mix and the national residual mixes from the RE-DISS II project.
EFET has informal meeting with Ofgem and HMRC
EFET had an informal meeting with Ofgem and HMRC to discuss the phase out of CCL exemption.
RE100 is joined by Nike, Goldman Sachs, Unilever and others
RE100 is a global initiative that was established to engage, support and showcase influential companies committed to using 100% renewable power. It is led by The Climate Group in partnership with CDP, and it is supported by the We Mean Business coalition.
Request for Meeting: Termination / Reduction of Interconnector Capacity Exposure due to CCL Exemption Removal
We understand that a number of members are currently considering how capacity on the BritNed or IFA could be reduced or terminated as they have lost their commercial purpose because the CCL Exemption for renewable source electricity is removed from 1 August 2015.
Confirmation of UK VAT rules
The AIB has received formal position statement from the UK’s VAT collector (HMRC) regarding RES GOs (known as REGOs in the UK).
Commission releases energy summer package with consumers highlighted not GOs
On July 15th the European Commission released the 2015 energy summer package. The summer package, "presented proposals to deliver a new deal for energy consumers, to launch a redesign of the European electricity market, to update energy efficiency labelling and to revise the EU Emissions Trading System". While the focus on the consumer was clear, there was no mention of the guarantee of origin or electricity product choice.
Analysis by Andreas Gunst: Removal of the United Kingdom Climate Change Levy Exemption
The United Kingdom´s Climate Change Levy (CCL) was introduced in 2001 under the Finance Act 2000 with the aim of taxing the energy usage of non-domestic consumers with the exception of the transportation sector. An exemption system was introduced to allow consumers of renewable source energy to avoid paying the CCL, by means of the levy exemption certificate (LEC) system.
Operators of United Kingdom resident installations and foreign installations could obtain accreditation for the scheme and receive LECs. These would ultimately be sold together with the underlying renewable source electricity to suppliers in the United Kingdom who would claim exemption on behalf of their consumers. LECs would be sold with other evidentiary instruments such as guarantees of origin and generator declaration for the purpose of fuel mix disclosure (FMD), feed-in tariff levelisation benefits, related determination of green excluded electricity under the contracts for difference (CfD) scheme and as evidence on 'green tariff' products. The appertaining commercial benefit was usually priced into the LEC price.
In the United Kingdom´s 2015 Budget, announced on 8 July 2015, Chancellor George Osborne claimed that as the United Kingdom has established a long-term framework for investment in renewable energy, the CCL exemption scheme, and therefore the LEC scheme, shall be removed. It is from the announcement not fully clear whether the exemption will be removed for both national and foreign installations, or just the latter. The explanation for the change appeared to be mainly concerned with foreign installations.
This note will briefly outline consequences of the removal of the CCL exemption regime on relevant agreements, notably:
§ agreements for the delivery of LECs and guarantees of origin/generator declarations;
§ agreements for the delivery of renewable source electricity into the British electricity market; and
§ agreement for the purchase of interconnection capacity and transmission services on interconnectors into the British electricity market.
RE-DISS preparing webinar on disclosure guidelines for electricity supplier
RE-DISS will be holding a free webinar on Disclosure Guidelines for electricity suppliers on July 29, 2015 from 10:00 – 11:30 (CEST).
UK ends the LEC
The government of the UK will remove the Climate Change Levy exemption for renewably sourced electricity from 1 August 2015.
RE-DISS publishes 2014 residual mixes
The Reliable Disclosure Systems for Europe (RE-DISS) project has published European residual mix figures for 2014. This is the last year that RE-DISS will produce residual mix calculations for Europe.
Irish GOs now adhere to the EECS standard
On 19th May the Association of Issuing Bodies granted membership to SEM-O of Ireland.
AIB releases reflection paper on the upcoming RES Directive
The Association of Issuing Bodies (AIB) released a paper titled, “AIB Reflection Paper on the Forthcoming RES Directive”. The 18-page document explains the AIB’s view on the future of the guarantee of origin and the necessary policy improvements to ensure a reliable electricity tracking system.
Workshop on guarantees of origin trade in Hamburg
The European Federation of Energy Traders (EFET) and the Association of Issuing Bodies (AIB) are organizing a workshop in cooperation with DLA Piper on, "Trading guarantees of origin: EECS in practice and in legal documentation".
RECS Market Meeting early-bird registration ends Saturday
Early bird registration ends this Saturday, 28 February 2015. Register today to benefit from discounted conference tariffs.
AIB announces new hub super user
The service provider ensuring the quality, reliability and maintenance of the AIB’s hub has been awarded to Grexel a Finnish-based company.
European project for hydrogen guarantees of origin kicks off
CertifHy is a new European project that aims to develop the first EU-wide framework for the generation of guarantees of origin (GoO) for renewable hydrogen for use in Fuel Cells. The objectives of the initiative are to, “…define a widely acceptable definition of green hydrogen, design a robust GoO scheme for green hydrogen and propose a roadmap to implement the initiative throughout the EU.”
Retailers meet national regulators concerning disclosure of electricity in Sweden
The Swedish Energy Markets Inspectorate (EI) has completed an audit of 16 electricity suppliers to determine if they have correctly managed their electricity disclosure requirements. All 16 companies declared the origin of electricity sold in the previous year appropiately.
AIB releases 2014 statistics for EECS guarantees of origin
The Association of Issuing Bodies (AIB) has released the volumes of issuance, cancellation, export, import, transfer and expiry of European Energy Certificate System (EECS) standardized Guarantee of Origin (GO) certificates.
Warning to members as CertiQ mandates KYC forms for trade accounts
CertiQ will proceed to oblige the owners of a trade account on the Dutch guarantee of origin registry to hand in know-your-customer forms. Owners of cancellation accounts (end-user accounts) are not required to complete the forms.
The International REC Standard accepted as Scope 2 accounting mechanism
The International REC Standard (The I-REC Standard) is a voluntary standard which ensures proper issuance, redemption and consumer claimsin relation to the use of REC certificates outside the EU, US and Australia. The standard provides a simplified method for the issuance of internationally recognized REC certificates where no reliable or internationally accepted system currently exists.
RECS International to participate in Polish workshop for Carbon Footprinting
The 2015 Carbon Footprinting Seminar, which is organized by Western Energy Consulting, will take place on 26 February in Warsaw, Poland. Speakers include RECS International, The Embassy of Norway, Bergen Energi, ECOHZ, Clifford Chance, Danone, IKEA and AIB.
RECS International moderates part of Scope 2 launch event
RECS International moderated a panel discussion during the recent GHGP workshops in London and Brussels
Greenhouse Gas Protocol Scope 2 guidance report is published
On 20 January 2015 the GHG Protocol organization published its long-awaited Scope 2 guidance document for the calculation of indirect carbon emissions from the use of electricity, heat and steam.
Invitation for Greenhouse Gas Protocol Scope 2 launch events in Europe and USA
On 21 January in London, 22 January in Brussels and 30 January in Washington, DC the Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHGP) and partners are organizing launch events for the updated GHGP Corporate Standard and new Scope 2 Guidance report.
Problems with KYC forms or GO Issuing Body contractual changes
Some RECS Members have mentioned that recent contractual changes and/or Know Your Customer (KYC) forms being required by issuing bodies have placed an unnecessary burden or contractual responsibility on the market player.
New AIB member and GO registry owner for Finland
Finextra Oy has become the new Finnish member of the AIB and replaced the Grexel registry in that country.
Legal workshop planned for traders in the renewables market
Before the RECS Market Meeting 2015 a workshop is planned for traders, brokers, large-purchasers and suppliers of guarantee of origin certificates in Europe.
Greenhouse Gas Protocol Scope 2 Guidance workshops announced for January in London and Brussels
Association of Issuing Bodies and CEER among 10 organizations calling for anti-VAT-fraud measures
A press release from Eurelectric pushes for a comprehensive implementation of the EU anti-VAT-fraud package by all 28 EU Member States.
Updated single-delivery GO standard agreement available
An updated European Energy Certificate System Guarantee of Origin Standard Agreement for Single Delivery has been posted to the RECS website.
Conference on Asian green electricity purchases and corporate GHG accounting
A partner of RECS International is organizing an event in Taipei titled, “International Conference on Corporate GHG Accounting Change and Green Electricity Purchasing in Asia”. Supporting and speaking at the conference are representatives from GHG Protocol, CDP, Greenpeace, I-REC Standard and others. The event will take place on December 10, 2014 from 8:30 – 5:00 at the Chung-Hua Institution for Economic Research in Taipei. Interested participants can attend the conference at no cost.
Member password management to RECS websites
Some members have had difficulties finding or updating their username and password information on the www.recs.org and www.recsmarket.eu websites. We would like to update you on the current procedures in place to change your individual username or password.
The European EECS-GO Standard continues to grow
In a recent Markets Committee meeting the Association of Issuing Bodies reviewed recent changes and additions to the EECS-GO standardized countries and/or AIB membership countries.
RECS organizes event to help build multilateral framework for joint renewable energy projects
Vote for RECS International in the 2014 Commodity Business Awards
RECS International has been shortlisted for the Commodity Business Awards 2014 under the Renewable Energy Category.
RECS International to speak at EMART Energy conference
EMART Energy 2014 will take place in Amsterdam, the Netherlands on 5 and 6 November 2014. RECS International president Claes Hedenstrom will moderate the session, "Renewable electricity - Inside or outside the market?" from 14:30 to 17:30 on Wednesday November 5th.
RECS member delivers open letter to encourage use of GO in new CSR directive
ECOHZ, a RECS International member, has delivered an open letter to the European Commission asking for, “a coherent approach to how companies report consumption of renewable energy and reinforce Guarantees of Origin as the key disclosure tool”.
Flemish support system for domestic renewables compatible with EU law
The decision by Europe’s highest court in the case of Essent Belgium NV v Vlaamse Reguleringsinstantie voor de Elektriciteits- en Gasmarkt, better known as the ‘Essent Case’ was not surprising for those who followed the earlier Aland Vindkraft case (C-573/12) and ruling by the European Court of Justice.
Press release Europe Commission says German FiT must work internationally
According to the press release the Commission started an, “in-depth investigation on the EEG 2012 Act” over concerns about the compatibility of tariff reductions for some energy users. The result of the investigation can be seen in the EEG 2014 which will organize tenders, “for up to 5% of the tendered capacity to installations located in Member States which have concluded a cooperation agreement with Germany".
Public consultation on CDP questionnaires for 2015
CDP is amending its questionnaires for 2015. CDP runs an annual public consultation process on these proposed amendments to its questionnaires, prior to their publication. During this period, CDP welcomes all stakeholders to review the proposed changes to its questionnaires and submit comments.
Save the date: RECS Market Meeting 2015
RECS International, together with our members and stakeholders, are happy to announce the venue and date of the upcoming 2015 RECS Market Meeting.
RECS International prepares draft supplier disclosure guidelines for electricity products
I-REC Standard for tracking electricity sent RECS International and AIB letter about Spanish GO system
The I-REC Standard has the aim of spreading the principles of energy attribute tracking systems, worldwide, to promote a consistent and verifiable product that enables a reliable and transparent consumer choice for renewable electricity. RECS International has generally supported such market initiatives in their attempt to bring consumers improved information about their electricity products.
12-Large companies request renewable marketplace improvements in recent WWF report
Facebook, Walmart, HP, Mars, GM and Intel, among others, request six improvements to the current U.S. renewable energy marketplace in a recent report published by WWF.
European Court of Justice rules against the Advocate General's Opinion in Alands Vindkraft case
Early on July 1st, 2014 the European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruled in favor of Swedish Energy Agency (Energimyndigheten) in the case brought by Alands Vindkraft. The ruling did not adhere to the earlier Opinion of the Advocate General which may have found Article 3(3) of the European Directive 2009/28/EC, The Renewable Energy Directive, invalid. Article 3(3) allows for national governments to deny access to their renewable electricity support schemes for electricity producers located outside their national borders. In doing so, the Opinion of the Advocate General explained that Article 3(3) of the Directive contradicted Article 34 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), which guarantees the free movement of goods within Europe.
RECS International publishes EECS-GO and RECS Standard Contract for Single Delivery
Working with the RECS International Legal Task Force the RECS International Secretariat has published the revised European Energy Certificate System – Guarantee of Origin Standard Agreement for Single Delivery. More than 35 active participants representing 25 different organizations helped the RECS International secretariat shape the standard agreement.
Croatia joins the AIB but does not allow for international trade
The Croatian Energy Market Operator Ltd. (HROTE) has officially become a member of the Association of Issuing Bodies (AIB). However, due to an AIB internal ruling the Croatian GO market will not be open for imports and/or exports until proper disclosure regulation is enacted.
AIB creates overview of VAT charges on GO trades
The Association of Issuing Bodies (AIB) has released a survey in which they requested information from their members and observers asking whether or not VAT is charged on GO trades in various European member states.
Hungary hosts first non-EECS registry from Grexel
The Hungarian Energy and Public Utility Regulatory Authority (MEKH) has decided to host the Hungarian national GO certificates in a registry provided by Grexel. The GOs are considered national Hungarian GOs as they do not adhere to the international electronic standard (EECS) held by the Association of Issuing Bodies.
Dutch railways will buy renewables for all consumption; RECS to speak at UIC event
The Dutch national railways Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) has promised to have trains riding on 100-percent renewable electricity by 2018. NS represents roughly 1-percent of total Dutch electricity consumption.
European Residual Mix figures released for 2013
The Reliable Disclosure Systems for Europe (RE-DISS) project has released their 2013 residual mix calculations. The residual mix calculation provided by RE-DISS is of a high-quality and once again shows that Europe is on the forefront of consumer electricity information and the use of electricity tracking systems.
AIB announces that the Czech Republic has officially connected to the EECS international tracking system
In a press release from April 25th the Association of Issuing Bodies (AIB) explained that OTE, a.s. is the newest member of the international EECS-GO system and has officially been connected with the international electronic system held by the association. OTE is a well known Czech market operator.
New State Aid Guidelines in energy sector, analysis by RECS Legal Task Force Advisor
The new State Aid Guidelines have been released in order to replace the existing 2008 guidelines. A majority of the changes focused on the State aid for the production of renewables.
The RECS Market Meeting through the eyes of a US nonprofit
Center for Resource Solutions is a US non-profit and owner of the Green-e Energy renewable energy certification and verification program. The organization recently attended the RECS Market Meeting and wrote an article on their website titled, “Travelogue: RECS Market Meeting in Dusseldorf, Germany”.
Residual mix project opens public consultation for supplier disclosure guidelines
The Reliable Disclosure Systems for Europe (RE-DISS) project, well known for their best practices guidelines and annual residual mix reports, have recently started a public consultation to provide an overview to interested stakeholders on various options related to electricity disclosure. RE-DISS also requests feedback on the options provided.
European Retail Market Consultation required by April 17
The European Commission has released a consultation questionnaire on the Retail Energy Market. RECS International has provided their draft response to the consultation due on April 17th.
Member guide to Greenhouse Gas Protocol Scope 2 public review
The RECS International secretariat has created a guide to answering the Greenhouse Gas Protocol's (GHGP) Scope 2 guidance document. The GHGP Scope 2 guidance document will be in public review until April 21st, 2014.
RECS International Legal Task Force provides commentary to the State Aid Draft Guidelines
Andreas Gunst, Chariman of the RECS International legal taskforce, has reviewed the recent EEAG draft guidelines. His response is seen in its entirety below:
Greenhouse Gas Protocol releases consultation on indirect emission - Scope 2 - carbon accounting guidance
After a 3-year consultation the Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHGP) has released the public consultation document for their Scope 2 accounting guidance document. The draft guidance document will be in public consultation until Monday, April 21st 2014. During the consultation period the GHGP will hold a number of in-person workshops and webinars.
RECS Market Meeting 2014 - Thank You
The RECS Market Meeting 2014 in Düsseldorf, Germany was a success. On behalf of the RECS International members, conference organizers and conference sponsors we thank all the attendees and speakers for their contributions. Presentations are available to delegates via username and password.
Article by Karl Beckman: The end is near for national renewable energy subsidy schemes in the EU
Journalist and contributor for Energy Post, Karel Beckman, wrote an article about recent Advocate-General final opinion in the Alands Vindkraft v. Swedish Energy Agency Court case.
New EECS standardized countries likely in the short-term
It is highly likely that following on the heels of the Czech Republic another 3 to 4 countries will also join the European EECS GO standard in 2014.
RECS provides public response to European Comission
The Directorate-General for Competition prepared a consultation to review the draft guidelines on environmental and energy State Aid 2014-2020.
RECS provides public response to CEER green electricity consultation
Sixty-nine organizational responses were delivered to the Council for European Energy Regulators’ (CEER) recent green electricity consultation. The consultation was released as part of CEERs increased focus on European energy consumers.
Unique perspective on recent ECJ Court Case
DLA Piper has released a document explaining the recent European Court of Justice (ECJ) court case.
The Greenhouse Gas Protocol workshop on Scope 2 Guidance, hosted by RECS International
Immediately following the RECS Market Meeting in Düsseldorf, Germany on March 18 and 19, the Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHGP) and RECS International will be hosting a workshop to discuss GHGP’s new Scope 2 Guidance draft.
RECS International draft commentary to CEER consultation
RECS International members are encouraged to read and respond to RECS International’s response to the CEER consultation.
Breaking News: Advocate General Bot gave final opinion on the Aland European court case
Existing national renewable energy support schemes are, in the opinion of the Advocate General, illegal since they are discriminating against foreign production sources. This final opinion was released yesterday. The European Court of Justice still needs to provide the final ruling before the opinion takes effect. This final ruling is at least a couple of months away.
RECS has E-World tickets for members; requests German speakers
RECS International will again have a booth at E-World on February 11, 12 and 13. We have an open request for German speaking members to help at the booth for a few hours during this time period. In addition we have a limited amount of free tickets for entrance to E-World for interested members.
Join RECS International at E-World
Join RECS International in Essen, Germany at the E-World energy & water conference February 11, 12 and 13.
EFET publishes EECS contractual agreement
The European Federation of Energy Traders (EFET) published an European Energy Certificate System (EECS) Certificates Master Agreement.
CEER opens public consultation on "green" electricity
Council of European Energy Regulators (CEER) has opened a public consultation on ‘green’ electricity. This consultation is open until 7 February 2014.
RECS International becomes a Dutch foundation
RECS International has changed its legal status from a Belgian Association to a Dutch Foundation. This is in line with decisions taken by the board of RECS International over the last year and a half. The relationship between RECS International and its members remains unchanged, this also goes for the functions and guiding mission of the RECS International Secretariat.
UBA's cancelation functionality live
RECS International learned today that the cancelation functionality is now available on the UBA’s HKNR (Herkunftsnachweisregister).
AIB approves Czech Republic GOs with preconditions; future removal from the hub remains possible
During the AIB general meeting the Domain Protocol for the Czech Republic was approved. The Czech Republic will not be eligible for export until approved disclosure regulation is in place.
Developments in the Polish GO system
After a recent seminar in Wroclaw, Poland it is still unclear what the Polish GO system will look like exactly. It is clear though that the Polish regulator (ERO) is the responsible issuing body and that the GO registry will be operated by the Polish Power Exchange (TGE).
20-year RECs deal in US; 10-year GO deal in Europe
The US-based company, Becton, Dickinson and Company (BD) has signed a 20-year REC deal with a 75MW installed capacity wind farm in Nebraska (USA).
EU Commission requests more market-based support for renewables
The European Commission recently published a working document titled, “Guidance on the use of renewable energy cooperation mechanisms” as part of a broader publication on “Guidance to Member States on state intervention in electricity markets”. There is a focus in the document of promoting more Europe-wide support systems and improving cooperation mechanisms. There was also mention of the need to increase cost-efficiency.
RECS International - Annual evaluation
With 2013 coming soon to a close the secretariat of RECS International would like to get your input into the successes and short comings of our work over the last year.
Seminar "The guarantees of origin system in Poland"
Western Energy Consulting in Wroclaw, Poland is organizing the seminar "The Guarantees of Origin system in Poland" in the Radisson Blu hotel in Wroclaw on 14 November 2013. For more information go to the website :
RECS Market Meeting 2014 website is live!
The RECS Market Meeting 2014 website is live and registration is open!
Go visit www.recsmarket.eu on your computer. Or, open the website on your smartphone and bookmark our site. This way you'll stay up-to-date on the developments of the conference.
Logo for RECS International Members is now available
RECS International members now have the ability to display that they are a member of RECS International on their publications, websites and communications.
2nd Edition of the RECS Magazine is now available
RECS International invites you to read the second edition of the RECS Magazine. This includes articles such as:
· Cover story: There's no such thing as 'green electricity'
· Interview with Ursula Stocker of Naturemade
· RECS Market Meeting news
· News items
· Broker's column, Salvatore Lima
First European renewable electricity consumed in Turkey
RECS International member, Demirören Axpo, announced that it has delivered the first renewable electricity, supplied from continental Europe and consumed in Turkey.
AIB delays transition to EECS Rules
To conclude the transition from the PRO to the EECS Rules, the AIB Hub is being amended to reject transfers containing certificates which have been issued after a certain date and have missing mandatory fields.
Powernext in France officially an AIB member
With Powernext becoming an AIB member the easy, free-trade of Guarantees of Origin can take place between France and 19 other AIB-hub connected registries.
CEN/CENELEC vote to approve the final GO standard
Eleven countries voted to approve the CEN/CENELEC Guarantee of Origin standard.
RECS International provides consultation to EU Green Paper
The Green Paper, “A 2030 framework for climate and energy policies” was in consultation until July 2nd, 2013.
LEED accepts the Guarantee of Origin in Europe
LEED has modified their Building Operations and Maintenance criteria with specific attention given to alternative compliance paths for European users. The criteria now includes the ability to use EECS-GO Certificates for proof of renewable electricity consumption in Europe.
RECS International provides insight into a recent legal opinion
The recent legal opinion provided by The European Court of Justice Advocate-General Yves Bot has potential implications for the future of the Guarantee of Origin, something to which RECS International was interviewed for in the most recent June 24th Power In Europe by Platts,
AIB joins anti-VAT fraud package from ECOFIN
On June 21, the AIB has joined nine other European energy Associations in the adoption of an anti-fraud package created by the Economic and Financial Affairs Council (ECOFIN).
Advocate-General with opinion on Belgian case
Advocate-General Bot released an opinion on May 8th, 2013 for Case C-204/12, Essent Belgium NV v Vlaamse Reguleringsinstantie voor de Elektriciteits- en Gasmarkt (VREG). This case, and opinion, could have significant implications regarding the use of foreign produced electricity in a national target counting scheme.
National residual mix figures released for 2012
The residual mix calculation for 2012 has been released by the European project Reliable Disclosure Systems for Europe (Phase II). The residual mix gives consumers increased insight into the origin of their electricity consumption if they have not chosen a specific electricity product.
RECS International to hold RES Targets Strategy meeting
On May 21st, RECS International will be holding a strategy meeting in Brussels intended to look for market-based support schemes for renewable energy.
Presentations available from the Environmental and Energy Aid Guidelines Workshop
On April, 12 2013 there was a workshop organized by the European Commission regarding the modernization of State Aid rules.
Non-European interest in Guarantee of Origin certification increases
The Center for Resource Solutions (CRS), administers of the US-based Green-e certification and verification program, recently blogged about the potential for Green-e cooperation in Europe.
Commission creates single market for green products initiative
A press release from the 9thof April 2013, “Environment: Helping companies and consumers navigate the green maze” was published on the EU commissions website.
RECS International publishes open letter to Oettinger
In response to an interview with EU Energy Commissioner Günther Oettinger in the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, RECS International has published an open letter to discuss cost-efficient methods for future support schemes.
RE-DISS II project to publish European residual mix
The project RE-DISS II, known around the world for their creation of European residual mix figures, has been granted support from the Intelligent Energy Europe Programme for a 30-month continuation. The project began as of April 1, 2013.
Water levels in Norway lower than normal
Less snowfall led to lower water levels and possibly 19 TWh in reduced renewable electricity production.
Commission releases green paper; asks for consultation
On March 28th the European commission released a green paper, “A 2030 framework for climate and energy policies”.
Switzerland the first country to mandate full disclosure
A representative of Swissgird announced Wednesday at the 2013 RECS Market Meeting in Berlin that Switzerland is instituting mandatory full disclosure for all power stations in the country. This is the first country to make such a step.
Germany to join AIB-hub in 2013
An UBA representative at the RECS Market Meeting, Wednesday, March 21st in Berlin, said for the first time publically that the Germany Guarantee of Origin registry will join the AIB-hub in 2013.
RECS Members push the voluntary market to support new power
RECS members spoke at the RECS Market Meeting last week in Berlin about the need for the voluntary market to support new power – these members said they will both work towards this goal.
Summit held by EU on consumer legislation; Energy was a topic
On 18 and 19 March more than 450 stakeholders from more than 10 EU-ministries spoke about how to improve consumer legislation. The topic of energy was presented during a workshop within the conference.
RECS Market Meeting only days away
RECS International is excited to again organize the RECS Market Meeting, this year in Berlin.
Germany and France are formal applicants of the AIB
The Association of Issuing Bodies (AIB), the owners of the European Energy Certificate Standard (EECS), have formal applications from the German and French GO issuing bodies. Germany has applied for access and use of the AIB hub whereas France has applied for full AIB membership.
EU-wide sustainability criteria for biomass could increase consumer protection
A number of European organizations have promoted the harmonized, binding sustainability criteria for biomass on the EU-level.
Certification of Dutch heat now a requirement for national subsidies
The Dutch subsidy system (SDE+) now requires certification via Guarantees of Origin (GO) for all producers of renewable heat attempting to claim national subsidy credit.
Label for European renewable electricity approves the GO as base product
The EKOenergy board, creating a standard for renewable electricity in Europe, has approved criteria in which the standard will be based upon the Guarantee of Origin.
RECS International has their State aid review available online
In mid-2012 RECS International took part in a consultation put out by DG Competition in order to modernize State aid guidelines by the end of 2013.
Carbon Disclosure Project releases report scope II accounting technical notes
Carbon Disclosure Project released the first public version of their scope II accounting technical notes.
Preliminary reference made to the ECJ on EU law compatibility of national support scheme
The Foundation Renewable Energy Transition (FRET) published a press release titled, "Preliminary Reference made to the ECJ on EU Law Compatibility of National Support Scheme for Renewable Energy".
Another European Minister calls for single European approach to renewables
At a February 1st energy seminar in Berlin, Henk Kamp, Minister of Economic Affairs for the Netherlands requested that Europe work together to stimulate renewable energy production.
European Court of Justice provides a case number for lawsuit
RECS International has been following the case between Alands Vindkraft AB and the Swedish Energy Agency (Energimyndigheten) for quite some time. The local Swedish court recently asked input from the European Court of Justice (ECJ). The ECJ has now officially issued a case number in response to this request from the Swedish court.
France to have EECS Guarantees of Origin
According to a press release of January 29th the French issuing body will be compliant with AIB rules to have an EECS standardized GO.
Join RECS International at E-World
Join RECS International in Essen, Germany at the E-World energy & water conference February 5, 6 and 7.
1st Edition of the RECS Magazine is now available
RECS International invites you to read the first edition of the RECS Magazine. This includes articles such as:
· Cover story: Purchasing low-carbon electricity
· Interview with Markus Schmid of WISE
· RECS Market Meeting news
· News items
· Broker's column, Max van Meer
French government appoints issuing body
In early 2012 the French government created a tender intended to find an issuing body for French Guarantees of Origin. As of January 15th 2013 it was made public that Powernext will be the next issuing body.
Irish Presidency of the council of the European Union
The term for the Cypriot President of the Council of the European union ended on 31 December 2012. As of January 1, 2013 there is an Irish Presidency.The programme of the presidency is worth reading and gives you an idea of the most important issues on the table.
Dutch television programme features RECS-I; discusses cost-efficient EU target compliance
The television program Altijd Wat (Eng: Always Something) released a short documentary regarding the Dutch renewable energy targets and the cost-efficiency of current national subsidy systems intended to meet those targets.
Swedish courts request input from the European Court of Justice regarding legal case
RECS International has been informed that an ongoing court case between Ålands Vindkraft AB and the Swedish Energy Agency has moved to the European Court of Justice for additional information.
Parliamentary hearing on consumers in the green electricity market
The EKOenergy organization is holding two seminars in Brussels on January 23rd, 2013.
RECS wish all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
RECS International wishes an energetic and merry Christmas to all our members, colleagues and friends! We hope that during this holiday season you can enjoy time with your friends and family!
Interactive map for ETS systems worldwide
The International Carbon Action Partnership (http://icapcarbonaction.com/) has released an emissions trading scheme map.
RECS members discuss the future of RECS certificates
RECS International board members have discussed the future of the voluntary RECS certificates at their meeting in Milan on Friday December 7, 2012.
Launch of data survey for municipalities and energy suppliers
MESHARTILITY introduces a survey and invites local governments and energy suppliers to take part.
Outlook of the German GO System
Presentation by Dominik Seebach at the AIB General Meeting in Milan on 6-7 December 2012 in particular regarding the relation between the EECS registry with Öko-Institut as IB and the new RES-GO registry at Umweltbundesamt (UBA) in 2013.
Italian market brings in EECS-GO - 'Naturally' Phases out Co-fer and RECS certificates
On December 6th, 2012 a GSE representative presented at the RECS International GO Trading Seminar that the Italian GO will join the AIB-hub by the middle of 2013. This makes the Italian GO an EECS-GO.
European Council urges EU fuel-mix cohesion
The Council of the European Union released a statement yesterday regarding a council meeting on Transport, Telecommunications and Energy.
German GO registry is open for plant registration
The Germany Guarantee of Origin (GO) registry‚ Herkunftsnachweisregister (HKNR), is now open and accepting the registration of plant operators.
Report from the 18th annual SETAC LCA conference
A number of presentations at the 18th annual Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) took place this week Monday the 26th of November.
Norway announces change in Residual Mix
In order to eliminate the double counting of renewable attributes being traded via Norwegian Guarantee of Origin (GO) certificates, the NVE, or the Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate, has made some changes to the calculation of their Residual Mix.
European Commission working on product environmental footprint guide
The commission has released a document describing the draft, final methodology for the calculation of a Product Environmental Footprint (PEF).
Dutch Issuing Body changes certificate cancelation Rules
CertiQ, the appointed issuing body for the Netherlands, has changed some rules regarding the Guarantee of Origin (GO). Most notably the automatic cancelation of a GO will take place 1-year following the production of the electricity and not 1-year following the issuance of the certificate.
RECS International goes live with a new website
RECS International has gone live today with their new recs.org website. This website is intended to increase the awareness of energy tracking systems with both consumers and policy makers. A result of these energy tracking systems are green electricity products and the (inter-)national mechanisms in place to protect the consumer's choice for these products. These two topics are becoming increasingly important and for this reason RECS International hopes to highlight them with the new website.
Grant agreement close for RE-DISS II Project
The EACI has favorably evaluated the RE-DISS II project for continuation.
Event Recap: WBCSD council meeting
Last week the annual WBCSD council meeting took place in Seoul, South Korea. This meeting included a constructive session for the Greenhouse Gas Management Working Group.
The Dutch have a new governmental energy agreement
The Dutch government has a new agreement that encompasses many aspects of life in the Netherlands. One of the focuses in this agreement was in Energy.
Norway accepted the RECS trademark
As of the 31st of October, 2012 the RECS trademark and logo have been accepted under Norwegian law.
Shell warns that EU-ETS is failing - coal burning increasing
Royal Dutch Shell has warned that the increase in renewables via subsidy schemes is making cash strapped countries burn more cheap coal, less CO2 low-gas, and focus on the 'meaningless' CO2 price.
US cap-and-trade discussing a merge
The Regional Green House Gas Initiative (RGGI) including nine Northeast states in the United States is discussing combining the east coast state cap-and-trade systems to California's new system.
IEA considers doubling hydroelectricity by 2050
The IEA has recently published a report considering the effects of a 50% increase in hydroelectricity production between now and 2050.
Members login
Events
29 June 2017 29 June 2017 Webinar: MiFID II and the implications for GO trade
Past events22 June 2017 22 June 2017: The role of Consumers in the Energy Transition
11 April 2017 11 April 2017: Seminar Groen Inkopen (Dutch-language seminar)
Documents
- Agenda Involving Consumers in the Energy Transition
- GM 17/01 Agenda General meeting 20 March 2017
- GM 17/00 General meeting details 20 March 2017
- AG 17/01 Agenda I-REC Standard Advisory Group Meeting - Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Meeting details “Groen Inkopen” Dutch-language Seminar, 11 April 2017
- Agenda "Groen Inkopen” Dutch-language Seminar, 11 April 2017
News
2 June 2017 The role of Consumers in the Energy Transition, session hosted by AIB and REScoop
18 May 2017 Eurelectric position paper REDII
10 May 2017 RECS International continues to welcome new members
