LEED AP with Operations and Maintenance (O+M ) Practice Exam

What is true about a project's ability to earn EA Credit Renewable Energy Production if it sells RECs associated with its generation?

1. A project can no longer claim the credit

2. The project can earn credit by purchasing equivalent RECs

3. Only the sold RECs need to be replaced

4. The project must increase its renewable capacity

The correct answer is: The project can earn credit by purchasing equivalent RECs

The reasoning behind the ability for a project to earn the EA Credit for Renewable Energy Production lies in the relationship between the project and Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs). When a project generates renewable energy and sells the associated RECs, it is effectively transferring the environmental benefits of that energy generation to the buyer, which means the original project can no longer claim those benefits directly. However, a project can still earn the credit by purchasing equivalent RECs from another renewable source. This ensures that the project maintains its commitment to renewable energy production despite selling its original RECs. By purchasing RECs that are equivalent to the energy generated (in terms of quantity and type), the project can demonstrate its ongoing investment in renewable energy and still qualify for the EA Credit. This practice emphasizes both accountability and sustainability within renewable energy production, allowing projects to support renewable energy generation while also fulfilling their credit requirements through the marketplace. Thus, as long as the project compensates for the sold RECs, it can continue to earn the necessary credits for its environmental impact.