Brownley Introduces Legislation to Improve Federal Government’s Use of Renewable Energy Certificates – Van Nuys News Press

Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) introduced the Renewable Energy Certificate Study Act, which would require the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to conduct a study of the use of renewable energy certificates by federal agencies. Many federal agencies use Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs), which certify that one megawatt-hour (MWh) of electricity was generated from a renewable source and fed into the grid, allowing the REC owner to claim the environmental benefits of this clean energy.

“Renewable Energy Certificates were developed to stimulate growth in the green energy market. Today, RECs enable federal agencies and other entities to meet statutory and administrative energy procurement requirements in a flexible, easier-to-use way than directly procuring renewable energy, while reducing emissions,” said Congresswoman Brownley.

“As the largest user of energy in the United States, the federal government has an obligation to use RECs as intended. My bill calls on federal agencies to assess the effectiveness of RECs and determine the scope of federal use of RECs, which will provide Congress with critical information to improve federal energy policy.”

“American taxpayers know all too well how high energy costs are, and my bill will ensure smart and efficient use of taxpayer dollars while improving the overall REC market and creating a strong and sustainable future.”

As a result of requirements in the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and the Executive Order on Catalyzing Clean Energy Industries and Jobs Through Federal Sustainability, federal agencies are working to increase the percentage of energy they use from climate-friendly sources. To achieve these goals, agencies across the federal government have used renewable energy certificates. However, studies and reports have shown that RECs may not reduce emissions as significantly as intended. The Renewable Energy Certificate Study Act directs the Comptroller General of the United States to conduct a study of the federal government’s use of renewable energy certificates.