US companies commit to '5 Year Renewable Energy Pledge'

Dec. 19, 2011 - Kari Williamson - renewableenergyfocus.com

The City of Austin, TX, Southern Oregon University, the Bank of Georgetown (DC and MD), Stevens Pass, Diamond Packaging, and Sandy Alexander have been the first to sign the Renewable Energy Markets Association (REMA) '5 Year Renewable Energy Pledge' in the USA.

The recently launched national programme recognises organisations that make a long-term commitment to voluntarily purchase of renewable energy for at least the next five years.

The REMA-led programme is supported by the US Environmental Protection Agency’s Green Power Partnership, Center for Resource Solutions, and the founding companies, organisations, and municipalities.

“Voluntary purchases of renewable energy contribute significantly to our nation’s renewable energy infrastructure and deployment of new renewable generation,” says Jay Carlis, REMA President.

“In 2009 alone, US consumers voluntarily purchased over 30 TWh of renewable energy above and beyond government mandates, but more can be done. With Federal renewable energy policy fading away, long-term demand for green power from voluntary customers can step in to catalyse renewable energy development in the absence of federal policy drivers. That’s what the Pledge seeks to stimulate.”

The Pledge participants have committed to voluntarily purchase renewable energy for at least the next five years, with the goal of tripling US voluntary purchases of renewable energy by 2015.

The Pledge program requires that organisations must, at a minimum, voluntarily purchase green power for a 5+ year commitment according to EPA Green Power Partnership Leader Club levels.

Also, purchase of renewable energy must be made in adherence with the Green-e® National Energy Standard or equivalent guidelines.

Green power procurements, such as power purchase agreements (PPAs) are eligible, and all renewable energy purchased must be above and beyond any state or Federal mandates, include state RPS.