Defined term
Solar renewable energy certificate
A solar renewable energy certificate is a renewable energy certificate created from eligible solar electricity generation under a program that recognizes a solar-specific certificate class.
Also known as SREC
policy · Concept code GS-CONCEPT-097 · Last verified August 20, 2026
Definition and boundaries
Definition
A solar renewable energy certificate is a renewable energy certificate created from eligible solar electricity generation under a program that recognizes a solar-specific certificate class.
Applicable jurisdiction: US; program availability and rules vary
Definition claim verification: Verified August 20, 2026
In plain language
Before relying on Solar 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 available in every jurisdiction and it is not automatically owned by the homeowner or bundled with a system sale.
Decision context
Why it matters
Eligibility, metering, registration, vintage, tracking, market, ownership, transfer, retirement, taxes, and continuing qualification depend on the applicable jurisdiction and program.
Applicable jurisdiction: US; program availability and 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.
Concept relationships
Broader concepts
- Renewable energy certificatePublished conceptSolar renewable energy certificate is a more specific concept under Renewable energy certificate
Affects
- Payback periodPublished conceptSolar renewable energy certificate can affect how Payback period is evaluated
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
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