25 June 2025

Engaging Local Markets in the European Energy Transition: An Interview on RECS National GO Day – Norway

In this interview, Adam White and Sandra Langedijk share why National GO Day Norway matters and what delegates can expect from this unique event.

As Europe’s energy market continues to evolve, the role of national-level engagement has become increasingly important. RECS Energy Certificate Association (RECS), the association for stakeholders in Energy Attribute Certificate (EAC) markets, is spearheading this effort through RECS National GO Days 

These one-day, country-focused events offer a unique opportunity to explore national dynamics in Guarantees of Origin (GOs) and renewable energy markets, while connecting local stakeholders with the broader European framework. In advance of the upcoming National GO Day – Norway, we spoke with Adam White, Secretary-General of RECS, and Sandra Langedijk, RECS Event Coordinator, about the purpose of the event, what makes it special, and what delegates can expect. 

What inspired the creation of RECS National GO Days, and why is Norway a key location for this event? 

Adam White: National GO Days are a great way for RECS to engage with our members in each country. They allow us to dive deep into national topics with local market participants and policymakers. Norway is a natural location for a RECS National GO Day because it is a huge and influential part of the European renewable energy market. RECS and our members must engage positively with Norwegian energy users and policy makers, as well as local traders and producers. 

How do RECS National GO Day complement the larger work RECS does? 

Adam White: RECS National GO Days allow us to delve into how European policy and market matters influence specific national markets, and vice versa. While Europe has an impressive single market, it is still made up of national markets which can differ in important ways. This is especially the case with Guarantees of Origin. So National GO Days complement our work by both taking our members deeper into a specific market while also allowing us to take learning and best practices back up to the European level. 

What are you most looking forward to at this year’s event in Oslo? 

Adam White: We can’t ignore that the Norwegian relationship with GOs and renewable energy markets has often been a strained one. But Norway continues to play a vital role in European GO markets. So, I am most looking forward to engaging positively with Norwegian energy users and policy makers, as well as local traders and producers. While some challenges remain, we do see signs of positive change, on which I am confident we can build. 

What makes this event different from other energy market conferences? 

Adam White: No other industry association has the specific focus on Energy Attribute Certificates, like GOs, that RECS does. The difference that RECS events offer is our deep dives into EAC markets with key inputs from well-informed market participants and policy makers alike. You won’t get this depth and detail of knowledge on EACs like GOs anywhere else! 

Sandra, what can delegates expect from the event experience at RECS National GO Day beyond the agenda? 

Sandra Langedijk: Delegates can expect RECS’ strong commitment to quality. We are planning more and more National GO Days to ensure national topics are brought to the agenda and national stakeholders are meaningfully involved.  

These events attract not only national participants but also stakeholders from across Europe with a specific interest in that country’s market. The format is well-proven: a one-day, plenary event that concludes with an enjoyable networking opportunity in a pleasant, informal setting. This offers delegates the chance to connect, share insights, and build relationships within RECS’ vibrant energy community. 

How do you ensure that RECS events are inclusive and engaging for both long-time participants and newcomers? 

Sandra Langedijk: By organising these events, RECS builds and nurtures an expert community, both internally and externally. Beyond the annual RECS Market Meeting, we give members the chance to collaborate through regular national events like the National GO Days, encouraging open dialogue with all stakeholders involved.  

We focus on accessible session formats, speaker diversity, and creating a space that fosters community-building — it’s about providing consistent, high-quality engagement. 

As RECS National GO Day – Norway approaches (18 November 2025), it promises to be not only an in-depth exploration of national GO market dynamics but also a valuable forum for dialogue, learning, and collaboration in the ongoing European energy transition.