Defined term
Renewable energy certificate
A renewable energy certificate is a uniquely tracked instrument representing specified non-power attributes associated with one megawatt-hour of eligible renewable electricity generation under an applicable tracking and program framework.
Also known as REC
policy · Concept code GS-CONCEPT-096 · Last verified August 20, 2026
Evidence through 2024-03-05 · 0 sources have no source-event date
Content modified 2026-08-20
Definition and boundaries
Definition
A renewable energy certificate is a uniquely tracked instrument representing specified non-power attributes associated with one megawatt-hour of eligible renewable electricity generation under an applicable tracking and program framework.
Applicable jurisdiction: US; tracking and program rules vary
Definition claim verification: Verified August 20, 2026
In plain language
Before relying on Renewable energy certificate, verify the current program, jurisdiction, eligibility date, ownership terms, and controlling document for the actual project.
What it is not
It is not the electricity itself, a carbon offset, or proof that a household owns the certificate associated with its solar generation.
Decision context
Why it matters
Technology eligibility, vintage, location, tracking system, ownership, transfer, retirement, claims, disclosure, and program rules determine what a particular certificate represents.
Applicable jurisdiction: US; tracking and program rules vary
Decision-context claim verification: Verified August 20, 2026
Information boundary
This page provides general educational context, not a site design, production guarantee, utility determination, contract interpretation, legal opinion, tax conclusion, or individualized financial advice. Verify property, equipment, utility, jurisdiction, program, and agreement details before acting.
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Learning navigation
Primary topic: Policy
Broader topic
No public concepts recorded.
More specific topics
- Solar renewable energy certificatePublished concept
Related topics
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Learn first
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Builds toward
- Solar renewable energy certificatePublished concept
Primary sources
- U.S. Department of Energy Better Buildings: Renewable Energy Certificates Overview
Revision Published 2024-03-05 · Source event as of March 5, 2024 · Ontology accessed August 20, 2026 · Ontology verified August 20, 2026