What are I-REC(E)s? ⚡
Basic Concepts for Beginners
What is an I-REC(E)?
An I-REC(E) (International Renewable Energy Certificate) is a digital document that certifies that 1 MWh of energy was generated from renewable sources like solar, wind, or hydro.
Simple Analogy
Think of an I-REC(E) as a "digital receipt" that proves a certain amount of clean energy was produced. It's like a certificate of authenticity for renewable energy.
What are they used for?
- 🏢 Companies: Report renewable energy use (CDP, ESG)
- 📊 Compliance: Meet environmental regulations
- 📢 Communication: Show commitment to sustainability
- 💚 Image: Demonstrate environmental responsibility
How Do They Work? 🔄
1. Generation
- A solar/wind/hydro plant generates energy
- For every 1 MWh produced, 1 I-REC(E) is created
- The certificate is registered in Evident Registry for I-REC(E)
2. Trading
- Certificates can be bought and sold
- Companies buy them to demonstrate renewable energy use
- They are transferred digitally between owners
3. Redemption
- "Redeeming" means using the certificate officially
- Once redeemed, it can no longer be sold
- You get the right to say "I use renewable energy"
Information in an I-REC(E) 📋
Each certificate contains:
- Technology: Solar, wind, hydro, etc.
- Location: Country and region where it was generated
- Date: When the energy was produced (vintage)
- Volume: Amount of energy (MWh)
- Generator: Who produced the energy
Why Latin America? 🌎
Advantages of Latin American Certificates:
- 🌱 Abundant renewable energy: Sun, wind, water
- 💰 Competitive prices compared to Europe/US
- 🌍 Social impact: Support regional sustainable development
- 📈 Growth: Expanding market with opportunities
Active Countries:
- 🇨🇱 Chile: Solar energy from Atacama Desert
- 🇨🇴 Colombia: Hydro and wind power
- 🇲🇽 Mexico: Expanding solar and wind
- 🇧🇷 Brazil: Renewable diversification
Types of Users 👥
🏢 Multinational Companies
"We need to report renewable energy for our global operations"
- Buy certificates for Latin American subsidiaries
- CDP and ESG reports with regional certificates
🤝 Global Consultants
"We help international clients with Latin American certificates"
- Offer geographically diversified portfolio
- Access to competitive prices for clients
💱 International Traders
"We trade certificates between markets"
- Arbitrage between regions
- Access to Latin American inventory
Differences with Other Certificates 🔍
| Aspect | I-REC(E) | REC (US) | GO (Europe) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scope | International | US | Europe |
| Standard | The I-REC Standard | Green-e | EECS |
| Markets | Global | National | Regional |
| Price | Competitive | High | High |
Next Steps 🚀
Now that you understand what I-REC(E)s are:
- 👤 Define your profile as a user
- 🎯 Identify your objective (compliance, communication, trading)
- 📝 Register on Cero Trade
- 🛒 Explore the marketplace
Ready to start with I-REC(E) certificates?