C8.6: Use Renewable Sources for Landscape Electricity Needs – Above Green

(3-4 points)

INTENT

Reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with site operations and minimize air pollution, habitat destruction, and pollution from fossil fuel-based energy production by supporting a renewable energy market.

REQUIREMENTS*

Option 1: On-site renewable production

Use on-site renewable energy sources to generate outdoor site electricity for at least:
- 50 percent of annual outdoor site electricity (3 points)
- 100 percent of annual outdoor site electricity (4 points)
Calculate the electricity generated by quantity (e.g., kilowatts), not cost.

The use of a community renewable energy system, such as a solar garden, is allowed if the following requirements are met:

Actual ownership in the system or a signed lease agreement for a period of at least 15 years
The system is located within the same utility service area as the facility claiming the use

The percentage of credit will be determined as a percentage of ownership or percent utilization assigned in the lease agreement, or other written and signed document, as it applies to the project’s total annual outdoor site electricity use.

Option 2: Green power

Engage in a contract for the delivery of green power or offsets from qualified resources that have come online since January 1, 2005. Contracts should be for a minimum of five years to be delivered at least annually. The contract must specify the quantity, not the cost, of the project’s energy that comes from green power, carbon offsets, or renewable energy certificates (RECs).
- 50 percent of annual outdoor site electricity (3 points)
- 100 percent of annual outdoor site electricity (4 points)

Note: Carbon offsets may be used to mitigate Scope 1 or Scope 2 emissions on a metric ton of carbon dioxide-equivalent basis. They must be certified by Green-e Climate or an equivalent program.

Green power and RECs must be certified by Green-e Energy certified or an equivalent program. RECs can only be used to mitigate the effects of Scope 2.

For U.S. projects, the offsets must be from greenhouse gas emissions reduction projects within the United States.

RECOMMENDED STRATEGIES

Assess the project for non-polluting and renewable energy potential, including solar, wind, geothermal, and low-impact hydropower.
Determine the energy needs of the site, and investigate opportunities to engage in a green-power contract.