Small Businesses and Renewable Energy Credits: A Win-Win for the Planet and Your Bottom Line

Let’s dive into a topic that’s not just good for the environment but also great for your small business’s bottom line: renewable energy credits (RECs). If you’re a small business owner looking to make a positive impact while saving some cash, RECs might just be the ticket.

What Are Renewable Energy Credits?

First off, let’s break down what RECs are. Essentially, a renewable energy credit represents proof that one megawatt-hour (MWh) of electricity was generated from a renewable energy source, like wind or solar, and fed into the grid. When you purchase RECs, you’re supporting the production of renewable energy, even if your business isn’t directly using it.

The Benefits of Using RECs

Cost Savings: One of the most immediate benefits of RECs is the potential for cost savings. By purchasing RECs, small businesses can often take advantage of lower energy rates associated with renewable energy sources. This can lead to significant savings on your monthly energy bills.

Environmental Impact: By supporting renewable energy, your business helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. This not only benefits the environment but also aligns your business with the growing consumer demand for sustainable practices.

Enhanced Brand Image: Consumers today are more environmentally conscious than ever. By utilizing RECs, you can market your business as a green, sustainable operation. This can attract eco-minded customers and enhance your brand’s reputation.

Flexibility and Scalability: RECs offer flexibility. You can start small, purchasing a few credits to offset a portion of your energy use, and scale up as your business grows or as you see the benefits. This makes it an accessible option for businesses of all sizes.

How to Get Started

1. Assess Your Energy Use:Start by understanding your current energy consumption. AEP Energy Small Business Consultants can help you determine how many RECs you need to purchase to offset your usage.

2. Research Providers: AEP Energy partners with Green-e, the nation’s leading independent certification and verification program for renewable energy. Green-e certifies that our renewable energy plan meets the highest environmental and consumer protection standards.

3. Select a Plan: AEP Energy makes it easy to go green with our ECO-Advantage® plan. This eco-friendly plan matches a percentage of your electricity usage with national Green-e® Energy certified wind Renewable Energy Credits (RECs). By purchasing a REC-based plan, you are supporting renewable electricity production without the cost or time commitment required of other green energy options.

4. Promote Your Commitment: Don’t forget to let your customers know about your commitment to renewable energy. Use your website, social media, and in-store signage to highlight your green initiatives. As an ECO-Advantage® customer, we’ll send you a window cling and digital certificate so you can proudly display your commitment to renewable energy.

Summary

Investing in renewable energy credits is a smart move for small businesses. It can save you money, enhance your brand, and make a positive impact on the environment. So, if you haven’t considered RECs yet, now might be the perfect time to start. Contact your AEP Energy Small Business Consultant or visit: ECO-Advantage® | Renewable Energy Plan | AEP Energy

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