What is the difference between retail green power and renewable energy certificates (RECs)?
When you buy retail green power you are purchasing electricity that goes into your regional electricity grid. When you buy a REC, you are purchasing the environmental attributes associated with the generation of green power, illustrated in a certificate, but not the actual electricity itself. With a REC, the electricity that produces these environmentally friendly attributes can be generated from anywhere in the country. RECs are a good way to offset a percentage of your annual electricity use, especially if green retail offers are not available in your area.
