Renewable Energy Credits (RECs)
What are RECs???
When people use power either at home, in school or at work they are using whatever power is provided by their energy company. This energy often comes from dirty sources like coal, which releases a lot of CO2 and other greenhouse gasses into the air. RECs work to offset damage by supporting clean energy. When a clean energy provider, such as wind power, sells their energy, they also sell RECs, which allow individuals or organizations to take credit for the clean energy provided as well as help fund new clean energy projects.
Why is this good?
Tuft's power comes from the TransCanada which already uses 80% hydro power. This is relatively clean energy. By buying RECs we are able to help wind farms in areas such as the mid west which are dominated by coal burning plants. In this way RECs help to get maximum bang for our buck by making the biggest reduction in the amount of greenhouse gasses released into the atmosphere.
What can I do?
As well as the times and places below RECs can be purchased at any time by following the instructions at http://www.tufts.edu/tie/tci/getclean/, or via the 3phases website online at http://www.3phases.com/footprint-calculator/.ECO will be selling Wind Power RECs in the Campus Center and in the Dining Halls during Do it in the Dark to offset the negative effects of the less clean energy used in the dorms. RECs will also be sold during Climate Fest on Saturday 10/14/06 in Sophia Gordon Hall. Climate Fest includes live music and raffles, so make sure to be there. RECs are sold in conjunction with TIE (Tufts Institute for the Environment) and TCI (Tufts Climate Initiative). More info can be found at their website and their the TCI Do It In The Dark webpage.
